Blackthorn 145 C GX Transmission
Blackthorn 145 C GX Transmission
Blackthorn 145 C GX Transmission is the tool of choice for all-mountain adventures. The combo of a carbon frame, Split Pivot suspension, and our all-mountain geometry makes for a comfortable, confident ride both up and down the mountain.
145mm of Split Pivot suspension travel delivers superb small-bump compliance, remarkable climbing ability, and reliable traction even while braking. Paired with a Fox 36 Performance Elite 160mm fork, it’s a platform well-suited to the ups and downs of epic all-mountain rides. Blackthorn’s cargo capacity adds to its all-day capability, with space for two bottles, your tube and multitool, and mounts for our EXP-R Series Trillium Top Tube Bag or a K-Edge computer mount.
The SRAM GX Transmission drivetrain strikes a perfect balance with the precision and speed of electronic shifting and the durability of SRAM’s Full Mount derailleur design.
Saddle up and why Blackthorn 145 C DLX GX Transmission is the best all-mountain bike for chasing Adventure by Bike in the mountains.
Share
Warning for Residents of California
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.



Bike Key Features
-
Split Pivot Suspension System
View More- Allows us to tune the pedaling and braking forces independently
- Maximizes pedaling and braking performance without compromising either
- Results in optimal pedaling efficiency and traction when braking
-
Split Pivot +
View More- Multiple travel classes in one chassis provides riders with the opportunity to adapt their bikes to various adventures
-
Flip Chip
View More- Provides the ability to alternate wheel and tire sizes
- Riders can adjust for their terrain, or desired handling characteristics
-
Suspension Kinematics
View More- Lively, responsive ride feel with good bottom-out resistance
- Free, active, and uniform suspension feel under braking
- Efficient pedaling, stellar climbing traction, supple small-bump performance
- Tunable for all riders
-
On-Bike Storage
View More- Adventures require gear and riders should get to choose whether they carry it on their bike or on their body
-
Frame Protection
View More- Our products are built from experience — we’ve been there enough to know that a carbon fork can benefit from added protection just as much as the downtube on a suspension bike.
Product Details
Build Kit
Frameset
Frame
Blackthorn 145 Carbon
Color
Slate/Terracotta
Suspension Fork
Fox 36 Performance Elite, 160mm
Rear Shock
Fox Float X Performance Elite
Components
Headset
FSA Orbit 1.5E ZS NO.57E
Seatpost
TranzX REVERSE w/ GL Stealth MMX Lever, SM: 160mm travel; MD: 180mm travel; LG–XL: 210mm travel
Stem
Salsa 35.0 Guide Trail, 40mm
Grips/Bar Tape
WTB Wavelength Lock-On
Saddle
WTB Solano, Medium, Steel SL, Fusion Form
Handlebar
Race Face Turbine
Drivetrain
Front Derailleur
N/A
Rear Derailleur
SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission
Cassette
SRAM GX Eagle Transmission, 10–52t, 12-speed
Chain
SRAM GX Eagle Transmission Flattop
Crankset
SRAM GX Eagle Transmission, 30t w/ MRP 1x iO SL ISCG-05 aluminum bashguard
Shifter
SRAM AXS Pod controller, Right, w/ MatchMaker X Clamp
Brake Levers
SRAM Maven Bronze Stealth
Brake Calipers
SRAM Maven Bronze Stealth
Bottom Bracket
SRAM DUB BSA 73mm MTB Wide
Rotors
SRAM CenterLine 2.0 (6-bolt, 200mm front and rear)
Wheels
Front Tire
Teravail Clifty, 29 x 2.5", Durable casing, WTB TCS Sealant Included
Rear Tire
Teravail Clifty, 29 x 2.5", Durable casing, WTB TCS Sealant Included
Front Hub
WTB Frequency 15 x 110mm
Rear Hub
WTB Frequency 12 x 148mm
Spoke
Double butted Pillar stainless steel, black
Rim
WTB KOM Tough i30 TCS, 32h
*Specifications are subject to change without notice
Geometry

Size | Small | Medium | Large | X-Large |
---|---|---|---|---|
A. Effective Top Tube | 589.0- 590.0 | 611.0- 612.0 | 633.0- 634.0 | 655.0- 656.0 |
B. Stand Over | 746.0- 743.0 | 746.0- 743.0 | 747.0- 743.0 | 747.0- 743.0 |
C. Reach | 452.0- 449.0 | 472.0- 469.0 | 492.0- 489.0 | 512.0- 509.0 |
D. Stack | 612.0- 615.0 | 621.0- 624.0 | 630.0- 633.0 | 639.0- 642.0 |
E. Total Seat Tube Length | 405.0 | 430.0 | 455.0 | 480.0 |
F. Headtube Length | 100.0 | 110.0 | 120.0 | 130.0 |
G. Headtube Angle |
63.9 -
63.6
|
63.9 -
63.6
|
63.9 -
63.6
|
63.9 -
63.6
|
H. Seat Tube Angle |
77.4 -
77.1
|
77.4 -
77.1
|
77.4 -
77.1
|
77.4 -
77.1
|
I. BB Drop | 25.0- 30.0 | 25.0- 30.0 | 25.0- 30.0 | 25.0- 30.0 |
J. BB Height | 351.0- 346.0 | 351.0- 346.0 | 351.0- 346.0 | 351.0- 346.0 |
K. Chainstay Length | 432.0- 433.0 | 432.0- 433.0 | 432.0- 433.0 | 432.0- 433.0 |
L. Fork Length Axle to Crown | 571.0 | 571.0 | 571.0 | 571.0 |
M. Fork Offset | 43.0 | 43.0 | 43.0 | 43.0 |
N. Wheelbase | 1219.0- 1220.0 | 1243.0- 1244.0 | 1268.0- 1269.0 | 1292.0- 1293.0 |
Crank Arm Length | 165.0 | 165.0 | 170.0 | 170.0 |
Handlebar Width | 760.0 | 800.0 | 800.0 | 800.0 |
Recommended Rider Height | 157.0 - 170.0 | 168.0 - 180.0 | 178.0 - 191.0 | 188.0 - 201.0 |
Stem Length | 40.0 | 40.0 | 40.0 | 40.0 |
Measurements based on:
