The Juliana Furtado CC can't really fly, at least not from a standing start. But it can hover. VPP stands for "Virtual Pivot Point" and the Juliana is equipped with such a virtual pivot point. Here, the shock and rear suspension don't just swallow and iron, here the suspension feels like it is floating and gliding over obstacles. Especially on small bumps, you can really feel how the bike moves through the terrain as smoothly as a cat.
The fork also responds finely because, according to the manufacturer, it has been optimised for lighter weights. However, this is precisely where our lab test slipped into the flowery meadow mood: below 70 psi, the 130 millimetre fork collapses to 120 millimetres. This corresponds to a rider weight of 65 kilos. Visually, the black stanchions on the fork and shock fit perfectly, but considering the price, a gold Fox Factory suspension should be fitted. On the other hand, the carbon frame shines again with very good stiffness values and the rest of the top equipment. The X01 Eagle purrs from sprocket to sprocket, and the largest 50 sprocket makes even long climbs in the Alps bearable. Downhill, the Juliana is playful. It is almost looking for the next cornering challenge, which it then masters with ease.
Santa Cruz/Juliana scores extra points for the warranty: the first owner receives a lifetime crash replacement, and worn bearings are also replaced free of charge and for just as long. This makes the fear of scratches almost unfounded.
Gitta Beimfohr, BIKE editor:
Rarely have I sat on a bike that fits so perfectly. The riding position is central and comfortable. The Juliana is smooth yet agile. It climbs easily uphill and confidently guides you downhill through every key section. Now you just need to have 10,000 euros left.
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Gitta Beimfohr
Editor
