Santa Cruz Bicycles

Heckler R Complete Mountain Bike - 2016

Lately, it seems like the tail end of every bike you see disappearing around a switchback or expertly dicing through a harrowing line ahead is a Santa Cruz Bronson. The Bronson’s made quite a name for itself as an all-around trail bruiser since its release, but before you start selling your possessions to try and upgrade to one from your hardtail, consider the Santa Cruz Heckler. Remaining quietly out of sight on the blogs and the glossies, the 2015-2016 Heckler has more in common with the Bronson than most expect.

Built with the exact geometry of the Bronson, the Heckler is essentially more accessible version of it, with a workhorse build kit befitting the everyday cyclist. Contrary to what you might think, the Heckler actually preceded the Bronson in the Santa Cruz family, paving the way with its durable aluminum frame for years before the advent of its carbon successor. The Heckler’s 67-degree head tube angle, snappy rear triangle, and low bottom bracket work together to establish a responsive, nimble frame. Take it through twisty spots then straight into a destructive descent and you’ll enjoy quick handling and a wheelbase that stays glued to the ground, plus aluminum’s reassuring solidity.

Call the Heckler what you will: an enduro-leaning trail bike, or a lithe all-mountain sled, but its 150mm of Rock Shox squish up front lends it impressive versatility to conquer slickrock, singletrack, and everything in between. Santa Cruz’s single pivot suspension sits just ahead of the chainrings, providing a reactive platform that adapts easily to quick terrain changes. You’ll be able to send a big descent with plush confidence, then head straight into a climb without driving all of your power into the ground. Plus, with the reliability of a full Shimano drivetrain and easy-to-maintain Shimano brakes, quick shifts and speed checks will come when you need them, every time.