Santa Cruz Bullit GX AXS: Test victory for the e-bike with the plus

Visually, the difference is hardly noticeable: the Santa Cruz Vala and Santa Cruz Bullit look like two peas in a pod. However, the Enduro Bullit has more suspension travel, namely 170 millimetres at the front and rear. And it also has slightly more robust equipment. However, the basic features of the two bikes are also identical on the inside. The slim full carbon frame houses the Bosch Performance CX and the comparatively small Powertube 600 battery. The battery is permanently installed in the down tube, which is intended to save weight and makes it clear that this is not about comfort and everyday use, but about a sporty attitude. The Bullit is designed to excel off-road and on trails.

Is lighter better?

At 22.2 kilos, it has exactly the right equipment. Not a record weight, but considering the robust equipment with Doubledown tyres, Maven brakes and 38 mm suspension fork, this is a good value. The equipment is also good, but not exuberant considering the high price. Nothing is missing here, but you won't find any glamour with carbon parts or Kashima coatings. Other manufacturers offer significantly more glamour for just under €10,000. This is not unusual for Santa Cruz. The entry-level model starts at 7699 euros. The Californians' bikes are designed to excel on the trail, with top riding characteristics and powerful suspension. Will the Bullit GX AXS achieve this?

The Santa Cruz Bullit GX AXS costs 9799 euros and is available here, for example

Clear edge in the terrain

On the trail, the Bullit is light-footed, direct and precise for a potent E-Enduro. In addition to the low weight, the excellent suspension is also responsible for this. Instead of being plush and soft and soaking up all obstacles, it offers plenty of support, especially in the mid-travel range. This keeps the rider in an active position and makes playing with the terrain easy and the handling particularly predictable. While some E-Enduro bikes feel clumsy and sluggish on flat trails and tame terrain, the Bullit is a fun companion here too. The geometry and riding position immediately instil you with confidence and a good feeling.

If the terrain shows its teeth or the trail drops down in a fall line, the Bullit doesn't disappoint either. However, a spirited riding style is required here. Experienced bikers will benefit from the defined handling. If you're hesitant on the road, you won't get the feeling of massive travel and swallowing capacity. But if you leave the brakes open, the suspension irons out even really rough obstacles and fast sequences of hits with almost surprising ease. Another strength is noticeable in the root staccato: Our test bike remained really quiet for an e-bike and did not disturb us with rattling noises.

In touring mode, the Bullit's balanced riding position is pleasing. The saddle is neither too stretched nor uncomfortably far forward. Uphill, the rear suspension provides a lot of traction. When things get steep and tricky, the bike is less in its element. But with a little physical effort and weight shifting, the Bullit is easy to control.

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths

• Fun and predictable handling
• Versatile all-rounder
• Quiet on the trail

Weaknesses

• Small battery, permanently installed
• Equipment not very noble compared to the price

This test was created as part of a comparison of several high-end enduro bikes. All articles in the series can be found here in the links:

>> Santa Cruz, Giant or YT - who builds the best E-Enduro?

>> The Giant Reign Advanced E+1 on test

>> The YT Decoy MX Core 4 in test