2021 Blackthorn Carbon GX Eagle

Archived

Blackthorn Carbon GX Eagle hits a sweet spot of incredible pedaling efficiency and downhill prowess for a well-balanced platform that’s ready for all of your big trail outings. The stiff, durable carbon frame is designed around our Split Pivot suspension system, which offers excellent small-bump compliance yet pedals better than most other all-mountain bikes can. 140 mm rear and 160 mm front travel soak up drops, gaps, burly rock gardens, and all the other terrain you encounter. SRAM’s GX Eagle group equips you with a wide enough gear range to climb anything you put your legs to, and the four-piston brakes let you dial down speed quickly enough to hit the perfect line. Blackthorn Carbon GX Eagle is a dream rig, whether you’re sessioning jump lines or exploring rugged backcountry trails.

This is an archived bike model. Explore the current range of Salsa bikes here.

Warning for Residents of California

⚠️ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

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Product Details

Build Kit

Frame: Blackthorn Carbon
Fork: Fox Float 36 Performance Elite GRIP2, 160 mm, 44 mm offset
Color: Blue
Rear Shock: Fox Float DPX2 Performance Elite, 3-position lever with Open mode, LV EVOL
Front Der: N/A
Rear Der: SRAM GX Eagle
Cassette: SRAM GX Eagle, 10–52t, 12-speed
Chain: SRAM GX Eagle
Crankset: Truvativ Descendant 7k, DUB, 32t
Shifter: SRAM GX Eagle
Brakes & Rotors: SRAM Code R four-piston (203 mm front, 180 mm rear rotors)
Headset (Upper/Lower): Cane Creek 40
Stem: Salsa Guide 35.0
Handlebar: RaceFace Turbine R 35.0, 800mm
Grips/Bar Tape: Salsa File Tread Lock-On
Seatpost: TranzX YSI13GL, 30 mm travel height adjustable, travel: SM = 125 mm, MD = 150 mm, LG = 170 mm, XL = 200 mm
Saddle: WTB Volt 250 Comp
Front Wheel: DT Swiss M1900 15 x 110 mm hub, 29" Tubeless-Ready rim
Rear Wheel: DT Swiss M1900 12 x 157 mm hub, 29" Tubeless-Ready rim
Tires: Maxxis Assegai 29 x 2.5" front, Maxxis Dissector 29 x 2.4" rear, 120 TPI, 3CT, EXO+, Tubeless-Ready
Complete Bike Weight: 32.15 lbs for X-Large

Frame Specs

Design Wheel/Tire Sizes: 29 x 1.9–2.6"
Alternate Wheel/Tire Sizes: 27.5 x 2.8–3.0"
Suspension Fork Length (Travel): 140–160 mm
Fork Offset: 42–51 mm
Rear Shock Size: 210 x 52.5 mm
Shock Mount, Fore: Ø8 x 30mm
Shock Mount, Aft: No Bushing, Ø15
Pivot Kit(s): 1215, 1585, 1587, 1589, 1590, 1592, 1594
Bearings: 17287 (Qty 4), 6801 (Qty 6)
Headset, Upper: ZS44
Headset, Lower: ZS56
Seatpost: 30.9 mm
Max Post Insertion: SM = 195 mm, MD = 220 mm, LG = 245 mm, XL = 270 mm
Seatpost Collar: 35.4 mm
Dropper Compatible (Routing): Yes (internal)
Front Derailleur Clamp: N/A
Front Derailleur Type: N/A
Bottom Bracket: 73 mm BSA, threaded
Crankset (Max Ring): Super Boost 157, 55–57 mm chainline (34t)
Rear Brake (Rotor): 74 mm post mount (180–203 mm)
Rear Spacing: 157 x 12 mm TA
Rear Axle Size: 12 x 197 mm, TP = 1.75, TL = 20 mm
Derailleur Hanger: FS2322
Front Triangle Bottle Mounts: 1
Top Tube Mounts: Yes, compatible with Salsa EXP Series Direct Mount Top Tube Bag.

