Santa Cruz Bullit 3 CC MX XT, Violet

What goes up, loves coming down
The Bullit is an electric mountain bike designed for tackling the steepest and deepest of trails in both directions. Imagine the kinds of rooty, rocky, horror fests usually reserved for the biggest hitting bikes like the Nomad and Megatower. Then imagine what lies beyond that.

Where the Heckler’s priority is agility and playful handling, the Bullit takes a more no limits approach. 170mm travel, a 38mm fork and DoubleDown tires reflect the smashability of this platform. This is a bike for riders who seek V10 level terrain that’s out of range of any chairlift or shuttle road.

It was actually the Santa Cruz Syndicate team’s success on their mixed wheel DH race bikes that made them consider the same format for the Bullit. Santa Cruz learned from them that mixed wheels provide the confidence at speed of a 29er with the more spritely handling characteristics and maneuverability of a 27.5-inch rear wheel. And for an e-bike, it also means they can dictate exactly how long (or short) Santa Cruz want to make the chainstays to balance climbing traction and handling. The added butt clearance on super steep stuff is just another bonus.

The biggest trails take a bigger commitment to reach them. Thankfully Shimano’s commitment to the STEPS EP8 motor means they have a lighter, more powerful (85nm), more compact and more efficient way of reaching them. The EP8 is also tuned to give more power in Trail mode without affecting range. So paired with Shimano’s biggest 630wh battery it ensures the Bullit is fully equipped for long, tough climbs to the longest, toughest descents.

Mix of Both Worlds
The mixed wheel configuration of a 29-inch wheel up front provides traction and stability, while the 27.5″ rear wheel keeps agility at hand and the chainstay length in-check.

170mm VPP Travel
170mm travel front and rear, a burly 38mm diameter fork and DoubleDown tires reflect the smashability of this platform.

Full CC Carbon Frame
Other bikes in this category rarely adopt carbon because few companies have mastered carbon manufacturing. The carbon frames are designed in their Carbon Lab in California, made in the own facility by the Santa Cruz team and have a lifetime warranty.