It makes mountains into molehills. Two years on the drawing board, now fully realized in all its metal glory, the VPP-derived V10 signals the changing of the guard in suspension technology. Everything else just became old news. Featuring 10 inches of rear wheel travel, controlled jointly by a titanium sprung Progressive 5th Element shock and the revolutionary VPP linkage, the V10 smashed all of our preconceived notions about what constitutes downhill performance. Even when running an ultra-plush, mega-Barcalounger 4 inches of negative travel, the V10 still pedals without any bobbing and accelerates faster than any downhill bike has a right to. Heck, it accelerates faster than some cross country bikes we could name. And still devours every obstacle in its path.
Crafted from 6066 aluminum alloy, all pivots running on sealed cartridge bearings, featuring replaceable dropouts (not just hangers, bunky, the whole dang dropout. Shifting performance is key!), with a fully floating rear brake and the best shock money can buy, the V10 is a revolution unto itself. The future starts here. Don't get left behind.
Submitted by
mtn_freeride
a Racer
from Auburn Date Reviewed: June 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Stonewall to Rocky
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light (for a 10" frame), Responsive, Efficient, Strong, VPP, it is a Santa Cruz, Made in the USA
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Judge, Giant Glory, Morewood Izumu
Bike Setup:
Shimano Saint Cranks, FOX 40, Formula THE ONE, WTB DH Team Kit, PO1NT 50mm DM Stem, Crank Brothers Mallet Pedals, Sunline v-one Bars, XTR Shifters/derailleur, Thomson Masterpiece, Full Ti Kit
Bottom Line:
This is an absolutely amazing bike, super fast, strong in all situations...the quintessential DH race bike. I have loved this bike from the beginning and it excels in all types of DH racing. It pedals strong, corners on rails and descends with no trepidations. Race weight - 34.8lbs. The hands down best DH bike I have ever ridden.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
04tow01
a Downhiller
from England Date Reviewed: April 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
FOD
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Leisurelakes Bikes
Strengths:
This is for an 09 V10- I cannot say enough how great this bike is. It pedals extremely well, corners exremely well, It is very easy to control in the air and is so light and chuckable. Rockgardens are a dream to ride through as the VPP suspension takes everything and the travel feels bottomless! It's one amazingly fast bike!
Performance aside, the V10 is also incredibley good looking, the carbon fibre and generally the shape of the bike is stunning. The welds are very neat at this is definately one of the best looking bikes!
It's very good quality as you would expect from a bike of this price.
Weaknesses:
Absolutely none! The bike is truely amazing!
Similar Products Used:
Orange 224, Cannondal Perp.
Bike Setup:
2009 ano black v10 with fox DHX5 (large), all 2009 Parts with 2009 boxxer teams.
The main brands on the bike are-
Mavic, Hope, Sunline, Race Face, Shimano, e13, Fox, Rockshox.
Bottom Line:
Truely an amazing bike. If you have the cash to spend on a DH bike like this then do not think twice about buying a V10, you will love it! It's worth every penny and the quality is amazing! If you are looking for a top line DH bike to take you to the next level, this is it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mrobson71
a Downhiller
from Bothell, WA, USA Date Reviewed: March 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Slayer
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Rear wheel sticks to the ground
No pedal feedback
Fast!
Weaknesses:
A lot of bearing to replace
Similar Products Used:
VP-free
Bike Setup:
Pushed Fox dhx 5.0 with ti spring
Boxxer WC
Saint
2009 Deemax
Code
Bottom Line:
Bike is a huge confidence builder. With a pushed 2009 DHX 5.0 the rear wheel sticks to the ground. Plows through rough/steep terrain like it's nothing. No kick back when hitting large drops. Pedals like a much shorter travel bike. With full DH set up mine comes in at 38.2 lbs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BATM
a Downhiller
from Rathdrum ID USA Date Reviewed: November 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
down hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
wheel sport east,fra
Strengths:
The suspension allows you to hit anything with confidence and speed. This is the 08 frame, the sligtly lower front end corners better than my 06 did.The reduction in weight is nice also - built with same parts as my o6 and weighed 2 lbs lighter.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
06 V10,07 IH sunday,06 IH 7.7,06 SC VP Free.
Bike Setup:
09 Fox 40,TI spring on fox 5.0,deemax wheelset running without tubes,07 saint brakes, SDG saddle and post,xt shifter and drailer,FSA Gravity cranks,Hope steering damper,this setup on my med frame weighs 39.8 lbs
Bottom Line:
I do not consider myself to be a really fast rider, however this bike allows me to easliy keep ahead of my riding buddys. When I am behind them I am always wondering why they are riding so slow! As you can see from above I have tried a few different bike in the last couple years, the Sunday is as fast, but I found that the bike I always reach for first is the V-10 - especially if the trail is extremly knarly - the V-10 allows you to just go and not worry about what you are going off or over. It does take a bit to get used to jumping it though. The pedalling is amazing also - you just do not feel any bob when cranking, even when cranking up a hill. Take your time getting the suspension set up for your riding - it makes a big difference in how the bike handles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
madmax412
a Downhiller
from fewq Date Reviewed: July 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
fd
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
cyclepaths in trucke
Strengths:
it is an overall pretty good bike. huge amounts of travel. nothing it cant go over. a plow best describes the bike.
