Whether we are toeing the starting line or just racing around the local singletrack, the Santa Cruz Highball is one of our favorite cross-country bikes when we need to go fast and put in the miles. The Highball is an efficient cross-country race hardtail that features 29-inch wheels, aggressive geometry, and a super lightweight frame. With a 67-degree headtube angle, we are able to conquer whatever modern XC course can throw at us, and a 73. 5-degree seat tube angle ensures that we have an efficient climbing position. The efficient rolling 29-inch wheels roll over roots and rocks with ease and ensure our energy is transferred into forward momentum. The seat stays join the seat tube below the junction where the top tube meets, helping to eliminate vibrations and trail shock from transferring through the rigid rear end. The Highball comes standard with downtube and chainstay protectors to protect against rock strikes and chain slap, and the front triangle can hold three water bottles, so we are always hydrated. The R build of the Santa Cruz Highball is entry-level but is still fitted with quality components that ensure a manageable price point. First up, Santa Cruz's Carbon C frame gives us a reliable and lightweight frame that was built to the same standards as their more premium Carbon CC frame to ensure optimal strength and a lightweight design. Next, SRAM's NX Eagle drivetrain gives a huge 12-speed gear range that will allow us to boost up and technical climb with ease. A RockShox SID SL, 100mm fork handles all the suspension duties on the Highball and ensures a lightweight and smooth ride. RaceFace AR Offset 27 rims allow us to rocket through the XC track and are durable and reliable. Finally, Santa Cruz equipped the Highball with premium Maxxis Rekon Race tires to give us tires that can excel on the xc courses, providing low rolling resistance, grip and traction through the corners, and a low weight.*Due to a high demand in the global supply chain and bike in...