Santa Cruz Bronson ...
 

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Santa Cruz Bronson 4 Vs 5

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Hello 

I’m half considering a new bike and there are some seemingly “good” deals on V4 Bronsons (compared to the imo outrageous price of the V5s). 

I was just wondering if there’s much of a real world difference between the two? I’m not convinced I’m going to notice the improved anti squat / change in rate curves blah, especially when I’m currently riding a 2016 Intense Tracer T275C 

ta

(edited due to woeful spelling)

 

 
Posted : 27/08/2025 9:51 am
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I have a gold 4 and it rides very different to the 5, it sits different and reacts differently.

I love the 4 its very playful.

The tracer is a very focused ride where as the bronson is just a hoot

 
Posted : 27/08/2025 10:49 am
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Thanks! 

I’m unlikely to be able to get a test ride on either and am struggling to figure out what’s best. 

I ride mostly in the dark peak and my specialty is bouncing off rocks. I’m usually last up the hills but first down them. 
Despite its age (and complete lack of servicing) the Tracer doesn’t hold me back on the downs.

The Bronson V4 I’ve seen is about £4.2k  and a decent spec - it’s either that or a poverty spec V5 (unlikely I’ll be able to upgrade forks or shocks any time soon). 

The V5 does appear on paper more suited to my riding but I can’t quantify how big the differences between V4 and V5 (or indeed my tracer) are in the real world? 

 
Posted : 27/08/2025 2:16 pm
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From what I’ve read the v5s ride as a bigger bike than the v4s. My wife has a v4 and is very happy with it in the peaks

 
Posted : 27/08/2025 4:03 pm
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I haven't ridden either but a mate has a v4 and can't fault it at all. I've read several reviews that said the v5 is more descent focused and Dan Booker has been racing (and winning) Enduro world cups on a V5 with Zeb and coil shock this year, the v4 isn't coil compatible afaik. I'm currently riding a 2021 Hightower and its by far the best bike I've owned

 
Posted : 27/08/2025 5:08 pm
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Posted by: pothead

the v4 isn't coil compatible afaik

It is, I have the Super deluxe Ultimate coil on mine

 
Posted : 28/08/2025 7:21 am

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