At Owenhouse Cycling, we know a thing or two about choosing the perfect bike, especially when it comes to Santa Cruz. Unfortunately, most of us can’t buy ALL the bikes, so let us do the research to help you decide!
This year, Santa Cruz has updated two of its classic mountain bikes, the Bronson and the Hightower. Whether you’re bombing down bike park laps or heading out for an epic all-day adventure, these bikes are built to handle it all. But how do they stack up against each other? Our expert team is here to break it down for you!
Details Matter: The Bronson and Hightower
Both the Bronson and Hightower have received significant updates over the years, and the 2024 models are better than ever.
The All-New Hightower
The Hightower is a beast for riders who want a bike that can handle long mountain days. With 150mm of rear travel and a 160mm fork, this bike is ready for long climbs and technical descents. Its slacker geometry and 29” wheels make it a great option for tackling Bozeman’s varied terrain, from flowy trails to steep alpine descents.
New features include:
- 64-degree head tube angle for added stability
- Proportional chainstay lengths for better size-specific performance
- Glovebox in-frame storage for easy access to tools and snacks
This makes the Hightower a versatile, all-purpose ride that excels on big climbs and gnarly descents. It is perfect for tackling Bozeman’s Bangtail Divide or Fairyhouse Loop in the Bridgers.
The New Bronson
The Bronson is also known for its versatility, with 150mm rear travel and a 160mm fork that makes it an all-mountain trail bike. The mixed-wheel (MX) setup provides increased traction and a smoother ride at high speeds.
Here are the key milestones for the Bronson:
- Bronson.3 (2019): Lower-link mounted shock for improved suspension.
- Bronson.4 (2021): MX wheels and proportional chainstay lengths for better traction and handling.
- Bronson.5 (2024): Redesigned front triangle with a ‘birdcage’ frame and a lower shock position for reduced anti-squat and improved balance.
Noteworthy new features:
- The Bronson now comes in an XXL frame size for bigger riders.
- Glovebox storage to stash essentials directly in the frame.
- For those not yet ready for the wireless revolution, the Bronson C frame now includes full cable routing options.
The Bronson thrives on Bozeman’s bike park laps and chunky trails, making it a perfect choice for riders looking to hit the Big Sky Bike Park or shred Leverich Canyon.
Key Performance Factors
When comparing bikes like the Bronson and Hightower, suspension travel, geometry, and wheel size are key considerations. The Bronson’s mixed-wheel setup offers more playful handling, while the Hightower’s 29” wheels make it a stable option for riders tackling long climbs and descents. Both bikes feature Santa Cruz’s VPP™ suspension, giving you a smooth and controlled ride over rough terrain.
The Best Bike for Bozeman Trails
Bozeman offers a wide range of trails, from smooth singletrack to technical descents, and each bike offers something a little different.
Ride Feel
The Bronson delivers a playful and confident ride. Its MX wheels make it nimble on bike park laps and quick, tight trails, while the updated suspension improves traction on steep and techy sections. Whether you’re on Garnet Mountain Trail or Leverich Canyon, the Bronson’s handling will leave you smiling.
The Hightower, on the other hand, is the bike for bigger adventure days. Its 29” wheels and versatile balance of geometry, specs and durability give it a composed feel on big mountain days, making it ideal for longer rides like Bangtail Divide. It climbs well and handles technical descents with ease.
The Team’s Take
Luuk’s Take on the Bronson
“I love the Bronson for bike park laps and fast descents. It’s playful, fast, and responsive. The updates to the VPP suspension make it even more balanced.”
Robert’s Take on the Hightower
“For big days in the mountains, the Hightower is my go-to. It’s stable and capable on long descents, but still climbs efficiently. Perfect for tackling all-day epics on Bozeman’s big terrain.”
Santa Cruz Bicycles + Bozeman, MT
Both the Santa Cruz Bronson and Hightower are excellent choices for Bozeman’s diverse trail system. Whether you want the playful versatility of the Bronson or the all-terrain capability of the Hightower, Owenhouse Cycling has you covered. Stop by for a test ride, or buy online and pick up at the shop!
