Santa Cruz Hightower

The Santa Cruz Hightower 2027 is a highly versatile 29-inch trail mountain bike designed to climb efficiently and remain composed on fast, rough descents. Its 160mm fork, 150mm of VPP rear travel and full 29-inch wheel setup give it a balanced combination of rollover, traction and all-day usability.

It sits between the shorter-travel Tallboy and the more gravity-focused Bronson and Nomad in the Santa Cruz range. The Hightower is a strong choice for riders who want one mountain bike for trail centres, natural singletrack, technical descents and longer mountain rides.

• 160mm front and 150mm rear travel: The Hightower has enough suspension for steep, rough and technical trails while remaining efficient enough for regular trail rides and longer days in the hills.
• VPP suspension: Santa Cruz's Virtual Pivot Point design is engineered to combine efficient pedalling support with traction and controlled suspension performance on demanding descents.
• 29-inch wheels: Full-size wheels improve rollover, momentum and stability across roots, rocks and high-speed terrain.
• Carbon C and Carbon CC frames: Carbon C provides the same core frame design at a more accessible price, while Carbon CC uses a lighter premium carbon lay-up.
• Balanced trail geometry: The riding position and chassis are designed to feel confident on descents without making the bike cumbersome on climbs or tighter trails.
• Glovebox storage: Integrated down-tube storage provides space for tools and trail essentials, with a Tool Wallet and Tube Purse supplied.
• Lifetime support: Carbon C and Carbon CC frames are backed by Santa Cruz's lifetime frame warranty and lifetime pivot bearing replacement for the original owner, subject to the manufacturer's terms.

The current UK Hightower range includes Carbon C and lighter Carbon CC complete bikes, together with a Carbon CC frameset. Every model uses the same 160mm front, 150mm rear VPP platform and 29-inch wheel format.

• Hightower 70: Carbon C frame with SRAM 70 cable-actuated T-Type Transmission and a durable, value-focused build.
• Hightower 90: Carbon C frame with SRAM 90 cable-operated T-Type Transmission, upgraded suspension and SRAM Maven brakes.

Specifications and model availability can change, so check the individual product page for the exact components fitted to each bike.

Carbon C and Carbon CC Hightower frames share the same geometry, 150mm VPP suspension layout, 29-inch wheel setup and intended use. The main difference is the carbon lay-up.

Carbon C uses more material to achieve the required strength and stiffness, making it slightly heavier but more affordable. Carbon CC uses Santa Cruz's highest-grade carbon construction to achieve the same strength with less material, reducing frame weight. Both are designed for demanding mountain biking and carry the same lifetime frame warranty for the original owner, subject to Santa Cruz's terms.

Yes. Use the on-page Compare Tool to compare available Hightower models side by side, including frame grade, suspension, drivetrain, brakes and wheels.

The key choices are whether you want the more affordable Carbon C or lighter Carbon CC frame, mechanical or electronic shifting, and aluminium or Reserve carbon wheels.

The Hightower is designed for trail and all-mountain riding. It is suited to trail centres, natural singletrack, rocky mountain routes, technical climbs and fast descents, making it an excellent one-bike option for riders who encounter varied terrain.

Riders who mainly prioritise lower weight and cross-country-style efficiency may prefer the Tallboy. Riders who want a more playful mixed-wheel bike for jumps and aggressive descending may prefer the Bronson, while those prioritising maximum travel for enduro and bike-park use may prefer the Nomad.

Choose the Hightower R or 70 if you want the core platform at the most accessible price. The Hightower S or 90 adds upgraded components and more performance while retaining mechanical shifting. The Hightower X0 AXS suits riders who want the lighter Carbon CC frame, electronic shifting and FOX Factory suspension. Choose an RSV build if Reserve carbon wheels are a priority, with the XX AXS RSV representing the flagship specification.

The Carbon CC Frameset is the best choice if you already own suitable components or want to build a Hightower around your preferred suspension, drivetrain, brakes and wheels.

We regularly have Santa Cruz Hightower models available to view at our Lancashire showroom. Availability can change as bikes may be reserved, boxed for dispatch or due to arrive from Santa Cruz UK. Please contact us before travelling so we can confirm that the model and size you want to see will be available.