Weaknesses:
my bike is a 2005 setup with rc2 40's, and if you want a bike that is strictly for hitting the gnarliest rock sections, then this is the bike for you. but, the problem is that this is a slow and steady wins he race frame. my bike has a fairly light setup and its weighing in at 44.5 pounds. that extra weight makes it tough to turn, haul ass over rock piles, and jump.
if you just want a fun bike to ride, this is a grat bike. but, it is far from anything close to a race bike. you will find this bike feeling sluggish and slow over anything you do, and eventually you wont like it anymore. if you want a race bike, and ive ridden all the top brands, i would spend your money in a turner dhr. they are the most expensive frame on the market [about 3 grand] but it has the perfect amount of travel, handles like a sunday, jumps like a demo 8, and plows like a v-10. and they arent changing their frame next year so you wont be stuck with the old stuff. turner wont change their dhr frame for another 3 years. my advice, try them all. there is one bike out there that will feel completely natural and thats the bike youll want.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raleigh Cornwell
a Downhiller
from Ogden, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: June 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Dirt Monkey Downhill Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
AMAZING SUSPENSION SYSTEM! DHX 5.0 is extremely durable and able to stand up to the biggest of hits
This bike is amazing! Great suspension system. I cased a 25 foot gap and it still works fine. Bike is amazing!!! Not really great for uphills but hey, it is a downhill bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Racer
from Ontario Date Reviewed: April 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
percey crack trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Cycle Solutions
Strengths:
the way the rides... dont even notice half the small stuff you hit.. super fast and plush. corneres like mad.. the carbon fiber link is dope.. frame is light as fuk.. 9 lbs.with ti coil.. got my built at 38. nice welds and good quailty so far.
Weaknesses:
a littel hard to get used to i found. i had a 2004 so differnt. but doesnt have much weakness i say i love every second i ride it.
Similar Products Used:
alot of other bikes... nothing compares to them like this...
Bike Setup:
888 ata world cup, dee-max on 440's. x.0 all around. sdg i beam seat and post. monkey lite carbon bars. avid codes mags.. king headset all the good stuff.
Bottom Line:
the bike is the best i have ever ridden. i wouldnt get anything else if i could choose anything else. the ride is unlike anything else out there. picks up everything big or small dont feel it.. rides and tracks amazing.. i ride a med and im 6'1 190lbs with a 500lb ti coil. perfect setup for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
max evans
a Downhiller
from nz Date Reviewed: February 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
dream track - queenstown
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$705.00
Purchased At:
trademe - frame only
Strengths:
FAST - this bike is made to go from the top of the hill to the bottom faster than anyone else the frame is bullet proof
Weaknesses:
heavy - this may be due to me being so light
Similar Products Used:
giant atx
Bike Setup:
04 v10 frame 08 888 rc3 mrp mavic
Bottom Line:
if you want to ride quicker than your mates and win races buy this bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Patterson
a Downhiller
from Edinburgh Date Reviewed: November 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Innerleithen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
Very well built,very very fast it will handle anything you can throw at it
Weaknesses:
I find it a little front heavy when going off jumps (Done a few bad nose dives) but may I'm still getting used to it.
Similar Products Used:
Kona stinky
Bike Setup:
Repainted Orange, Fox DH5 shock & Fox Rc40 forks, race face Evolve cranks,Diablous handle bars & stem,sram X9 mech & X7 shifter,ODI grips,E Thirteen Guide, Mavic 721 rims with Hope Bulb hubs,Maxxis Minion front tyres on front & rear,SDG freestyle seat, raceface deus seat post,Easton Flatboy pedals
Bottom Line:
Strong,fast downhill bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charlie Dennis
a Racer
from Brisbane, Queensland, Austrailia Date Reviewed: November 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Illinbah
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Everything, the 10inch's of plush travel is awsome, geo makes it awsome to race, and just to huck off some drops.
Weaknesses:
Havn't found any.
Similar Products Used:
Glory, Ironhorse sunday world up, Intense M3
Bike Setup:
Fox 40rc2, Mavic 823 on hadley, Fox DHX 5.0, Saint brakes and cranks, Eastern Monkeylights dh with a Eastern Vice stem, X9 setup, e.13 SRS Guide.
