Santa Cruz Tallboy 6 CC 29 90-Kit

The 90 build is the smart entry point into the Tallboy lineup, delivering the same Carbon CC frame and trail-ready capability as the high-end kits at a price that leaves room in the budget for tires, helmets, and trail beers. 130mm of rear travel through a 4-bar suspension system and a 140mm RockShox Pike Select fork up front. At 30.79 lbs, it carries a few extra grams compared to the wireless builds but rides with the same confidence on the climb and the descent. Excellent suspension, big wheels, and a thoroughly-tuned carbon layup let you ride as hard as you want, whether that's maximizing power hours or just trying to ride every hour you've got.

The build leans on SRAM's new mechanical Transmission to deliver wireless-level performance without the wireless price. SRAM 90 Eagle T-Type drivetrain pairs with an XS 1275 cassette and a 10-52t range for any climb you can find, all running on the same direct-mount UDH platform as AXS. RockShox Pike Select and Deluxe Select+ suspension front and rear handle the bumps without fuss. SRAM DB8 brakes with a 200mm front HS2 rotor use mineral oil for low-maintenance, consistent stopping power. Reserve 30 TR AL rims laced to DT Swiss 370 hubs roll on Maxxis Forekaster 2.4 tires in MaxxTerra EXO casing, a tough and fast-rolling combo for mixed conditions. OneUp aluminum bars, Enduro stem, and dropper post round out a cockpit that needs nothing on day one.

Beyond the spec sheet, the Tallboy frame is built to live with. The Glovebox downtube storage swallows tubes, tools, and snacks so you can leave the pack at home. UDH derailleur hanger, 73mm threaded BB, integrated chainguide, and one bottle mount inside the front triangle. Sizes XS through XXL with crank length, bar width, and dropper travel that scale to the frame so the bike fits the rider instead of the other way around.