Santa Cruz 5010
Wheel Size: MX | Front Travel: 140mm | Rear Travel: 130mm
Embrace the playful spirit of trail riding with the Santa Cruz 5010, a bike that invites you to hop, skip, and jump your way through adventurous trails. The 5010 has been upgraded to feature a dynamic 29-inch front wheel paired with a 27.5-inch rear wheel, optimizing traction and control across various terrains. This unique wheel combination enhances stability while maintaining agile handling, making it perfect for technical trails and playful maneuvers. The 5010’s suspension system has also seen significant refinement, with improved kinematics that offer a smoother, more responsive ride. This enhanced suspension ensures that every bump and trail feature is absorbed efficiently, providing a plush ride without sacrificing responsiveness or control. Available in several build kits, including the versatile GX AXS and the higher-end X0 AXS, the 5010 caters to different riding styles and budgets. Each build offers specific components and features tailored to enhance your trail experience, from reliable performance to advanced precision. Whether you’re navigating technical descents or enjoying flowing singletrack, the Santa Cruz 5010 is designed to elevate your trail adventures, making every ride a blend of fun and high performance. Discover a new level of excitement and control with a bike that combines innovative design with the thrill of trail riding.
Highlights and information
Santa Cruz 5010: Playful Precision on the Trails
Wheel Size: MX | Front Travel: 140mm | Rear Travel: 130mm
The Santa Cruz 5010 strikes the perfect balance between playful agility and uncompromising performance, transforming every ride into an exhilarating adventure. With 130mm of rear VPP suspension and 140mm of front travel, this bike absorbs the bumps of technical terrain while delivering responsive handling. The mixed-wheel setup and proportional geometry provide exceptional stability, cornering precision, and unmatched control on challenging trails. Designed with thoughtful features like integrated Glovebox storage, the 5010 is as practical as it is fun, ready to tackle technical singletrack, launch jumps, and navigate tight switchbacks.
Why the Santa Cruz 5010 Stands Out
The Santa Cruz 5010 uniquely combines playfulness with capability. Its mixed-wheel design enhances agility and traction, while proportional geometry ensures a rider-specific fit for balanced performance. The finely-tuned VPP suspension absorbs big impacts and offers smooth bottom-out resistance, making it perfect for riders who seek versatility without compromise.
Who Should Ride the 5010?
The Santa Cruz 5010 is designed for riders who prioritize playful handling alongside technical trail capability. If you love quick, responsive rides through tight corners, flowing singletrack, and demanding descents, this bike is an excellent match. Lightweight, lively, and fun, the 5010 doesn't sacrifice control or durability, making it a fantastic choice for adventurous riders.
WHAT CONTENDER BICYCLES LIKES ABOUT THE SANTA CRUZ 5010
- Agile and Playful: The mixed-wheel setup ensures responsive handling while providing stability.
- Smooth Suspension: The 130mm VPP rear travel offers exceptional support and bottom-out resistance.
- Rider-Specific Geometry: Proportional geometry guarantees every rider enjoys the best fit and handling.
- Integrated Glovebox: Secure storage for tools and essentials enhances practicality, ensuring you're always prepared on the trail.
Frame Material
The Santa Cruz 5010 is available in two carbon options: C Carbon for a strong, lightweight build and CC Carbon for an even lighter, stiffer performance frame.
Suspension System
With 140mm front suspension and 130mm of rear VPP suspension, this setup delivers smooth, controlled performance across a variety of terrains, from rocky descents to flowing singletrack. Refined suspension kinematics ensure predictable support, excellent bottom-out resistance, and a playful demeanor, making the travel highly accessible while keeping bigger hits smoother than you’d expect from a short-travel bike.
Geometry and Handling:
- Climbing Efficiency: The steep seat tube angle (77.1°-77.4°) and short rear center (428-443mm) provide a forward, efficient pedaling position and great traction for tackling climbs.
- Descending Confidence: With a slack head tube angle (64.9°-65.2°) and a long wheelbase (1147-1306mm), this bike offers stability and control on technical descents, while the low bottom bracket (334-338mm) improves cornering.
- Balanced Handling: Reach (406-524mm) and stack (599-664mm) create a comfortable, versatile riding position, with smaller sizes favoring agility and larger sizes enhancing stability and control.
Highlighted Models and Key Components
Santa Cruz 5010 5 CC X0 AXS Reserve
- Frame: Premium CC Carbon for lightweight, responsive performance.
- Suspension: Fork: RockShox Pike Ultimate | Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate
- Drivetrain: SRAM X0 Eagle AXS T-Type 12-speed electronic drivetrain for precise shifting.
- Wheels: Reserve 30|SL Carbon Wheels designed for durability on aggressive trails.
Santa Cruz 5010 5 CC X0 AXS
- Frame: CC Carbon frame for a balance of strength and lightweight agility.
- Suspension: Fork: RockShox Pike Ultimate | Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate
- Drivetrain: SRAM X0 Eagle AXS T-Type 12-speed drivetrain for seamless shifting.
- Wheels: Reserve 30|SL AL wheels for performance and reliability.