Bottom Line:
The V10 is a awesome bike that i would recomend to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Curt
a Downhiller
from Tampa FL Date Reviewed: October 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Hole in the ground Donner summit
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
MTBR classifieds
Strengths:
Stout frame, excellent bearings, less exspensive than some DH frames, Do it all sweeet ride!!
05 med black fox dhx 5.0 w/ 500lb ti spring, marz 66, Raceface diabolus e-13 dual guide, sram, xtr thompson, 2.3 marz all the goods
Bottom Line:
I don't know how Santa Cruz will make this bike better! This bike is unreal with the Fox dhx 5.0 coil. I ride it XC, freeride Hucked it off 10 ft drops and done the rocky downhills. I thought that the little brother of the V-10 would be too stiff to ride downhill. The transformation from having a stiff platform going up hill to a plush ride down hill with out any adjustments Blew my mind. I found it to be a lot nimbler than my V-10 which made me faster in technical sections. I am going to use the "bad back" excuse to keep my caddy ride v-10 even though deep down I know my free is all I need. I am telling all my buddies to go buy one you won't regreat it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a Downhiller
from Mass Date Reviewed: September 2, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2950.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
This bike is light is can go over anthing and will takie anthing. It has a low center of gravity for crazy sharp turns at high speeds. if you mess up the fox forty rc2 will save you every time. I have not bottmed it out since i owned it crazy plush rear shock.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
kona stab primo kona stab dlux ironhore sgs
Bike Setup:
v-10 fox forty rc2 maxxis weels fox 5.0
Bottom Line:
i would het this bike if you love riding fast, going big and showing up you friends.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles
a
from Manchester, Cheshire England Date Reviewed: May 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
freight train
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$7000.00
Purchased At:
Leisure Lakes
Strengths:
The most awsome, plush, beefy, DH bike ever! Also i was well chuffed as got the first non pro frame in the uk in anodized black. It sticks like turd to a carpet... wen i first got it it simply wouldnt leave the ground you got that much traction... if you buy this it makes ur bike porn dreams come true. also the bearings have lasted abges! had the bike 2 and a half years, had 2 racing seasons, a trip 2 whistler, 2 trips 2 the alps and had one bearing change!
Weaknesses:
The shock isnt that accessable, i think mine was a 1 off or just the first batch of frames but mine doesnt have an iscg mount
Similar Products Used:
orange 223
Bike Setup:
888 2004, hope bulb 729's, hope mono ti 6's, fox dhx 5.0, chromag bar and stem, e13, race face cranks, axiom pedals, maxxis high rollers 2.35 sram x0
Bottom Line:
if you are serious about steamrolling thru stuff buy this bike.. provided u hae ground clearance you can get over nearly anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Finn Q`Connor
a Downhiller
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: March 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
singnal hill Dunedin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
R&R SPORT
Strengths:
Every thing from peddling to singal track to hucking and racing,this is the ultimit bike
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
demo 9,iron horse world cup sunday,intnense m3,cona stab promo
Bike Setup:
full xo, saint cranks,burgtec hubs and peddles,888rc2,fox float,hayes mags and goodritch lines
Bottom Line:
the best bike ever,cannot fualt it in anyway and its worth every cent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Downhiller
from Torrance, CA Date Reviewed: March 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Everything. Very smooth, jump well, turns well. Hucks well. Great bike!
Weaknesses:
5th Element shock. Very hard to dial in.
Similar Products Used:
Intense M1,M3, Demo 8
Bottom Line:
Great bike! Only problem is the 5th Element shock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Condro
a Downhiller
from Nor Cal Date Reviewed: January 1, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
This bike is designed to squat into the travel when you pedal, soke up the biggest hits, smooth out the roughest bumps, and be light enough to place it were you want it on the race track. Jumps like a champ, corners with the best of em, and sprints like a slalom bike.
Weaknesses:
I have owned and raced V-10s since generation 1. I have watched this machine evolve into the steed it is today, and with every issue that comes up Santa Cruz is quick to release the new revisions. The only lagitiment complaint I have ever heard was frame availibilty.
Similar Products Used:
Sunday, Morewood, 303, and my 06 YZF250.
Bike Setup:
Sram, Michelin, 39lbs.
Bottom Line:
The real bottom line is if you ride this bike and find something wrong with it, you might want to go back to your set up charts. You can do anything on this bike that you can do on a 7 inch bike. Out of all my bikes I spend the most time on my V10, weither I'm huckin or pinning it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Downhiller
from Aptos Date Reviewed: December 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Dead Campers/Magic Carpet
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Pinkbike.com
Strengths:
Great ride. easy to menuver, fast bike, lighter than most downhill bikes, suspension is great. Only bottomed out once.
