Hightower 3

NEW - SRAM NGT: Gloss Ocean Blue NEW - SRAM NGT: Matte Cardinal Red Matte Evergreen Gloss Translucent Purple Gloss Carbon and Light Blue Matte Melon

Overview
Details
Bike Builder
Geometry and Sizing
Product Support

NEW - SRAM NGT: Gloss Ocean Blue NEW - SRAM NGT: Matte Cardinal Red Matte Evergreen Gloss Translucent Purple Gloss Carbon and Light Blue Matte Melon

THE MOUNTAIN BIKE, DISTILLED

The newest version of the Hightower remains our greatest hits of engineering - now further refined and bottled into our most all-terrain of bikes. Big on wheels, medium on travel, short on fuss, this is the do-it-all model that does it over and over again thanks to a versatile balance of geo, spec and durability. If you’re not looking for extremes, just something extremely good, the Hightower is your elevator.

Need more travel in a big wheel package? Try the Megatower.
Want to race XC whippets on the climbs but still charge the downs? Try the Tallboy.
Proud owner of a Hightower? Register your bike now

Key Features:

Available in:	Carbon C and Carbon CC
Wheel Size:	29
Front Travel:	150mm
Rear Travel:	145mm

Engineering Details

Hightower 3 Matte Evergreen frame exploded view with links and hardware

Engineering Details

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OUR ENGINEERS’ GREATEST HITS

Not all frames are created equal. Hightower represents Santa Cruz’s greatest hits, showcasing our design, engineering, and performance prowess.

LOWER LINK ASSEMBLY

The highly-sculpted and optimized Lower Link (A) houses a geometry adjusting Flip Chip (B) and beefy Pivot Axles (C) to virtually eliminate lateral flex.

UPPER LINK ASSEMBLY

We only use the highest quality Enduro MAX or TPX sealed, radial bearings (A) and premium fasteners (B) for our linkage assemblies. They’re easy to properly torque and maintain, plus we offer free replacement bearings for life.

ONE-PIECE SWINGARM

VPP suspension utilizes a one-piece swingarm that eliminates the need for pivots on the stays, creating a stout, bulletproof rear end for accurate tracking and superior performance.

C AND CC CARBON

Santa Cruz offers two grades of carbon—top-end CC Carbon and value-minded C Carbon. Though they have the same stiffness and performance, CC is lighter and comes paired with more premium suspension.

CARBON MASTERY

The Sag Window (A), Glovebox (B) and internal cable tunnels (not shown) demonstrate Santa Cruz’s expertise at combining practical function with carbon design and manufacturing artistry.

THE SUM OF THE PARTS

In isolation, all these things are great—together with fanatical suspension tuning, a premium build spec, and a meticulous attention-to-detail, they’re transcendent.

Choose Build Kit

$4,799 USD

Weight: 31.75 lbs / 14.4 kg

Choose a size

Please note: Price, Weight, and Parts Spec information is subject to change.