Geometry

	SM - 160mm Fork	MD - 160mm Fork	LG - 160mm Fork	XL - 160mm Fork	SM - 150mm Fork	MD - 150mm Fork	LG - 150mm Fork	XL - 150mm Fork
Top Tube Effective Metric	594 / 593	616 / 615	640 / 639	663 / 662	593 / 592	615 / 614	639 / 638	662 / 661
Seat Tube Length Metric	405	430	455	480	405	430	455	480
Head Tube Length Metric	95	100	110	120	95	100	110	120
Head Tube Angle	64.6 / 64.9	64.6 / 64.9	64.6 / 64.9	64.6 / 64.9	65.0 / 65.3	65.0 / 65.3	65.0 / 65.3	65.0 / 65.3
Seat Tube Angle	76.5 / 76.8	76.5 / 76.8	76.5 / 76.8	76.5 / 76.8	76.9 / 77.2	76.9 / 77.2	76.9 / 77.2	76.9 / 76.2
BB Drop Metric	26 / 22	26 / 22	26 / 21	26 / 21	29 / 25	29 / 25	29 / 25	29 / 25
Chainstay Length Metric	432 / 431	432 / 431	432 / 431	432 / 431	17.0 / 17.0	432 / 431	432 / 431	432 / 431
Fork Length Metric	569	569	569	569	559	559	559	559
Fork Offset Metric	43	43	43	43	43	43	43	43
Wheelbase Metric	1204 / 1204	1228 / 1227	1253 / 1252	1278 / 1278	1200 / 1200	1223 / 1223	1249/ 1248	1274 / 1274
Stack Metric	611 / 609	615 / 613	624 / 622	633 / 630	608 / 605	612 / 609	621 / 618	629 / 627
Reach Metric	448 / 451	469 / 472	490 / 493	510 / 514	452 / 456	473 / 476	494 / 497	515 / 518
Standover Metric	726 / 728	729 / 732	730 / 733	730 / 733	720 / 723	724 / 727	725 / 728	725 / 728
Rider Height Metric	165cm–173cm	173cm–180cm	180cm–188cm	188cm–UP	165cm–173cm	173cm–180cm	180cm–188cm	188cm–UP
BB Center to Center Metric
Stem Length	50	50	50	50	50	50	50	50
Crank Length	170	170	175	175	170	170	175	175
Handlebar Width	see build kit	see build kit	see build kit	see build kit	see build kit	see build kit	see build kit	see build kit
Seatpost Offset Metric	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

an unsprung bike (no sag)
a 29 x 2.4" tire measuring 746mm in diameter
Standover is measured from vertically from ground to top of top tube 50mm forward of bottom bracket, subtract 9mm (0.3") for 27.5 x 2.8" tires
Note: Where two measurements are listed, the first number is with Flip Chip in Low position; the second number is with Flip Chip in High position

Supportive Documents

Support Document links

Additional Features

Split Pivot Rear Suspension

Split Pivot provides a host of impressive suspension characteristics because the system isolates pedaling forces and braking forces from each other, allowing us to tune and optimize the bike for both independently. The concentric rear axle pivot, in conjunction with precise wheel link, brake link, and control link placement, results in excellent bump compliance and pedaling efficiency, smooth and predictable braking throughout travel, and maximum traction

Split Pivot+ Design Methodology

The Split Pivot+ design methodology allows our engineers to optimize a frame for more than one travel class. This means that Blackthorn riders can swap control and shock links, in addition to the rear shock and fork, to switch travel to Cassidy’s 165 mm rear and 180 mm front capability. One frame, multiple bikes

Purpose-Tuned Suspension

The Blackthorn-specific control link and shock links optimize the frame geometry and kinematics for its suspension travel, delivering a well-rounded, balanced trail feel

Progressive Geometry

Blackthorn is long, low, and slack, with a dash of moderation to preserve pedaling performance. A 64.6-degree head tube angle and short-offset fork feel confident when descending loose, steep trails or blasting through rock gardens. A steep 76.5-degree seat tube angle and consistent cockpit sizing makes for a comfortable pedaling position, while the moderate bottom bracket height provides stability at speed without sacrificing pedaling performance in technical sections. The long front center provides stability in extreme terrain while the short 432 mm chainstays make for nimble handling in tight situations

