the Santa Cruz Hightower and the Stumpjumper There are a few key differences between them. The Hightower has a longer travel suspension, which makes it better suited for aggressive riding and downhill racing. It also has a slightly longer wheelbase, which gives it more stability at high speeds.
The Stumpjumper, on the other hand, is a bit lighter and more agile, making it better suited for cross-country riding and racing. Another key difference between the two bikes is their geometry. The Hightower has a longer reach and a slack head angle, while the Stumpjumper has a shorter reach and a steeper head angle.
This makes the Hightower better suited for aggressive riding, while the Stumpjumper is better suited for cross-country riding. It depends on your riding style and what you’re looking for in a bike. If you want a bike that can handle aggressive riding and downhill racing, the Santa Cruz Hightower is a great choice.
If you’re looking for a light and agile bike that’s better suited for cross-country riding, the Stumpjumper is a good option. Whichever bike you choose, you’ll be getting a great bike that’s built to last.
Santa Cruz Hightower Overview
Santa Cruz Hightower is an aluminum enduro and trail bike that was first released in 2016. It’s been a popular choice for riders looking for a versatile bike that can handle a variety of terrain. The Hightower has been updated for 2020 with some significant changes, including a new carbon fiber frame.
The Hightower is available in two different build kits, the LT and the CC. The LT kit is the more expensive of the two and includes a carbon fiber frame, FOX Float Factory 36 fork, and SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain. The CC kit features an aluminum frame, RockShox Lyrik RC fork, and SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain.
Both build kits come with 29″ wheels and Santa Cruz’s proprietary VPP suspension. The Hightower has 140mm of rear travel and 150mm of front travel. Santa Cruz offers a variety of upgrade options for the Hightower, including a coil-sprung rear shock, carbon fiber wheels, and a dropper seat post.
The Hightower is a great choice for riders who want a versatile bike that can handle a variety of terrain. It’s available in two different build kits, each with its own set of features and components.
Santa Cruz also offers a variety of upgrade options, so you can customize your Hightower to match your riding style. Whether you’re looking for an enduro bike that can handle the rough stuff or a trail bike that’s versatile and fun to ride, the Hightower is worth considering.
Specialized Stumpjumper Overview
Specialized Stumpjumper is a trail bike that can do it all. It’s built to be light and agile, yet still have the strength and durability to handle aggressive riding. With 27.5″ or 29″ wheels, 120mm or 130mm of travel, and a variety of build kits to choose from, the Stumpjumper is ready for anything from cross-country adventures to all-day epics in the backcountry.
Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for an upgrade, or a new rider looking for your first trail bike, Specialized Stumpjumper is the perfect choice. Specialized Stumpjumper has been a favorite of riders for years, and it’s easy to see why. With its versatile design and impressive build quality, the Stumpjumper is a bike that can do it all.
From cross-country rides to all-day epics in the backcountry, this bike is ready for anything. With a variety of build kits to choose from, you can find the perfect Stumpjumper for your riding style. And with 27.5″ or 29″ wheels, 120mm or 130mm of travel, and a variety of other options, you can customize your ride to be exactly what you want it to be.
Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for an upgrade, or a new rider looking for your first trail bike, Specialized Stumpjumper is a perfect choice.
Components
When it comes to mountain bikes, there are a few key components that can make or break your ride. In this Santa Cruz Hightower Vs Stumpjumper comparison, we’ll take a look at some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a mountain bike.
Frame:
When choosing a bike frame, it’s important to consider both durability and comfort. The Santa Cruz Hightower has a carbon fiber frame, making it a good choice for those who want a durable bike.
However, the Stumpjumper has an aluminum frame, making it a good choice for those who are looking for a more comfortable ride. If you’re looking for a durable bike frame, the Santa Cruz Hightower is a great choice.
However, if you’re looking for a more comfortable ride, the Stumpjumper may be a better option. Consider both durability and comfort when choosing a bike frame to ensure you get the best ride possible.
Fork:
The fork is what helps your bike absorb shock from bumps in the trail. Both the Hightower and the Stumpjumper have suspension forks, but the Hightower’s fork has 100mm of travel, while the Stumpjumper’s fork has 120mm of travel.
Wheels:
The size of your wheels can affect how your bike handles on the trail. Both the Hightower and the Stumpjumper come with 29″ wheels, but the Hightower’s wheels are slightly wider than the Stumpjumper’s.
Wheel Size:
The Hightower and the Stumpjumper both have 29″ wheels, but the Hightower’s wheels are slightly wider than the Stumpjumper’s.
Brake Type:
There are two main types of brakes used on mountain bikes – hydraulic and mechanical. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right type for your riding style.
Hydraulic brakes are typically more powerful than mechanical brakes, making them ideal for aggressive riding or downhill racing. They also tend to be more expensive and require more frequent maintenance.
Mechanical brakes are less powerful than hydraulic brakes, but they’re also less expensive and easier to maintain. They’re a good choice for casual riders or those who don’t ride often in wet or muddy conditions.
Groupset:
Groupsets are the collections of components that make up your bike’s drivetrain. The Hightower and the Stumpjumper both have SRAM 1×11 speed groupsets, which means that they have the same number of gears.
However, the Hightower has a slightly higher gear ratio, meaning that it is better suited for climbing. The Stumpjumper, on the other hand, has a lower gear ratio, making it better suited for downhill riding. Ultimately, it is up to the rider to decide which bike is best for their needs.
Drivetrain:
The SRAM 1×11 speed drivetrain on the Hightower and Stumpjumper provides plenty of gear options for tackling any trail. With a wide range of gears to choose from, you can always find the perfect gear for any situation.
And with the 11-speed cassette, you’ll have all the gears you need for even the most challenging trails. Whether you’re climbing up a steep hill or flying down a mountainside, the SRAM 1×11 drivetrain will give you all the gears you need to ride your best.
Conclusion
The choice between the Santa Cruz Hightower and the Stumpjumper ultimately boils down to your individual riding preferences and the type of terrain you plan to tackle. The Hightower shines with its longer travel suspension and stable geometry, making it an excellent companion for aggressive riding and downhill racing enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Stumpjumper offers a lighter and more agile option, well-suited for cross-country riding and racing.
The Hightower’s carbon fiber frame and customizable build kits cater to those seeking durability and versatility across various terrains. In contrast, the Stumpjumper’s aluminum frame provides a more comfortable ride, appealing to riders prioritizing agility and responsiveness.
Examining crucial components such as the fork, wheel size, brake type, and drivetrain, each bike presents its unique strengths. The Hightower’s wider wheels and powerful hydraulic brakes make it a formidable choice for aggressive descents, while the Stumpjumper’s slightly narrower wheels and mechanical brakes offer a more budget-friendly and low-maintenance alternative.
Ultimately, both the Santa Cruz Hightower and Specialized Stumpjumper deliver exceptional performance and durability. Whether you’re navigating challenging trails or embarking on cross-country adventures, the decision between these two outstanding bikes hinges on your riding style and specific preferences. Rest assured, whichever option you choose, you’ll be investing in a top-notch mountain bike designed to withstand the rigors of your chosen terrain.