2024 Santa Cruz Hightower 3 C S

The 2024 Santa Cruz Hightower 3 C S is designed for riders who want a trail bike that feels both sturdy and lively out on the trail. At its core is a C carbon frame that's lightweight but tough, giving you a stable platform that reacts precisely whether you're hitting rough descents or technical climbs.

Shifting gears feels smooth thanks to the SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain. Its broad gear range matches your effort to the terrain easily, whether you're grinding uphill or bombing down fast sections. When what's time to slow down or stop, the SRAM Code R brakes provide strong, reliable control that you can count on in tricky spots.

The suspension comes from a FOX 36 Float Performance fork up front, offering 150mm of travel that soaks up impacts and rough patches nicely. In the rear, the RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ shock provides 145mm of travel, balancing out the ride so things stay controlled and confident. Santa Cruz’s VPP suspension platform keeps everything efficient when pedaling while still ready to handle bumps and obstacles with enough give.

One small but nice detail is the internal cable routing which keeps things tidy and shields cables from dirt and damage. It results in a quieter ride with less chance for rattling or snagging. Plus, the SRAM Universal Derailleur Hanger lets you swap or upgrade your derailleur with ease.

You will find an SDG Tellis dropper post on this bike, making it easy to adjust saddle height on the go. Whether climbing steady or dropping into a fast descent, this keeps you in the best position for control and confidence. The wheelset from RaceFace and DT Swiss is built tough with 30mm wide rims and smooth-rolling hubs, setting a solid base for aggressive trail use.

Tires are Maxxis Minion DHR II in 29 by 2.4 inches, with the front tire using a sticky 3C MaxxGrip compound that holds corners tight and the rear tire in 3C MaxxTerra for a good balance of grip and speed. Both come tubeless-ready with EXO casings to resist cuts and allow lower pressures for traction and comfort.

Steering feels crisp with the Cane Creek 40 integrated headset, and power transfer is solid through a SRAM DUB bottom bracket, designed for reliable pedaling efficiency and durability.

Performance

This bike takes care of the hard work for you, letting you focus on enjoying every turn, climb, and descent with a setup that's ready for serious trail demands.