Santa Cruz Bicycles

Nomad Carbon CS Mountain Bike

Built for floaty airs and railing berms, the Nomad Carbon C S Mountain Bike is among our top picks for gravity-fueled riding and big-mountain terrain. The V6 Nomad stays true to its bike park roots with a playful 27.5in rear wheel, with a 29in front wheel that expands the bike’s capabilities into chunky descents and technical trail riding. 170mm of VPP rear travel places this bike firmly within the enduro category, with tons of traction and a revamped leverage curve with lower anti-squat that limits harshness from square-edge impacts. A slack 63.5-degree head tube angle (low position) delivers stable geometry for sustained descents, while the steep 77.6-degree seat tube angle (low position, size large) provides an optimal pedaling position for epic trail rides. One of our favorite features is the Glovebox storage compartment under the water bottle cage that lets us stash a spare layer in the bike along with the included Tool Wallet and Tube Purse.

As the workhorse build option from Santa Cruz, this Carbon S build stands out, starting with the value-oriented Carbon C frame construction. Highlights include a full GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain that delivers ultra-reliable shifting, and sturdy Race Face AR Offset 30 wheels that let us push it in rocky terrain thanks to their durability. A Fox 38 Float Performance fork provides 170mm of plush travel that makes it easier to point it straight in steep, chunky terrain. This mid-tier build is perfectly suited as a downhill-oriented quiver killer for the rider who still wants the option to do some pedal rides, or as a park bike in addition to a trail or XC build for a balanced quiver.

*Due to a high demand in the global supply chain and bike industry since the start of the pandemic, material weight and exact components are subject to change. We are working diligently to keep tech specs updated, and any adjustments will be of equal or better spec level. If you have any questions, reach out to a Gearhead by chatting online or calling 1-888-276-7130.