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First Look: The All-New Santa Cruz Vala Aluminium

First Look: The All-New Santa Cruz Vala Aluminium – A Value-Driven E-MTB Without Compromise

Santa Cruz has just launched the brand-new Vala Aluminium (AL) – and it’s everything you love about the original carbon Vala, now in a more affordable, alloy-framed package. With the same confident ride feel, Bosch Performance CX power, and tried-and-tested geometry, the Vala AL is designed for riders who demand performance, but appreciate value. Whether you’re just stepping into the e-MTB world or adding another bike to your collection, this is Santa Cruz’s most accessible full-fat e-bike to date – and it’s here to impress.

Built Around the Bosch Performance Line CX Motor

At the heart of every Vala AL is the Bosch Performance Line CX motor – the class-leading drive unit that’s smooth, responsive, and packed with torque. With 600Wh of battery capacity on board, plus the option to extend your range with a 250Wh Powermore range extender, you’ve got the legs for all-day epics or quick laps after work.

Santa Cruz has also included a wireless handlebar remote and clean, multifunctional display that keeps ride data accessible without cluttering the cockpit – simple, effective, and ready for the trail.

Vala AL: Two Builds, Two Colours Same Frame – Which One’s for You?

The Vala AL is available in two kit options: the Deore and the T-Type. Both share the same aluminium MX frame (150mm rear travel / 160mm fork), built to the same strength and stiffness standards as Santa Cruz’s carbon frames. But the spec choices reflect different riding styles, budgets, and component preferences.

Vala AL Deore – £4,899

Trail-tuned and budget-conscious, the Deore build gives you the best of the Vala platform at the most accessible price point.

  • Drivetrain: Shimano Deore 12-speed (10–51T)
  • Suspension: RockShox Psylo Gold RC (160mm) & Deluxe Select shock
  • Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120 with 220mm front / 203mm rear rotors
  • Wheels: WTB ST Tough 30
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai EXO+ & Minion DHRII DD
  • Weight: 24.09 kg (53.1 lbs)

Perfect for newer riders, price-conscious adventurers, or those dipping their toes into the e-MTB scene without cutting corners on performance.

Vala AL T-Type – £5,599

Built tougher and specced higher, the T-Type build is for riders who want more from their components and ride harder, further, and faster.

  • Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle T-Type 70 12-speed (10–52T)
  • Suspension: RockShox Zeb Base (160mm) & Super Deluxe Base shock
  • Brakes: SRAM DB8 with 220mm front / 200mm rear rotors
  • Wheels: Reserve 30|HD AL alloy rims
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai MaxxGrip EXO+ & Minion DHRII DD
  • Weight: 24.35 kg (53.68 lbs)

Ideal for more experienced e-MTB riders who want a robust build that can tackle rowdy descents and long days in the mountains.

Vala AL Geometry – Composed & Confidence-Inspiring

With a 64° head angle, size-specific reach (433–498mm), and MX wheels (29” front / 27.5” rear), the Vala AL keeps the handling sharp and playful while maximising rollover and traction. The 150mm rear travel is matched with a 160mm fork for the perfect all-mountain balance.

Key geo highlights:

  • BB Height: 342mm
  • Effective seat tube angle: 76.2°–76.9° across sizes
  • Standover (M): 745mm
  • Wheelbase (L): 1271mm

Santa Cruz has eliminated the flip chip complexity in favour of a single, mid-position setup that delivers predictable performance on any terrain – from techy descents to flowy singletrack.

Who’s the Vala AL For?

Santa Cruz didn’t just build this bike for beginners. The Vala AL is for a wide range of riders:

  • Core Converts: Riders with a traditional MTB background, adding an e-bike to the stable.
  • New Friends: First-timers in the Santa Cruz world who want a premium ride without going full carbon.
  • Discerning Buyers: Value-conscious cyclists who want a reliable, high-performance e-MTB from a respected brand.

It’s the same Vala DNA, just more attainable. For some, this will be the gateway to their e-bike journey. For others, a trusty companion to their analog MTB. But no matter your story, the Vala Aluminium makes no compromises.

Why the Vala AL Matters

Santa Cruz has redefined what “entry-level” means in e-MTB. With premium ride quality, industry-leading Bosch power, and a lifetime frame warranty, the Vala Aluminium proves that value doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means getting the most from every ride.

Vala AL: Same soul. Lower cost. Built to last.

Explore the full range and pre-order your Santa Cruz Vala AL today at Wheelbase.co.uk – your go-to for expert service, bike finance, and ready to ride delivery from our Cytech-certified mechanics.