Salsa Blackthorn Carbon XTR
Best high performance trail bike for serious mountain biking enthusiasts.
This is a masterclass in versatility, using a clever suspension design to keep your pedaling efficient while still eating up the roughest descents. It sacrifices a bit of raw, lightweight minimalism for a robust, feature-rich frame that feels ready for anything from all-day epics to technical trail abuse.
$8999.00
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Who it's for
- Performance-oriented riders seeking the highest level of mechanical precision
- All-mountain cyclists who demand efficiency on technical climbs and descents
- Backcountry explorers needing a capable bike with ample gear storage
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious mountain bikers looking for the best value-to-performance ratio
- Cross-country enthusiasts who prioritize agility and speed on mellow terrain
- Low-maintenance riders who prefer simple, easy-to-service mechanical systems
Performance breakdown
Descending Stability
Progressive geometry keeps the bike planted and composed on steep, technical chutes.
Climbing Efficiency
Split Pivot suspension minimizes pedal bob, making steep ascents feel surprisingly manageable.
Component Spec
Top-tier XTR drivetrain and powerful brakes offer flawless, race-ready performance.
Frame Versatility
Flip Chip adjustments and integrated mounts adapt easily to changing trail conditions.
Suspension Sophistication
Isolates braking forces effectively, maintaining traction when you need it most.
Maintenance Accessibility
Internal routing and integrated repair storage simplify trailside fixes and upkeep.
Key Specs
Frame Material
Carbon fiber main triangle and seatstays, 6066-T6 aluminum chainstays
Wheel Size
29 inches
Suspension Type
Full-suspension
Front Suspension Travel
160 mm
Rear Suspension Travel
140 mm
Number of Speeds
12
Brake Type
Hydraulic disc
Fork Type
Air
Dropper Post Included
Yes
Tubeless Ready Wheels
Yes
Know before you buy
Still have a question?
Ask Metto anything about the Salsa Blackthorn Carbon XTR before you decide.