Santa Cruz 5010 5 C GX AXS
- Frame: C Carbon frame for durability with a light, responsive ride.
- Suspension: Fork: RockShox Pike Select+ | Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Select+
- Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle AXS T-Type 12-speed drivetrain for versatile, smooth performance.
- Wheels: Reserve 30|SL ALL wheels designed for rugged trails.
Additional Highlights
- Balanced Geometry: Proportional geometry guarantees a tailored fit for every rider.
- Traction and Control: MX wheels and a low bottom bracket enhance stability and precision.
- Durability: Lifetime bearing replacement ensures long-lasting performance for your bike.
- Convenient Storage: The Glovebox simplifies carrying tools and ride essentials, so you're always ready for the trail.
Not Exactly What You're Looking For?
- Santa Cruz Nomad: The Santa Cruz Nomad is designed for challenging terrain, featuring a strong 170mm rear suspension that enhances performance on steep descents, rugged trails, and technical obstacles.
- Santa Cruz Hightower: The Santa Cruz Hightower is built to dominate the toughest trails. With 160mm of front travel and 150mm of rear travel powered by the 4th generation VPP suspension, it’s your go-to machine for tackling any terrain with confidence and control
- Mondraker Raze: This bike prioritizes ultra-lightweight, trail-focused performance with advanced Zero Suspension and cutting-edge Forward Geometry, catering to riders seeking speed and efficiency.
The Bottom Line
The Santa Cruz 5010 is a playful and versatile trail bike, featuring a dynamic 29-inch front wheel and 27.5-inch rear wheel for optimal traction, control, and agile handling. Its refined suspension system offers a smoother, more responsive ride, efficiently absorbing bumps while maintaining control. Available in several build kits, including GX AXS and X0 AXS, the 5010 caters to different riding styles and budgets. Whether tackling technical descents or flowing singletrack, the 5010 is designed for high performance, fun, and control on any trail.
Wheel Size: 29" | Front Travel: 100mm
The Santa Cruz Highball is designed for those seeking thrilling speed both uphill and downhill on mountainous terrain. Its geometry is optimized for efficient power transfer, allowing you to climb with ease and descend with confidence. Equipped with high-quality components, this bike offers exceptional performance and reliability. Whether you're tackling technical trails or competing in cross-country races, the Santa Cruz Highball delivers a combination of speed, style, and agility that will elevate your riding experience.
Wheel size: 29" | Front travel: 120mm | Rear travel: 115mm (TR), 107mm (XC)
Experience unparalleled speed and agility on the trails with the Santa Cruz Blur, a cross country mountain bike engineered for top performance and nimble handling. Designed to excel in both competitive racing and fast-paced trail riding, the Blur comes in two versions: the 107mm model for optimal efficiency and responsiveness, and the 115mm TR (Trail) version for enhanced capability on rougher terrain. The Blur is available in several build kits to suit different needs and budgets. The 70 Kit provides a budget-friendly option with solid performance, while the GX AXS offers a versatile mid-range setup. For those seeking the ultimate in performance, the high-end X0 AXS kit delivers top-tier components and precision. Each build is tailored to deliver exceptional speed, control, and durability. Featuring an advanced carbon frame, the Santa Cruz Blur ensures a lightweight yet robust ride, making it perfect for riders who demand both agility and strength. Its sleek design not only enhances performance but also turns heads on the trails. Prepare to elevate your riding experience and stand out from the pack with the Santa Cruz Blur, a bike that combines cutting-edge technology with thrilling trail dominance.
Wheel Size: 29” | Front Travel: 130mm | Rear Travel: 120mm
Embrace the next level of short-travel mountain biking with the new Santa Cruz Tallboy. This bike redefines what a short-travel bike can achieve, thanks to its innovative lower-link VPP suspension system that delivers exceptional performance and control. The 120mm travel ensures a balanced ride, handling technical trails with ease while maintaining a lively, responsive feel. Featuring Santa Cruz's renowned refinement and progressive geometry, the Tallboy combines sleek design with cutting-edge technology, making it a standout in the industry. The bike is available in several build kits, including the R Kit for a solid and budget-friendly option, and the XX AXS RSV build sits at the top for a high-performance setup with advanced components. Each build offers a tailored experience, from reliable functionality to top-tier precision. Whether you're tackling challenging trails or enjoying a fast-paced ride, the Tallboy's advanced suspension and modern design promise to elevate your riding experience. Prepare to push the boundaries of short-travel biking and embark on thrilling adventures with the genre-bending Santa Cruz Tallboy, a bike that blends innovation with the excitement of trail riding.