$4,799 USD

31.75 lbs / 14.4 kg

$5,899 USD

31.61 lbs / 14.34 kg

GX AXS

$6,999 USD

GX AXS RSV

$7,999 USD

X0 AXS

$7,999 USD

30.9 lbs / 14.02 kg

X0 AXS RSV

$8,999 USD

30.8 lbs / 13.97 kg

XX AXS RSV

$10,999 USD

30.4 lbs / 13.79 kg

Frame

$3,899 USD

6.36 lbs / 2.89 kg

Material Carbon C Our C Carbon frames use the same proprietary processes of the highest spec CC Carbon frames to match the same legendary strength and stiffness standards. But the use of a different grade of carbon material results in a minimal weight gain. Learn More	Material Carbon C Our C Carbon frames use the same proprietary processes of the highest spec CC Carbon frames to match the same legendary strength and stiffness standards. But the use of a different grade of carbon material results in a minimal weight gain. Learn More	Material Carbon C Our C Carbon frames use the same proprietary processes of the highest spec CC Carbon frames to match the same legendary strength and stiffness standards. But the use of a different grade of carbon material results in a minimal weight gain. Learn More	Material Carbon C Our C Carbon frames use the same proprietary processes of the highest spec CC Carbon frames to match the same legendary strength and stiffness standards. But the use of a different grade of carbon material results in a minimal weight gain. Learn More	Material Carbon CC CC denotes our highest grade carbon fiber frames. Use of the very best materials in the composite results in the lightest, best handling bikes. CC level bikes are also specced with the best wheels, drivetrains and suspension on these models. Learn More	Material Carbon CC CC denotes our highest grade carbon fiber frames. Use of the very best materials in the composite results in the lightest, best handling bikes. CC level bikes are also specced with the best wheels, drivetrains and suspension on these models. Learn More	Material Carbon CC CC denotes our highest grade carbon fiber frames. Use of the very best materials in the composite results in the lightest, best handling bikes. CC level bikes are also specced with the best wheels, drivetrains and suspension on these models. Learn More	Material Carbon CC CC denotes our highest grade carbon fiber frames. Use of the very best materials in the composite results in the lightest, best handling bikes. CC level bikes are also specced with the best wheels, drivetrains and suspension on these models. Learn More
Travel 145mm	Travel 145mm	Travel 145mm	Travel 145mm	Travel 145mm	Travel 145mm	Travel 145mm	Travel 145mm
Wheel Size 29	Wheel Size 29	Wheel Size 29	Wheel Size 29	Wheel Size 29	Wheel Size 29	Wheel Size 29	Wheel Size 29
Rear Shock FOX Float Performance, 210x55	Rear Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, 210x55	Rear Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, 210x55	Rear Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, 210x55	Rear Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate, 210x55	Rear Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate, 210x55	Rear Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate, 210x55	Rear Shock -
Fork RockShox Lyrik Base, 150mm	Fork FOX 36 Float Performance, 150mm	Fork RockShox Lyrik Select+, 150mm -or- Fox 36 Performance Elite	Fork RockShox Lyrik Select+, 150mm -or- Fox 36 Performance Elite	Fork RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, 150mm -or- FOX 36 Float Factory	Fork RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, 150mm -or- FOX 36 Float Factory	Fork RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, 150mm -or- FOX 36 Float Factory	Fork -
Rear Derailleur SRAM NX Eagle, 12spd	Rear Derailleur SRAM GX Eagle, 12spd	Rear Derailleur SRAM GX Eagle AXS T-Type, 12spd	Rear Derailleur SRAM GX Eagle AXS T-Type, 12spd	Rear Derailleur SRAM X0 Eagle AXS T-Type, 12spd	Rear Derailleur SRAM X0 Eagle AXS T-Type, 12spd	Rear Derailleur SRAM XX Eagle AXS T-Type, 12spd	Rear Derailleur -
Right Shifter SRAM NX Eagle, 12spd	Right Shifter SRAM GX Eagle, 12spd	Right Shifter SRAM AXS Pod Bridge	Right Shifter SRAM AXS Pod Bridge	Right Shifter SRAM AXS Pod Bridge	Right Shifter SRAM AXS Pod Bridge	Right Shifter SRAM AXS Pod Ultimate Bridge	Right Shifter -
Cassette SRAM PG1230, 12spd, 11-50t	Cassette SRAM XG1275 Eagle, 12spd, 10-50t	Cassette SRAM GX Eagle T-Type, 10-52t	Cassette SRAM GX Eagle T-Type, 10-52t	Cassette SRAM X0 Eagle T-Type, 10-52t	Cassette SRAM X0 Eagle T-Type, 10-52t	Cassette SRAM XX Eagle T-Type, 10-52t	Cassette -
Chain SRAM NX Eagle, 12spd	Chain SRAM GX Eagle, 12spd	Chain SRAM GX Eagle T-Type, Flattop, 12spd	Chain SRAM GX Eagle T-Type, Flattop, 12spd	Chain SRAM X0 Eagle T-Type, Flattop, 12spd	Chain SRAM X0 Eagle T-Type, Flattop, 12spd	Chain SRAM XX Eagle T-Type, Flattop, 12spd	Chain -
Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB 68/73mm Threaded BB	Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB 68/73mm Threaded BB	Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB 73mm MTB Wide BB	Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB 73mm MTB Wide BB	Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB 73mm MTB Wide BB	Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB 73mm MTB Wide BB	Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB 73mm MTB Wide BB	Bottom Bracket -
Headset FSA IS-2/47/42 ACB or Cane Creek 10 IS Integrated	Headset Cane Creek 40 IS Integrated Headset	Headset Cane Creek 40 IS Integrated Headset	Headset Cane Creek 40 IS Integrated Headset	Headset Cane Creek 40 IS Integrated Headset	Headset Cane Creek 40 IS Integrated Headset	Headset Chris King DropSet 3 Integrated Headset	Headset -
Rear Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO	Rear Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO	Rear Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO	Rear Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO	Rear Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO	Rear Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO	Rear Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO	Rear Tire -
Front Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO	Front Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO	Front Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO	Front Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO	Front Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO	Front Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO	Front Tire Maxxis Minion DHR II 29"x2.4", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO	Front Tire -
Front Hub SRAM MTH 716, 15x110, Torque Cap, 6-Bolt 32h	Front Hub DT Swiss 370, 15x110, 6-Bolt, 28h	Front Hub DT Swiss 370, 15x110, Torque Cap, 6-Bolt, 28h	Front Hub DT Swiss 370, 15x110, Torque Cap, 6-Bolt, 28h	Front Hub Industry Nine 1/1, 15x110, Torque Cap, 6-Bolt, 28h	Front Hub Industry Nine 1/1, 15x110, Torque Cap, 6-Bolt, 28h	Front Hub Industry Nine Hydra, 15x110, Torque Cap, 6-Bolt, 28h	Front Hub -
Front Rim RaceFace AR Offset 30, 29"	Front Rim RaceFace AR Offset 30, 29"	Front Rim RaceFace ARC Offset 30 29"	Front Rim Reserve 30\|HD 29" The Reserve 30\|HD is specially designed for aggressive trail riding. They feature a 30mm width for use with 2.5 tires and a redesigned inner rim bed that takes the hassle out of seating new tires. The Reserve 30\|HD is the ultimate mountain bike rim. Learn More	Front Rim RaceFace ARC Offset 30 29"	Front Rim Reserve 30\|HD 29" The Reserve 30\|HD is specially designed for aggressive trail riding. They feature a 30mm width for use with 2.5 tires and a redesigned inner rim bed that takes the hassle out of seating new tires. The Reserve 30\|HD is the ultimate mountain bike rim. Learn More	Front Rim Reserve 30\|HD 29" The Reserve 30\|HD is specially designed for aggressive trail riding. They feature a 30mm width for use with 2.5 tires and a redesigned inner rim bed that takes the hassle out of seating new tires. The Reserve 30\|HD is the ultimate mountain bike rim. Learn More	Front Rim -
Rear Hub SRAM MTH 746, 12x148, HG, 6-Bolt, 32h	Rear Hub DT Swis 370, 12x148, XD, 6-Bolt, 36t, 28h	Rear Hub DT Swis 370, 12x148, XD, 6-Bolt, 36t, 28h	Rear Hub DT Swis 370, 12x148, XD, 6-Bolt, 36t, 28h	Rear Hub Industry Nine 1/1, 12x148, XD, 6-Bolt, 28h	Rear Hub Industry Nine 1/1, 12x148, XD, 6-Bolt, 28h	Rear Hub Industry Nine Hydra, 12x148, XD, 6-Bolt, 28h	Rear Hub -
Rear Rim RaceFace AR Offset 30, 29"	Rear Rim RaceFace AR Offset 30, 29"	Rear Rim RaceFace ARC Offset 30 29"	Rear Rim Reserve 30\|HD 29" The Reserve 30\|HD is specially designed for aggressive trail riding. They feature a 30mm width for use with 2.5 tires and a redesigned inner rim bed that takes the hassle out of seating new tires. The Reserve 30\|HD is the ultimate mountain bike rim. Learn More	Rear Rim RaceFace ARC Offset 30 29"	Rear Rim Reserve 30\|HD 29" The Reserve 30\|HD is specially designed for aggressive trail riding. They feature a 30mm width for use with 2.5 tires and a redesigned inner rim bed that takes the hassle out of seating new tires. The Reserve 30\|HD is the ultimate mountain bike rim. Learn More	Rear Rim Reserve 30\|HD 29" The Reserve 30\|HD is specially designed for aggressive trail riding. They feature a 30mm width for use with 2.5 tires and a redesigned inner rim bed that takes the hassle out of seating new tires. The Reserve 30\|HD is the ultimate mountain bike rim. Learn More	Rear Rim -
Front Rotor Avid Centerline, 200mm	Front Rotor Avid Centerline, 180mm	Front Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Front Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Front Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Front Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Front Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Front Rotor -
Rear Rotor Avid Centerline, 180mm	Rear Rotor Avid Centerline, 180mm	Rear Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Rear Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Rear Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Rear Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Rear Rotor SRAM HS2 180mm	Rear Rotor -
