Santa Cruz Bronson 5 R: Versatility Meets Performance

The Santa Cruz Bronson 5 R is a versatile trail bike built to conquer diverse terrain with a balance of precision, durability, and playfulness. This bike is perfect for riders who want to transition effortlessly between climbs and descents, featuring advanced suspension, a reliable drivetrain, and an optimized geometry for all-mountain riding. Let’s explore the standout features of this incredible machine, crafted for those who demand confidence on technical trails and stability on steep descents.

Suspension: Balanced Control for All-Mountain Riding

FOX Float Rhythm, 230x57.5 Rear Shock

The Bronson 5 R is equipped with the FOX Float Rhythm shock, designed to provide consistent performance and smooth handling on both climbs and descents. With a 230x57.5mm size, this rear shock ensures ample travel for absorbing impacts while maintaining pedal efficiency. The Rhythm series offers tunable settings, allowing riders to adapt to varying terrain, from rugged singletrack to flowy descents.

RockShox Lyrik Base, 160mm Front Fork

At the front, the RockShox Lyrik Base fork delivers 160mm of travel, perfect for tackling aggressive trails. This fork is built to handle technical obstacles with ease, providing precise control and confidence in challenging conditions. Featuring the DebonAir spring and Motion Control damper, the Lyrik Base offers a plush ride while maintaining efficiency during climbs. Its rugged construction ensures durability for riders who like to push their limits.

Drivetrain: Efficient Shifting for Every Trail

SRAM NX Eagle, 12-Speed Derailleur and Shifter

The Bronson 5 R features a SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, renowned for its reliable performance and wide gear range. The NX Eagle derailleur ensures smooth and accurate shifts, even under load, making it ideal for steep climbs and fast descents. The matching SRAM NX Eagle shifter provides intuitive control, allowing riders to quickly adjust gears with minimal effort.

SRAM PG1230, 11-50T Cassette

The 11-50T cassette offers a massive gear range, ensuring versatility for tackling steep inclines and maintaining speed on flats. Whether climbing technical switchbacks or sprinting down fire roads, the PG1230 cassette provides the right gear for every scenario, ensuring optimal power transfer and efficiency.

SRAM Descendant Eagle 148 DUB 32T Crankset and DUB Bottom Bracket

The SRAM Descendant Eagle 148 DUB crankset, paired with a 32T chainring, delivers reliable power transfer for tackling challenging trails. Its rugged design ensures durability, while the DUB bottom bracket enhances stiffness and longevity, providing a solid foundation for the drivetrain.

Wheels and Tires: Traction and Durability

Maxxis Assegai 29"x2.5" Front Tire

The Bronson 5 R features the Maxxis Assegai 29"x2.5" front tire, equipped with 3C MaxxGrip and EXO+ casing. This tire offers unmatched traction and control in loose and technical terrain, ensuring confidence on steep descents and sharp turns. Its aggressive tread pattern and robust construction make it ideal for all-mountain and enduro riding.

Maxxis Minion DHR II 27.5"x2.4" Rear Tire

At the rear, the Maxxis Minion DHR II 27.5"x2.4" tire provides excellent cornering grip and braking traction. The 3C MaxxTerra compound balances durability and performance, while the EXO+ casing adds puncture resistance for rough trails. The combination of the Assegai front and Minion DHR II rear tires delivers a confidence-inspiring ride across varied terrain.

SRAM Hubs and Reserve 30|TR AL or Raceface AR30 Rims

The Bronson 5 R is equipped with SRAM MTH 716 (front) and MTH 746 (rear) hubs, paired with either Reserve 30|TR AL or Raceface AR30 rims. These lightweight yet robust rims offer excellent support for the high-volume tires, enhancing stability and control. The hubs ensure smooth, reliable engagement, keeping the wheels rolling efficiently over technical terrain.

Braking: Confident Control

SRAM DB8 Stealth Brakes

For braking, the Bronson 5 R features SRAM DB8 Stealth brakes, designed for powerful and consistent stopping power. These four-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent modulation and control, ensuring confidence during high-speed descents and technical sections. The Stealth design integrates cleanly with the bike, enhancing its overall aesthetics.

Cockpit: Ergonomic and Responsive

Burgtec Alloy Handlebar

The Burgtec alloy handlebar provides a wide, stable platform for precise control on technical trails. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort during long rides, while its robust construction withstands the rigors of aggressive riding.

OneUp or Burgtec Enduro Stem

Riders can choose between the OneUp Stem or the Burgtec Enduro Stem, both with a 42mm length. These stems enhance the bike's handling and responsiveness, ensuring precise steering through tight corners and technical features.

Saddle and Dropper Post: Comfort and Versatility

Fizik Monte or SDG Bel-Air V3 Saddle

The Bronson 5 R is available with either the Fizik Monte or the SDG Bel-Air V3 saddle, both designed for comfort and support on long rides. These saddles feature ergonomic shapes and durable materials, ensuring comfort during extended trail sessions.

SDG Tellis Dropper Post

The SDG Tellis dropper post, with its 31.6mm diameter, allows riders to quickly adjust saddle height on the fly. This feature is essential for tackling technical descents and steep climbs, offering optimal positioning for every trail situation.

Conclusion: A Trail Bike That Excels Everywhere

The Santa Cruz Bronson 5 R is a versatile and capable trail bike that shines on technical climbs, fast descents, and everything in between. With premium suspension, a wide-range drivetrain, grippy tires, and reliable brakes, this bike is designed to inspire confidence and push boundaries. Whether you’re an experienced rider seeking a dependable workhorse or a weekend warrior looking to elevate your trail game, the Bronson 5 R delivers a thrilling and reliable ride every time.