Eligible Santa Cruz Hightower models can be purchased with 0% finance for up to 48 months, subject to status and terms. Finance options may vary on discounted bikes. We also accept a wide range of Cycle to Work schemes, although provider fees and scheme conditions may apply.

We regularly run limited-time promotions on selected bikes. Visit our deals and offers page to see the latest Santa Cruz Hightower offers. Terms and conditions apply.

For the latest prices, shop the Santa Cruz Hightower range.

MTB Monster is a dedicated mountain bike and electric mountain bike specialist run by riders. When you buy a Santa Cruz Hightower from us, you benefit from:

1. Delivery | We offer free delivery* on all orders over £65. Bike deliveries are carried out by a two-person courier service, helping your new bike reach you safely and securely. (*T&Cs apply.)

2. 0% Finance* & Cycle to Work* | Spread the cost for up to 48 months* with Klarna or V12. We also support a wide range of Cycle to Work providers, which could save you up to 43%. Finance options can vary when a bike is discounted, and individual Cycle to Work provider fees may apply. (*T&Cs apply.)

3. Expert Bike Setup & Inspection | Every bike we sell goes through a full 26-point PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection), completed by our Cytech-qualified mechanics. The gears, brakes, bearings and suspension are checked, and we can tune the suspension to your weight to help ensure the bike is correctly set up and ready to ride when it arrives.

4. Safe & Secure Bike Packaging | We take the same care packing your bike as we do preparing it. Each bike is securely wrapped using a mixture of protective and recycled materials, with the handlebars and front wheel removed for safe transit. Inside the box, you will find Allen keys, your PDI checklist and included accessories. Once unpacked, the bike can usually be assembled and ready to ride in around 5-10 minutes.

5. On-Site MTB Workshop | Our Cytech-qualified workshop team can support your Hightower with servicing, suspension setup, component fitting, repairs and warranty assistance. We work directly with Santa Cruz and leading component manufacturers, giving us access to genuine parts and specialist technical support.

6. Frame Protection Options | As riders ourselves, we understand that your bike is more than a purchase; it is an investment. We supply and fit custom-cut, self-healing frame protection kits in our dedicated dust-free fitting studio. These kits help protect your mountain bike against scratches, scuffs and stone chips while preserving its paint finish.

7. Competitive Prices & Price Match* | We work hard to offer competitive prices across our bikes and accessories. If you find the same bike available from another eligible UK retailer at a lower price, let us know and we will do our best to match it. (*T&Cs apply.)

8. In-House Demo Availability | Our in-house demo fleet lets you test and compare selected mountain bikes and electric mountain bikes before buying. Selected bikes are available to ride on-site or on local trails, giving you a better understanding of sizing, suspension and handling before placing an order.

   View our demo bike information.

9. Showroom Stock & Brand Selection | Our dedicated Lancashire showroom displays around 100 bikes from leading mountain bike and electric mountain bike brands, including Santa Cruz, Orbea, Mondraker, CUBE, Amflow, Whyte, Transition, Marin and Velduro. We also stock a curated selection of riding kit, parts and accessories. You are welcome to visit for friendly advice or contact us to arrange an appointment. We are open Monday to Saturday, 08:30-17:00.

10. Expert Product Advice | We place a strong emphasis on professional development and technical expertise. The cycling industry moves quickly, so our team invests in ongoing training to remain up to date with new bikes, suspension, drivetrains and components. We also provide detailed online product guides, comparisons and bike size guides to help you make an informed decision.

    Our experienced team can give honest, informed advice to help you choose the correct bike, size or equipment for your needs. Call us on 01254 959345 if you would like to discuss the Santa Cruz Hightower range.

11. Customer Reviews | As a small team of riders, we take pride in the service we provide both in-store and online. This is reflected in our many five-star customer reviews.

    “Cannot recommend MTB Monster enough! Ordered my bike on the Sunday and it was with me by Wednesday afternoon. Reliable two-person courier service used as well. Bike went through a full PDI as well as the team setting up the tubeless tyres, which saved me the hassle. Great service and will definitely use again in the future.”

12. Official Premier Santa Cruz Dealer | As an Official Premier Santa Cruz Dealer, MTB Monster can help you compare the latest Santa Cruz mountain bikes, choose the correct Hightower model and size, and support your bike after purchase. For expert advice before you buy, call us on 01254 959345 or contact the MTB Monster team.