This review made me buy a Megatower V2! Almost a year on and a full summer bike park season i honeslty couldnt be happier. The best bike I've ever owned or probably will own. Anyone on the fence about buying one, just do it - its incredible.
I’ve got the V1, think it’s still a great bike. I think to make the most out of this bike you’ve got to be a really good rider which I’m not so I’ve got no doubt It’ll last me
Thank you so much for this great review. i have the V1 since 2 years and this is so far the best bike i ever had ! I just want it to climb better and the new one seems to deal this point. And if it is better on donwhill part, i will be so happy because the V1 is allready super good at this !
It got longer so not as agile. Did you still have your V1? I'm looking at either a Bronson or heckler. But there are some smoking deals on 2021 V1. Thank you.
Oddly enough, I have similar opinions about my Megatower V1. I have mine set up more as a gravity/park bike with DH casing tires, but even with those it climbs far better than I expect it to when I need to do those sorts of rides on it. While it sounds like the V2 is a better bike, I don't know if the improvements would be justified compared to what I already have - which is still a bike I've been very happy with.
Great review, I have a version one which I bought for whistler which never happened due to the pandemic, I ride it on fairly mild trails in SE Texas, Spider Mountain and Reville peak Ranch. Suffice to say it way too much bike for most of this but it pedals so good I will ride it anywhere. It’s just a little heavier than my 140mm trail bike but so much more forgiving on the big stuff. The V2 looks even better. Love the honest reviews, keep it up.
My one concern about this bike had to do with its climbing performance, and you answered EXACTLY the questions i had. Thank you!!!! Great review, and also a great video.
Nice, that's a proper trail for a bike like this! So many YT reviewers take these enduro bikes out on easy hardpack flow trails and then complain about it being overkill.
Ha. If you’ve followed along for any time you’ll know I’m not really a fan on hard pack flow trails. My rule is, if you can roll a beach ball down the trail and it makes it to the bottom by itself, I don’t want to ride it.
Sweet bike, had the V1 on order but it fell through because of the covid shortages. I am riding the pre mullet Bronson at the moment and I love it! But as I am getting older the 29ers starting to make sense to make it bit easier on myself. But also I am more and more thinking about getting a motorbike, it is pretty hard to justify spending so much money on a MTB, while for the same price you gen get some awesome motorbikes...
@@bikersedge current ride is a carbon V2 Sentinel, love the bike but wished for 2 improvements-size specific chain stays and internal storage. The frame in medium is tight! Looks like Santa Cruz has an answer. Can you list the weight difference between the two?
@@michaellee3852 I don’t weigh my bikes because personally I don’t care what I weighs. It’s a very low priority of mine. I’d guess they’re pretty comparable with a similar build. I’d say maybe around 32-35 lb.
One of the best reviews of the V2 so far. Thanks for the comparsion with the Sentinel. I ride a Sentinel at the moment which is a really really good bike. But i ordered a Megatower framekit last week, as i want a bike which is more capable for parklaps and rough trails, since i sold my Downhillbike recently. After your review, i think it was the right desicion. Going to sell my Sentinel then, because its to close to the Megatower and going for an light trailbike with 120/130mm travel.
@@DarthVillar My frame isnt‘ delivered yet. Should come in december. Ordered togehtet with a buddy in a german store. We will see what december brings 😅
Great review Conor! One of my fav youtube channels now. Back when you did your first review, on the megatower, I didn't think much of your review style. But gotta give props where due. Really refined your delivery.
This is the bike for me! Going to pick one up based on your review alone. I currently have a 2021 Bullit and it is such an amazing bike, and sounds like this MegaV2 will just be as Amazing.
Was just talking to Joey down here in St George about your review when I stopped by redrock bikes! Glad to see you are stoked on it, still loving my sentinel! Keep up the great content bud
HI from France! Thank you for your reviews wich are really well done and helpfull to know how's bike works ! Just want to say how funny is the difference between reviews on this bike between France and US. You all said (in US) that this bike could be a do it all bike and how lively it is if you consider the specs and geo. In France, journalists and santa cruz dealers said that it's race only and you can't use it for a bit of everything. Of course it depend on a lot of parameters but, as I can see on your videos, we ride the same type of terrain. It seems that here in France , they really want to classify each bike in a specific category while you are ore open minded for some versatality...
Thanks for the kind words! That is interesting to see. We're probably doing it wrong out here, though. The French seem to know a thing or two about bikes.
Santa Cruz sure has nailed the suspension feel on these new designs. My wife's Juliana Furtado handles the small bumps so much better than my Ibis Mojo HD3.
I just finished upgrading my current bike, and you ruined my joy with this review 😂 I’m half kidding. I’m glad you thoroughly reviewed the climbing ability of the bike because after owning a bike for two months and the honeymoon stage is over it begins to weigh on me on longer days. Btw what is the name of the trail at 11:16
@@Mikesonbikes for sure, I was only kidding lol I normally ride a bike for 3-4 years before upgrading. The current bike I have has almost identical travel and geometry. I love my bike. I was only giving him credit for a great review and the last bike purchase I made came down to the bike I currently have and the megatower. The reason I have my bike was because it was a better climber.
A bike I'd be curious to have this compared to would be the Pivot Firebird equipped with the DHX2. The DW link makes climbing exceptional while still retaining Enduro capability.
I just moved from a Rocky Altitude to a Hightower (2020) the Hightower is just so much smoother and just feels next level, not sure if it's the 29" wheels or VPP design or both ... that Mega looks good for sure
Just an update on me purchasing Megatower V2 - at first the bike was to slack had thought time adjusting suspension, after tweaking it I’m so glad I listen to your review - it’s an amazing bike! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I appreciate it, I agree with everything you said, great work 👍
For years. Santa Cruz has barked about suspension balance F/R as the reason the usually match the mm close both f/r. I really wish they’d ditch the mismatched suspension manufacturers. Zeb and RS SD. Or 38 and x2 or for the lower models, 38 and float x. The float x is really underrated. It’s ridiculously good when it’s set up properly and is less prone to malfunctions than the more complex X2.
