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Noob here, but I do get around on VitalMX quite a bit.
So I have a question for you fine folks. Years ago I bought a 2006 Specialized Enduro and it wasn't long after that I realized how terrible of a climber it was and after a year or so, I found myself losing interest in riding. After a wife and two kids, I wanted to get back into riding MTB because I just can't get out to the track as much as I used to. Maybe twice a month if I'm lucky. Last year I picked up a 2019 Santa Cruz Chameleon, put a 34mm Fox Factory Float on it and a Fox dropper, along with some other goodies and gave it a go. I've only got about 4 real rides on it so far, due to fracturing my thumb at an MX race a week after buying the Chameleon! Yesterday I was most impressed with it's ability to climb as I pulled off that gnarly (for me anyway) extra credit climb by the Brea dam at the Fullerton Loop. Please don't hate on me for mentioning that long debated funky system of trails, it's just convenient for me during the week after work and I know it like the back of my hand. Well, maybe not the first time back after more than 10 years, where I found myself a bit lost! Anyhow, here is my question. The reason I decided upon a Chameleon, was I wanted something that didn't have the pedal bob that I remember from the days of my Specialized Enduro and I wanted something that would climb like nobodies business, and the Chameleon achieved that for sure. My dilemma is, on descents, and the occasional jump, drop or kicker, I find myself wishing I had some rear suspension. Keeping in mind I come from a bmx/motocross background, what would be a solid move from the Chameleon, while not compromising the ability to climb? Lately I find myself looking at the Santa Cruz Tallboy and Hightower, but I feel the Hightower may be a bit to slacked out and more built for DH? And would it be possible or make sense dollar wise to swap my parts over from my Chameleon to a 2020 Tallboy frame?
Thanks for your advice and guidance!
"Do It In The Dirt"