Is That a New Tallboy? Video: More than an Old Map: Riding the Old Ghost Road

Santa Cruz athletes Ben Hildred and Ruth Holcomb recently showcased their skills on New Zealand’s Old Ghost Road in a captivating 19-minute mountain biking film. The trail, completed in 2015, stretches 85 kilometres across the rugged terrain between Lyell and Seddonville on the South Island, offering a challenging and scenic ride that has quickly become a must-ride for enthusiasts. The video not only highlights the stunning landscape and the endurance required for this epic singletrack but also subtly reveals what appears to be a new iteration of the Santa Cruz Tallboy. The new Tallboy spotted in the film marks a significant departure from the current model, which has remained largely unchanged since 2022. Unlike the previous versions that utilised Santa Cruz’s signature lower-link VPP suspension system, this new frame features a 4-bar, or Horst Link, suspension layout. This shift aligns with the design approach seen in Santa Cruz’s recent Vala and Bullit eMTBs, suggesting the brand is adapting this suspension technology across more of its range. The fresh design retains the Tallboy’s identity but hints at a shorter travel setup, likely offering around 120 to 130mm of rear suspension travel, complemented by a front fork travel between 120 and 140mm. The Tallboy model has been a cornerstone of Santa Cruz’s lineup since its introduction in 2009, evolving alongside the rise of 29-inch wheels in mountain biking. Over the years, it has undergone several major updates, with the current Tallboy 5 being highly regarded among riders. Given that this version has been on the market for four years, the emergence of a new design is timely and expected. The move towards the 4-bar suspension system may enhance the bike’s performance and ride quality, building on the positive reception of Santa Cruz’s other models that employ this layout. While detailed specifications and official confirmation remain pending, the sighting of this new Tallboy model has generated considerable interest within the mountain biking community. It signals Santa Cruz’s ongoing commitment to innovation and refinement in their bike designs, particularly in the competitive short-travel trail bike segment. Enthusiasts and potential buyers will be keen to learn more as Santa Cruz prepares to reveal further details, promising an exciting update to a well-established and popular model.