Weaknesses:
HORRABLE pedaler. The V-10 is by far that hardest bike to pedal. other than that greatest bike ever.
Similar Products Used:
Demo, Yeti 303, Kona Stab, any high quality downhill bike really.
Bike Setup:
2006 V10, Fox 40r, Fox DHX 5.o, Mavic wheelset, intense FRO tires, Truvative Cranks, E. Thirteen chainguide, 5050xx pedals, Avid Juciy 7 brakes, shimono XT derailler and shifters, Easton EA70 handlebars, lizardskins grips, and an easton Vice stem.
Bottom Line:
The Greatest downhill bike ever created by the hands of man! Fast, sucks up every bump. but don't be expecting to be doing any uphill trails. I have to get off and walk on even the slightest up hill. and I have been racing for 2 years! not a XC bike! a cold hard downhill beast!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Downhiller
from Manchester UK Date Reviewed: December 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Delamere DH
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$8500.00
Purchased At:
STIF
Strengths:
Excellent build quality, fit and finish of parts is excellent. Great design. Geometry spot on and so smooth to ride.
Weaknesses:
At the time only available in green.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stab, Demo 8
Bike Setup:
Boxxer WC, Hope Mono 6's, Funn bars & stem, E13, X-0 Drivetrain, Minions F&R, EX729 on Pro II's
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, handles differently to what i had read everywhere else. People told me this was a huge heavy bike to ride that won't pedal and won't go round tight corners. ALL WRONG!!! This thing rocks! Lighter than my mates Stab and certainly lighter than a Demo 8. More balanced than the Demo and easier to work on. Absolute perfection!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patryk
a Downhiller
from Warsaw, POLAND Date Reviewed: November 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Guba³owka
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
Crazy Crank
Strengths:
The best bike ever. Fantastic suspension. Glue to the ground like I thought I had flat tire at the beggining :) Very stable. Just GREAT!!!
Weaknesses:
non
Similar Products Used:
Stinky Stab, Glory
Bike Setup:
SC DH kit with 888RC2X
Bottom Line:
Because the suspension is so good you have to learn how to jump again but after a while you can do it as well with no problem. The Geo is great, love from the first sight, you sit and you know like in the rally car.
FANTASTIC BIKE. Period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Downhiller
from Leeds UK Date Reviewed: November 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
CBC SEYMOUR NORTH VAN
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$7000.00
Purchased At:
STIFF
Strengths:
Simply the best DH bike ever, I have had so many bikes in the past 10 years and this is by far the best bike I have ever owned. Build quality is 100%, ride is predictable, fast, tracks like you are rails, large rocks that were major obsticals to be avoided on my last bike became gravel in the path so smooth.
Weaknesses:
Nothing really apart from the huge price hike here in the UK compared to USA basically twice the price. When will the world become a true global economy?
Similar Products Used:
Yeti ASX, Norco A line, Kona Stab, Commencal 6.6, Trek VRX 400
Bike Setup:
FOX DHX, FOX 40 R, MAVIC, HOPE, AVID, RACE FACE, Intense, E13
Bottom Line:
I also have a Heckler and have had lots of far eastern built bikes, and I am certain that USA built bikes are far better, my Heckler is ano as is the V10 the difference is amazing, also the welds on the V10 are perfect. This bike is the best by far I have ever owned I love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BINGBANG
a Cross Country Rider
from Bromont, Quebec Date Reviewed: August 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
#7
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
MTBR Classified
Strengths:
Nice finish, rear carbon fender looks good. Smoooooth and very stable. Light.
Weaknesses:
So far it would be the stickers, they peel away too easily, should apply clear coat.
Similar Products Used:
Foes DH Mono, Intense UZZY 2005 with Boxxer WC.
Bike Setup:
It came with the DHX 5.0 and FOX40 RC2, Avid 7, Mavic wheels, X.O trigger and rear der. I run recommended sag, 100mm rear and 25% front more rebound. My bike came at 39.5lbs
Bottom Line:
I was looking for another Foes, because I tought it was it with its strong look and floating disc brake. But could not forget how stable and smooth the VPP UZZY felt. When I read that SC changed their linkage in 2005 to help eleminate brake jack, read all the reviews, I added the V10 to my search list for a used DH. When I saw $3K for a 2006 5 rides V10, I could not resist any longer. Handles quicker than my Foes, so smooth, even at lower speed. I'm not a full time DH'er and this bike made me feel very confident that I'm already jumping higher and longer. You ride ``in`` the bike and with the help of the 40RC2 ajusting the - and + compression seperatly is really a plus. Great bike, great package, look brand new. I recommend that bike for any part time DH guy, really feel like you can do anything. I also assume that it would be great for any level of rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin Schenk
a Downhiller
from SLO CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Face
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5100.00
Purchased At:
CBO
Strengths:
It is a relatively light DH bike for that much travel. Very stable over anything, Absorbs everything, Best when ridden fast, excellent cornerer. Only 42lbs.