Brakes SRAM G2 R	Brakes SRAM Code R	Brakes SRAM Code Bronze Stealth	Brakes SRAM Code Bronze Stealth	Brakes SRAM Code Silver Stealth	Brakes SRAM Code Silver Stealth	Brakes Code Ultimate Stealth	Brakes -
Crankset SRAM Descendant Eagle 148 DUB 32t	Crankset SRAM GX Eagle 148 DUB 32t	Crankset SRAM GX Eagle DUB T-Type Crankset, 32t	Crankset SRAM GX Eagle DUB T-Type Crankset, 32t	Crankset SRAM X0 Eagle DUB T-Type Crankset, 32t	Crankset SRAM X0 Eagle DUB T-Type Crankset, 32t	Crankset SRAM XX Eagle DUB T-Type Crankset, 32t	Crankset -
Handlebars RaceFace Aeffect R	Handlebars Burgtec RideWide Alloy	Handlebars Santa Cruz Carbon	Handlebars Santa Cruz Carbon	Handlebars Santa Cruz 35 Carbon Bar, 800mm	Handlebars Santa Cruz 35 Carbon Bar, 800mm	Handlebars Santa Cruz 35 Carbon Bar, 800mm	Handlebars -
Stem Burgtec Enduro MK3, 42mm	Stem Burgtec Enduro MK3, 42mm	Stem Burgtec Enduro MK3, 42mm	Stem Burgtec Enduro MK3, 42mm	Stem Burgtec Enduro MK3, 42mm	Stem Burgtec Enduro MK3, 42mm	Stem Industry Nine A35, 40mm	Stem -
Saddle WTB Silverado, CroMo	Saddle WTB Silverado, CroMo	Saddle WTB Silverado Medium, CroMo	Saddle WTB Silverado Medium, CroMo	Saddle WTB Silverado Medium, Ti	Saddle WTB Silverado Medium, Ti	Saddle WTB Silverado Medium, Ti	Saddle -
Seatpost SDG Tellis Dropper, 31.6	Seatpost OneUp V2 Dropper Post, 31.6 or RockShox Reverb, 31.6	Seatpost OneUp V2 Dropper Post, 31.6 -or- Reverb Stealth -or- Fox Transfer	Seatpost OneUp V2 Dropper Post, 31.6 -or- Reverb Stealth -or- Fox Transfer	Seatpost OneUp V2 Dropper Post, 31.6 -or- RockShox Reverb Stealth -or- Fox Transfer	Seatpost OneUp V2 Dropper Post, 31.6 -or- RockShox Reverb Stealth -or- Fox Transfer	Seatpost OneUp V2 Dropper Post, 31.6 -or- RockShox Reverb Stealth -or- Fox Transfer	Seatpost -
Grips Santa Cruz Bicycles House Grips Our House Grips have an aggressive knurl pattern for all-weather grip, finger ridges for added control and soft, yet durable rubber compound. They come in either 30 or 32mm width and have an inboard snap-on lock ring to keep them tight but no ring on the outboard side so they’re super comfortable. And they’ll do your taxes* *not true. But they are really good. Learn More	Grips Santa Cruz Bicycles House Grips Our House Grips have an aggressive knurl pattern for all-weather grip, finger ridges for added control and soft, yet durable rubber compound. They come in either 30 or 32mm width and have an inboard snap-on lock ring to keep them tight but no ring on the outboard side so they’re super comfortable. And they’ll do your taxes* *not true. But they are really good. Learn More	Grips Santa Cruz Bicycles House Grips Our House Grips have an aggressive knurl pattern for all-weather grip, finger ridges for added control and soft, yet durable rubber compound. They come in either 30 or 32mm width and have an inboard snap-on lock ring to keep them tight but no ring on the outboard side so they’re super comfortable. And they’ll do your taxes* *not true. But they are really good. Learn More	Grips Santa Cruz Bicycles House Grips Our House Grips have an aggressive knurl pattern for all-weather grip, finger ridges for added control and soft, yet durable rubber compound. They come in either 30 or 32mm width and have an inboard snap-on lock ring to keep them tight but no ring on the outboard side so they’re super comfortable. And they’ll do your taxes* *not true. But they are really good. Learn More	Grips Santa Cruz Bicycles House Grips Our House Grips have an aggressive knurl pattern for all-weather grip, finger ridges for added control and soft, yet durable rubber compound. They come in either 30 or 32mm width and have an inboard snap-on lock ring to keep them tight but no ring on the outboard side so they’re super comfortable. And they’ll do your taxes* *not true. But they are really good. Learn More	Grips Santa Cruz Bicycles House Grips Our House Grips have an aggressive knurl pattern for all-weather grip, finger ridges for added control and soft, yet durable rubber compound. They come in either 30 or 32mm width and have an inboard snap-on lock ring to keep them tight but no ring on the outboard side so they’re super comfortable. And they’ll do your taxes* *not true. But they are really good. Learn More	Grips Santa Cruz Bicycles House Grips Our House Grips have an aggressive knurl pattern for all-weather grip, finger ridges for added control and soft, yet durable rubber compound. They come in either 30 or 32mm width and have an inboard snap-on lock ring to keep them tight but no ring on the outboard side so they’re super comfortable. And they’ll do your taxes* *not true. But they are really good. Learn More	Grips -
Battery Charger -	Battery Charger -	Battery Charger SRAM eTap Powerpack 1 Battery	Battery Charger SRAM eTap Powerpack 1 Battery	Battery Charger SRAM eTap Powerpack 1 Battery	Battery Charger SRAM eTap Powerpack 1 Battery	Battery Charger SRAM eTap Powerpack 1 Battery	Battery Charger -

