Stumpjumper vs Hightower vs Bronson

• Posted on 23 October 2023
• By Seth

The Stumpjumper. The first production mountain bike on the market, arriving in 1981.
The Hightower. If you're not looking for extremes, just something extremely good, look no further.
The Bronson. If in doubt, take a Bronson out.

Which bike is right for you?

Stumpjumper 15 Pictured Below

The Stumpjumper is meant to be your do it all trail bike, featuring a custom shock that Specialized designed specifically for this frame. With a larger air can, there is a million ways to tune the shock with included spacers to make the bike firmer or softer in the initial stroke, or help with bottom out resistance on bigger hits. The shock is designed around the standard Fox Float, so long term servicing is still very easy. The Stumpjumper is built around mid-range of travel along with a longer wheelbase to handle some rowdier terrain, plus a horst-link, which means a pivot by the rear wheel, adding to traction. With built in adjustments to make the bike more agile, to the ability to make it long, low and slack enough to handle proper enduro bike trails. 

Hightower Pictured Below

The Santa Cruz Hightower uses their patented "VPP", using two co-rotating links to drive the rear shock through its travel. On trail, it translates to a pedal friendly bike that gives tons of traction, while still remaining very active and playful. The "Glovebox" adds storage in the downtube of the frame, allowing you to carry tools, tubes, snacks, or whatever goodies you'll need while you're out playing in the dirt. With the full 29" wheel set up, the focus is on an all rounded package that can climb as much as it wants to descend. A slack headtube angle to match the larger wheel size (and wheel base) creates an extremely capable bike. 

Bronson Pictured Below

The Santa Cruz Bronson utilizes the "VPP" found on all of Santa Cruz's trail bikes, balancing pedaling efficiency with lots of traction. The Bronson features an updated "VPP" design, which includes a lower "anti-squat", meaning the rear end is a bit plusher as you are riding in the middle of the travel, allowing the bike to be pushed far past what the travel numbers suggest. With a mixed wheel set up, the Bronson still allows you to charge over obstacles or features, but gives the ability to maneuver the rear end of the bike wherever it may need to go. With a slack headtube and long wheelbase, this bike can conquer whatever decent you roll up to, while still being playful enough to do any side-hit that tickles your fancy.

These bikes are perfect for whatever kind of trail riding you like to do. We have most of the models in stock, with size options of each. Stop in anytime for a test ride! Still have questions? Stop by our shop and talk to one of our knowledgeable staff!