@@bikersedge Can imagine, but money rules! Btw, I run a XL at the moment and am 1.83m in case of V2 would an L maybe be big enough with the new chain stay length?
@@sanderkan3796 I make a point to not give out specific sizing advice over the internet. Is a bit of a crapshoot. I will say that if you run an XL now you may as well run an XL in the new one. Most of what makes it handle the way it does is its geo. If you downsize, that’s handling is going to change quite a bit.
I have the distant ancestors to this bike.. Hightower LT and due to a frame compliance issue will get a new frame. Was going to wait for the next version of the Hightower but really considering the Mega after this review. Hopefully the Hightower gets a similar upgrade this year. Not sure if I need 165.. but if it climbs that well
I don't think there's too big of a climbing penalty to go with the Mega. I would imagine the Ht sees an update soon-ish but I have no idea. Plus in the current inventory climate, it could take a looong time.
I do massive climbing days (>5k) on my V1 Megatower frequently. I think it climbs fantastically. Amazing that reviews are saying the V2 climbs even better without compromising the DH abilities. I'd go for the Mega!
@@dukeofmtb I've been in a similar decision for weeks, Sentinel/Spire vs other options like Mega. But Tr just wins easily in terms of spec and value I've been eyeing one of the only Spires that comes up on google shopping for weeks, a huckleberry carbon GX from Seaside Surf Shop in Oregon but I don't think they ship 😥Maybe could ask them. Only other option I know is if you got one custom from Fanatik, they have Med and XL alloy, and XL and XXL Carbon frames in stock atm
@@LastAphelion I doubt they ship. Shops with Transitions are discouraged from shipping due to shortages, atleast that's what I hear. I didn't know Fanatik had stock though. I might check that out.
@@dukeofmtb I did also call and find that Worldwide Cyclery ships free though they only have Sentinel/Patrol atm but I thought that was pretty bananas when they told me. I really want to try out Fanatiks built wheels though..
Playing around with tyres can also transform a bike’s character. My nomad feels like a playful am bike when shod with a rekon at the back and dhf up front, both exo maxxterra. When I use the dh casing or dd maxxgrip dhf combo the bike’s more like a burly yet playful freeride rig. Bit of a dr jekyll/mr hyde thing, based on the terrain that’s on the menu for the weekend..
@@bikersedge no. Maybe it rides better but is it worth they money you have to pay for the „upgrade“? The glovebox is nice to have but no adjustable chainstays is a downgrade. I change them alot, depending on the trails. Mostly I ride the short setting. The new one is like long setting. On thight corners it feels like a bus with long chainstays.
Long shot, not sure if you would know how this compares to a Sentinel V2 but recall you having one. I have one with a cascade link with 170mm fork, and it's crazy how great the bike is all around, very capable everywhere and alot of the reactions you are having on the megatower they seem similar to my experience with that setup on the Sentinel V2
Another fantastic review. I got the email about this bike this morning and read all about is got pretty excited about getting one but talked myself out of it due to the amount of travel, the weight, and the long wheelbase. I closed the Santa Cruz page and said to myself, nope, too much travel, too heavy, and too long of a wheelbase, click and the Santa Cruz page and my hopes of the Megatower were gone. A couple of hours later and you ruined everything. Should I get the Blue or the color you were riding?
Torn between the Hightower and Megatower, this answered some of the questions but not completely. I ride all mountain and am a roll with it downhill single track rider on rough local trails, I weigh about 245 which one would suit my weight the best? More travel for the weight or less travel for nimbleness and climbing? Being nimble is not a thing that 245 lbs lend to...
I don’t think weight determines the bike you should buy. You can tune suspension to fit rider weight. I’d say get the one that fits your riding style and trails the best. If you ride rough trails a lot the Megatower certainly won’t suck.
Great review. I'm frothing this bike - however I'm between the XL and XXL. I'm 6'4". At your height - did you feel that the XL was almost a little on the small side? I'm torn between which size I should be getting.
Will you be reviewing the new Nomad 6? I was set on the Mega V2 but that Nomad with the mullet looks absolutely perfect. I wonder if it climbs any worse than the mega with that softer shock tune/27.5 rear, would love your opinion.
I have the new Heckler and I’m already very impressed with the rear suspension. I was thinking of getting a Ripmo V2 (only because its a big bike that climbs very well) but I may have to check this new Megatower. I’ve always owned 150mm trail bikes but never owned 160+mm bikes because honestly, I don’t need that on the trails I go to, but if it climbs this well, man… I may just get it! Well, after I demo one. 😁 Thanks for the great review!!
Would you say that the Megatower frame is more on the progressive side? If this is the case, I recon if a coil shock is used, a slightly softer spring could be used and the hydraulic bottom out support could be kept not to the max. If you have advice how the Megatower rear sus should be adjusted in order to be more supple - I would really appreciate it. My experience so far with it is very frustrating - it feels like a hardtail. Thanks!
Are you on the V2? That's one of the plusher big bikes I've ridden. A coil could help with some off the top sensitivity, but if yours feels like a hardtail, I'd first check your setup and bearings before buying any new parts.
@@bikersedge Actually it is with a coil shock and after using all available calculators, it is obvious that I chose the wrong coil spring. Will try it with the softer ones and see what will happen. Thank for the answer and all the best!
I would love a comparison between this and the new nomad v6. How does the suspension compare? Are they that much different? I am similar in size and similar riding style (in the west Kootenays in BC) Thanks and I love your video reviews!
