Bicycles: Brompton Electric P Line vs. Santa Cruz Megatower
Quick Verdict
The Brompton Electric P Line is a folding electric bike for urban commuting, while the Santa Cruz Megatower is a high-performance enduro mountain bike for off-road trails. They serve entirely different purposes.
- Brompton is a folding electric bike designed for portability, while Santa Cruz is a high-performance enduro mountain bike.
- Brompton features a steel and titanium frame with a unique folding mechanism, while Santa Cruz uses carbon fiber and a VPP suspension system.
- Santa Cruz is not an electric bike and is designed for off-road riding.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Brompton Electric P Line | Santa Cruz Megatower |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Material | Steel and Titanium | Carbon fiber (Carbon C and Carbon CC) |
| Suspension Type | Brompton Advance Suspension block | VPP (Virtual Pivot Point), 165mm rear travel, 170mm front travel |
| Number of Gears | Available in 4 or 12-speed options | 12 |
| Brake Type | V-Brake. Some sources mention hydraulic disc brakes. | Hydraulic disc brakes (SRAM Code R/RSC or Shimano Saints) |
| Wheel Size (inches) | Approximately 16 | 29 |
| Weight (kg) | From 15.6 kg with battery; around 12.7 kg without battery | Around 15.4 kg (34 lbs), some builds around 15 kg |
| Electric Assist Range (km) | 30-70 | Not an electric bike |
| Motor Power (Watts) | 250 | Not applicable |
| Battery Capacity (Wh) | 300 | Not applicable |
| Folded Dimensions (cm) | 64cm H x 58cm W x 27cm D | Not a folding bike |
Overall Comparison
Frame: Steel/Titanium vs Carbon; Suspension: Unique vs VPP; Electric: Brompton is electric, Santa Cruz is not
Pros and Cons
Brompton Electric P Line
Pros:
- Classic three-part folding mechanism
- Folds in under 20 seconds
- Designed to be carried like a suitcase
- Can be rolled on its wheels
- Detachable battery reduces weight when carrying
- Durable tires support added weight of electric components
Cons:
- Weight affects portability
- Real-world range may vary based on rider weight, terrain, and assist level
Santa Cruz Megatower
Pros:
- Efficient climber for an enduro bike
- Good traction
- Supportive suspension platform
- Durable frame and bearings
- Highly customizable (suspension and components)
- Compatible with air and coil shocks
- Adjustable geometry and shock leverage
Cons:
- Not the absolute fastest climber in its class
- Brakes may need upgrading for some riders
- Tires not suitable for city commuting
User Experiences and Feedback
Brompton Electric P Line
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- Brompton's three-part folding mechanism is considered a classic and sets the benchmark for folding bikes.
- Expect around 30 km (approximately 18.6 miles) in real-world conditions using the highest assist level.
Santa Cruz Megatower
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- The Megatower climbs efficiently for an enduro bike, with good traction and a supportive suspension platform.
- The steep seat tube angle helps maintain a good climbing position.
- The frame and bearings are durable, with some riders reporting the original bearings lasting a long time with proper maintenance.
- Components like cranks and cockpits hold up well, with scratches being the main issue.
- The Megatower is highly customizable.
- It is compatible with both air and coil shocks.
- The suspension can be tuned, and there's a flip chip to adjust geometry and shock leverage.