And with a trail hardtail test wrapped up just a few months previously and a twelve month stint on a Nukeproof Scout longtermer I was itching to hit the dirt as I had plenty of reference points for comparison. It sounds superficial, but I was instantly won over by the look of the ‘Golden Yellow’ Chameleon from the moment I lifted it from the box – the finish, colour and low slung stance of the bike had me buzzing. The EXO casing Maxxis Minion DHF and Aggressor tyres are common sights but what’s unusual is the choice of a super-sticky Maxx Grip compound up front, paired with a fast-rolling dual compound on the rear. The Chameleon runs 2.5in stock rubber front and rear – even when you spec the mixed wheel MX option – with plenty of clearance for winter filth. One aspect of the specification that is consistent throughout the three models is the tyre choice… Maxxis but with an interesting twist. The wheels are a combo of SRAM hubs with Raceface Wheels, mounted with Maxxis DHR and Aggressor tyres We made the Chameleon for riders who like to sculpt their ideal bike, and aren’t afraid to experiment. The dropouts are a sliding design, so there’s also 12mm of horizontal adjustment, giving you the option to run it as a single speed or tweak the effective chainstay length to fine tune the ride feel. Switching between these neat dropouts lets you run it as a full 29er or a mullet/MX set up (29in front/27.5in rear) with no change to geometry or bottom bracket height. ![]() Now based solely around an aluminium frame and a 130mm fork – in my opinion the sweet spot for suspension travel on a hardtail – the Chameleon uses replaceable dropouts to give two wheel configurations. The evolution of the Santa Cruz Chameleonīefore I attempt to answer those questions, let’s take a closer look at the latest transformation. Three build options with prices starting at £2,399, frame only for £799.Slotted dropouts offer adjustable chainstay length – 428mm to 440mm.The latest version is even better, with a lightweight frame and fast wheels that make it suitable for a variety of riding styles. Alloy frame comes in four sizes with geometry designed around 130mm travel forks The Santa Cruz Chameleon has been around for a while and has always been one of the most versatile mountain bikes available.Latest generation Chameleon has replaceable dropouts for running 29in and MX wheels.Whatever the weather, however long the ride, wherever you're going, the Chameleon is so endlessly customizable and adjustable that the only constraint is really your own mind and motivation.Versatile, capable and a whole load of fun It turns itself to trail exploration with the flip of an Allen key, thanks to the triple-bolt cargo cage mount under the downtube and standard bottle mount within the frame. From raucous short-cuts across town to skipping the city altogether. The low slung top tube and progressive geometry means this bike blends into whatever surroundings you place it. Whether 29er or mixed, geared or fixed, multiple major configuration transformations are made easy via the interchangeable dropouts. Santa Cruz made the Chameleon for riders who like to sculpt their ideal bike, and aren’t afraid to experiment. ![]() ![]() Creativity in wheel size, gearing and component choice make it the perfect muse for freethinkers and freedom seekers alike. The Chameleon is a blank canvas, ready to go in whatever direction your imagination takes it.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |