Salsa Cycles | 2024 Blackthorn SLX 29

All-mountain capability with enduro confidence and adventure-ready versatility.

The Salsa Blackthorn SLX is a modern all-mountain full suspension bike built for riders who want aggressive descending capability, efficient climbing performance, and practical long-ride versatility in one highly capable platform.

Built around Salsa’s Blackthorn Alloy V1 frame with Split Pivot suspension, the 2024 Blackthorn combines 160mm front travel, progressive geometry, Shimano hydraulic performance, and integrated on-bike cargo features into a trail machine that thrives on technical descents, rough terrain, long trail days, and backcountry adventures. Unlike many aggressive trail bikes that focus purely on descending, the Blackthorn balances downhill stability with climbing efficiency and practical ride utility.

Key Features

• Blackthorn Alloy V1 Frame
Durable aluminum frame with progressive trail geometry and integrated cargo features for aggressive trail riding and long-distance adventures.

• 160mm Trail Suspension Platform
RockShox Yari RC fork and Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock deliver excellent small bump sensitivity, downhill confidence, and climbing support.

• Split Pivot Suspension Design
Efficient suspension platform improves traction, pedaling performance, and control across technical terrain.

• Shimano 1x12-Speed Drivetrain
Wide-range Shimano drivetrain delivers dependable shifting and climbing capability for steep trails and all-mountain riding.

• Four-Piston Shimano Brakes
Powerful hydraulic braking system provides strong and consistent stopping control for aggressive descending.

Technical Specifications

• Category
All-Mountain Full Suspension MTB

• Discipline
MTB

• Frame
Blackthorn Alloy V1

• Fork
RockShox Yari RC, 160mm Travel, 42mm Offset

• Rear Shock
RockShox Super Deluxe Select+

• Headset
FSA Orbit 1.5E NO.57E ACB, ZS44/ZS56

• Rear Derailleur
Shimano SLX M7100 SGS

• Front Derailleur
N/A

• Shifters
Shimano Deore M6100

• Crankset
Shimano Deore M6130, 30T

• Cassette
Shimano Deore M6100, 10-51T, 12-Speed

• Chain
Shimano Deore M6100

• Brakes
Shimano Deore M6120 Four-Piston Hydraulic Disc Brakes

• Front Wheel
Shimano MT400-B 15x110mm Hub, WTB ST i30 29" Rim

• Rear Wheel
Shimano SLX M7130 12x157mm Hub, WTB ST i30 29" Rim

• Front Tire
Maxxis Assegai 29x2.5", Maxx Grip/Maxx Terra, EXO+, Tubeless Ready

• Rear Tire
Maxxis Dissector 29x2.4", Maxx Grip/Maxx Terra, EXO+, Tubeless Ready

• Handlebar
Race Face Chester 35, 780mm Width

• Stem
Salsa Guide Trail 50mm

• Seatpost
TranzX YSI05 Dropper Post with Shimano MT500 Lever

• Saddle
WTB Volt 250 Steel, 250 x 135

• Grips
Salsa File Tread Lock-On

• Weight
35 lbs 5 oz (Medium)

• Color Options
Mustard (#B48A3C)

Geometry

Built for riders seeking an aggressive all-mountain bike with confident descending performance, efficient climbing capability, and long-travel trail versatility.