Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 AXS
- RRP: $13,999
- Travel: 170mm (front) 165mm (rear)
- Wheels: 29″
- Frame: Carbon
- Fork: RockShox ZEB Ultimate Flight Attendant
- Drivetrain: 1×12 Electronic
- Brakes: Hydraulic Disc
What we like about it: The CC carbon body with 1×12 electronic drivetrain for more power and extra-long 170mm of travel to handle bumps as smoothly as possible. So megatower deserves to be the first choice for the championship.
What we don’t like about it: Although the components are high-end, we still can’t compromise on the price.
Rating (4.8/5)
Introduction
Like the dreams of countless race riders, your riding career would not be complete without a Santa Cruz.
In reviewing of the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1, it is worth over $13,900, my heart is very excited.
So, with a lighter and stronger CC carbon frame combined with the powerful and smart SRAM 1×12 Electronic drivetrain, more creative hybrid Maxxis Assegai 29″ wheelset, longer travel (165mm rear, 170mm front), you can easily travel through the wild woods. And most importantly, you can take it with you! The most important thing is that you can take it to the top of the podium.
Faced with such ultra-high-end components, it was ahead of countless competitors as soon as it was introduced. With the futuristic technology of VPP™, you have to re-examine the definition of what is racing. Take the MEGATOWER to an outdoor rally with your spirits up, it’s the best investment for your ride.
If you want to know more about the riding experience, please stay tuned and subscribe, I will bring more reviews.
Learn More: Santa Cruz CHAMELEON Review-Just A Climbing Lord?
Climbing
Since its inception, Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 AXS has been convinced that full-suspension mountain bikes are the trend of the future, so they have continued their research and development efforts on full-suspension without fail. It has been proven that full-suspension mountain bikes are compatible, endurance, and easy to ride are indeed the trend.
I took MEGATOWER to a wild wooded area this weekend, and there’s nothing like it for having a top cc carbon frame to get your heart pumping.
When I straddled the seat tube at a steep 77.8° angle, it would be a lie to say I wasn’t surprised! First of all, it was more relaxed and comfortable. With a mix of Maxxis 29 “x2.5” front and 29 “x2.4″ rear tires, I could feel the slimmer 2.5” tires providing the necessary support in reducing air resistance as I climbed up. Not only that, but if I compare it to the trek slash series with huge tires that I rode before, it is no less grippy and crushable. I could feel the interplay of the mixed tires, and although the soft tail tends to lose power on rising terrain compared to the hardtail, the rear tire is sharp enough to make this process close to zero.
Experience
I couldn’t have done it without the SRAM, 1×12 Electronic drivetrain combination SRAM X01 Eagle AXS 30t crank technology on a section with continuous uphill climbing. MEGATOWER is worth a try!
Of course, you don’t have to worry about this horse being too smart and losing control of the bike. Secondly, in some weaving terrain, even on bumpy sections, the 638mm stack with the 440mm rear fork gives the RockShox Zeb the advantage of 170mm, making the whole body geometry more spacious.
Combined with the 133mm trail it didn’t cause me much trouble even in the face of constant cornering acceleration. As I keep mentioning, “This is a high-end bike that is all about efficient service.”
Descending
If you do not experience pleasure on the speedway, it is impossible to constitute the true need for full shock evaluation.
So, faced with the rugged and bumpy flowing trail, I was ready to put up a fight. In addition, I took extra notice of the small rocky mound that articulates here. This is also a good test for MEGATOWER with 165mm rear and 170mm front travel.
During my rappel, I could feel his RockShox ZEB suspension working at high speed. The rapid expansion and contraction handled the squeeze from the ground and I didn’t even feel the soreness in my arms from the process. In addition, the 165mm of VPP™ travel and relatively-low leverage ratio not only makes setup easier but delivers a more damped, controlled feel across the travel range.
If you notice the “susu” sound coming from the top CC carbon body, you’re not far from success. As long as you can fly smoothly over this rocky mound, I have eaten countless failures on this huge smooth rock.
When I adjusted the SRAM 1×12 Electronic to the right speed, I didn’t have to use much control from the moment I hit the ground. Because 1266mm wheelbase with a 440mm rear fork gave the body plenty of room to use the squeeze from the ground.
With Maxxis Assegai 29″ vacuum tires, I didn’t feel squeamish about sudden blasts, and I didn’t need to think about the risk of a flat tire. Of course, I believe SRAM Code Ultimate braking can also give you enough confidence in the face of too high-speed descents.
