2021 Horsethief SLX

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 / Incredible pedaling efficiency / Smooth and predictable braking throughout travel / Maximum traction

The leverage rate is progressive and offers plenty of bottom out performance at the end of the stroke, promoting more confidence and control on bigger hits and a deeper feel to the travel. The beginning and mid-stroke remain relatively unchanged, providing extremely supple small bump compliance off the top for a smooth ride and consistent mid-travel support to help combat rider fatigue and maintain bike geometry. A slightly lower overall rate yields lower shock pressures making for easier and quicker initial setup.

The Split Pivot® suspension design allows us to isolate braking forces from the rest of the system. Braking effect on suspension is minimal and consistent throughout the suspension travel.

Revised anti-squat design leads to better pedaling performance. This improved anti squat is partly the result of designing the bike to be 1x specific and optimized around a 32-tooth chainring. The riding result is incredibly efficient pedaling without the need to over dampen the rear shock (thereby hindering small bump compliance) or necessitating the use of a lockout.

This shock standard brings a host of benefits: Increased stiffness in rear triangle/rear suspension frame members / Able to be fine-tuned for improved ride quality and personal preference

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

Top-shelf, double and triple-butted, heat-treated 6066-T6 aluminum tubing is used throughout the frame. This 6000-series aluminum has better strength and fatigue characteristics than 6061 and 7000-series aluminums, allowing for a stronger and lighter overall frame. Additionally, the tubing is strategically shaped and formed for additional stiffness and strength optimization in key stress areas.

Horsethief is designed as an incredibly versatile 29er trail bike with the capabilities to take on a wide range of trails. A highly adaptable machine, Horsethief sports the geometry and suspension travel to suit everything from weeknight hot laps to weekend XC racing to extended destination trail riding vacations. The 67-degree head tube angle, 432 mm chainstays, and overall wheelbase length combine to promote confident descending while retaining slow speed maneuverability. Spec’d as a 29er, Horsethief is also capable of running 27.5 x 2.8-3.0" wheels and tires. The built-in flip chip can be used to adjust headtube angle and bottom bracket height based on wheel size, terrain, or personal preference. The low top tube and dropper post contribute to the bike’s descending prowess, and amazingly all sizes of Horsethief can fit two full-size water bottles inside the front triangle

Horsethief is designed for a modern trail bike fit. This means a short stem, wide bar, and longer effective top tube are used to place the rider in the same position they are familiar with on their older trail bike. This results in a more precise steering motion due to the shorter stem, a lot of front wheel control with the wide bar, and plenty of front-center length and cockpit room for fore-aft body movement when things get rowdy. We’ve also done our best to provide a low top tube for on-trail body language shifts. Each frame size is designed around a 50 mm stem and wide bar. To maintain the correct hand position relative to the pedals and saddle, Horsethief has a longer horizontal top tube. No need to size up when selecting a frame size with the intent of running 40 to 60 mm stems. We built it in for you.

Horsethief is spec’d with a 29 x 2.5" front wheel/tire and 29 x 2.4" rear wheel/tire, but also fits: 29 x 2.2–2.6" / 27.5 x 2.8–3.0"

Bolt on your Salsa EXP Series Top Tube Bag for a secure connection and elimination of strap wear

All Horsethief sizes accept two full-sized (26 oz) water bottles within the front triangle

Full-length housing improves shifting performance in poor conditions and increases use time between maintenance intervals

Compatible with 30.9 mm dropper posts for true trail bike performance

Protects your investment from impacts