Interested in how it would compare to the Transition Spire with the longer 65mm shock making it 170mm front and rear. I know the direct comparison is the Sentinel, but the Spire is no slouch on the climbs either 👀 not to mention DH like bike handling on the downs. Thoughts?
I hesitate to give out size advice over the internet. It’s unreliable and a crapshoot at best. My advice would be to try riding each size before buying.
Connor I seriously need you opinion here! just about to buy this bike, and I primarily ride trails with a lot of pedaling and then the occasional 4 meter gap, 3 meter table top and so on. Noting crazy. That's where I ride 85 percent of the time, and then I will take it to crazy trails the remaining time. My question : Do you think I will be bored and OVER biked on the normal days? Or does it really perform well enough to make every day trails feel great?? Thanks Stefan, Denmark
@Bikers Edge hypothetically...let's just say I had a V2 Ripmo and love it as a great all around trail bike...and let's say that hypothetically I was considering adding a 2nd bike as a brawler/shuttle/extra gnar trail specific bike. Are they different enough to be part of the same quiver? (cost not withstanding for this hypothetical scenario) although I may be trying to make the case for a second bike. 🤔
Hi, thank you for the video but I have a few questions. Does it climb better than the hightower 3 ? And if you have to choose between the HT3 and the MT2, wich one would you pick, wich one is the best all-around for you ? Thank you! (sorry for my broken english)
The mega doesn't climb better than the HT3. that bike is more balanced. I personally like the mega for the trails I ride, but the HT 3 is the more versatile option I think.
Love your reviews 😍🙏 can you give a quick impression how it rides in comparison with the Evil Wreckoning V3? Are they similar? I’d expect the megatower to be more stabel at high speed, but the Evil more playful? Thank you already
I‘m considering a Megatower framekit to build up a new bike and wonder if you had a chance to compare the air shock to a coil shock setup. Which one would you choose?
I haven’t ridden it with a coil yet. I generally prefer the ride quality from an air shock for my style of riding but I can’t say for sure in this case.
I live in SLC, I like to ride trails like beartrap, honeycomb, and trails like that regularly. Lots of climbing, but long downhills. Would you recommend this bike or the hightower?
Man I rode those trails both white a bit. That’s a tough one. Person I’d rather have the mega for things like honeycomb. It’s more fun. I figure the climb is going to suck on either of those bikes so I might as well have the mega for the DH.
I wouldn't say its the fork length that holds the HT back when compared to the MT. It's the culmination of all its parts. The suspension is different, the geometry is different. Even at 160 the HT isn't going to rise like a MT.
I’m currently looking at buying a all mountain bike that will be my only bike. How does it do on xc trails? More moderate to regular blues? Do you think this really has the potential to be an everyday do everything bike?
If you watch the part about who the bike is for there’s more info on that. It’s not an XC bike. It’s not the best option for that. If you want to ride blues most of the time it’s not the bike for that either.
@@bikersedge I’m on the fence between this and the Hightower. I just rewatched it and it sounds like it fits the bill. Something I can take to the bike park and still be able to have fun in my local trails.
@@bikersedge I'm really torn between springing for the new Megatower, waiting for the next Hightower, or getting a Ripmo. Currently on a Tallboy, and have evolved past it. My local terrain isn't snowy, but not totally unlike your demo trail here. I'm glad you mention the MT2 is not just for the gnarly gravity guys but also is good for chill trail rides with the kids.
How do you think the Megatower compares to a Yeti SB165? I would like a bike for park and shuttle. Thinking about building a SB165 as mullet bike for this reason :-)
@@bikersedge that's what I'm waiting for. But for now, these small adjustments seem to make night and day improvements on the bike, especially the Megatower. It seems to be even more all around capable now.
hey connor @bikersedge have you had much rattle on this new v2? a few reports from pinkbike and on a few forums ive read its rattly, but nobody seems to have a answer as to why? given youve been on this a fair while now as your own bike what do you think?
I started to hear a rattle around mid summer. Turns out it was just the glovebox door. There are a few screws that hold the glovebox frame to the bike. Those had come loose. Tightened those up and problem solved. One of the quieter bikes I’ve had.
@@bikersedge awesome man thanks for the reply, i knew youd be a good one ask as youve had it a while - is it as quiet as the sentinel v2 you think? thats a pretty stealthy bike
I have the 2019 Megatower and I love it but I like how Santa Cruz is going a little more long low slack now but damn I think it might be a little bit to much for me to buy a second one Hightower Maybe?
Nope. I don’t think it is either. They’re way better at bikes than us average Joes. Plus they’re racing ultra tight European tracks where they need to get around corners quickly. At least on Utah we don’t have trails like that.
@@bikersedge I see.. yeah, they do have the skill to keep a smaller bike stable. We got some tight trails too. But I'd lean towards stability, thus the large I guess
@@bikersedge gotcha - what a great video - you are lucky to have that open air riding - as opposed to the Northeast where we are in the covered woods constantly.
I mean it’s a big bike. If you’re wanting a bike for the dirt jumps it’s probably not the bike. If you want an enduro bike that’s really good at jumping it’s a really good choice.
@@bikersedge I’m thinking about using it for enduro, bike park jumps and tech, and maybe throwing some tricks here and there do you think it could be good for that?
It descends more aggressively for sure. The Ripmo has quicker handling with a smaller wheelbase and steeper geo. I think the Ripmo will climb faster too, but the Megatower is at least in the ballpark. On rough downhills, the Rimpo wont hang.
This review made me buy a Megatower V2! Almost a year on and a full summer bike park season i honeslty couldnt be happier. The best bike I've ever owned or probably will own. Anyone on the fence about buying one, just do it - its incredible.
just did it! Cant wait for it to get here, Trestle Park im coming!
