2024 Santa Cruz 5010 5 C S

The 2024 Santa Cruz 5010 5 C S is built for riders who want a trail bike that feels lively, but also stays cool when the terrain gets tough. It has a playful vibe thanks to the mixed 29" front and 27.5" rear wheels, giving you a blend of traction and nimbleness that really shines on twisty, technical sections. Whether you're climbing steep trails or bombing down rough descents, this bike handles it all like a champ.

The suspension really makes this bike work well. Out back, a RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ shock with a 210x50mm stroke smooths out rough ground and big hits without feeling sloppy or mushy. Up front, the RockShox Pike Select+ fork offers 140mm of travel and plenty of stiffness. This makes it confident and responsive as you navigate roots, rocks, and tight switchbacks. Together, the suspension components keep your wheels rolling smoothly and your body feeling fresh.

When it comes to shifting, the SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain offers a wide gear spread and slick, precise changes. That 10-50t cassette means you'll find the right gear whether you're grinding uphill or flying down the trail. If you’ve been looking at high-end bikes you’ll recognize the Eagle name as belonging to SRAM’s high-performance range. It’s famous for fast, precise, reliable shifting. It offers a wide gear range, making those steep climbs less daunting and the speedy descents smoother. The 32-tooth crank and durable chain complete the efficient power transfer with minimal fuss.

Rolling on Maxxis Minion DHR II tires—29x2.4" up front with 3C MaxxGrip and 27.5x2.4" with 3C MaxxTerra in the rear—you get great traction where you need it. The front tire's aggressive tread helps you stick in corners and loose spots, while the rear tire balances grip and speed. Those tires sit on RaceFace AR Offset 30 rims laced to DT Swiss 370 hubs. This combo is designed to take some serious abuse while keeping things responsive.

Stopping power is handled by SRAM G2 R four-piston brakes. They give you strong, predictable bite with smooth modulation. This lets you dial in your speed without surprises. Whether you're feathering them through tricky bits or hauling on them in a panic, these brakes have your back.

The cockpit feels solid and well thought out. A wide Burgtec RideWide Alloy bar offers plenty of leverage for control. It's paired with a short 42mm Burgtec Enduro MK3 stem that keeps steering sharp. Add in a comfy WTB Silverado CroMo saddle and the choice of OneUp V2, Reverb Stealth, or Fox Transfer dropper posts, and you're set up for long rides or quick tweaks on the trail.

Santa Cruz's trail-focused geometry balances fun and confidence. The mixed-wheel setup gives the bike a playful edge without sacrificing downhill stability. The longer front end and shorter rear keep it composed at speed but ready to dart around corners when the trail demands it.

If you want a trail bike that adapts to everything from quick bursts on technical singletrack to full-day adventures, the 2024 Santa Cruz 5010 5 C S deserves a close look. It's solid, fun, and built to last. It's ready to keep pace as you chase whatever trail comes next.