Santa Cruz Vala

[TheMirrorVision]

Will it be any different from streatching the fork to 170mm and the shock to 65mm at all?
Asking since I would like a longer travel Vala, and there is a local 20% sale now that might or might not last til april?

I have basically long-stroked (almost) every full-sus I have ever owned so that part will be done anyway, but maybe the bullit is better in some way? or not....

Overstroking the Vala will only give you 162.5mm vs the expected 170mm on the new Bullit, may have some potential impacts on the intended kinematics of the suspension, and may have warranty implications if the frame is ever somehow damaged due to a hard bottom out event. But having a shock that has a good HBO and/or something progressive may help avoid that last point.

 

[cykelk]

Will it be any different from streatching the fork to 170mm and the shock to 65mm at all?
Asking since I would like a longer travel Vala, and there is a local 20% sale now that might or might not last til april?

I have basically long-stroked (almost) every full-sus I have ever owned so that part will be done anyway, but maybe the bullit is better in some way? or not....

A 20% sale is a solid reason not to wait. Do you care about a range extender? Long-stroke clearance with a range extender is something I haven't seen confirmed.

 

[Doomanic]

Does anyone know if SC have an SX motored bike in development? The new Transition looks very nice.

 

[cykelk]

Overstroking the Vala will only give you 162.5mm vs the expected 170mm on the new Bullit, may have some potential impacts on the intended kinematics of the suspension, and may have warranty implications if the frame is ever somehow damaged due to a hard bottom out event. But having a shock that has a good HBO and/or something progressive may help avoid that last point.

Long-stroking to me has always been for insurance against bottom-out rather than to get a more "plush" feeling. If I run 20mm sag on 60mm stroke, I'm going to run 20mm sag on 65mm stroke also. If the longer travel ride feel is the goal, I agree - get the bike designed for longer travel.

 

[Suns_PSD]

I think the Regulators just leap frogged the Vala. It's basically the exact same bike, but offers cable shifting, the high-end frame on all builds, has a tool bag mount, and can be a 150/ 160 or a 160/ 170 that is Transition approved.

I'm going to say the weight is essentially identical.

If you look at the PB review the Regulator in a L with pedals weighed 47.25#s.
The XL Vala on the other hand weighed 48.08#s. The Vala had the advantage of the CC frame (-300 grams), the disadvantage of a Gravity rear tire (+200 grams) & of course it's stuck with electronic shifting (+100 grams).

I'd call that too close to call.

 

[cykelk]

I think the Regulators just leap frogged the Vala. It's basically the exact same bike, but offers cable shifting, the high-end frame on all builds, has a tool bag mount, and can be a 150/ 160 or a 160/ 170 that is Transition approved.

I'm going to say the weight is essentially identical.

If you look at the PB review the Regulator in a L with pedals weighed 47.25#s.
The XL Vala on the other hand weighed 48.08#s. The Vala had the advantage of the CC frame (-300 grams), the disadvantage of a Gravity rear tire (+200 grams) & of course it's stuck with electronic shifting (+100 grams).

I'd call that too close to call.

Why you throwin' shade in the Vala thread?

Biker's Edge had a good initial comparison of the two. Quite similar bikes for sure, and I think Transition chose the launch kits well. Wouldn't be surprised to see PNW kits with longer travel come later.

 

[ckkone]

I think the Regulators just leap frogged the Vala.

Haven’t rode the Regulator, looks great on paper. Looks like the Carbon XT build compares to the Vala GX AXS which is what I have. I really like wireless shifting and much prefer Fox suspension also like the looks of the Vala a bit more. Both awesome bikes and don’t think either is a bad choice. I wish the range extenders weren’t so ugly and they would come out with the damn screen already…

 

[thevids]

Long-stroking to me has always been for insurance against bottom-out rather than to get a more "plush" feeling. If I run 20mm sag on 60mm stroke, I'm going to run 20mm sag on 65mm stroke also. If the longer travel ride feel is the goal, I agree - get the bike designed for longer travel.

Exactly what I do as well!
I like it for hucking, and for the additional capabilities when stuff gets really hectic.

