Santa Cruz Bicycles Chameleon MX D Mountain Bike

Why We Like The Chameleon MX D Mountain Bike

Revamped for whatever kind of riding imaginable the mixed wheel Santa
Cruz Chameleon MX D Mountain bike is bigger, badder, faster, and meaner
than the previous generation. New for 2022 our new favorite hardtail
gets the slacked out and fun treatment pushed to the limit. The
Chameleon comes stock as a mixed-wheel trail and park machine, or a 29er
with supreme rollover and high top speeds. This version of the
Chameleon comes stock with two rear drop-outs to easily convert between
big wheel and mixed wheel. Whatever the trail throws at us we stay
comfortable and confident aboard Santa Cruz’s new fun-loving and
rowdy-having hardtail.

Geometry on the MX Chameleon sees slacker numbers, longer numbers,
and numbers we’re doing a double-take on thinking they belong on
something with a lot more travel. Even the MX version of the bike gets a
65-degree head-tube angle which means better rollover capability and
more confidence on steep terrain. Wheelbase numbers are no joke either
with the Chameleon enjoying a 1207mm wheelbase on a size large, a number
that just 5 years ago we would’ve seen on downhill bikes. The bike
isn’t all about flat-out speed like the numbers suggest, as the 27.5in
wheel in the rear keeps things playful and lively all ride long.

Made for going just about anywhere the Chameleon receives 4-piston
hydraulic brakes to control big descents along with a wide range
drivetrain for the climbs. Big hills are barely a challenge with SRAM’s
reliable groupset outfitted with an 11-50t cassette in the rear. Made
for charging the chameleon gets a 130mm RockShox Rekon up front to
handle all the technical trail we can find. The rear end of the bike
doesn’t come with suspension, but it does get the same 4-piston rotor
and large 180mm rotor to keep things in control out back. The frame also
receives ISCG-05 tabs on the bottom bracket for chain guide mounting,
meaning our dreams of taking a hardtail to an enduro race are that much
closer to reality.

We can’t think of a better bike for the first-timer getting into
mountain biking. The Chameleon allows for ultimate customization by
including rear dropouts for a single-speed, fixed, 29er, or mixed-wheel
bike. The frame is made from premium aluminum materials and cleanly
integrates internal cable routing for a sleek finish. WTB hoops are
specced in a 30mm internal width and support huge 2.5in wide tires to
provide grip and a bit more compliance. Included on the frame are
chainstay protectors and rubber grommets to keep the frame clean even
when we aren’t. The all-new Chameleon begs to smash trails with even
more trail-ready geometry, host of components, and customization.

*Due to unprecedented demand in the global supply chain and the bike
industry over the last 18 months, material weight and exact components
are subject to change. We are working diligently to keep tech specs
updated, and any adjustments will be minor. If you have any questions,
reach out to a Gearhead by chatting online or calling 1-888-276-7130.

Details

• Revamped Chameleon ripe with the longer and slacker treatment
• Hardtail machines offer better connection to the trail
• Premium aluminum is rated for a lifetime of riding
• SRAM drivetrain delivers tons of drivetrain gearing range
• RockShox suspension supports harsh trail riding
• Included chainstay protection

Tech Specs

• Frame Material: aluminum
• Suspension: hardtail
• Fork: RockShox Recon RL
• Front Travel: 130mm
• Headset: Cane Creek 10 IS41/52
• Shifters: SRAM NX Eagle
• Rear Derailleur: SRAM SX Eagle
• ISCG Tabs: ISCG-05
• Crankset: SRAM X1 Eagle
• Chainring Sizes: 32t
• Bottom Bracket: SRAM DUB, English/BSA 73mm
• Cassette: SRAM PG1230
• Cassette Range: 11-50t
• Chain: SRAM SX Eagle
• Brakeset: SRAM Level
• Brake Type: 4-piston hydraulic
• Rotors: SRAM Centerline
• Rotor Size: [front, rear] 180mm
• Handlebar: RaceFace Ride
• Grips: Santa Cruz House Grips
• Stem: RaceFace Chester
• Saddle: WTB Silverado Comp
• Seatpost: SDG Tellis Dropper 31.6mm
• Wheelset: [front] WTB i30 TCS 2.0 29in, [rear] WTB i30 TCS 2.0 27.5in
• Hubs: [front] SRAM MTH 716, [rear] SRAM MTH 746
• Front Axle: 15mm x 110mm
• Rear Axle: 12mm x 148mm
• Tire Clearance: [rear] 29in x 2.6in, 27.5in x 2.8in
• Tires: [front] Maxxis Minion DHF Maxxxgrip, EXO, TR, [rear] Maxxis Aggressor, EXO, TR
• Tire Size: 29in x 2.5in
• Pedals: not included
• Claimed Weight: 30.82lbs
• Activity: mountain biking, trail
• Manufacturer Warranty: [frame] lifetime