2024 Santa Cruz V10 8

Downhill Bike Buying Guides

Introduction

A downhill bike is built for one thing and one thing only. Going down hill, hard and fast. These bikes are used in extreme racing like the Red Bull Hardline races. They're meant to be hauled to the top of the trail on a chair lift or shuttle, on so-called gravity-fed tracks.

Who Should Ride a Downhill Bike?

Downhill bikes are suited for riders who seek the ultimate thrill of descending steep, technical trails at high speeds. They are ideal for:

  • Downhill racers who compete on adrenaline-pumping top-to-bottom tracks
  • Freeride enthusiasts who enjoy hitting big jumps, drops, and technical features in bike parks
  • Riders with easy access to a chairlift-served or shuttle-served trail system

Bike parks also usually rent out downhill bikes, since riders there won't have to pedal to the top and these bikes offer the best cushioning available.

Model Guides - Downhill Bikes

2022 Santa Cruz Bullit

2022 Santa Cruz Bullit

Take a shot at any trail you like.
2022 Santa Cruz V10

2022 Santa Cruz V10

The V10 never slows down.
2023 Santa Cruz Bullit

2023 Santa Cruz Bullit

The nearest thing to owning a downhill bike and a chairlift.
2023 Santa Cruz V10 7

2023 Santa Cruz V10 7

A bike for gravity-defying descents.
2024 Santa Cruz V10 8

2024 Santa Cruz V10 8

The downhill classic is back.

Key Features of a Modern Downhill Bike

Downhill bikes are engineered to provide maximum performance and durability in extreme terrain. Key features of these bikes include:

  • Suspension travel: Downhill bikes typically feature the longest suspension travel of any mountain bike category, with rear travel from 200mm - 250mm and front travel from 200mm - 220mm. The massive suspension absorbs large impacts and provides stability and control on rough terrain.
  • Frame geometry: Downhill bikes have slack geometry with a low center of gravity, slack head tube angles ranging from 63 to 65 degrees, and long wheelbases for stability at high speeds. This geometry enhances stability on steep descents while maintaining control and maneuverability.
  • Wheel size: Downhill bikes traditionally feature 27.5” wheels for their agility and responsiveness in technical terrain. However, some models are available with 29” wheels for improved rollover capability and stability at speed.
  • Tires: Downhill bikes are equipped with wide, aggressive tires with widths ranging from 2.5” to 2.8”.
  • Components: Downhill bikes are equipped with robust components designed to withstand the demands of aggressive riding. This includes powerful hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power, wide handlebars for maximum control, and short stems for responsive handling.