I’ve got the V1, think it’s still a great bike. I think to make the most out of this bike you’ve got to be a really good rider which I’m not so I’ve got no doubt It’ll last me
Just got one recently, mostly because they are one of the few with XXL's.. I love it.
Great review guys! Some of the best content on the tube. Santa Cruz is really dialing in that VPP.
Couldn't agree more!
I've hiked my bike up terror ridge many times, never even thought about climbing it. I guess the new mega really does climb well!
It was pretty miserable but I made it. Ha.
Thank you so much for this great review. i have the V1 since 2 years and this is so far the best bike i ever had ! I just want it to climb better and the new one seems to deal this point. And if it is better on donwhill part, i will be so happy because the V1 is allready super good at this !
It got longer so not as agile. Did you still have your V1? I'm looking at either a Bronson or heckler. But there are some smoking deals on 2021 V1.
Thank you.
Oddly enough, I have similar opinions about my Megatower V1. I have mine set up more as a gravity/park bike with DH casing tires, but even with those it climbs far better than I expect it to when I need to do those sorts of rides on it.
While it sounds like the V2 is a better bike, I don't know if the improvements would be justified compared to what I already have - which is still a bike I've been very happy with.
I have my V1 totally dialed. I’d love to see some timed testing and see if this is actually faster on the ups and downs.
Great review, I have a version one which I bought for whistler which never happened due to the pandemic, I ride it on fairly mild trails in SE Texas, Spider Mountain and Reville peak Ranch. Suffice to say it way too much bike for most of this but it pedals so good I will ride it anywhere. It’s just a little heavier than my 140mm trail bike but so much more forgiving on the big stuff. The V2 looks even better. Love the honest reviews, keep it up.
Hey thanks for the kind words! Glad you’re digging the mega.
Have the original Megatower and its an absolutely incredible bike, these tweaks just take this beast to the next level
Very much so
My one concern about this bike had to do with its climbing performance, and you answered EXACTLY the questions i had. Thank you!!!! Great review, and also a great video.
I wouldn’t necessarily listen to people giving a review about a certain bike I would always put a leg over it to find out for yourself! Just saying!
@@GregBarfussnot always possible.
Nice, that's a proper trail for a bike like this! So many YT reviewers take these enduro bikes out on easy hardpack flow trails and then complain about it being overkill.
Ha. If you’ve followed along for any time you’ll know I’m not really a fan on hard pack flow trails. My rule is, if you can roll a beach ball down the trail and it makes it to the bottom by itself, I don’t want to ride it.
I am excited to see this same formula applied to the other bikes in the line up!
If every Santa Cruz ends up feeling like this, it's going to be world domination.
@@bikersedge it’s basically a Big Nomad 🙌🏼
I still think the Nomad is better than the MT that’s just my opinion, the Nomad is no worse at climbing and it descends better than the megatower
Sweet bike, had the V1 on order but it fell through because of the covid shortages. I am riding the pre mullet Bronson at the moment and I love it! But as I am getting older the 29ers starting to make sense to make it bit easier on myself. But also I am more and more thinking about getting a motorbike, it is pretty hard to justify spending so much money on a MTB, while for the same price you gen get some awesome motorbikes...
I loved that generation of the Bronson. So much fun.
@@bikersedge Oh yeah, that bike is so playful and so much fun. That's what's been putting me off from 29ers...
Yeah bikes definitely aren’t worth the money compared to motorbikes I’ve thought the same thing lol
this is so great, not many videos ride on rough terrain in there videos like this, this give us a real demonstration of the impacts it can take.
Hey thanks!
Not to add more to the “to do” list but a Sentinel vs megatower head to head would be cool since they are so closely speced. Great video!
I’ll see what I can do. I have both sitting in my garage right now.
@@bikersedge current ride is a carbon V2 Sentinel, love the bike but wished for 2 improvements-size specific chain stays and internal storage. The frame in medium is tight! Looks like Santa Cruz has an answer. Can you list the weight difference between the two?
@@michaellee3852 I don’t weigh my bikes because personally I don’t care what I weighs. It’s a very low priority of mine. I’d guess they’re pretty comparable with a similar build. I’d say maybe around 32-35 lb.
One of the best reviews of the V2 so far. Thanks for the comparsion with the Sentinel.
I ride a Sentinel at the moment which is a really really good bike.
But i ordered a Megatower framekit last week, as i want a bike which is more capable for parklaps
and rough trails, since i sold my Downhillbike recently.
After your review, i think it was the right desicion. Going to sell my Sentinel then, because its to close
to the Megatower and going for an light trailbike with 120/130mm travel.
I made the exact same swap a couple months back. I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with either one of those bikes. Easily two of my favorites.
May I ask where the heck you found a framekit? I'm looking for one...
@@DarthVillar My frame isnt‘ delivered yet. Should come in december. Ordered togehtet with a buddy in a german store. We will see what december brings 😅
Great review Conor! One of my fav youtube channels now. Back when you did your first review, on the megatower, I didn't think much of your review style. But gotta give props where due. Really refined your delivery.
Thanks! It’s funny to look back on that first review and see how far we’ve come.
@@bikersedge Can you good folks at BE review the Rocky Mountain Element? There's a dearth of reviews on this steller new bike.
@@johnr5001 still trying to get my hands on one. I think that’s why there aren’t many reviews. Tough bike to come by right now.
This is the bike for me! Going to pick one up based on your review alone. I currently have a 2021 Bullit and it is such an amazing bike, and sounds like this MegaV2 will just be as Amazing.
It’s my favorite Santa Cruz in a while. So good.
@@bikersedge , I bought the frame today! My LBS hooked me up, I was the first one he offered it to.
Ahhhhh yeah!!
this is really what i'm looking for, all mountain versatility with enduro bike capability..Thanks for the great review.
Same here. Such a good bike.