SRAM Eagle Transmission - stronger, better shifting, wirelessly

The next generation SRAM Eagle Transmission specced on our CC-carbon models is a radically robust, fully integrated and interdependent wireless transmission. Built around the universal constant of the wheel axle itself, the Full Mount hangerless attachment creates a far stronger connection to the frame and the super strong derailleur provides unprecedented strength. Shifting under load is made possible due to a combination of X-SYNC technology and cassette mapping, creating seamless shifts even during your hardest power output. The new AXS Pods are extremely ergonomic and highly customizable, so shifting gears is light and intuitive. It's simply the most advanced transmission and nearly as tough as the mountain itself.

Santa Cruz Bicycles - SRAM NGT explainer

Geometry

All units are in millimeters or degrees.

	S	M	L	XL	XXL
Reach \| hi/lo	430/427	455/452	475/472	495/492	520/517
Stack \| hi/lo	611/613	625/627	634/636	652/654	665/668
Head Tube Angle \| hi/lo	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°
Seat Tube Length	380	405	430	460	500
Front Center \| hi/lo	752/752	783/783	807/807	836/836	867/867
BB Height \| hi/lo	342/339	342/338	342/338	342/338	342/338
BB Drop \| hi/lo	31/34	31/34	31/34	31/34	31/34
Wheelbase \| hi/lo	1183/1183	1217/1218	1244/1245	1276/1276	1310/1311
Rear Center \| hi/lo	431/432	434/435	437/438	440/441	443/444
Head Tube Length	100	115	125	145	160
Top Tube Length \| hi/lo	571/572	599/600	626/627	647/648	674/675
Seat Tube Angle \| hi/lo	77°/76.7°	77°/76.7°	76.7°/76.4°	76.9°/76.6°	76.9°/76.7°
Standover Height \| hi/lo	706/701	708/703	711/706	714/709	719/714

Frame Sizing

If you're on the cusp between the recommended height range of two sizes, the absolute best thing is to try to ride them both. At a minimum, check the stack/reach measurements on your current bike and compare it to the new model you are looking at to get an idea of a fit you are already comfortable with. If riding the bike is not an option, consider the following.

The Hightower is available in sizes small - extra extra large (S-XXL).

Personal Preference

A larger size frame will be more stable, and will give you more room to move without upsetting the weight-balance of the bike. The larger size will put the front wheel further in front of you, which gives the feeling of security and conversely, it will require more significant body movements when you WANT to shift the weight-bias of the bike. Think hard about your riding style and how active/intuitive you want it to be vs stable and speedy. You'll need to work a bit harder to muscle the larger bike around.

Body Dimension

Not all bodies at a given height are the same. If you have longer legs and a shorter torso than the average person your height, that may push you towards the smaller of the recommended sizes. If you're all torso and arms, most likely you'll want to size up.

Hightower 3 Highlights

Hightower 3 Highlights

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VPP™

VPP™ suspension can be optimized to strike the right balance between pedaling efficiency and all-out bump chomping prowess. That means wherever you see "VPP" you know it's tuned to perform exactly how it should for the purpose it's designed for.

