We continue our overview of the new arrivals at the shop. After last week's Crussis, we're moving on to something really big. We're talking about the new Santa Cruz Vala in an aluminum version, 70mm build.
This bike has been generating a lot of buzz since its announcement. Santa Cruz is stepping outside its comfort zone. They're abandoning the classic VPP suspension for a 4-bar setup on this electric model. Why? To better integrate the new Bosch motor and optimize performance on pure downhill terrain.
At Backside Verbier, we like gear that can take a beating. This Vala AL 70 is built for that.
The frame: the strength of aluminum
The Santa Cruz Vala AL 70 prioritizes robustness. We know that aluminum has its fans in Verbier. It's reliable, it's strong, and it can withstand the rocks thrown up on our challenging trails. The frame is massive, well-finished, with a geometry designed for speed.
Aluminum also allows for a slightly more affordable bike than the carbon versions, while maintaining the same suspension kinematics. For those who ride hard every day in the bike park or on enduro trails, it's a logical choice.
The frame integrates the battery perfectly. The cable routing is neat. It's Santa Cruz: well-designed and built to last. The lifetime warranty on the bearings is still included, which is a significant advantage when riding in the dust or mud of the Valais region.
The motor: Bosch Performance Line CX (Gen 5)
The heart of the machine is the new fifth-generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor. Lighter than its predecessor, it remains the benchmark in terms of torque with 85 Nm. What really changes is the noise management and the smoothness of the pedaling.
The motor is quieter. On climbs, you almost forget the assistance is there. The feeling is natural. As soon as you stop pedaling, there's no longer that little mechanical clunk that some didn't like on the Gen 4. The power is there when you need it, especially on the steep sections leading to the peaks above Verbier.
The eMTB mode is still as efficient as ever. It adapts to your pedal pressure. You can tackle technical switchbacks without losing traction. It's the ideal motor for a bike with this much travel.
Suspension: The 4-bar turn
This is the major technical change. Santa Cruz usually uses VPP (virtual pivot point). On the Vala, they switched to a 4-bar system (horst link).
The goal? To improve sensitivity to small bumps and have a suspension curve better suited to an e-bike with 150mm of rear travel. With 160mm up front, the bike is balanced. The 4-bar suspension also allows the Bosch motor to be mounted lower and the mass to be centralized.
On descents, the bike feels glued to the ground. You can feel constant traction. For climbing to the stream or descending the wadi, this is a huge advantage. The grip is predictable. You brake late, you lean hard into corners, the bike remains stable.
MX configuration: the best of both worlds
The Vala is a mullet (MX) build. It has a 29-inch front wheel for stability and to overcome obstacles, and a 27.5-inch rear wheel for maneuverability.
In Verbier, it's often the riders' preferred choice. Our trails are steep and sometimes very narrow. The smaller rear wheel allows for tighter turns and gives the bike more dynamism. On an e-bike, which has some weight to it, this is essential to avoid feeling like you're driving a truck.
The MX configuration also allows for more space behind the saddle when the slope gets really steep. It's a bike that encourages you to attack.
the components of kit 70
The 70 configuration is consistent. We're not compromising on performance.
- Fork: Rockshox Zeb Base. It's stiff and precise. The 38mm stanchions are perfect for an electric bike.
- Shock absorber: Rockshox Super Deluxe Base. Simple to adjust, effective on long descents.
- Transmission: SRAM S-700 Eagle T-Type. This is a wireless transmission, robust and designed to change gears under electrical load.
- Brakes: sram maven or db8 depending on availability, with wide discs to stop the beast.
This equipment is ready to ride right out of the box. No immediate upgrade is needed to tackle the best lines in the region.
Why drive the Vala in Verbier?
Verbier is a demanding terrain. There's elevation change, rocks, roots, and endless days of riding. The Santa Cruz Vala AL 70 is made for this environment.
Its range and Bosch motor allow for multiple runs without needing to use the ski lifts. The robust aluminum construction provides peace of mind when tackling challenging sections.
If you're looking for a bike that can do it all, from bike parks to wild alpine riding, the Vala is a serious contender. It's a fun bike above all else. It's not designed for setting record times on climbs; it's designed to put a smile on your face on the descents.
Come and try it out at the shop
The Santa Cruz Vala AL 70 has arrived in our stores. Now's the time to come see us and discover its new geometry and suspension system.
We're here to explain the details, adjust the suspension to your weight, and advise you on sizing. The switch to aluminum is excellent news for those who want a true Santa Cruz: efficient and robust.
We'll be waiting for you at the shop to discuss equipment and mountain bike outings.
backside verbier
191b rue de Ransou, 1936 Verbier
If you want to know more about our other events or bike tests, feel free to check out our previous articles:
Mountain biking in Verbier is our passion. The Vala AL 70 is the perfect tool to make the most of it this season. See you on the trails!