Was just talking to Joey down here in St George about your review when I stopped by redrock bikes! Glad to see you are stoked on it, still loving my sentinel! Keep up the great content bud
Rad! Tell Joey he’s slow for me.
@@bikersedge Haha will do!
HI from France! Thank you for your reviews wich are really well done and helpfull to know how's bike works ! Just want to say how funny is the difference between reviews on this bike between France and US. You all said (in US) that this bike could be a do it all bike and how lively it is if you consider the specs and geo. In France, journalists and santa cruz dealers said that it's race only and you can't use it for a bit of everything. Of course it depend on a lot of parameters but, as I can see on your videos, we ride the same type of terrain. It seems that here in France , they really want to classify each bike in a specific category while you are ore open minded for some versatality...
Thanks for the kind words! That is interesting to see. We're probably doing it wrong out here, though. The French seem to know a thing or two about bikes.
Santa Cruz sure has nailed the suspension feel on these new designs. My wife's Juliana Furtado handles the small bumps so much better than my Ibis Mojo HD3.
thank you for thia review, purchasing this bike now feels more good to me.. i will be having the XXL size for I am 6'3".. 240lbs..
Glad I could help!
Stoked for this video!
I just finished upgrading my current bike, and you ruined my joy with this review 😂 I’m half kidding. I’m glad you thoroughly reviewed the climbing ability of the bike because after owning a bike for two months and the honeymoon stage is over it begins to weigh on me on longer days. Btw what is the name of the trail at 11:16
Hot take: the release of a new bike doesn't make the bike you just upgraded any less good. Consumer culture is cancerous
It’s by bobsled. Don’t know if it has a name.
@@Mikesonbikes for sure, I was only kidding lol I normally ride a bike for 3-4 years before upgrading. The current bike I have has almost identical travel and geometry. I love my bike. I was only giving him credit for a great review and the last bike purchase I made came down to the bike I currently have and the megatower. The reason I have my bike was because it was a better climber.
Very good and professional review. I agree 100%.
Hey thanks!
A bike I'd be curious to have this compared to would be the Pivot Firebird equipped with the DHX2. The DW link makes climbing exceptional while still retaining Enduro capability.
We don’t carry Pivot. Won’t be able to make it happen.
Great first ride thoughts! Love your videos. The new mega tower makes me want all these changes to be on a new Tallboy!
You and me both!
Ugh. I want this bike so bad... Awesome review, as always!
You and me both! Thanks for the kind words!
Another brilliant review, great content as always man - keep it up.
Hey thanks for the kind words!
Thanks for the great review. Your review was a big reason why I decided to order one from LBS. hopefully I get it it by 2024 😅😆🤘
Fingers crossed!
I just moved from a Rocky Altitude to a Hightower (2020) the Hightower is just so much smoother and just feels next level, not sure if it's the 29" wheels or VPP design or both ... that Mega looks good for sure
Viva la Hightower, wouldn't change my HT 2021 for anything, eats climbs for breakfast,& gnarly fast downhills for dessert.
Fantastic review! Great comparison section and loved the riding footage.
Thanks a ton!
I think it’s a good bike to buy, looking forward to that, thanks for the review 👍
Glad you liked it.
Just an update on me purchasing Megatower V2 - at first the bike was to slack had thought time adjusting suspension, after tweaking it I’m so glad I listen to your review - it’s an amazing bike! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I appreciate it, I agree with everything you said, great work 👍
Good review. The megatower sounds like a sweet bike. I’d be interested to hear your opinion on how the Bronson compares.
Nice to see someone going up Cool Way
It’s my favorite climb. I just don’t do it mid season very much. Don’t want to be that guy.
For years. Santa Cruz has barked about suspension balance F/R as the reason the usually match the mm close both f/r. I really wish they’d ditch the mismatched suspension manufacturers. Zeb and RS SD. Or 38 and x2 or for the lower models, 38 and float x. The float x is really underrated. It’s ridiculously good when it’s set up properly and is less prone to malfunctions than the more complex X2.
It used to bother me when I’d look at the bike. Once you’re riding it you can’t tell.
Great review. I want one
I want mine back!
Nice review, good to hear that SC again made an awesome enduro bike. But I stick with my "old" MT V1 for a bit longer.
This one crushes.
@@bikersedge Can imagine, but money rules! Btw, I run a XL at the moment and am 1.83m in case of V2 would an L maybe be big enough with the new chain stay length?
@@sanderkan3796 I make a point to not give out specific sizing advice over the internet. Is a bit of a crapshoot. I will say that if you run an XL now you may as well run an XL in the new one. Most of what makes it handle the way it does is its geo. If you downsize, that’s handling is going to change quite a bit.
Yeah!!! I just bought one!!
Enjoy!!
I have the distant ancestors to this bike.. Hightower LT and due to a frame compliance issue will get a new
frame. Was going to wait for the next version of the Hightower but really considering the Mega after this review. Hopefully the Hightower gets a similar upgrade this year. Not sure if I need 165.. but if it climbs that well
I don't think there's too big of a climbing penalty to go with the Mega. I would imagine the Ht sees an update soon-ish but I have no idea. Plus in the current inventory climate, it could take a looong time.
I do massive climbing days (>5k) on my V1 Megatower frequently. I think it climbs fantastically. Amazing that reviews are saying the V2 climbs even better without compromising the DH abilities. I'd go for the Mega!
I dub thee 'Santa Cruz Unicorn' 🦄
Trying to decide between the Megatower v2 and Transition Spire. Thoughts anyone?
Did you pick one?
@@LastAphelion Spire for sure. Waiting on availability. Can't go with a bike that won't let me run a 210mm OneUp dropper for my size.