Wheel Size: MX | Front Travel: 140mm | Rear Travel: 130mm
Embrace the playful spirit of trail riding with the Santa Cruz 5010, a bike that invites you to hop, skip, and jump your way through adventurous trails. The 5010 has been upgraded to feature a dynamic 29-inch front wheel paired with a 27.5-inch rear wheel, optimizing traction and control across various terrains. This unique wheel combination enhances stability while maintaining agile handling, making it perfect for technical trails and playful maneuvers. The 5010’s suspension system has also seen significant refinement, with improved kinematics that offer a smoother, more responsive ride. This enhanced suspension ensures that every bump and trail feature is absorbed efficiently, providing a plush ride without sacrificing responsiveness or control. Available in several build kits, including the versatile GX AXS and the higher-end X0 AXS, the 5010 caters to different riding styles and budgets. Each build offers specific components and features tailored to enhance your trail experience, from reliable performance to advanced precision. Whether you’re navigating technical descents or enjoying flowing singletrack, the Santa Cruz 5010 is designed to elevate your trail adventures, making every ride a blend of fun and high performance. Discover a new level of excitement and control with a bike that combines innovative design with the thrill of trail riding.
Wheel Size: 29" | Front Travel: 160mm | Rear Travel: 150mm
Experience the versatility and all-around performance of the Santa Cruz Hightower, a bike designed to excel on both climbs and descents. Built to handle a wide range of trails and terrains, the Hightower's VPP lower-link mounted shock and adjustable geometry provide a smooth, responsive ride that adapts to your riding style. The latest model features 150mm of rear travel and a beefed-up 160mm front suspension, giving you the extra capability to tackle even more aggressive terrain with ease. Whether you're carving up flowy singletrack or navigating technical descents, this mountain bike delivers precision and control. Available in a variety of build kits, including the dependable 70 kit and the premium X0 AXS Reserve, the Hightower offers a setup for every type of rider. Its 29-inch wheels ensure excellent rollover ability, helping you maintain speed and smoothness over rough ground. Whether you're embarking on epic backcountry adventures or shredding your local trails, the Santa Cruz Hightower is ready to take on any challenge. With this bike, every ride becomes an unforgettable experience.
Wheel Size: MX | Front Travel: 160mm | Rear Travel: 150mm
Unleash your riding potential with the newly redesigned Santa Cruz Bronson, a mountain bike engineered to conquer any trail with confidence and precision. Featuring a revamped frame and slacker geometry, the updated Bronson enhances stability on steep descents while maintaining its versatile nature across a range of terrains. This makes it the ideal choice for adventurous riders who crave exploration with their eye on the descents. Whether you're tackling steep climbs, navigating rock gardens, or powering through technical descents, the Bronson’s agile handling and responsive suspension system ensure you're always in control. Available in a variety of build kits, from the dependable 70 kit to the top-tier X0 AXS Reserve, the Bronson can be tailored to suit different performance needs. Riders can expect unmatched traction and support with its VPP suspension, offering 150mm of travel in the rear for smooth, confident rides. The bike’s 29-inch front wheel provides stability and control, while the 27.5-inch rear wheel enhances maneuverability, striking the perfect balance between speed and agility. The newly slackened geometry further boosts the bike’s capability on technical terrain, making it more capable than ever. Whether you're seeking a playful ride or demanding more precision on challenging trails, the Santa Cruz Bronson delivers on all fronts. Built to push boundaries, this bike ensures that every ride is as thrilling as the last, no matter where the trail leads.
Wheel Size: 29” | Front Travel: 170mm | Rear Travel: 165mm
Conquer challenging terrain, gap jumps, and rugged trails with absolute confidence aboard the Santa Cruz Megatower. This mountain bike is designed with large wheels, generous 165mm rear VPP suspension travel, and meticulously tuned geometry, making it a powerhouse on demanding trails and technical features. The Megatower’s robust construction provides the stability and control needed for steep descents and aggressive riding. Available in several build kits, including the 90 Kit for great value, the GX AXS Kit for a balanced performance, and the high-end X0 AXS for top-tier components and precision, the Megatower caters to various preferences and budgets. Each build is tailored to enhance your riding experience, offering options that suit different needs. With its advanced features and durable design, the Santa Cruz Megatower is ready to elevate your trail riding and help you push your limits on every ride. Prepare to leave your mark with the unrivaled performance of the Megatower.
Wheel Size: MX | Front Travel: 170mm | Rear Travel: 170mm
Unleash your riding potential and explore new horizons with the Santa Cruz Nomad, a bike designed to tackle the most challenging and rowdy terrain with ease. Equipped with a confidence-inspiring 170mm rear suspension, the Nomad is built to handle aggressive descents, rough trails, and technical features, giving you the ability to conquer lines you never thought possible. Its robust suspension system ensures a smooth, controlled ride, allowing you to push your limits and experience unparalleled excitement on the trails. The Nomad features Santa Cruz’s renowned refinement and cutting-edge design, combining durability with high performance. Available in various build kits, including the 70 Kit for a solid, budget-friendly option and the X0 AXS for high-end components and advanced functionality, the Nomad caters to different riding preferences and needs. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures or simply aiming to enhance your trail experience, the Santa Cruz Nomad is the ultimate partner for exploring new challenges and pushing your boundaries. Prepare to embrace thrilling rides and tackle any terrain with the Nomad as your go-to trail companion.
At Contender Bicycles, our best tools for selling bikes are the people who ride them. Everyone at Contender Bicycles has extensive experience riding bikes across many brands. If you have any questions regarding a bike or want to discuss build options, we are here to help.