Blackthorn 145 Eagle 70 Transmission
Blackthorn 145 Eagle 70 Transmission
The best all-mountain bikes perform on a wide variety of terrain and give you everything you need to thrive on rides where you’re out all day and don’t always know what to expect. Blackthorn 145 Eagle 70 Transmission was built for this. Its aluminum frame features a slack 63.9-degree head angle and short chainstays for stability and maneuverability when descending and navigating tech, with a steep 77.4-degree seat tube for comfortable seated pedaling when you’re climbing up to the next pass.
Split Pivot suspension design allows us to optimize Blackthorn’s pedaling and braking performance independently, for better small bump compliance, braking traction, and pedaling efficiency. A RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ shock delivers 145mm of rear travel and a RockShox Lyrik fork gives you 160mm of travel to play with.
Blackthorn’s cargo mounts make it easy to load up all the water, snacks, and kit you need for long days out. SRAM’s Eagle 70 Transmission drivetrain and Maven four-piston brakes give you precise control over your pace up and down the mountain.
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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
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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.
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Product Details
Build Kit
Frameset
-
Frame
Blackthorn 145 Aluminum
-
Color
Black Spruce
-
Suspension Fork
RockShox Lyrik, 44mm offset, 160mm
-
Rear Shock
RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, 2P, 210 x 55mm
Components
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Headset
FSA Orbit 1.5E ZS NO.57E
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Seatpost
TranzX YSI-05 adjustable-travel dropper w/ GL Matchmaker X lever
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Stem
Salsa Guide 35.0
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Grips/Bar Tape
WTB Wavelength lock-on
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Saddle
WTB Solano Steel Hybrid Fusion, medium
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Handlebar
Alloy, 35.0mm
Drivetrain
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Front Derailleur
N/A
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Rear Derailleur
SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission
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Chain guide
MRP 1x iO SL chainguide
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Cassette
SRAM XS-1270 Transmission, 10–52t, 12-speed
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Chain
SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission Flattop
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Crankset
SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission, 30t, single guard
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Shifter
SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission
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Brake Levers
SRAM Maven
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Brake Calipers
SRAM Maven 4-piston
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Bottom Bracket
SRAM DUB MTB Wide, BSA
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Rotors
SRAM CenterLine 2.0 (6-bolt, 200mm front and rear)
Wheels
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Front Tire
Teravail Kessel 29 x 2.5", 60 TPI Durable casing, Grip Plus compound (WTB TCS valve and sealant included)
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Rear Tire
Teravail Kessel 29 x 2.5", 120 TPI Durable Plus casing, Grip Plus compound (WTB TCS valve and sealant included)
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Front Hub
WTB Frequency 3X 15 x 110mm
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Rear Hub
WTB Frequency 3X 12 x 148mm
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Rim
WTB ST Tough i30 TCS, 32h, 29"
Weight
-
Complete Bike
35 lb. 12 oz
*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 | 165.0 | 165.0 |
| Handlebar Width | 780.0 | 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
Size Guide
Frame Specs
- Design Wheel/Tire Sizes 55–63.5mm (2.2–2.5")
- Alternate Wheel/Tire Sizes 584/27.5" Rear Wheel Only 63–70mm (2.5–2.7")
-
Max Tire Outer Diameter
Tire Clearance Frame: 29 x 2.5"
Tire Clearance Fork: 732 mm Diameter / 81mm Width - Frame Construction 6061 Aluminum
- Suspension Fork Length (Travel) 160mm travel
- Fork Offset 44mm
- Rear Spacing 12 x 148mm
- Rear Axle Size 12 x 188mm, TP=1.0, TL=20
- Rear Brake (Rotor) 74mm Post Mount (180-200mm rotor)
- Front Brake (Rotor) 74mm Post Mount (180-220mm rotor)
- Headset - Upper ZS44/28.6
- Headset - Lower ZS56/40
- Rear Shock Size 210x55
- Shock Mount, Fore Ø10 x 30mm
- Steerer Tube 1.125–1.5" Tapered
- Crown Race 59mm
- Seatpost 30.9mm
- Dropper Post Compatible Yes (internal)
- Seatpost Clamp 35.0mm
- 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 Accessory Mounts: 1
- Bottle Mounts 2
- Fork Mounts None
- Front Fender Mounts None
- Rear Fender Mounts None
Supportive Documents
Support Document links
- Travel Conversion Instructions for Blackthorn 2.0 and Moraine 1.0
- Gen 4 Split Pivot Suspension Setup
- Bicycle Owner's Manual
- ASTM Riding Conditions Classifications
- ASTM 4 Framesheet
- Suspension Frame Service Gen 3 & 4 - Flip Chip 1557 Shock Mount Hardware
- Link Hardware Kit 3731 Instructions
- Coil Shock Spring Rate Recommendations for Blackthorn 2
- Suspension Frame Service - Control Link Pivot Hardware Type 2
- Suspension Frame Service - Rear Axle Pivot Type 2 and SRAM UDH
- Travel Conversion - Blackthorn 2 & Moraine 1
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.
6061-T6 aluminum frame
Heat-treated aluminum frame for stiffness and durability.
Top tube accessory mounts
Top tube mounts accommodate direct-mount top tube bags or the K-Edge Top Tube Mount for bike computers.
Fits two bottles on all sizes
Stay hydrated on long trail rides with space for two bottles on all frame sizes.
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.
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 coil 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?
Dropper post length depends on multiple factors. Our friends at Park Tool have created a guide to help you determine the right size for your bike. Read the guide here.
How does the geometry change if I use a suspension fork with 150mm or 140mm of travel?
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.