Weaknesses:
It jumps stable and level but hard to get air of a lip it just has to much travel to be a jumper. Not the best freerider, this is an awsome DH bike.
Similar Products Used:
Scott High Octane, Demo 8, Old V-10, ASX, Bullit, Stab
Bike Setup:
Complete from Santa Cruz with Boxxer World Cup, Juicy 7's, Holzfellers, DHX 5.0, DT Swiss wheels, XO. All 06. Be sure to get the Boxxer, its better than 40, Travis, or 888.
Bottom Line:
If your serious about racing downhill I can't think of a better bike to win races and haul ass with. Make sure you get the 06 Boxxer World Cup.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe blow
a Downhiller
from North Van BC canada Date Reviewed: July 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
frame only, LBS
Strengths:
Pedalslike a champ, rolls over anything, can be built up well under 40 lbs, cable routing is clean ,2 year Warranty.
Weaknesses:
Creaky pivots if you ride in wet weather a lot, poo colour selection if you want anodized, there will be 10 guys with the same colour at any race.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Switch 04, VP Free
Bike Setup:
Shiver, DHX 5 Coil, Chris King, Race Face
Bottom Line:
**This is for the 06 V10**
They have improved the downtube. bb gusset, welded a ISCG 05 adapter, and changed to a 83 mm bb shell for 06, NICE but make sure you know this before you buy cause SC does not list it in their catalog.
If you are considering buying this bike you have already come to terms with the price, it is expensive but worth the $. It takes a bit to learn how to ride a bike with this much sag, you have to learn how to jump and hop a bit different and be aware of how low your bb is when in the bottom end of the travel. This bike hauls ass at Whistler and the like. Still light enough for Shore type stuff, but a little tough to manouver when really slow, (what do you expect from a DH bike?) My pivots creak a bit, but i think it is more my fault for getting them too wet, I have heard that the SC pivots are notorious for being crap though. Every bike has a weakness, but the strengths on the V10 far outweigh the probs. Yeah the shock it tough to get at, but this rig is built for ride function and it takes 2 mins to take the shock off anyway. This bike will take you to the next level, very forgiving, pedals amazing for a dh rig too! Get the anno finish for the extra cash, it is worth it, I feel you should get more selection for anno colours though when your dropping this much cash!
If you don't have the cash, my buddy shreds on his VP free and loves it too for over a grand less!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe blow
a Downhiller
from North Van BC canada Date Reviewed: July 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
frame only, LBS
Strengths:
Pedalslike a champ, rolls over anything, can be built up well under 40 lbs, Warranty
Weaknesses:
Creaky pivots if you ride in wet weather a lot
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Switch 04, VP Free
Bike Setup:
Shiver, DHX 5 Coil, Chris King, Race Face
Bottom Line:
If you are considering buying this bike you have already come to terms with the price, it is expensive but worth the $. It takes a bit to learn how to ride a bike with this much sag, you have to learn how to jump and hop a bit different and be aware of how low your bb is when in the bottom end of the travel. This bike hauls ass at Whistler and the like. Still light enough for Shore type stuff, but a little tough to manouver when really slow, (what do you expect from a DH bike?) My pivots creak a bit, but i think it is more my fault for getting them too wet, I have heard that the SC pivots are notorious for being crap though. Every bike has a weakness, but the strengths on the V10 far outweigh th probs. This bike will take you to the next level, very forgiving, pedals amazing for a dh rig too! I you don't have the cash, my buddy shreds on his VP free and loves it too for over a grand less!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared Dvets
a Downhiller
from UK Date Reviewed: June 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The Widowmaker
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5500.00
Purchased At:
Santa Cruz Dealership
Strengths:
Very light for a downhill ride. Also super strong with very giving suspension. Looks like a beast.
Weaknesses:
Havent found any yet.
Similar Products Used:
Yeti and Canfield Brothers Downhill bikes.
Bike Setup:
Risse Bigfoot. Mrp crankset. SRAM components. Hope brakes. Chris King headset. DeeMax wheelset. 5th element shock.
Bottom Line:
This bike has very good pedal efficiency with huge amounts of travel. Stronger than a bull and looks like a beast. One sweet bike. Highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big "D"
a Downhiller
from Virginia Date Reviewed: April 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Diablo freeride park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Tons of travel. Takes huge hits and keeps asking for more. This rig is the fastest bike i've ridden and pedals nice. I have the 05 model, people say it's heavy but it only weighs 42 pounds.