I find the medium stroke bikes to ride well, but I tend to crash more on them due to the loss of control when bottom out happens a place where I also need to steer.

 

[thevids]

Overstroking the Vala will only give you 162.5mm vs the expected 170mm on the new Bullit, may have some potential impacts on the intended kinematics of the suspension, and may have warranty implications if the frame is ever somehow damaged due to a hard bottom out event. But having a shock that has a good HBO and/or something progressive may help avoid that last point.

I could live with 162,5mm, i actually like the 165 of my megatower v2. But I also prefer having it originally designed that way of course.

I hope someone has testet the bottom out of a 65mm shock?

 

[JetSetDemo]

I really fancy one of these, has anyone sized down so fun bike? I'm about 6ft and currently have a levo SL S4, but I've previously owned bikes with a 460mm reach and enjoyed them.

I ride with a more Jibby/fun style rather than flat out speed

I did this 2 weeks ago. So I also have a S4 Levo SL and also a S4 KSL. And instead of a large Vala I went for a medium and it’s perfect, I am only 5’9” so a good bit shorter than you. I first started on e-bikes with a gen 1 levo in medium thinking that was the right size back in 2016 however it was only when I sized up to a gen 2 levo in 2018 and went large that I realised I was riding a bike for 2 years that was way to small for me.

I swapped the levo for a bullet but it was in the pandemic not long after the bullet came out and could only get a medium. I loved this bike but it always felt too short. I switched to a KSL in S4 which truth by told is at the top end of what I can ride comfortably but felt so much more stable than the bullet. I have friends with S3 KSL’s and they feel like children’s bikes when I try them so I know I prefer the longer reach.

Just after the Levo SL2 came out I picked up an S4 and I found the reach to be almost perfect for me so when it came time to swap the KSL for a Vala this year I knew the Medium would be right for me. It’s almost the same reach as my favourite sized Large 2019 Gen2 Levo but with a much lowered stand over.

I took it to BeMine last week which is a DH focused bike park in Belgium and it felt great, plenty or stability but a lot better tracking from the back end on tight corners.

Once again limited available bikes ment I ordered on line from Germany to the Netherlands with out being able to test so it was a gamble but this time it paid off, good luck!

 

[thevids]

Just after the Levo SL2 came out I picked up an S4 and I found the reach to be almost perfect for me so when it came time to swap the KSL for a Vala this year I knew the Medium would be right for me. It’s almost the same reach as my favourite sized Large 2019 Gen2 Levo but with a much lowered stand over.

I took it to BeMine last week which is a DH focused bike park in Belgium and it felt great, plenty or stability but a lot better tracking from the back end on tight corners.

Would you say that the Vala is noticeable better downhill than the levo sl? They are quite similar on paper with the sl beeing a lot lighter though.

 

[JetSetDemo]

Would you say that the Vala is noticeable better downhill than the levo sl? They are quite similar on paper with the sl beeing a lot lighter though.

That’s tricky to say after just a day on the bike. The Levo SL2 is an amazing bike, I kept my KSL but almost always chose the Levo for the last 18 months.

I had a realy bad experience with my Bullet, it rode very well apart from the sizing being a little small but the shimano motor was absolutely terrible, coming from a 700w levo expert I was not prepared for the lack of power and the terrible range. I got a second 630wh battery and I also went from 102kg to 78kg in 12 months in an attempt to get more range. 22kg weight loss got me almost no improvement in range (did feel good mind you).

A couple of the guys I ride with switched to KSL’s and I was blown away but the bike, so much so I traded the bullet for a new custom DVO build comp. In the end all 4 of us had KSL’s and when you all have the low power in groups it’s great.

Then when the new levo SL dropped I sold my old levo expert gen2 and got the new SL, not just as a second bike but I was curious what the slightly more powerful motor would be like. And o discovered that it was a great bike very capable and with a good boast to the power but with a slight hit on the range.