145mm VPP travel

Looking for something good at climbing, and downhill, and going round and round your local trails? Say hello to Hightower. 145mm in the rear paired with 150mm up front is your perfect combo.

Suspension sensitivity

Compared to the last Hightower, we reduced the anti-squat in the first 40% of travel. This noticeably improves suspension sensitivity in both climbing and descending scenarios due to reduced chain influence on the suspension.

Suspension consistency

Hightower's leverage curve is relatively straight, with added progression towards the end of the travel. This provides improved bottom-out resistance with more consistent damping and support.

Glovebox

Place your ride essentials securely beneath a new high-quality latch and panel in the Hightower's downtube. The Glovebox comes with a fitted Tool Wallet and Tube Purse, tailored for the frame to keep your tools close to hand.

Full carbon C and CC frame

CC frames use the very best materials and production processes available. Our size-specific frame stiffness standards help tie together our ride quality goals by achieving a tailored front triangle flex characteristic for every size.

Sag window

A window allows easier suspension sag and setup. The details are completed by a neat mud flap to protect the rear shock plus tidy cable routing within the frame and swingarm, and rubberized DT protectors to shrug off strikes.

Flip chip

In the Low position, the shock rate becomes more progressive, particularly at the end of the stroke, and there’s some bottom-out resistance to be gained. In the High setting, the bike rides a little higher in its travel and supplies the rider with more mid-stroke support. Tweakers and finicky shredders can adapt the suspension feel to their needs and desire.

Proportional geometry

Chainstay length and seat angle is matched to the frame size so every rider, no matter their height, gets the same balanced geometry. Across all sizes however, the headtube angle has been slackened to help stability at speed, lowered the bottom bracket to compliment the better supported suspension, and increased stack in favor of modern handlebar setups.

29-inch wheels

Hightower features fast-rolling, bump-easing 29-inch wheels front and rear. On high-end builds we spec Reserve 30|HD carbon rims laced to premium hubs, which are built and hand-tuned in our Santa Cruz, Calif. factory. See Reserve 30|HD wheels

Hightower Frame Specifications

Suspension System	VPP
Front Derailleur	No compatibility
Headset/Headtube	Integrated (IS41/52)
Seat Post	31.6mm
Seat Clamp	36.4mm
Eye to Eye length	210mm
Stroke	55mm
Fork Compatibility	150-160mm
Fork Offset	44mm
Brake Mount	180 PM
BB Shell	73mm Threaded
Max Tire Size	2.5"
Max Chainring Size	34t
Water Bottle Mounts	1
Shock Mounting Bushing Front	30x8
Shock Mounting Bushing Rear	30x8 (bearing compatible)

Suspension Setup

Take a look at detailed sag, high/low rebound, and high/low compression recommendations for shocks and forks in each build.

RS Lyrik Base 150

Rider Weight (lbs)	(kgs)	Pressure (psi)	Rebound (from closed)
100	45	40	14
120	54	50	13
140	64	60	12
160	73	70	11
180	82	80	11
200	91	90	10
220	100	100	9
240	109	110	8

Fox Float Performance

Rider Weight (lbs)	(kgs)	Pressure (psi)	Sag (%, mm on shock)	Rebound (from closed)
100	45	120	28-30%, 15-17mm	10
120	54	145	28-30%, 15-17mm	9
140	64	170	28-30%, 15-17mm	9
160	73	195	28-30%, 15-17mm	8
180	82	220	28-30%, 15-17mm	8
200	91	245	28-30%, 15-17mm	7
220	100	265	28-30%, 15-17mm	7
240	109	290	28-30%, 15-17mm	6

Fox 36 Performance 150

Rider Weight (lbs)	(kgs)	Pressure (psi)	Rebound (from closed)
120-130	54-59	66	13
130-140	59-64	70	12
140-150	64-68	74	11
150-160	68-73	78	10
160-170	73-77	82	9
170-180	77-82	86	8
180-190	82-86	89	7
190-200	86-91	94	6
200-210	91-95	99	5
210-220	95-100	104	4
220-230	100-104	109	3
230-240	104-109	113	2

Rockshox Super Deluxe Select Plus

Rider Weight (lbs)	(kgs)	Pressure (psi)	Sag (%, mm on shock)	Rebound (from closed)
100	45	95	28-30%, 15-17mm	8
120	54	120	28-30%, 15-17mm	8
140	64	140	28-30%, 15-17mm	7
160	73	165	28-30%, 15-17mm	7
180	82	185	28-30%, 15-17mm	6
200	91	210	28-30%, 15-17mm	6
220	100	230	28-30%, 15-17mm	5
240	109	255	28-30%, 15-17mm	5
260	118	275	28-30%, 15-17mm	4

