Bike Review:

Santa Cruz Nomad Version 5

Embracing Fun and Freeride

The Santa Cruz Nomad has undergone yet another evolution to its fifth iteration. So lets look at the changes and improvements. The Nomad has always been known for its descending prowess, and the latest version is no different. But the real excitement lies in the small design updates and features that cater to the freeriders among us.

The Climb:

The shift in geometry has done wonders for the Nomad’s climbing efficiency. Despite its 170mm travel, climbing is not arduous, and the bike handles tight switchbacks with ease. Santa Cruz got it right by incorporating the steep 77.5°-77.9°, making the Nomad climb exceptionally well compared to its predecessor.

What’s New in Version 5:

The version 5 release of the Nomad marks a significant update from the previous version launched in 2017. Version 5 further embraces the low linkage suspension found on Santa Cruz’s downhill bike, ensuring improved performance on the roughest terrain. Along with standard changes, such as increased reach, steeper seat tube angle, and slackened head tube angle, the Nomad Version 5 also introduces some unique features.

Santa Cruz has adopted size-specific chainstays without producing different carbon rear ends. Instead, they have made different-sized links to adjust the rear end by five millimeters throughout the size range, making for a more balanced bike for all riders. They also added a support to the drive side of the rear swingarm helping the Nomad to gain some rigidity out back. The shock tunnel update provides clearance for almost all rear shock options. Finally, Santa Cruz also sharpened the design language and added a tough-looking shark fin gusset to the head tube and made the bike a bit more angular.

The Ride:

I had the opportunity to ride the flagship build of the Nomad Version 5. It comes equipped with top-notch components, including a Fox Factory 38 fork, Factory Float X2 rear shock, Reserve rims, Sram X01 drivetrain, and Code RSC brakes. The bike delivers exceptional performance right out of the box, without the need for immediate upgrades. Thank goodness, as the $8,699 price tag is a big ask.

The Descent:

Descending on the Nomad is nothing but fun. The bike feels nimble, light on the trail, and handles corners with ease, pumping and sliding effortlessly. Despite its 170mm of travel, the Nomad doesn’t feel sluggish on flatter sections of the trail and the 27.5″ wheels accelerate quickly out of every turn. The smaller wheels shine in the air, taking jumps and drops and put the “free” back in freeride.

Final Thoughts:

The Santa Cruz Nomad Version 5 is designed for riders who seek to push their limits and embrace their freeride side. While racers may be gravitating towards 29-inch wheels, the Nomad caters to those who value the thrill of smaller wheels. If jumps, drops, and hucks are your favorites, the Nomad will be your ideal companion. Whether you’re an experienced rider smashing rocks or a dare devil seeking the steepest lines, the Nomad is worth considering.

Grab a Santa Cruz Nomad for yourself