- an unsprung bike (no sag)
- a 29 x 2.5" tire measuring 752mm in diameter
- Standover is measured from vertically from ground to top of top tube 50mm forward of bottom bracket center
- Note: Where two measurements are listed, the first number is with Flip Chip in default High position; the second number is with Flip Chip in Low position
Frame Specs
- Design Wheel/Tire Sizes 55–63.5mm (2.2–2.5")
- Alternate Wheel/Tire Sizes 63–70mm (2.5–27.75")
-
Max Tire Outer Diameter
Frame: 29 x 2.5"
Fork: Max Tire Diameter: 732 mm / Max Tire Width: 81mm - Frame Construction Blackthorn 125 Carbon
- Suspension Fork Length (Travel) 160mm
- Fork Offset 44mm
- Axle to Crown 573mm
- Rear Spacing 12 x 148mm
- Rear Axle Size 12 x 188mm, TP=1.0, TL=20
- Front Brake (Rotor) 74mm Postmount (180-220mm rotor)
- Headset - Upper ZS44/28.6
- Headset - Lower ZS56/40
- Rear Shock Size 190 x 45mm
- Shock Mount, Fore Ø10 x 30mm
- Front Spacing 15 x 110mm
- Front Axle Size Fox Kabolt: 15 x 155mm, TP=M14 x 1.5, TL=12mm
- Steerer Tube 1.125–1.5" Tapered
- Crown Race 59mm
- Stem Clamp Ø35.4mm
- Seatpost Ø30.9mm
- Dropper Post Compatible Yes (internal)
- Max Post Insertion SM: 215mm; MD: 240mm; LG: 265mm; XL: 290mm
- Derailluer Hanger SRAM UDH
- Bottom Bracket 73mm BSA
- Crankset (Max Ring) 34t (55mm)
- Accessory Mounts Top Tube (top side) Accessory Mounts: One
- Bottle Mounts One full size bottle
- Fork Mounts None
- Front Fender Mounts None
- Rear Fender Mounts None
Supportive Documents
Additional Features
Split Pivot rear suspension design
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 145 riders can swap control and shock links, in addition to the rear shock and fork, to switch travel to Blackthorn 125's 125mm rear and 140 mm front capability. One frame, multiple bikes.
Progressive leverage rate
Blackthorn is designed with a progressive leverage rate that 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 provide 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.
Purpose-tuned suspension
Blackthorn-specific control link and shock links optimize the frame geometry and kinematics for its suspension travel, delivering a well-rounded, balanced trail feel
All-mountain geometry
Blackthorn 145 is long, low, and slack, with a dash of moderation to preserve pedaling performance. A 63.9-degree head tube angle creates a long front center with the stability to descend loose, steep trails in total confidence, while a steep 77.4-degree seat tube angle makes seated pedaling and climbing more comfortable. Short 432–433mm chainstays keep Blackthorn agile for handling tight situations.
Flip chip
A flip chip allows a simple and quick 5mm adjustment to bottom bracket height and 0.3-degree adjustment to head tube angle to account for your personal preference, terrain, or wheel size and tire diameter
Carbon fiber frame
High-modulus carbon fiber frame, seatstays, and chainstays with 6061-T6 aluminum links for durability
Top tube accessory mounts
Top tube mounts accommodate the Salsa EXP-R Series Trillium Top Tube Bag or K-Edge Top Tube Mount for bike computers
Fits two bottles on all sizes
Top tube mounts accommodate the Salsa EXP-R Series Trillium Top Tube Bag or K-Edge Top Tube Mount for bike computers
Integrated repair kit location
Bring your multitool and tube without scuffing your frame or hauling around a hip pack
Versatile wheel and tire fit
Blackthorn features clearance for up to 29 x 2.5" tires and is compatible with mixed wheel sizes
Coil shock compatibility
Blackthorn is compatible with most coil shocks
Molded frame protection
Molded rubber down tube, seat tube, chainstay, and seatstay guards protect your frame from impacts and abrasion
Internally guided cable routing
Internal tubes guide housing through the frame, simplifying setup and maintenance, and creating a clean bike profile
FAQ
How do I convert my Blackthorn between 125mm & 145mm rear travel?
To convert from 125mm of travel to 145mm of travel you will need a 210x55mm stroke shock, the 3056 Shock Link, and a fork or airshaft of your desired travel between 140-160mm. To convert from 145mm of travel to 125mm of travel you will need a 190x45mm stroke shock, the 3046 Shock Link, and a fork or airshaft of your desired travel between 130-140mm. Please see the Travel Conversion Instructions for Blackthorn 2.0 for more details.
Can I run a coil shock?
Yes, Blackthorn 2.0 uses a progressive leverage rate that is compatible with Air and Coil shocks. Please see the attached PDF with starting coild weight recommendations based on rider + gear weight.
Can I run a mixed-wheel setup on this bike?
Yes, we recommend running 165mm or shorter crank arms, the max fork lengths of 160mm for 145 or 140mm for 125, and leaving the flip hip in the default(high) position.
What length dropper post can I fit?
Coming soon
How does the geometry change if I use a suspension fork with 150mm or 140mm of travel?
Coming soon
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 warranty
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.