Flip Chip 2.0

Integrated into the shock link mount, Flip Chip 2.0 allows simple, quick adjustments to bottom bracket height and head tube angle to account for the rider’s personal preference, terrain, or wheel size and tire diameter

EPS Carbon Main Triangle with Carbon Seatstays and Aluminum Chainstays

EPS construction allows for greater manufacturing control, smooth surfacing, a simplified bottom bracket junction, and an integrated shock mount. Carbon fiber material offers improved stiffness, better vibration damping, excellent toughness and weight savings compared to other materials. 6066-T6 aluminum heat-treated chainstays add durability

Top Tube Accessory Mounts

Top tube mounts accommodate K-Edge Top Tube Mount for bike computers or the Salsa EXP Series Direct Mount Top Tube Bag

Down Tube Three-Pack Mounts

Three-Pack mounts on down tube accommodate a large water bottle on the lower pair and a frame-mounted pump bracket on the upper pair

Integrated Repair Kit Location

Located in front of the rear shock in the front triangle, we provide a dedicated place for a small repair kit, tube, or bag of gummies. No more loading up your pockets or strapping the essentials to random spots on the frame and damaging the frame finish. Carbon frames feature an integrated reinforced slot and frame protection. Aluminum frames feature a machined strap slot. The slot is sized to accommodate most ¾"- to 1"-wide straps. A Salsa Tube Strap is included with each frame (Salsa Tube Straps are for use with tubes only)

Accommodates a 26 oz Bottle

All Blackthorn sizes accept a standard 26 oz water bottle within the front triangle

Internal Sleeved Cable Routing

Internal tubes guide housing through the frame, simplifying setup and maintenance, and creating a clean bike profile

Molded Frame Protection

Molded rubber down tube, seat tube, chainstay, and seatstay guards protect your frame from impacts and abrasion

Versatile Tire Fit

Spec’d as a 29er, Blackthorn is also capable of running 27.5 x 2.8-3.0" wheels and tires

Chain Guide-Compatible

Blackthorn frames features ISCG-05 mounts for chain guides (removable on carbon frames)

Stealth Dropper Post Routing

Compatible with 30.9mm dropper posts for true trail bike performance

FAQ

How do I convert my Blackthorn to a Cassidy?

Follow <a href="{asset:18862@1:url||https://www.salsacycles.com/assets/298581_SAL_Split_Pivot_Conversion_INST_VF_EN.pdf}">these instructions</a>

Can I run a coil shock?

No, the leverage rate of the Blackthorn is optimized for the natural progressivity of air spring shocks. A coil shock will not produce enough end-stroke support at the rear wheel, leading to frequent and harsh bottom-outs that will likely result in frame damage. Fitting a coil shock to this frame voids the warranty.

Can I run a mullet setup on this bike?

Yes, for Blackthorn mullet setup requirements:
<ul>
<li>Minimum fork travel: 160 mm; minimum fork axle to crown: 573 mm</li>
<li>Minimum front tire size: 29 x 2.4"</li>
<li>Minimum rear size: 27.5 x 2.5"</li>
<li>Maximum crank arm length: 170 mm</li>
<li>Flip chip position must be set to <strong>high</strong></li>
</ul>

Do you offer touch-up paint?

No, we do not offer touch up paint. Hobby shops or automotive stores are excellent places to find paint. We suggest you test the paint on a scrap piece of metal before using it on your frame.

I crashed and dented (or cracked) my frame. Is it safe to ride?

Stop riding your frame immediately and take it to the nearest Salsa authorized dealer for inspection. A dented or cracked tube represents a structural weakening of the frame, and is a safety risk.

What is the warranty for this bike?

View <a href="http://salsacycles.com/support/warranty" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warranty</a>

Warranty Information

All Salsa products are warranted against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship from the date of retail purchase of the product, subject to the limitations detailed below.

Review Warranty Info

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2021 Blackthorn Carbon GX Eagle