Santa Cruz announces a totally redesigned Blur LT for 2008, to be launched near the Sea Otter Classic in mid April.
According to Ferrentino, no other design can be manipulated to allow the degree of change in shock rates that VPP suspension can. With regard to the new LT, the shock rates have actually been mellowed out somewhat, for a more active early suspension feel and a more linear action toward bottom-out.
Following suit among several brands, including Specialized, GT and Cannondale, Santa Cruz has totally redesigned both upper and lower links. The alloy lower link has grease ports and intricate labyrinth seals to operate in a clean, quiet, contaminant-free environment. The upper link is now molded from carbon fiber and the shock mount is isolated from the pivot axles. Beefy 15mm diameter pivot axles bolt into the frame on one end, and feature trick collett-heads on the other end to lock them into the frame and eliminate any chance of loosening or slop.
Look for the new Santa Cruz Blur LT in mid-April, right around the Sea Otter Classic, in the usual array of powdercoat colors as well as anodized black and skidmark. Retail prices start at US$1,750 (frame and Fox Float R shock, powdercoat finish) and US$1,950 (frame and Fox Float R shock, anodized finish).