Weaknesses:
it looks to good for me
Similar Products Used:
Specialized bighit, Sunday team
Bike Setup:
Boxxer world cup, Juicy sevens, XO, progressive with Ti spring, easton,
Bottom Line:
The bike looks sweet and it rides hard as hell. I've even done some freeride parks and it's still a beast. But it's made for the downhill runs, you can feel the thing ask for more speed. I can't wait for this season.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent
a Weekend Warrior
from Alamo Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Dog Bone
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$105.00
Purchased At:
Northstar At Tahoe
Strengths:
Lots of travel. The Fox 40rc2 is the plushest fork on the market. Very light only 44lbs! It soaks up every rock. big drops feel like riding of a curb. This could be a freeride bike. It pedals well. Very manuverable. Great componentry
Weaknesses:
The fox 40rc2 is a little soft. I bottomed it out a couple of times, but nothing a stiffer spring can't do.
Similar Products Used:
Demo 8, Banshee Scream
Bike Setup:
Anodized Frame, fox 40 up front, dh kit
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. Not heavy at all. This could be a freeride bike. It is an expensive bike but it is totally worth it. Highly recommend getting one with the 40 and puttin stiffer springs in.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Downhiller
from Calgary, AB Canada Date Reviewed: October 19, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$7000.00
Purchased At:
Bow Cycle and Sports
Strengths:
Geometry is amazing, strong frame, floating rear brake, solid rear axle, VPP suspension, 10 inches of rear travel, 5th element rear shock, IT RIDES LIKE IT IS ON RAILS!
Weaknesses:
This bike does too much work for the rider at first, but when you get used to it you take control and that is when the fun happens!
Wow... This bike is fast. It soaks all the hits up.. big and small. If you thought you were a fast rider on your bullit or norco you'll be riding at lightspeed on this thing. This is a straight up DH machine.. I can ride the skinnies on this but she is meant to point down and go go go. As for jumping? this thing rocks... it might be tough for some of the lighter guys to throw it around but i weigh 200 lbs and I can fly with this bike.... she jumps easy (if you know what ur doing), rides over everything and soaks up the biggest stuff you'll see.
GO GET ONE AND STOP READING THE REVIEW... YOU'RE WASTING PRECIOUS TIME!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SJ
a Downhiller
from Northwest Date Reviewed: September 7, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Solid build and top notch quality. See below for a more in depth review of strengths and weaknesses.
This review is for the 05 V10 (second generation). I have had the bike over a year and logged over 100k vertical feet this summer alone, so I know its strengths and weakness well.
Overall: The build quality and attention to detail by SC is top notch. The frame is strong, durable, reliable, and stylish. I have had 0 problems with the frame. The pivots are still tight thanks to pinch bolts at every point and the anodized finsh still looks like new (I highly recommend spending the extra money on the anodized finish). I like the way the frame looks but others may disagree. I must say I didn't like the first pics but in person it looks much better. The frame rides solid, no squeaks or rattles. It does creak a little when sitting on it but the frame is silent when riding. Overall the frame looks and feels of quality. Structure wise, the only thing I would change would be to move the vertical support on the swing arm so the chain doesn't slap it. It would also be nice to have the shock more accessible for tuning and shock pump use. A lower top tube would be nice as well.
Cornering: The bike has a very low center of gravity due to the shock location and the sag. Cornering on wide sweepers or berms is excellent. The length of the bike and HA hinders the bike on sharper corners but on most corners the bike is fast and stable.
Jumping: This bike requires a unique jumping technique that has taken me a while to figue out. It isn't bad but it is different (something I can't really explain by writing). Small jumps, especially with steep lips are hard to manage. The bike really just wants to roll right over the lip. Bigger jumps with a bike length or so lip are handled fine and once in the air the bike is even and predictable. Landings are uneventful. Sometimes I wish for more pop and in-air agility but my only real complaint is on the smaller lippy jumps.
Pedaling: The bike pedals great and acceleration is awesome. No, it doesnt pedal like a hardtail but acceleration is impressive. With the limited pop off of some jumps the benefit of acceleration and speed becomes a necessary adjustment. Rough terrain is handled well but pedaling through it results in lots of pedal contact with the ground.
Who should buy? This bike is great for anyone who likes to go fast. It does everything well at speed. The bike struggles at slow speeds. Slow speed drops are difficult, and cornering is sluggish. The bike is also very forgiving. It allows you to progress to faster and bigger but the catch is that it reqires speed. There are better bikes for slower, technical riding, but there are few better for fast DH riding. I highly recommend this bike to anyone who is looking for a quailty, downhill dedicated machine.
SJ
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ric Barker
a Downhiller
from Congleton, Cheshire, England Date Reviewed: July 13, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Feels unburstable Low CofG Long so it rails Will swallow pretty much anything Cheaper than an M3 (which lets face it, is a rich man's copy)
Weaknesses:
Heavy? A bit too good for most courses in England?
