The Californians from Santa Cruz took a long time to develop their first e-mountainbike. In 2020, the time had come Heckler saw the light of day. Just two years later, the second expansion stage of the motorised all-mountain/trail bike is now available. And a lot has changed, even if this is not so obvious at first glance.
Check: the new Santa Cruz Heckler in the EMTB news video.
From the small battery with 500 watt hours and the small 27.5-inch wheels, the new E-MTB from Santa Cruz hardly anything left. After all, these values were already somewhat old-school on the original Heckler, but the Californians used the special features to elicit unique selling points from their first E-MTB. No other e-bike was so playful in 2020 and the slimmed-down Heckler MX from the 2021 model year went one better with a sensational 20 kilos in size L. In terms of handling, it already rivalled the light eMTB category - despite the large removable battery - and was able to EMTB high-end comparison test with particularly lively riding characteristics.
Grown up: Heckler with a large battery and modern geometry
The newcomer now presented takes a different direction. From the lively trail speedster has become a full-blown all-mountain bike. Above all, the new battery, a Darfon battery with 726 watt hours, is fuelling this change. At just under 3.8 kilos, this energy source is a good compromise between weight and range. Compared to its 500cc predecessor, this is around 900 grams more weight. Nevertheless, the bike remains comparatively light.
The top model of the 2022 Heckler in the MX version and size L weighs just under 22 kilos. With this battery capacity and downhill performance, hardly any other E-MTB can manage this. In terms of weight, the bike is in the same league as the Turbo Levo from Specialized. Both offer 160 millimetres of travel at the fork and 150 millimetres at the rear. Unfortunately, Santa Cruz is also not far behind when it comes to price. 12999 euros are due for the high-end Heckler CC X01 AXS RSV model. And only this variant uses the elegant CC carbon frame. The frame of the C version is slightly cheaper and around 300 grams heavier.
More innovations and E-MTB tests
More new e-MTBs and tests of the most exciting e-mountainbikes for 2022? EMTB 1/2022 will be available from 15 February in the Trade, in the App and as Digital edition. We compare nine hot candidates in the 150 mm class, test the new Scott Patron eRide and check out the Orbea Rise H, a light, lively trail toy. From 15 February printed or digital, in the Subscription or as a single issue!
29 inch or wheel mix?
Santa Cruz has taken a special approach to the choice of wheel size. As no clear favourite emerged from the two variants 29 inch or MX (29 front, 27.5 rear) during the development phase, Santa Cruz simply added both variants to the line-up. "Both variants convinced us and both had their very own characteristics," explains Product Manager Todd Ford. However, the wheels cannot simply be swapped. Both variants have their own rear triangle, which is not available separately. The customer must therefore decide which wheel size they want to ride before buying. We have already been able to ride both variants.
The facts about the Santa Cruz Heckler
- Carbon frame (main frame and rear triangle)
- 160 / 150 mm suspension travel
- Two wheel options: MX (29 / 27.5 inch) or 29 inch
- Motor: Shimano EP8, 85 Nm
- Battery: Darfon 726 Wh
- Four equipment variants between 7999 and 12999 euros
- Weight: from 22 kilos (top model MX in size L, without pedals, EMTB measured value)
- Weight release up to 130 kilos rider + equipment (bike weight not included)
- Lifetime guarantee on the frame
The geometry of the Santa Cruz Heckler
It's the same for almost every new e-MTB that is launched - and the new Heckler is no exception: longer reach, slacker head angle, steeper seat angle. This summarises the geometry changes compared to its predecessor. However, the bike does not drift into extremes. Another new feature is a flip chip on the shock mount, which can be used to minimally adjust the geometry. However, the change to the suspension kinematics should be more significant. The position with a lower bottom bracket and slacker steering angle is appropriately accompanied by a more progressive chassis.
The new geometry in figures: The reach increases only minimally to 475 mm in size L, while the head angle flattens out more significantly. 64.5 or 64.8 degrees, depending on the flip-chip setting. The seat angle is between 76.4 and 77 degrees (depending on the frame size, wheel configuration and flipchip). The chainstays measure a moderate 445 millimetres with a 27.5 mm rear wheel, with a 29er rear they are longer than average at 460 mm.
