After a couple of years getting to know the Santa Cruz Hightower I decided it was time to move it on and swap the frame out for something different… The Sentinel ticked all the boxes, with 10mm more travel at either end, a 30mm(!!!) longer wheelbase , and a 2 degree slacker head angle its intentions are pretty clear. I’m no racer and have stopped using Strava most of the time, but this thing feels fast!

I’ve swapped most components straight over from the Hightower with the exception of a new Chris King headset, some fancy rim decals from Invisiframe, and a big time suspension upgrade from PUSH. I’d be lying if I said part of the reason for the frame switch wasnt so that I could give one of these top end coil shocks a try, and so far the Elevensix is living up to expectations in giving tons of grip and sensitivity.

Full build spec:
Frame: Transition Sentinel Alloy Large 2021
Headset: Chris King Inset 2 Black/Gold
Shock: PUSH Elevensix (350lb Coil)
Fork: Rockshox Pike Chassis, 160mm PUSH ACS3 Coil conversion (Blue spring) & HC97 Damper
Wheels: ENVE M630 29″ / Chris King ISO B
Tires: Maxxis Shorty / DHRII
Seatpost: Oneup V2.1 210mm
Stem: Hope 35mm 31.8
Bar: ENVE DH 770mm
Brakes: Hope Tech3 E4
Grips: ODI Longneck Lock On
Saddle: Selle Italia SLR
Drive: Mix of 11 speed Shimano XT and SLX.

Images thanks to Callum at Chapter Studios for Saddleback Ltd