Our Pick
Santa Cruz Bicycles Tallboy D Mountain Bike
What really stands out about the Tallboy is how it balances climbing efficiency with downhill confidence. The 120mm of rear travel and a steep seat tube angle make it a solid climber, while the 65.5-degree head tube angle ensures stability and control on descents. Borrowing the lower-link VPP design from Santa Cruz’s more downhill-focused bikes, the Tallboy delivers excellent traction in corners, solid bottom-out resistance, and a supportive feel on rough terrain. Whether you’re using it as a second bike for long XC rides or as your main trail rig, the Tallboy is perfect for riders who value both efficiency and fun on the trail.
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The Santa Cruz Tallboy D is an exciting choice for those looking for a trail bike that can handle a variety of terrain. It’s a versatile short-travel 29er, often called the “downhiller’s XC bike,” meaning it’s not just for smooth cross-country trails—it can also handle some more technical descents and rocky climbs with ease. If you enjoy going fast and riding all day on the trails, the Tallboy is built to keep you comfortable and in control.
When it comes to climbing, the Tallboy really shines. Thanks to its efficient VPP suspension and steep seat tube angle, it positions you perfectly over the bike to maximize your pedaling power. So, if you’re tackling a long or technical climb, this bike has got your back. It does give up a bit of traction on super steep ascents, but in exchange, you get efficiency that will help you conserve energy over longer rides.
On the descents, the Tallboy is surprisingly stable for a bike with just 120mm of rear travel and a 130mm fork. It feels more capable than its travel numbers suggest, handling most moderate downhill trails with confidence. It’s not built for extreme, gnarly enduro descents, but for blue-level trails or a mix of fast, flowy sections and technical terrain, it’s a joy to ride.
The D build of the Tallboy is the most budget-friendly option from Santa Cruz, which means you get the same solid aluminum frame but with entry-level components. The RockShox Recon fork and SRAM drivetrain get the job done but are the bike’s weak points if you’re a more aggressive rider looking for top-tier performance. Many riders have pointed out that upgrading the suspension and brakes could really bring out this bike’s full potential.
Now, on to the nitty-gritty. The Tallboy D weighs around 36 lbs, which is heavier than many of its XC competitors. You’ll feel that extra weight on climbs or when you want to quickly accelerate. It’s still efficient, but the heft is noticeable, especially for those used to lighter bikes.
The Santa Cruz Tallboy D is a highly capable, well-rounded trail bike that shines in versatility, climbing efficiency, and handling. It’s a great option for riders looking to cover a lot of ground on varied trails. However, it may require some upgrades to meet the demands of more aggressive riders, particularly in terms of suspension and braking. Overall, it’s a solid investment for those wanting a do-it-all trail bike with excellent geometry and potential for customization.
When it comes to climbing, the Tallboy really shines. Thanks to its efficient VPP suspension and steep seat tube angle, it positions you perfectly over the bike to maximize your pedaling power. So, if you’re tackling a long or technical climb, this bike has got your back. It does give up a bit of traction on super steep ascents, but in exchange, you get efficiency that will help you conserve energy over longer rides.
On the descents, the Tallboy is surprisingly stable for a bike with just 120mm of rear travel and a 130mm fork. It feels more capable than its travel numbers suggest, handling most moderate downhill trails with confidence. It’s not built for extreme, gnarly enduro descents, but for blue-level trails or a mix of fast, flowy sections and technical terrain, it’s a joy to ride.
The D build of the Tallboy is the most budget-friendly option from Santa Cruz, which means you get the same solid aluminum frame but with entry-level components. The RockShox Recon fork and SRAM drivetrain get the job done but are the bike’s weak points if you’re a more aggressive rider looking for top-tier performance. Many riders have pointed out that upgrading the suspension and brakes could really bring out this bike’s full potential.
Now, on to the nitty-gritty. The Tallboy D weighs around 36 lbs, which is heavier than many of its XC competitors. You’ll feel that extra weight on climbs or when you want to quickly accelerate. It’s still efficient, but the heft is noticeable, especially for those used to lighter bikes.
The Santa Cruz Tallboy D is a highly capable, well-rounded trail bike that shines in versatility, climbing efficiency, and handling. It’s a great option for riders looking to cover a lot of ground on varied trails. However, it may require some upgrades to meet the demands of more aggressive riders, particularly in terms of suspension and braking. Overall, it’s a solid investment for those wanting a do-it-all trail bike with excellent geometry and potential for customization.