The Santa Cruz Heckler MX on the trail:
At the launch of the new Santa Cruz Heckler in Provence, we were able to ride the bike for a good two days on the natural, rocky trails. Most of the time we were on the top model with the MX wheel mix. The character of the bike has changed noticeably compared to its predecessor. The slacker head angle, longer wheelbase and the 29er front wheel give the Heckler a Smoother running.
Even the version with a short rear end (MX) is really plush and secure. It takes demanding passages and rough stone fields in its stride. This is also helped by the strong rear end an absolute highlight of the bike. It works sensitively, swallows even big hits with ease and thus provides plenty of traction. Nevertheless, the shock works in a very defined manner and gives the rider sufficient feedback and support. This promotes a lively riding experience.
In terms of liveliness however, the newcomer has to admit defeat to its predecessor. At least when compared to the superlight Heckler MX 2021 which had even livelier and livelier handling. Nevertheless, the new Heckler remains manoeuvrable, can also be spun around tight bends and jumps and bunny hops are still part of its core competence. However, getting the front wheel into the air requires a certain amount of physical effort.
The e-bike also retains its direct handling thanks to the relatively Deep front. This puts the rider in an active riding position and provides the necessary pressure on the front wheel. If you prefer to stand behind a high front end on downhills, you'll have to help out with some spacers. Overall, the new Heckler with MX wheels strikes the right balance between fun, playful handling and riding safety for our taste.
And also the Uphill properties are absolutely impressive. With its moderate chainstays of 445 millimetres, the Heckler MX is not one of those bikes on which you can lean backwards on steep stretches. However, with an active riding style, it is also absolutely competent on really technical and steep climbs. The powerful rear suspension also has a hand in this. It keeps the rider in an active position and doesn't sag uncomfortably on steps and dips. The traction is excellent and the ride feels more sporty and defined than super-soft.
Competent climber and balanced: Santa Cruz Heckler 29
After two full trail days with the MX variant, we were also able to complete the 29er version for another round off-road. The manual check on tarmac reveals clear differences. The front wheel is even harder to get airborne. The chainstay length of 460 millimetres takes its toll here. However, the bike is still pleasant to ride on the trail. No trace of the long timber lorry feeling. But one thing is clear: if you are looking for a playful and manoeuvrable bike and like to use roots as a jump, the MX version is the better choice.
The 29er model clearly focusses on smoothness and riding safety. In rough, fast sections, it is a touch more stable. Also in steep uphills the Heckler with a 29er rear end is easier to handle. The front wheel remains in contact with the ground even in a passive riding position. Which variant is the better choice certainly depends on the area of use and personal preferences. However, we had the feeling that the MX model was a better compromise between manoeuvrability and riding safety. At least for sporty riders with an active riding style. Only on very long, climb-heavy tours could the 29er show its advantages and take more work off the rider. The difference in weight is around 300 grams.
Santa Cruz Heckler: Equipment and prices
The VPP rear suspension on Santa Cruz bikes works really well, you can rely on it. Unfortunately, the high prices of the Californian luxury manufacturer are just as set. The new Heckler is no exception. For the cheapest model costs 7999 euros. After all, it already has Shimano's EP8 and the large 726 battery. This was not the case with the entry-level model of the predecessor (E7000 motor). All in all Three further variants to choose from. 8999, 9999 and 12999 euros are due for the more expensive models. Fox Factory suspension and lightweight carbon fibre parts are only available for a hefty 13,000 euros. The different frames are new. Only the top model comes with the high-quality CC carbon frame. All other models rely on a cheaper carbon version. This makes the frame around 300 grams heavier.
Conclusion on the new Santa Cruz Heckler
With the new drive package and the geometry update, the Heckler has developed into a potent all-mountain bike. The riding characteristics are first-class and balanced. Adventure tours, trail-heavy laps around the house or trips to the bike park - the new Santa Cruz Heckler is ready. The weight of the top model is very good considering the downhill performance and the size of the battery - but you have to dig deep into your pocket for it. Top: Lifetime warranty on the frame and high weight allowance!
More new e-MTBs and tests of the most exciting bikes? EMTB 1/2022 will be on newsstands from 15 February. We compare nine hot candidates in the 150 mm class, test the new Scott Patron eRide and check out the Orbea Rise H, a light, lively trail toy. Available in print or digitally from 15 February!
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
