Santa Cruz launches carbon downhiller

Although the "Syndicate V-10.4 Carbon" is initially only being ridden as a prototype by the Santa Cruz World Cup downhill team, the signs are good that it will also be available to the end consumer.

Despite the successful test phase in the run-up, there was skepticism as to whether the carbon frame and wheels would even be suitable at World Cup level. But after the first two World Cup races, there is now certainty: both the frame and the Edge carbon wheels of Greg Minnaar's racing bike have held up.

The bike, which weighs just 16 kilograms, has a carbon main frame and uses the same aluminum rear triangle as the "Driver 8". Like all top bikes from Santa Cruz, the "V-10.4 Carbon" is also based on the VPP suspension system, which gives it 254 millimetres of travel at the rear. According to Santa Cruz, however, it is not only much lighter, it should also be even stiffer than its aluminum brother, the "V-10". We can't wait to see how the "V-10.4 Carbon" arrives in the stores. For now, we'll make do with the sight of Greg Minnaar's racing bike.

www.santabruzbicycles.com