@@dukeofmtb I've been in a similar decision for weeks, Sentinel/Spire vs other options like Mega. But Tr just wins easily in terms of spec and value
I've been eyeing one of the only Spires that comes up on google shopping for weeks, a huckleberry carbon GX from Seaside Surf Shop in Oregon but I don't think they ship 😥Maybe could ask them. Only other option I know is if you got one custom from Fanatik, they have Med and XL alloy, and XL and XXL Carbon frames in stock atm
@@LastAphelion I doubt they ship. Shops with Transitions are discouraged from shipping due to shortages, atleast that's what I hear. I didn't know Fanatik had stock though. I might check that out.
@@dukeofmtb I did also call and find that Worldwide Cyclery ships free though they only have Sentinel/Patrol atm but I thought that was pretty bananas when they told me. I really want to try out Fanatiks built wheels though..
Playing around with tyres can also transform a bike’s character. My nomad feels like a playful am bike when shod with a rekon at the back and dhf up front, both exo maxxterra. When I use the dh casing or dd maxxgrip dhf combo the bike’s more like a burly yet playful freeride rig. Bit of a dr jekyll/mr hyde thing, based on the terrain that’s on the menu for the weekend..
For sure. Tires can make a huge impact on ride quality.
Great review
Thanks!
Of course they release the V2 Megatower right when I build mine back up on the warranty frame they sent me. IS the new one really that much better?
It’s a completely different feeling bike to me. “Better” will depend on your priorities.
I don‘t think it‘s a worthy upgrade…
@@MaxMustermannnnnn have you ridden it?
@@bikersedge no. Maybe it rides better but is it worth they money you have to pay for the „upgrade“? The glovebox is nice to have but no adjustable chainstays is a downgrade. I change them alot, depending on the trails. Mostly I ride the short setting. The new one is like long setting. On thight corners it feels like a bus with long chainstays.
@@MaxMustermannnnnn tough to judge a bike without riding it. They’re often more than the sum of their parts.
Long shot, not sure if you would know how this compares to a Sentinel V2 but recall you having one. I have one with a cascade link with 170mm fork, and it's crazy how great the bike is all around, very capable everywhere and alot of the reactions you are having on the megatower they seem similar to my experience with that setup on the Sentinel V2
Watch 15:40
Hahaha, jumped the gun there, commenting as I watched. Thanks for all the great videos
@@brunohd4254 thanks for the kind words!
Another fantastic review. I got the email about this bike this morning and read all about is got pretty excited about getting one but talked myself out of it due to the amount of travel, the weight, and the long wheelbase. I closed the Santa Cruz page and said to myself, nope, too much travel, too heavy, and too long of a wheelbase, click and the Santa Cruz page and my hopes of the Megatower were gone.
A couple of hours later and you ruined everything. Should I get the Blue or the color you were riding?
Do it! Haven't seen the blue in person yet, but the color I had is pretty nice. Unique but still subtle.
Right?! This is exactly how I felt until I watched this video
Torn between the Hightower and Megatower, this answered some of the questions but not completely. I ride all mountain and am a roll with it downhill single track rider on rough local trails, I weigh about 245 which one would suit my weight the best? More travel for the weight or less travel for nimbleness and climbing? Being nimble is not a thing that 245 lbs lend to...
I don’t think weight determines the bike you should buy. You can tune suspension to fit rider weight. I’d say get the one that fits your riding style and trails the best. If you ride rough trails a lot the Megatower certainly won’t suck.
Ordered one already
Right on! It's pretty rad.
Great review. I'm frothing this bike - however I'm between the XL and XXL. I'm 6'4". At your height - did you feel that the XL was almost a little on the small side? I'm torn between which size I should be getting.
I love the fit of XL Santa Cruz bikes. They’re spot on for me at a lanky 6’2”
thank you, great review
Thanks for the kind words!
Will you be reviewing the new Nomad 6? I was set on the Mega V2 but that Nomad with the mullet looks absolutely perfect. I wonder if it climbs any worse than the mega with that softer shock tune/27.5 rear, would love your opinion.
I would really like to get my hands on one. I’ll do my best.
I have the new Heckler and I’m already very impressed with the rear suspension. I was thinking of getting a Ripmo V2 (only because its a big bike that climbs very well) but I may have to check this new Megatower. I’ve always owned 150mm trail bikes but never owned 160+mm bikes because honestly, I don’t need that on the trails I go to, but if it climbs this well, man… I may just get it! Well, after I demo one. 😁 Thanks for the great review!!
I think in an all out uphill/XC race the Ripmo would win. But man this Mega feels insane on the DH.
I hope you have the new Hightower hidden away in your garage as well for a future review 😎
My garage is full of bikes but the Hightower isn't one of them. Not sure when we will see an update on that one - hopefully soon.
Would you say that the Megatower frame is more on the progressive side? If this is the case, I recon if a coil shock is used, a slightly softer spring could be used and the hydraulic bottom out support could be kept not to the max. If you have advice how the Megatower rear sus should be adjusted in order to be more supple - I would really appreciate it. My experience so far with it is very frustrating - it feels like a hardtail. Thanks!
Are you on the V2? That's one of the plusher big bikes I've ridden. A coil could help with some off the top sensitivity, but if yours feels like a hardtail, I'd first check your setup and bearings before buying any new parts.
@@bikersedge Actually it is with a coil shock and after using all available calculators, it is obvious that I chose the wrong coil spring. Will try it with the softer ones and see what will happen. Thank for the answer and all the best!
Love your reviews! Any comparison to new Firebird? Listening to your climb notes makes me think they are very similar.
Hey thanks! We don't carry Pivot. I've never ridden the Firebird.
I hope frame storage makes its way to all Santa cruz bikes
I’m sure it will.
I would love a comparison between this and the new nomad v6.
How does the suspension compare?
Are they that much different?
I am similar in size and similar riding style (in the west Kootenays in BC)
Thanks and I love your video reviews!