The steeper the better for this bike. It's a bit long in the wheelbase for alot of stuff in the UK I think. For example, I reckon I could do Hopton faster on my Girls VP-Free. Take it somewhere steep and fast like Nannerch or Cannock however, and it kills. I honestly don't think there is a faster bike out there. If you see one down the trails, beg for a go!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
danny cutts
a Racer
from leeds Date Reviewed: April 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Adel woods, leeds
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
as most people will have gathered by now the v10 will suck up anything, well at least everything i have thrown at it at the moment, from massive rocky/tech sections to big 60 foot gaps. the frame is really stiff and runs through the travel amazingly smooth. this bike, compared to other downhill machines of the same bread is by far the best pedaler i have ridden. leaving the start gate it gets upto speed well and at high speeds it reaches an even higher speed with a few cranks of the pedals. when it needs to stick to the ground it does and when i want it to leave and fly with me is seems to follow. im only an iccle 160lb rider but i seem to be able to throw the bike around enough and generally keep well in control of it.
Weaknesses:
at the moment i have no complaints, lets hope it stays that way!
Similar Products Used:
kona stab primo, demo 8, cove playmate
Bike Setup:
shivers, bulb on 321's, mrp bones combo, hopes
Bottom Line:
this bike can take a serious beating and generally rules! it can be set up to cater most rider needs and preferances. im loving it and wouldnt swap it for anything. if your looking to get from the top to the bottom of a mountain at high speed passing a few massive jumps and technical sections on the way with masses of confidence then get a v10!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
blake
a
from los angeles CA Date Reviewed: March 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
strong frame, no flex, nothing has loosened up and still no creaks. very comfortable to ride, plows through the rough stuff and feels very balanced in the air and at speed. Very confidence inspiring.
Weaknesses:
no weaknesses really, I'm very happy. -maybe a bit slack for some situations but I also have an 8 inch fork
I am very happy with this bike! It has held up superbly, really works well in the choppy corners, at high speeds, over rough terrain and off jumps and drops. In my experience, it has done well in every aspect as a DH bike. I would urge readers to read the shawn spry review. I have been racing at the expert level as well but weigh in at a skinny 220lbs compared to Mr. Spry. I consider myself an abusive rider but that is subjective really. Anyhow, he has explained what I consider to be a very accurate review. The only thing I didn't do was add locktight to the pivot bolts. Fortunately nothing has loosened up. I also, in closing, agree with his view of the crew at Santa Cruz. They have always been quick to answer questions and have been both friendly and professional. great bike! great company!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Downhiller
from Pittburgh PA Date Reviewed: February 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Snowshoe
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Confidence inspiring, strong, great looks, fast as anything.
Weaknesses:
*doesn't come with an engine to get it up hill...But who cares!
Bike Setup:
Pimped out!
Bottom Line:
I can definitely recommed this bike. It's made me a better rider and I carry more confidence and speed. Great product!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn Spry
a Downhiller
from All Over the West Date Reviewed: January 23, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Very solid design, strong pivots, silent bearings.
Weaknesses:
Due to a relatively long head tube, forks will most likely have to be set up fully extended, which creates a head angle that is a little too slack for some trails.
Bike Setup:
Monster, Ultegra, Block 8, Thompson, blah, blah, blah. The rest are just parts that will break like all downhill parts.
Bottom Line:
After reading some of the reviews on this frame I was surprised to see that it had only 5 reviews and most of them were from people who are still kind of in their "I can't believe I own a Ten" phase of ownership. So, after three years on this frame I figured I'd step up and offer my two cents.
Again, my frame is from their first year of production. I am six foot two, and weigh in at a measily 255 pounds. I have raced expert for 5 years now so you can come up with your own idea for what kind of rider I am. I am not giving you my stats so my prick can swell, but instead to give you an idea that this bike can be ridden, and raced, hard. Very hard.
After three years on it I have not had a single problem. As soon as I got it I removed the pivot bolts and lock-tighted them. Do this. ALL biks will come apart if you don't. I have never had to oil, grease or lubricate anything frame-related. It is as silent and smooth as the day I got it.
Perferomance- I really can't say enough about this frame. It drifts nicely, it just well (as long as you're going fast), and it really handles rock gardens with ease. I will have to argue with all of the "it pedals like a hard-tail" hype, though. Sure, it pedals nicely...for a 40-50 pound bike with mega-travel. Get on a hard tail for cross-training and you'll quickly realize that it doesn't REALLY pedal like a hard tail. Where it's pedalling profenciency really comes to play is during sprints going from mid-speed to all-out. I swear, the bike's travel won't budge a millimeter. It just keeps a line and gets fast...quick. So don't think you'll be saving any shuttle-gas by pedalling to the top of the mountain because you won't.
