Salsa Cutthroat Apex

While the Cutthroat is primarily designed for long-distance gravel and bikepacking, its stable geometry handles light singletrack well. However, because it features a rigid fork rather than suspension, you will need to pick your lines carefully on more technical, rocky terrain.

The aluminum frame is built for durability and efficient power transfer, which is excellent for loaded bikepacking. While it is stiffer than carbon or steel, the bike's geometry and generous tire clearance allow you to run wider, lower-pressure tires to help dampen road vibration and smooth out rough surfaces.

The Cutthroat is purpose-built for bikepacking, featuring multiple mounting points for frame bags, cages, and racks. It is best paired with a frame bag that utilizes the main triangle space, allowing you to keep heavy gear centered and stable for long-distance comfort.

The Apex 1 drivetrain offers a wide gear range that is generally sufficient for most gravel terrain. If you plan on tackling extremely steep, sustained climbs with a fully loaded bike, you may find yourself wanting a slightly lower gear ratio, which can be achieved by swapping the chainring.

Salsa’s geometry is designed for stability, so it is important to prioritize your reach and standover height. If you fall between sizes, we recommend sizing down for a more nimble, responsive feel on technical trails, or sizing up if you prefer a more upright, endurance-focused position for long days in the saddle.