What I did learn over he last 2 years is lightweight is great, but power is something that’s better to have and not use rather than not have. I moved away from the UK 18 months ago sadly don’t have my riding buddy’s anymore, unless we meet up I. The occasional trip back home. Now I have all of Europe I can get to by car and also no group so a return to full powered EMTB and the Vala release is perfect timing for me.

Sorry didn’t realy answer the question, I feel it will be a better DH bike for what I need, and it’s a bit unfair as I got the CC XO spec Vala and I have a comp Levo SL albeit with Lyric ultimate upgrade. The levo SL still remains one of the best bikes I’ve ridden, either won’t disappoint you but at where I am in my life and ridding my time with the low power bikes is over, these new full power bikes have come a long way

Pictures just for fun

 

[Hob Nob]

I think the Regulators just leap frogged the Vala. It's basically the exact same bike, but offers cable shifting, the high-end frame on all builds, has a tool bag mount, and can be a 150/ 160 or a 160/ 170 that is Transition approved.

I'm going to say the weight is essentially identical.

If you look at the PB review the Regulator in a L with pedals weighed 47.25#s.
The XL Vala on the other hand weighed 48.08#s. The Vala had the advantage of the CC frame (-300 grams), the disadvantage of a Gravity rear tire (+200 grams) & of course it's stuck with electronic shifting (+100 grams).

I'd call that too close to call.

The ownership prospect (in the UK at least) swings things hugely in the favour of Santa Cruz though. From a warranty perspective, Transition are diabolical to deal with.

Layer in the likehood of needing warranty support, the ownership prospect of a Transition again brings me out in a cold sweat. Not quite as bad as Yeti though

The Vala looks like it could be a potential replacement for my Gen4 Rail (new Rail is vile). Concern if I’m going to miss the extra battery, but save a decent bit of weight & what kind of deal I can get from my Santa Cruz contact…

 

[leroy]

anybody know of a small tool bag/kit that fits on to the top tube mounts?

 

[TheMirrorVision]

anybody know of a small tool bag/kit that fits on to the top tube mounts?

Pivot actually makes several nice options:

Pivot Cycles

The Phoenix Dock Ninja Trifecta Tool is the ultimate cycling companion. Featuring a robust 9-function full metal folding tool, Nano AirBooster CO2 infla...

global.pivotcycles.com

Pivot Cycles

The Phoenix Dock Ninja Tool Box T16+ simplifies on-the-bike tool storage with seamless design and ultra-quick access. Why Phoenix Dock? When we set out ...

global.pivotcycles.com

Pivot Cycles

The Phoenix Dock Ninja Tool Box Mini 20 Pro simplifies on-the-bike tool storage with seamless design and ultra-quick access. Why Phoenix Dock? When we s...

global.pivotcycles.com

There are many other options out there too, but these came to mind based on what you were looking for.

 

[Groundskeeperwilly]

Does anyone know ''officially'' what you are supposed to do with the charging port cover when using a range extender? I have seen lots of photos with it just twisted round and left on the bike and a few folk saying that you are supposed to pull it out so its not flapping around.....

 

[ckkone]

 

[Andeh]

Anyone have an actual weight on a medium Vala X0 build (or higher)? Or spent a lot of time on both it and the Heckler SL?

I've got a Heckler SL and love how it rides, but am having impure thoughts about adding a full power ebike to the stable for either longer range big days, or more assist = more vertical on after-work Power Hour rides. My HSL is built up chonky (Zeb, Vivid air, Mavens, X0, DH tires) and still only clocks in at 44 lbs with pedals. I previously owned a 52 lb Levo and that was too much for me to throw around and ride playful.

 

[prolix2]

My medium vala XO AXS RSV. Into which I swapped a Fox wireless Dropper, and which now has alloy handlebars, weighs 50.1 pounds. ( my fuel EXe weighs 46 pounds and my trek rail weighs 56 pounds).

 

[Valkolainen]

Does anyone know about delivery times on Vala? I ordered green C S XL in late october and still no news on it.

About the screen, no one propably know when it is arriving but that forestal screen sets nice benchmark for the upcoming display.

 

[Andeh]

Does anyone know about delivery times on Vala? I ordered green C S XL in late october and still no news on it.

