Santa Cruz Highball 3

While the Highball 3 is built with cross-country racing geometry, it is highly capable for fast-paced trail riding. Its lightweight carbon frame and efficient power transfer make it a blast on smoother, flowy trails, though it lacks the rear suspension comfort of a full-suspension bike on rough, technical terrain.

The frame is designed to accommodate suspension forks ranging from 100mm to 120mm. A 100mm fork will keep the bike in its sharpest, most race-oriented configuration, while a 120mm fork will slacken the head angle slightly, providing a bit more confidence on descents.

No, the Highball 3 uses a standard 73mm threaded bottom bracket. This is a major plus for home mechanics, as it is easy to service, reliable, and avoids the creaking issues often associated with press-fit systems.

Yes, the frame is compatible with dropper posts, but it requires a 27.2mm diameter post. Keep in mind that 27.2mm dropper options are more limited than the standard 30.9mm or 31.6mm sizes, so you will need to verify compatibility before purchasing.

The frame is designed to accommodate a maximum brake rotor size of 180mm. This provides plenty of stopping power for cross-country applications without putting excessive stress on the rear triangle.