Main Features
Frame
The CC full carbon body with a lifetime warranty is claimed by MEGATOWER, from my feeling, the CC frame is currently using the best material and production process. I never have to worry about how much wear and tear it will cause when we are out on long endurance rides. But even though he is so tough, it still covers the protection at the downtube.
Also, frame details include a neat fender that protects the rear shock. And if you notice his built-in storage space, you’ll be amazed at how much room he has. You can carry some tools and physical supplements.
Even with a lower-link flip chip and the option to run large-body shocks, like a coil, you’re still able to fit a water bottle inside the front And the Megatower’s chain length matches the frame size. So every rider, regardless of height, gets the same balanced geometry.
Geometry
Without a comfortable seating position, you’ll have a hard time completing a long period of endurance. The steep exaggerated 77.8° seat tube angle gives you a more upright riding position and you can stay in the saddle longer on the WTB.
The 1266mm wheelbase makes the overall body frame more spacious. In addition to the longer 65mm rear and 170mm front travel, the slacker geometry is also an excellent aid in the face of constantly bumpy terrain.
With the hybrid Maxxis Assegai 29″ wheelset, some would argue that the steering is not as nimble as the 27.5″ tires. Although I don’t agree with this opinion, the moderate 133mm trail length with a 63.8°head tube angle not only allows for stable steering control but also does not sacrifice flexibility.
Components and Specifications
SRAM, 1×12 Electronic Power Drivetrain
Compared to traditional mechanical shifting, which requires the rider to dial in the chain to the desired position. So the SRAM electronic shifter can be easily shifted with the push of a button.
And SRAM supports custom shifting, so you can customize the button press to find the correct gear faster. So the process is very quick and you can even speed up the response time by 25%. For many newbies, this is good news.
In addition, if you notice that mechanical shifting can lead to instability or reduced efficiency during shifting due to cable contamination, broken and aged cable housing, etc. during shifting. Then you can be completely at ease with SRAM 1×12 electronic shifting, which is a completely intelligent robot.
And you don’t need to worry about maintenance. Although it is an electronic device, this system is much more powerful than you think. A little water still has little effect on it, and all the connected parts are waterproof, but that doesn’t mean you can throw him into the water.
Maxxis 29 “x2.5” (Front) 29 “x2.4” (Rear) Tires
I couldn’t have done the whole trial without the Megatower’s hybrid wheelset to support my power on the previous ascending and descending terrain.
The more classic 29’s tire size, 2.5″/2.4″ in both front and rear widths perfectly retains speed and efficiency. Although we don’t have the option to face rough terrain, the vacuum tire attribute of the Maxxis also provides part of the shock absorption support. Besides, the combination of 165mm rear and 170mm front, and longer travel makes for a smoother ride even on wooded trails filled with gravel and potholes.
Also, if you notice the aramid bead-covered surface, even though it can’t reach 3” thick, for a strong ground grip and to provide more traction, I think it can do it. And the hybrid tires handle ascents and descents more intelligently, and the sharp rear tire effectively compensates for the deflated feel of the soft tail. So it allows you to ride farther like a kid.
SRAM Code Ultimate Brake
The SRAM brake is an old friend of Santa Cruz. In the Maxxis, we see the choice of Code Ultimate, the pinnacle of performance, power, and control.
Additionally, broken down, it appears that the authoritative 4-piston calipers provide Code with more power. Featuring a sturdy brake lever design that provides extra support for intense riding, it ensures a smooth descent.
Although full shock models are suitable for adventures on all kinds of terrain, whether climbing steep forest roads or speed descending on professional terrain. But one has to admit that sometimes good braking can increase that confidence.
Therefore, from the feel of the test every downhill, Code is the standard for fine modulation and confident braking power. And if you’re a year-round rider, the brakes can feel different at the start or the end of a high-speed ride for some less specialized models. But the SRAM Code feels the same – no matter how long or steep.
Other Versions Of Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz MEGATOWER R
I know that the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER xx1 price frame at $13,999 is a not-so-friendly number for some consumers who just need it. Although I think it’s an essential expense for us to be on the podium in professional competitions.
If you are nostalgic about the MEGATOWER series and value economy and practicality more, I think the MEGATOWER R is also a good choice. Different from XX1 traditional 1×12 drivetrain combination SRAM Descendant Eagle 148 DUB 30t crank technology, also can give you enough power to switch between different terrain support.
Although compared to the XX1’s electronic drivetrain may lack some sense of technology. In addition, the Maxxis, 29 “x2.5/2.4” mixed front and rear wheelset are also retained, and the SRAM grade is used in braking. Although version-wise I have to admit that the XX1 will be more high-end. In terms of suspension travel, the values of 165mm rear and 170mm front have been continued. All things considered, I think the MEGATOWER R is also an excellent competitor, but of course, it may not be able to achieve the greatness of the XX1.
Santa Cruz MEGATOWER Specs
| Kit | Santa Cruz MEGATOWER R 29 | Santa Cruz MEGATOWER S 29 |
| Price | $3199USD | $4049USD |
| Weight | 13.28kg / 29.28lbs | 12.99kg / 28.64lbs |
| Fork | FOX Rhythm 34, 130mm, 29″ | FOX 34 Float Performance, 130mm, 29″ |
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM NX Eagle, 12spd | SRAM GX Eagle, 12spd |
| Shifters | SRAM NX Eagle, 12spd | SRAM GX Eagle, 12spd |
| Crankset | SRAM Descendant Eagle 148 DUB 30t | SRAM GX Eagle 148 DUB 30t |
| Cassette | SRAM PG1230, 12spd, 11-50t | SRAM XG1275 Eagle, 12spd, 10-50t |
| Chain | SRAM NX Eagle, 12spd | SRAM GX Eagle, 12spd |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB 68/73mm Threaded BB | SRAM DUB 68/73mm Threaded BB |
| Brakes | SRAM Guide T | SRAM G2 R |
| Brake Rotors | Avid Centerline 180mm | Avid Centerline 180mm |
| Headset | Cane Creek 10 IS Integrated Headset | Cane Creek 40 IS Integrated Headset |
| Bars | Burgtec Alloy Bar | Burgtec Alloy Bar |
| Stem | Burgtec Enduro MK3 | Burgtec Enduro MK3 |
| Grips | Santa Cruz House Grips or Burgtec Bartender Pro Grip Minnaar | Santa Cruz House Grips or Burgtec Bartender Pro Grip Minnaar |
| Front Hub | SRAM MTH 716, 15×110, 32h | DT Swiss 370, 15×110, 6 bolt, 28h or E13 SL, 15×110, 6 bolt, 28h |
| Rear Hub | SRAM MTH 746, 12×148, 32h | DT Swiss 370, 12×148, XD, 28h or E13 SL, 12×148, XD, 28h |
| Rims | RaceFace AR Offset 30 29″ Rims | RaceFace AR Offset 30 29″ Rims |
| Spokes | Sapim Race | Sapim Race |
| Front Tire | Maxxis Minion DHF 29 “x2.5, 3C, MaxxGrip, EXO, TR | Maxxis Minion DHF 29 “x2.5, 3C, MaxxGrip, EXO, TR |
| Rear Tire | Maxxis Aggressor, 29 “x2.5WT, EXO, TR | Maxxis Aggressor, 29 “x2.5WT, EXO, TR |
| Tubes | Stan’s Sealant | Stan’s Sealant |
| Seat Post | SDG Tellis Dropper, 31.6 | SDG Tellis Dropper, 31.6 |
| Saddle | WTB Silverado Race Saddle or WTB Volt | WTB Silverado Medium Cromoly SL Fusion Saddle or WTB Volt |
Video
What we like about it?
- High-end CC carbon body combination exclusive VPP technology, ride more rigid, more efficient absorption of vibration.
- 1×12 electronic drivetrain for stronger power support.
- SRAM Level brakes run efficiently to increase riding confidence.
- The extra-long 170mm stroke allows you to change between scenes as if you were on the ground.
- Maxxis, 29 “x2.5/2.4” mixed front and rear wheelsets are efficient and powerful enough to ignore all obstacles.
- The exaggerated 77.8°seat tube angle gives you a more upright riding position and less effort in climbing.
- Larger storage space, so you can ride more worry-free.
What we don’t like about it?
- High-end bikes are not easy to maintain and are expensive.
- The color cannot be too simple.
FAQ
- What is the size of the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 tires?
The Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 has a tire size of 29×2.50/2.40”.
- What is the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 drivetrain?
The Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 drivetrain is the SRAM XG1299 Eagle Rainbow,1×12 Electronic.
- What are Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 brakes?
Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 brake is SRAM Code Ultimate hydraulic discs.