GX AXS

MY24 Rockshox Lyrik Select Plus 150

Rider Weight (lbs)	(kgs)	Pressure (psi)	Rebound (from closed)
100	45	40	15
120	54	50	13
140	64	60	12
160	73	70	11
180	82	80	10
200	91	90	9
220	100	100	8
240	109	110	6

Rockshox Superdeluxe Select Plus

Rider Weight (lbs)	(kgs)	Pressure (psi)	Sag (%, mm on shock)	Rebound (from closed)
100	45	95	28-30%, 15-17mm	8
120	54	120	28-30%, 15-17mm	8
140	64	140	28-30%, 15-17mm	7
160	73	165	28-30%, 15-17mm	7
180	82	185	28-30%, 15-17mm	6
200	91	210	28-30%, 15-17mm	6
220	100	230	28-30%, 15-17mm	5
240	109	255	28-30%, 15-17mm	5
260	118	275	28-30%, 15-17mm	4

X0 AXS

Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate 150

Rider Weight	Pressure (psi)	Rebound (from closed)	Compression: LSC,HSC (from center)
100lbs (45.5kg)	40	15	-2,0
120lbs (54.4kg)	50	13	-2,0
140lbs (63.5kg)	60	12	-2,0
160lbs (72.6kg)	70	11	-2,0
180lbs (81.8kg)	80	10	-2,0
200lbs (90.7kg)	90	9	-2,0
220lbs (99.8kg)	100	8	-2,0
240lbs (108.8kg)	110	6	-2,0

Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate

Rider Weight	Pressure (psi)	Sag (%, mm on shock)	Rebound (from closed)	Compression: LSC, HSC (from closed)
100lbs (45.5kg)	95	28-30%, 15-17mm	7	-1/-1
120lbs (54.4kg)	120	28-30%, 15-17mm	7	-1/-1
140lbs (63.5kg)	140	28-30%, 15-17mm	6	-1/-1
160lbs (72.6kg)	165	28-30%, 15-17mm	6	-1/-1
180lbs (81.8kg)	185	28-30%, 15-17mm	5	-1/-1
200lbs (90.7kg)	210	28-30%, 15-17mm	5	-1/-1
220lbs (99.8kg)	230	28-30%, 15-17mm	4	-1/-1
240lbs (108.8kg)	255	28-30%, 15-17mm	4	-1/-1
260lbs (117.9kg)	275	28-30%, 15-17mm	3	-1/-1

X0 AXS RSV

Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate 150

Rider Weight	Pressure (psi)	Rebound (from closed)	Compression: LSC,HSC (from center)
100lbs (45.5kg)	40	15	-2,0
120lbs (54.4kg)	50	13	-2,0
140lbs (63.5kg)	60	12	-2,0
160lbs (72.6kg)	70	11	-2,0
180lbs (81.8kg)	80	10	-2,0
200lbs (90.7kg)	90	9	-2,0
220lbs (99.8kg)	100	8	-2,0
240lbs (108.8kg)	110	6	-2,0

Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate

Rider Weight	Pressure (psi)	Sag (%, mm on shock)	Rebound (from closed)	Compression: LSC, HSC (from closed)
100lbs (45.5kg)	95	28-30%, 15-17mm	7	-1/-1
120lbs (54.4kg)	120	28-30%, 15-17mm	7	-1/-1
140lbs (63.5kg)	140	28-30%, 15-17mm	6	-1/-1
160lbs (72.6kg)	165	28-30%, 15-17mm	6	-1/-1
180lbs (81.8kg)	185	28-30%, 15-17mm	5	-1/-1
200lbs (90.7kg)	210	28-30%, 15-17mm	5	-1/-1
220lbs (99.8kg)	230	28-30%, 15-17mm	4	-1/-1
240lbs (108.8kg)	255	28-30%, 15-17mm	4	-1/-1
260lbs (117.9kg)	275	28-30%, 15-17mm	3	-1/-1

