One of the truly iconic Santa Cruz models, the Bronson can do it all. Up for anything from EDR racing to laps of your local jump trail, the V5 revisions take the Bronson to a whole new level with a host of subtle geometry adjustments and entirely new, re-mapped VPP suspension linkage.
At 150mm travel it pumps, pedals and responds to rider input more directly than longer travel bikes for snappy cornering and quick acceleration across flatter sections, yet still has the composure to ride and race just about any trail out there. Longer, slacker and more balanced than ever, the V5 is the most downhill capable Bronson so far. Still a dedicated MX wheel bike it's something of a Swiss Army knife when it comes to gravity riding - you could take it to just about any trail and it will still be the right tool for the job.
Freshly updated for this bike the latest version of VPP suspension layout reduces anti squat and progression to improve climbing traction, reduce pedal kickback and give a more smooth and consistent suspension feel through the travel. That makes for a more composed bike when hitting roughness at speed while also giving more support when pumping and working the bike.
Need a bike that's up for anything, but easy to ride every day? The Bronson could well be the one for you.
After some real ride impressions? Check out our first ride review from back at the launch.
FAQ
What's different between the C and CC frames?
The CC frames are slightly lighter (around 200g), but the C frames do have routing for cable based drivetrains while the CC bikes are wireless only.
Can I change shocks?
Yes, most larger volume and coil shocks will fit fine, the re-worked lower shock area has plenty of clearance. Shock size is 230 x 57.5mm.
Can I fit a longer fork?
Yes, you can go up to 170mm travel if you like.
Specification
- Frame: Carbon C 29" 150mm Travel VPP
- Fork: FOX 36 Float Performance, Grip, 160mm
- Shock: FOX Float X Performance, 230x57.5
- Wheelset: DT Swiss 370 hubs with Reserve 30|TR AL 29" front and 27.5" rear
- Tyres: Front: Maxxis Assegai 29"x2.5", 3C MaxxGrip, EXO Rear: Maxxis Minion DHR II 27.5"x2.4", 3C MaxxTerra, EXO+
- Brakes: SRAM Maven Base
- Rotors: SRAM HS2 200mm
- Cranks: SRAM 90 Eagle DUB T-Type Crankset, 32t
- Bottom Bracket: SRAM DUB Threaded
- Chainring: SRAM 32t T-Type Direct Mount
- Chain: SRAM GX Eagle T-Type, Flattop, 12spd
- Cassette: SRAM XS 1275 Eagle T-Type, 10-52t
- Rear mech: SRAM 90 Eagle T-Type, 12spd
- Shifter: SRAM 90 Eagle T-Type, 12spd
- Chain device: One Up Bash Guide
- Seatpost: OneUp Dropper Post, 31.6
- Saddle: SDG Bel-Air V3 Lux-Alloy
- Handlebar: OneUp Aluminum Bar
- Stem: OneUp Enduro Stem, 42mm
- Grips: Santa Cruz House Grips