- How do I choose the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 size?
| Size | Rider Height |
| 52 | 160-168cm |
| 54 | 168-175cm |
| 56 | 175-183cm |
| 58 | 183-188cm |
| 60 | 188-196cm |
Comparison Table
| BIKE | PRICE | DRIVETRAIN | TIRES | BRAKES | Click View |
| Specialized S-Works Stum pjumper EVO | $11500 | 1×12 electronic | 29×2.3″ | SRAM Code RSCHydraulic Disc | Click View |
| Santa Cruz NOMAD X01 | $11199 | 1×12 electronic | 29 “x2.5″/27.5 “x2.4” | SRAM Code RSCHydraulic Disc | Click View |
| Trek Slash 9.9 XX1 AXS Flight Attendant | $12549 | 1×12 electronic | 29″ x 2.5″ | SRAM Code RSC 4-piston hydraulic disc | Click View |
| Pivot FIREBIRD Team XX1 AXS | $13399 | 1×12 electronic | 29″ x 2.5″ | SRAM Code RSC 4-pistonhydraulic disc | Click View |
Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper EVO vs Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1
Compared to the Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper EVO, which is in the same price range, I think it tends to be conservative in the 11,500 price range. 150mm of travel is exaggerated for some hardtails and moderate compared to some full shocks. But compared to the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER’s extra-long travel of 170mm, I think this number limits the possibilities for the shock.
It is also more moderate compared to the 29×2.5/2.4″ tires of the MEGATOWER mix. The 29×2.3″ wheelset was chosen, and to be honest, for acceleration, such a small difference may not mean much. But for endurance racing or facing responsible road handling, either a hybrid wheelset or a wider set would be beneficial.
Both tend to have a more technological 1 × 12 electronic drivetrain in terms of power support, which is smooth, responsive, and simpler. Of course, the exaggerated 77.8° seat tube angle of the MEGATOWER is unmatched by the Specialized in terms of its sexual posture.
Some of the important components of both, despite the different brands chosen, are functional and belong to the high-end series. If we consider the best of the best, I prefer the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER.
Santa Cruz NOMAD X01 vs Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1
To be honest, it’s really hard for me to tell the difference between the nomad and the MEGATOWER. Because the same high-end 1×12 electronic drivetrain with CC carbon body frame gives you the lightest dead weight and the most technical power support even on the most difficult peaks. The hydraulic disc brakes are also all chosen from the SRAM Code series, giving you great confidence and support to challenge the unknown forest roads, in addition, I am also fond of Santa Cruz’s VPP patent.
But from the following aspects, I think MEGATOWER will be more special. First of all, from the suspension travel, the nomad chose the same front and rear 170mm extra long travel, which will cause more leakage problems than MEGATOWER 165mm rear and 170mm front for some climbing terrain. And the nomad with smaller 27.5″ tires at the rear facilitates this process even more. All in all, I think both bikes are the better models of Santa Cruz. But from the point of view of adapting to more terrain, the MEGATOWER will perform more aggressively.
Learn More: Santa Cruz NOMAD X01 Review – The Limits Of Man And Bike
Trek Slash 9.9 XX1 AXS Flight Attendant vs Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1
Compared to the trek family’s ace series, the slash’s comparative performance is no less impressive. From the different angles of the two designs, it is possible to see some riding bias.
For example, the longer 170mm front of travel with the high-end 1 × 12 electronic drivetrain is an excellent match for endurance racing. Also, if you notice the choice of frame for both: both tend to be made of high-end carbon. Whether it’s slash’s oclv or MEGATOWER’s CC, both are great choices for lightweight and durability.
If you pay attention to the brakes, you’ll see that the SRAM Code series is a consistent combination for the top end of the range. Of course from my personal preference, the more exaggerated seat tube angle of 77.8°and the more interesting 29″ hybrid tires are great tools to break the frame limitations.
If you like to be more special and innovative, choose MEGATOWER.
learn more：Trek Slash 9.9 XTR Review-The All-Rounder On The Mountain
Pivot FIREBIRD Team XX1 AXS vs Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1
I think now the success of the full shock frame caused many car series to be unable to jump out of this inherent model. Take for example the Pivot FIREBIRD Team: a sturdy carbon body with 1×12 electronic drivetrain combination SRAM XX1 Eagle DUB SL 32t crank technology, SRAM Code series braking system, and moderate 29″ x 2.5″ tires. Seriously, I don’t see the jump in change at all.
In contrast, MEGATOWER’s futuristic technology is much more exciting. Certainly, CC carbon body, the industry’s top VPP suspension technology, and Santa Cruz logo hybrid tires can be said to be a new trendsetter in hybrid tires. It also offers a wide range of possibilities to diversify the riding field. Moreover, the combination of 165mm rear and 170mm front travel, and damping has reached a pinnacle.
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Learn more : Is Pivot Mach 4 SL Team XX1 AXS Splendid – [Pivot Mach 4 SL Team XX1 AXS Review]
