I went to a Santa Cruz user-exclusive event to see my favorite idol/artist.
The other day, I participated in the "Ride Session with Santa Cruz Syndicate In Forest Bike" to meet my favorite rider.
Don't miss the small giveaway we've prepared at the end of the article.
This event was exclusively for Santa Cruz users, offering a rare and luxurious opportunity to ride with members of the Santa Cruz factory team, SANTACRUZ SYNDICATE, who compete in the Downhill World Cup circuit.
The venue was FOREST BIKE in Odawara. It took about 10 hours and approximately 750km to get there from Hiroshima. It was frankly a long journey, but I can endure it for the sake of meeting my favorite rider.
Mount Fuji looked huge on the way.
Despite being a weekday, over 50 participants attended the event, making it so lively that the parking lot couldn't even accommodate everyone.
It made me happy to see so many Santa Cruz users.
In addition to the Syndicate members, domestic Santa Cruz riders also attended, enjoying riding together, taking photos, and getting autographs.
By the way, my favorite rider is Steve Peat.
He's a downhill racing legend, and back when MTB films were on VHS, I watched his videos so many times the tape wore out.
He has already retired from the front lines of downhill racing, but his riding remains an inspiration. Seeing the person I used to watch on screen actually riding in front of me was incredibly moving.
I never thought the day would come when I'd ride in a train with him. I'm the second to last rider.
Peaty really cuts a figure, doesn't he?
I feel a bit re-energized, so I think I can keep pushing myself, haha.
It was a very good time, and I could feel the excitement of all the participants, including myself, for an experience that is hard to come by in Japan.
Also, the new V10, which they actually use in World Cups, was on display.
It was thrilling to see it up close.
Real race equipment is so captivating.
The new V10 was great. I want to ride it!
You can see more about the event on Youtube at "We checked out the new V10 at the Santa Cruz Syndicate and user-exclusive ride event!".
This event made me want a new Santa Cruz mountain bike myself.
Here are my recommended Santa Cruz bikes.
A downhill-specific bike that has just undergone a model change. This is the model that was exhibited.
Designed exclusively for mullet setups, this model change allows for three-stage reach adjustment through a combination of headset parts. This is a very welcome feature. In addition, the rear center can be adjusted in three stages and the BB height (head angle) in two stages. This allows for fine-tuned settings according to the course and riding style.
*Scheduled to arrive around June 2024.
An enduro bike designed exclusively for mullet setups. It can handle both trail and downhill. Recommended for those who mainly downhill but also ride trails. This is my top pick.
A fun short-travel bike for jumping. Mullet-specific. This model is the most enjoyable on courses with jumps and berms, like the FOREST BIKE venue. A bike I'll always want.
A downcountry bike 29er, also known as a downhill rider's XC bike, that is easy to pedal uphill and capable on descents. Peaty was riding this one. Highly recommended for road or gravel bike riders who want to get into MTB.
We have domestic stock available for all models, depending on color and size. There's still time to get it before the season starts. If not in stock, some models can be ordered from abroad, so please contact us for details.
You can also use Grumpy Loan, which offers interest-free payments and includes theft and damage compensation.
Finally, a small giveaway announcement.
Starting today, for those who purchase Santa Cruz and Peaty's products at our store or online shop and wish to receive one, we will be giving away Santa Cruz stickers!
In-store, please tell the staff you'd like a sticker at checkout. For online shop purchases, please write "sticker request" in the remarks column.
As long as stickers are available, we will try our best to accommodate your size and color preferences, but please understand that we may not always be able to fulfill your request.