About the screen, no one propably know when it is arriving but that forestal screen sets nice benchmark for the upcoming display.

I just ordered mine from the local shop yesterday, and had to bump up to XX from the X0 that I wanted because the SC rep told the shop that med X0 was out of stock now through the end of the summer. I'd ask your dealer to check with their rep to see what the situation is in Europe. But it sounds like SC has sold out most of the 24/25 version (green & grey) in the US, and if you want something specific now, you'll either need to change spec or get it from a dealer that has one in stock.

 

[Dave238]

If a person has two Bosch emtbs, has Bosch made it easier to manage the two accounts yet? I heard something last year to the effect you have to delete the old account in order to use for a new bike (can't just jump back and forth between accounts).

Certainly not a sole reason to not buy, but would be annoying and almost says to me Bosch doesn't want me owning two of their bikes.

Does anyone have experience with this?

 

[LautSprecher]

If a person has two Bosch emtbs, has Bosch made it easier to manage the two accounts yet? I heard something last year to the effect you have to delete the old account in order to use for a new bike (can't just jump back and forth between accounts).

Certainly not a sole reason to not buy, but would be annoying and almost says to me Bosch doesn't want me owning two of their bikes.

Does anyone have experience with this?

Nothing has change yet but update is in the making and should come soon - whatever that means.

 

[Monstermax4]

Please share your longest ride with vert and mileage. Also share rider weight and mode if possible. Really on the fence coming from a gen 3 levo with an extra battery. If you have a range extender ride, share that too! Thanks!

 

[cykelk]

Please share your longest ride with vert and mileage. Also share rider weight and mode if possible. Really on the fence coming from a gen 3 levo with an extra battery. If you have a range extender ride, share that too! Thanks!

I'm ~175lbs geared up, a few recent data points:
- 12 miles / 4000 feet / 75% battery used / mostly eMTB mode / mixed conditions 36°-40°F
- 16 miles / 3600 feet / 84% battery used / mostly Turbo / wet conditions 36°-40°F
- 15 miles / 3500 feet / 80% battery used / mixed eMTB Turbo / firm conditions 28°F-35°F

 

[jgusta]

Please share your longest ride with vert and mileage. Also share rider weight and mode if possible. Really on the fence coming from a gen 3 levo with an extra battery. If you have a range extender ride, share that too! Thanks!

I am in same boat. Levo3 with 700 and back 500 battery for when wanting to ride more

 

[leroy]

can anybody recommend a water bottle that fits the powermore bottle cage?

 

[pdqmach26]

Does anyone know about delivery times on Vala? I ordered green C S XL in late october and still no news on it.

About the screen, no one propably know when it is arriving but that forestal screen sets nice benchmark for the upcoming display.

Not sure your location, but I may have a Vala S kit in size XL for sale soon.

 

[Redders473]

can anybody recommend a water bottle that fits the powermore bottle cage?

Any water bottles fit them, but I highly recommend a ride nutrition one

 

[Andeh]

I got my Vala built up and a first ride in. This is a damn fine bike, and yup, it rides like a Santa Cruz. Stiff and precise but not harsh. Goes where you want it to, happy to get airborne. The rear end does seem to get out of the way / swallow holes/square hits better than their VPP bikes. The one thing that feels most different compared to my other SC bikes is the stack is pretty high - 120mm HT on my size medium. I deliberately didn't weigh my build until after I rode it, and I was thinking, this doesn't feel much heavier than my Heckler SL. Sure enough, when I weighed afterwards, my Vala build is 47lbs 2oz, my HSL is 43lbs 11oz (both with pedals and bottle cages).
For the Vala, I started with the XX build but swapped out the suspension for a 160mm Zeb & 65mm Vivid Air, swapped the HD/DH Hydra wheelset for Reserve 30HD/DT350, and OneUp dropper for AXS 170mm. Pedals are Hope F22s. Tires are Conti DH. Ergon SM Enduro Comp saddle & GDH Team grips. OneUp 35 e-Bar. I'll try to get some photos once we have some decent weather.