I’d also really like to know. Ha. Haven’t been able to ride that one yet.
Thanks for the review. Would love to see a comparison with the coil version. Do you think there is an argument to made for that one?
I've been wanting to try a coil on the Mega. Don't think it needs it, but could be nice to try.
Interested in how it would compare to the Transition Spire with the longer 65mm shock making it 170mm front and rear. I know the direct comparison is the Sentinel, but the Spire is no slouch on the climbs either 👀 not to mention DH like bike handling on the downs. Thoughts?
I would say it’s a pretty close match to the Spire as well. I haven’t ridden that one yet but I’d really like to get my hands on one.
I’ve been waiting for months for my MTv2 crash replacement frame. I ordered it literally the day it was released by SC. Still waiting……. Ugh.
Hi, big thanks for this video!! Im between size L vs XL..my heigt is 185cm...what s your advice?? 👍
I hesitate to give out size advice over the internet. It’s unreliable and a crapshoot at best. My advice would be to try riding each size before buying.
Thx, nice review.
Did you mention how tall you are and what size you were on?
He is 6’2” I think, he always ride XL’s
6’2” on an XL. Fit like a glove.
nice review, thanks.
Hey thanks. Glad you liked it!
Connor I seriously need you opinion here! just about to buy this bike, and I primarily ride trails with a lot of pedaling and then the occasional 4 meter gap, 3 meter table top and so on. Noting crazy. That's where I ride 85 percent of the time, and then I will take it to crazy trails the remaining time. My question : Do you think I will be bored and OVER biked on the normal days? Or does it really perform well enough to make every day trails feel great??
Thanks
Stefan, Denmark
It’s currently my only bike and I’m not sad about it. I ride all the trails on it.
Great review. You guys do a great job. Wondering if you are going to sell your Transition Sentinel and get this Megatower V2?
That’s the million dollar question right there.
I'd be curious to hear your comments on this vs. the new Rail 29, seeing as you guys carry both brands.
Haven’t ridden the Rail yet. On paper it’s much more of an all-mountain bike. It’s got significantly steeper geometry.
Can I ask which trail this is? Don’t recognize it from your other vids!
It’s a couple in Salt Lake. LCC and a few up around bobsled.
@Bikers Edge hypothetically...let's just say I had a V2 Ripmo and love it as a great all around trail bike...and let's say that hypothetically I was considering adding a 2nd bike as a brawler/shuttle/extra gnar trail specific bike. Are they different enough to be part of the same quiver? (cost not withstanding for this hypothetical scenario) although I may be trying to make the case for a second bike. 🤔
Hypothetically I’d say they’re very different but cover the same use case.
Hi, thank you for the video but I have a few questions. Does it climb better than the hightower 3 ? And if you have to choose between the HT3 and the MT2, wich one would you pick, wich one is the best all-around for you ?
Thank you! (sorry for my broken english)
The mega doesn't climb better than the HT3. that bike is more balanced. I personally like the mega for the trails I ride, but the HT 3 is the more versatile option I think.
Would love to ride this but the build kits>price are sorta rough compared to other brands
Love the review! Is there somewhere in Salt Lake that rents Santa Cruz bikes? I'll be there in Oct and would love to rent one.
We do demos for folks looking to buy.
Love your reviews 😍🙏 can you give a quick impression how it rides in comparison with the Evil Wreckoning V3? Are they similar? I’d expect the megatower to be more stabel at high speed, but the Evil more playful? Thank you already
Hey thanks for the kind words. We don’t carry evil at the shop. I haven’t ridden one.
@@bikersedge Oh I‘m sorry I didnt know that. Thank you tho for your answer. Keep up the great work. 😌
Awesome review!!! How does it compare to the Specialized enduro or the stumpjumper? (if you've ridden them)
We don’t carry Specialized at the shop. Haven’t ridden them.
What’s the best climbing bike you’ve ridden ?
Probably the Ibis Exie or Orbea Oiz
Have you ridden a Spire in carbon? How do the two compare? Dig your reviews, keep 'em up.
Hey thanks! I ordered one a while back. Hope to have it soon.
@@bikersedge Nice, I see the two as definite competitors. I hope to be picking one up in early May but the new Meg sure does look good for a big bike.
I‘m considering a Megatower framekit to build up a new bike and wonder if you had a chance to compare the air shock to a coil shock setup. Which one would you choose?
I haven’t ridden it with a coil yet. I generally prefer the ride quality from an air shock for my style of riding but I can’t say for sure in this case.
I live in SLC, I like to ride trails like beartrap, honeycomb, and trails like that regularly. Lots of climbing, but long downhills. Would you recommend this bike or the hightower?
Man I rode those trails both white a bit. That’s a tough one. Person I’d rather have the mega for things like honeycomb. It’s more fun. I figure the climb is going to suck on either of those bikes so I might as well have the mega for the DH.
@@bikersedge how much would a 160 fork on the HT3 close the gap?
I wouldn't say its the fork length that holds the HT back when compared to the MT. It's the culmination of all its parts. The suspension is different, the geometry is different. Even at 160 the HT isn't going to rise like a MT.
Have you ridden the Nomad V6? Wondering on your thoughts compared if so?
Not yet. Would really like to.
Would be great to hear your thoughts on how it compares Vs. the Transition Spire
Haven’t ridden one yet. Can’t really say.
@@bikersedge would be good if you could include in your upcoming comparison
It’s super nice but not sure if it’s time to give up my Mega V1 with 170 fox 38 and Cascade link in the back.
Never tried the cascade link on mine but I'd honestly take this one over the gen. 1 all day.
I’m currently looking at buying a all mountain bike that will be my only bike. How does it do on xc trails? More moderate to regular blues? Do you think this really has the potential to be an everyday do everything bike?