I've heard some people complain that with the suspension design and 5th Element shock that it doesn't jump very well. Again, every single inch of this bike was made to go fast...much faster than you ride now. Take this bike to your local jump park and you'll be laughed at. As well you should...it's a downhill bike! But get on a high-speed course and hit some 20 to 50 footers and you'll quickly feel just how smooth and confidently this bike jumps. It's a nice feeling when you know the bike is totally comfortable on jumps like that. It allows you to progress to the next level...no matter what level you are at now.
In closing I'll give you this piece of advice: if you want to go be a star at the dirt jumps, pull back flips, and huck with Bender...don't get this frame. It just isn't designed for that kind of riding. However, if you want to go faster, jump further, higher and with more confidence; this is your rig.
One last thing. The guys at Santa Cruz are also very nice guys. Super service, super advice, super everything. They really do a good job listening to their riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cristiano conceição
a Downhiller
from madeira portugal Date Reviewed: January 19, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
BTT MADEIRA
Strengths:
the rear wheel is all the time on the floor, smoth ,and it is not like the others dh bikes it more like a free ride bike it pedals like one , but when is need the rear suspencion is ther.
Weaknesses:
the only thing i have to say is about this frame is the fact ther isnt already in the frame the proper adapter around the sprocket for the chain guide.
Similar Products Used:
yamaha YZ 250
Bike Setup:
marzochhi 888r , race face diablus , protaper , hayes , dt , mavic and shimano.
Bottom Line:
this bike makes you like there is no limit
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jhon Bonham
a Racer
from garberville, CA Date Reviewed: September 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
durango national course
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
sponsored rider
Strengths:
this is by far the sickest bike I have ever riden. It pedals like a short travel mtn.X bike but sucks up everything in that gets in it's path. I have never riden another DH bike as lite as my current set up either. the frame is super stout with very little torsional flex.the swing arm is so stiff I feel like I am riding a hard tail. I have no worries about landing a little sideways on this bike, because it just wont brake. the new frame paired up with the fox DHX shock is un beatable. Nothing can compare.
Weaknesses:
none.
Similar Products Used:
none. nothing can compare
Bike Setup:
dorados, easton bars, shimano xtr components, wtb laser disc dh, hadley hubs, fox DHX, hope M4's, profile cranks 170's ti bottom bracket, thompson post, and mrp.
Bottom Line:
This bike is dope.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chride
a Downhiller
from Sweden Date Reviewed: June 7, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Åre
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Dr.spoke
Strengths:
Pedals very well. Easy to throw around thanks to it's low standover. Lighter than you would think. Seems pretty durable.
Weaknesses:
Lots of moving parts, I have to check all bolts in the linkage at least once a week (should probably use locktite....) Low BB.175mm cranks hit the ground often (not really a weakness more like low center of gravity = faster in the corners). The fact that you basically have to dismount the damper and the rear linkage to get to the 5th's setting screws sucks, but onces its done correctly, you don't have to touch them. Headtube should be prepped for a Steelset. Mine is never ever ever coming out, impossible. Difficult to hold the saddle with knees while doing nohanders/suicides etc. couse of slack seatangle (weakness? not really..)
Similar Products Used:
Intense M1, Foes, Ellsworth Dare... Most of the high end bikes around.
Bike Setup:
hayes, 888r, Middleburn, CK, Thompson blablabla, the usual "empty the savingsaccount" setup.
Bottom Line:
This is by far one of the best downhill race bikes I have ever ridden. It's not as fun to freeride on as for example a Dare but much much faster on racetracks. The suspension is a bit difficult to set up correctly due the 5th's unlimited nuts and bolts (I have a mechanic that does that for me, thank god) But when it's set up as you prefer you can be seriously fast.
Have to give it 5 chilis. The weaknesses aren't really weaknesses. You have that kind of things with every top downhill bike. This is just a outstanding frame for serious racers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gene Kirk
a Downhiller
from Aspen, CO Date Reviewed: April 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Cross Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Aspen Velo
Strengths:
Ultra Plush, pedals like a dream, despite what has been said jumps well and is not to heavy, turns like its on rails
Weaknesses:
None that i can find
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, Turner DHR, Rocky Mtn RM7
Bike Setup:
170 888 w/lowrider crowns, Deemax, Maxxis, SAINT cranks, Sram trigger, X.o Rear Der.,Hayes, Easton post, Azonic bars,Evil guide, XTR cassette Titec El norte saddel,
Bottom Line:
I have never been a bike that I have been more happy with. The people that say its hard to jump and its too heavy are sissys. Its soaks up everything in its way. sprints like hardtail .handles drops like there not even there. Bottom line you need to get one!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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