XX AXS RSV

Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate 150

Rider Weight	Pressure (psi)	Rebound (from closed)	Compression: LSC,HSC (from center)
100lbs (45.5kg)	40	15	-2,0
120lbs (54.4kg)	50	13	-2,0
140lbs (63.5kg)	60	12	-2,0
160lbs (72.6kg)	70	11	-2,0
180lbs (81.8kg)	80	10	-2,0
200lbs (90.7kg)	90	9	-2,0
220lbs (99.8kg)	100	8	-2,0
240lbs (108.8kg)	110	6	-2,0

Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate

Rider Weight	Pressure (psi)	Sag (%, mm on shock)	Rebound (from closed)	Compression: LSC, HSC (from closed)
100lbs (45.5kg)	95	28-30%, 15-17mm	7	-1/-1
120lbs (54.4kg)	120	28-30%, 15-17mm	7	-1/-1
140lbs (63.5kg)	140	28-30%, 15-17mm	6	-1/-1
160lbs (72.6kg)	165	28-30%, 15-17mm	6	-1/-1
180lbs (81.8kg)	185	28-30%, 15-17mm	5	-1/-1
200lbs (90.7kg)	210	28-30%, 15-17mm	5	-1/-1
220lbs (99.8kg)	230	28-30%, 15-17mm	4	-1/-1
240lbs (108.8kg)	255	28-30%, 15-17mm	4	-1/-1
260lbs (117.9kg)	275	28-30%, 15-17mm	3	-1/-1

Geometry

All units are in millimeters or degrees.

	S	M	L	XL	XXL
Reach \| hi/lo	430/427	455/452	475/472	495/492	520/517
Stack \| hi/lo	611/613	625/627	634/636	652/654	665/668
Head Tube Angle \| hi/lo	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°	64.8°/64.5°
Seat Tube Length	380	405	430	460	500
Front Center \| hi/lo	752/752	783/783	807/807	836/836	867/867
BB Height \| hi/lo	342/339	342/338	342/338	342/338	342/338
BB Drop \| hi/lo	31/34	31/34	31/34	31/34	31/34
Wheelbase \| hi/lo	1183/1183	1217/1218	1244/1245	1276/1276	1310/1311
Rear Center \| hi/lo	431/432	434/435	437/438	440/441	443/444
Head Tube Length	100	115	125	145	160
Top Tube Length \| hi/lo	571/572	599/600	626/627	647/648	674/675
Seat Tube Angle \| hi/lo	77°/76.7°	77°/76.7°	76.7°/76.4°	76.9°/76.6°	76.9°/76.7°
Standover Height \| hi/lo	706/701	708/703	711/706	714/709	719/714

Frame Sizing

The Hightower is available in sizes small - extra extra large (S-XXL).

Personal Preference

Body Dimension

FAQ's

What is the recommended fork?

The Hightower geometry is based off of a 150mm fork with a 42 or 44mm offset. We wouldn't recommend less travel than that, as the BB will get a bit low. Up to 160mm is fine if that's your preference.

Is there chainguide compatibility?

Yes, this bike is equipped with ISCG-05 tabs for easy chainguide mounting. Most guides that follow the ISCG-05 standard should fit.

Can I convert the Hightower to 27.5" or MX wheels?

No, the Hightower is built exclusively for 29" wheels and tires front and rear. The geometry is not setup for any 27.5" front or rear conversions.

What kind of headset does this bike use?

This bike uses integrated headset cups. The upper up is 41mm and the lower cup is 52mm. The SHIS name is IS 41/28.6 IS 52/40.For Chris King this is a DropSet.3

I want to change my rear shock. Any limitations?

The Hightower fits most shocks on the market, with some exceptions. Fox Float X2, Cane Creek DB Air, and all coil shocks are not compatible. We recommend the Rockshox Super Deluxe, Deluxe, Fox Float X, Fox Float DPS.

What size tire will fit?

the Hightower is designed for 29" x 2.5" max

Should I ride in the High or Low shock flip-chip setting?

You should definitely try both, but we typically recommend starting in High. In the High setting, the bike rides a little higher in its travel and supplies the rider with more mid-stroke support. In the Low position, the shock rate becomes more progressive, particularly at the end of the stroke, and there’s some bottom-out resistance to be gained.

Does the Hightower use the SRAM Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH)?

The frame is UDH-compatible, but comes with our own machined aluminum hanger. You can replace it with another Santa Cruz hanger or a SRAM UDH.

What can I store in the glovebox?

The Hightower comes with two bags - a tube purse and a tool wallet. You should be able to fit a superlight tube, a small pump, tire lever, and misc odds and ends in these two bags.