First Look: 2014 Santa Cruz Heckler Goes 27.5

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First Look: 2014 Santa Cruz Heckler Goes 27.5
By bturman
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<b>Now in it's 7th generation, the 2014 Santa Cruz Heckler has progressed in a number of ways from the original. Listen in as Joe Graney talks us through its evolution.</b>
<b>The Heckler maintains 6-inches (150mm) of travel and a single pivot frame design, but now has 27.5-inch (650B) wheels. Known for its simpler suspension design, it's still a blast to ride.</b>
<b>They've also added ISCG-05 tabs for better chainguide compatibility.</b>
<b>Lighter and stiffer than the previous generation of the Heckler, this one's still up for rowdy, steep descents.</b>
<b>Out back, the tried and true Santa Cruz collet axle pivot locks things into place without pinch bolts. Angular contact bearings keep things stiff.</b>
<b>Simply advanced, especially when it first introduced, the new new Heckler looks to be even more durable than previous designs.</b>
<b>For the first time, the Heckler sports a 12x142mm through axle rear end. A Shimano direct mount rear derailleur hanger is also an option.</b>
<b>It sports the same geometry as the new Bronson, bringing it up to speed for 2014.</b>
<b>A longer top tube, slacker front end, and more modern geo compliment the new 27.5-inch wheels.</b>
<b>To this day, the Heckler still brings a smile to our faces.</b>
<b>Total frame weight is 6.76-pounds (3.07 kg) for a medium with FOX Float CTD evolution shock. Not bad for a frame starting at $1,299!</b>
<b>As the Heckler prepares to celebrate its 18th birthday in Club Tropicana colors, you can rest assured this single pivot party will keep going long after the others have gone home. Complete bikes start at $2,599. Check out <u><a href="http://www.santacruzbikes.com" target="_blank">www.santacruzbikes.com</a></u> for more details.</b>
FIRSTLOOK-INTRO-ONELINE
Sporting updated geometry, a new rear end, and 27.5-inch wheels, this could be the best version of the Heckler yet. We sat down for a chat with Santa Cruz engineering mastermind, Joe Graney, for a run down on the evolution of the frame through the years and an overview of what's new for 2014.








Photos by Gary Perkin - www.santacruzbikes.com
10 comments

View replies to: First Look: 2014 Santa Cruz Heckler Goes 27.5

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Big Bird
10 years ago
If you want poppy fun, go with the Heckler. If you want all day comfort, go with the Bronson. Gust my opinion having only ridden the 26" versions.
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Cant Climb
10 years ago
Love all of the enhancement. Have been riding Heckler/Superlights since 98...not sure about the color choices though.
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Big Bird
10 years ago
As a tall guy, I find it frustrating that they only offer XXL sizing in the more expensive carbon option.
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Big Bird
10 years ago
I can't pony if I don't have it. Unemployment sucks. I actually have my own version of this drawn up using an old school Bullit swing arm. I need to get off my ass and make it.
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Mr. P
10 years ago
Classic and updated.

I always had a soft spot for the Heckler.

P
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silvbullit
10 years ago
Thankfully my friend just ordered one of the last 26" versions! I am not sure how I feel about a bike that I have owned twice (one 1996 and one 1999) going 650B. Either way I have loved and abused every Santa Cruz I have owned, my 2001 Bullit just died last year and I love my 2012 Butcher that replaced it. I would be interested to try this against my friend's 26". How about it SC? Send a demo version 650B Heckler out to Allspeed or Bath Cycle in Maine and we will collectively write a review against my friends spanking new 2012 26" Heckler! Blue Collar review!