Nomad GX AXS

The Nomad V6 lineup spans five primary build kits, all utilizing carbon frames. The entry-level 70 and 90 builds, along with the mid-tier GX AXS, use Santa Cruz’s standard Carbon C frame. Moving up to the X0 AXS and flagship X0 AXS RSV builds upgrades the chassis to the lighter Carbon CC layup.

Suspension specification shifts significantly across the price points. Base models feature RockShox ZEB Base or Fox 38 Float Performance forks paired with Fox Float X Performance shocks. Higher-tier builds upgrade to Fox 38 Float Factory Elite or RockShox ZEB Ultimate forks, alongside Fox Float X2 Factory rear shocks. Drivetrains follow a clear SRAM progression, starting with mechanical Eagle components on the 70 and 90 builds, before moving to wireless GX AXS and X0 AXS T-Type transmissions on the premium models.

Braking is handled entirely by SRAM, scaling from DB8 and Maven Base up to Maven Silver Stealth on the top builds. Wheelsets transition from alloy Reserve or Race Face rims on DT Swiss or SRAM hubs to premium Reserve carbon rims laced to Industry Nine hubs on the RSV model. Across the board, the high barrier to entry means the Nomad carries a premium price tag compared to direct-to-consumer alternatives.

Reviewers consistently praise the Nomad V6 for its exceptional cornering and composure in rough terrain. The mixed-wheel setup is widely regarded as a success, with testers noting that the bike avoids the twitchy front-end feel that can plague other mixed-wheel designs. On steep descents, the suspension platform remains highly active and isolated from trail chatter. One tester noted that the bike's handling is "shifter-kart-like" (Vital MTB), allowing riders to initiate leans with minimal input. Another reviewer found it to be the "best handling mullet bike" (Blisterreview) they had tested, highlighting its balance of straight-line stability and quick direction changes.

When pointed downhill, the bike encourages riders to push their limits. The suspension kinematics provide a supportive mid-stroke, and testers observed that "the faster you go, the more alive the Nomad feels" (PinkBike). Climbing performance is generally viewed as highly efficient for a long-travel bike, provided the rider stays seated and spins.

However, reviewers pointed out a few distinct tradeoffs. The low bottom bracket height led to frequent pedal strikes on technical climbs. Additionally, multiple testers criticized the stock tire specification on the air-sprung builds, noting that the lighter casings were inadequate for the bike's aggressive descending capabilities and prone to punctures.