If you watch the part about who the bike is for there’s more info on that. It’s not an XC bike. It’s not the best option for that. If you want to ride blues most of the time it’s not the bike for that either.
@@bikersedge I’m on the fence between this and the Hightower. I just rewatched it and it sounds like it fits the bill. Something I can take to the bike park and still be able to have fun in my local trails.
what camera did you use to shoot the ride shots?
Hero 10 on this one.
Another great review, thanks! How's it compare to the Ripmo?
It’s quite a bit burlier. The Ripmo has quicker handling and climbs better. Not by all that much though.
@@bikersedge I'm really torn between springing for the new Megatower, waiting for the next Hightower, or getting a Ripmo. Currently on a Tallboy, and have evolved past it. My local terrain isn't snowy, but not totally unlike your demo trail here.
I'm glad you mention the MT2 is not just for the gnarly gravity guys but also is good for chill trail rides with the kids.
How do you think the Megatower compares to a Yeti SB165? I would like a bike for park and shuttle. Thinking about building a SB165 as mullet bike for this reason :-)
I haven’t ridden the 165 in a mullet setup. Personally I’m a big happier with a full 29 for aggressive riding but to each their own.
Would love to know what you thought of this bike vs the Pivot Firebird
Unfortunately we can’t make that happen. We don’t carry pivot.
Will this bike overshadow the Hightower? It seems so
Only until there’s a new Hightower. I don’t know but I would assume that one is on the list to be updated.
@@bikersedge that's what I'm waiting for. But for now, these small adjustments seem to make night and day improvements on the bike, especially the Megatower. It seems to be even more all around capable now.
@@bikersedge new Megatower vs Ripmo vs Hightower would be interesting to compare
I dont know if these changes warrant replacing my 20/21 semi custom Megatower Cc x01 build Push coil and 170mm fork
It’s a completely different feeling bike.
hey connor @bikersedge have you had much rattle on this new v2? a few reports from pinkbike and on a few forums ive read its rattly, but nobody seems to have a answer as to why? given youve been on this a fair while now as your own bike what do you think?
I started to hear a rattle around mid summer. Turns out it was just the glovebox door. There are a few screws that hold the glovebox frame to the bike. Those had come loose. Tightened those up and problem solved. One of the quieter bikes I’ve had.
@@bikersedge awesome man thanks for the reply, i knew youd be a good one ask as youve had it a while - is it as quiet as the sentinel v2 you think? thats a pretty stealthy bike
@@didzy9349 I think it's as quiet. I'm not super sensitive to nosiy bikes though.
What trail is that from around 3:00-7:00 minutes with the little bits of snow?
It's the Quarry in Little Cottonwood.
I have the 2019 Megatower and I love it but I like how Santa Cruz is going a little more long low slack now but damn I think it might be a little bit to much for me to buy a second one Hightower Maybe?
If you watch the full review you’ll see that I don’t think it’s too slack or too long.
Would you take a Hightower to these trails? 150/145
The same trial I rode in the video? Of course. HT would be plenty for those. Although the ride quality will be different.
@ Thanks! Just ordered HT3. While these types of trails wouldn't be my everyday rides, good to know the bike can handle.
I'm curious how this compares to the current Spec Enduro.
We don’t carry specialized at the shop. I haven’t ridden it unfortunately.
Would you say this compares more to the Sentinel or is the Sentinel closer to the Hightower?
I’m climbing ability I’d put all three of those right next to each other. On the DH it goes MT>Sentinel>HT
@bikersedge where are you riding? Looks like LCC in Salt Lake City, Utah.
It is.
What's the size of the bike in comparison to your height? I'm 180cm and stuck between medium or Large. Chart tells me to go Large tho.
I'd probably go large if thats what the chart says. I'm 6'2" and ride an XL.
@@bikersedge awesome. I'll have to agree with you on that. I guess it aint the right thing to follow the pros when they choose a size smaller.
Nope. I don’t think it is either. They’re way better at bikes than us average Joes. Plus they’re racing ultra tight European tracks where they need to get around corners quickly. At least on Utah we don’t have trails like that.
@@bikersedge I see.. yeah, they do have the skill to keep a smaller bike stable. We got some tight trails too. But I'd lean towards stability, thus the large I guess
Does this eliminate the Hightower?
I think the Hightower is still better suited for tight, twisty, rolling and mellower terrain
@@bikersedge gotcha - what a great video - you are lucky to have that open air riding - as opposed to the Northeast where we are in the covered woods constantly.
Hey thanks.
Utah definitely doesn’t suck.
Would you say this bike is too big to throw around and whip? I’ve heard some things like this on the previous megatowers
I mean it’s a big bike. If you’re wanting a bike for the dirt jumps it’s probably not the bike. If you want an enduro bike that’s really good at jumping it’s a really good choice.
@@bikersedge I’m thinking about using it for enduro, bike park jumps and tech, and maybe throwing some tricks here and there do you think it could be good for that?
@@loganmaher7404 yeah. It’s a solid option. The only trick I can do is a pretty sorry T-Bog so I might not be the guy to ask though.
How does this new model compare to the SB150?
It’s been too long since I’ve ridden one of those to make a fair comparison.
So how does it compare to a Ripmo? Better or worse climbing and handling?
It descends more aggressively for sure. The Ripmo has quicker handling with a smaller wheelbase and steeper geo. I think the Ripmo will climb faster too, but the Megatower is at least in the ballpark. On rough downhills, the Rimpo wont hang.
I hope they will release new Nomad this or next year... Right now I can't make a decision Which one to aim for... This new Megatower or Nomad...
Would be cool if they did!
New Nomad is out!
@@LastAphelion BROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO I'm So happy daaaaamn!!!!!!
@@dathorneli8514 You pulling the trigger?