Overview
Timberjack is Salsa’s aggressive trail hardtail. Its progressive trail geometry is stable on descents and technical sections, while the Alternator 2.0 dropouts allow for adjustable chainstay length to dial in ride characteristics.
Ample accessory mounts and dual wheel size compatibility add more versatility to the package, making Timberjack a well-rounded ripper that likes to party.
Geometry & Ride Characteristics
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ top tube is designed to offer a balanced reach, contributing to a comfortable riding position that’s well-suited for long journeys. Its slack head tube angle enhances the bike’s stability, particularly when descending on rough trails, by lengthening the wheelbase and providing a more relaxed steering feel. The bottom bracket height is optimized to offer a low centre of gravity, which improves the bike’s balance and handling.
When it comes to riding characteristics, the Timberjack SLX 27.5+ offers agility and stability that makes it well-suited for bikepacking adventures. The headtube angle provides confident steering in technical descents, while the seat tube angle positions the rider for efficient pedaling on climbs. The adjustable chainstay adds an extra layer of customization, allowing you to shorten it for quicker handling or lengthen it for more stability.
- Effective Top Tube Lengths: Ranges from 570mm to 659.3mm across sizes, accommodating a wide range of rider heights. This contrasts with bikes that offer less variation in top tube lengths.
- Head Tube Angle: Maintained at 66.4 degrees across all sizes, providing stability during descents. This differs from some bikes that adjust the head tube angle for different sizes.
- Seat Tube Angle: Consistently set at 75.1 degrees across all sizes, optimized for efficient pedaling. Unlike bikes with varying seat tube angles, the Timberjack ensures a uniform riding experience.
- Chainstay Length: Fixed at 420mm, offering a balanced blend of agility and stability. This sets it apart from bikes with adjustable chainstays.
- Bottom Bracket Drop: At 56.6mm across all sizes, the bike offers improved balance and handling. This feature is not always found in bikes designed for specialized riding conditions.
- Stack and Reach: Varies across sizes, allowing for a more customized fit based on rider height. This contrasts with some bikes where stack and reach are less varied.
- Wheelbase: Varies from 1120mm to 1211.7mm across sizes, providing a stable yet agile ride. This is notable as bikes with shorter or longer wheelbases may specialize in either agility or stability.
vs. the Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5″
The Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5″ is a more premium version of the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+. While both bikes share the same frame, the primary differences lie in the rear derailleur, fork and brakes as follows:
- Fork:
- Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5″: Features a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork with 130 mm travel.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Comes with a RockShox 35 Silver TK Air fork with 130 mm travel.
- Rear Derailleur:
- Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5″: Equipped with a Shimano XT M8100 SGS rear derailleur, known for its precise and quick shifting capabilities.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Features a Shimano SLX M7100 SGS rear derailleur, offering reliable shifting.
- Brakes:
- Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5″: Comes with Shimano M4120 four-piston brakes, providing superior stopping power and modulation.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Equipped with Shimano MT401 brakes, offering reliable braking
- Ride Feel:
- Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5″: The higher-end components contribute to a smoother and more responsive ride, particularly noticeable during technical descents and steep climbs.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Offers a reliable ride, suitable for riders looking for versatility over performance nuances.
vs. the Kona Big Honzo DL
The Kona Big Honzo DL and the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ offer different ride experiences despite their trail-oriented focus. The Big Honzo DL features a RockShox 35 Silver TK Solo Air fork with 130mm travel and Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain, emphasizing a balanced ride suitable for both climbing and descending. On the other hand, the Timberjack SLX 27.5+ comes with a RockShox 35 Silver TK Air fork and a Shimano SLX M7100 rear derailleur, providing reliable performance. While both bikes are versatile, the Big Honzo DL leans more towards a balanced, all-around capability, whereas the Timberjack SLX 27.5+ offers a more customizable ride.
- Fork:
- Kona Big Honzo DL: Features a RockShox 35 Silver TK Solo Air fork with 130mm travel that aims for a balanced, all-around ride.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Comes with a RockShox 35 Silver TK Air fork with 130mm travel that focuses on reliable performance.
- Rear Derailleur and Drivetrain:
- Kona Big Honzo DL: Equipped with a Shimano Deore 12-speed rear derailleur and drivetrain, offering a wide gear range for versatile riding.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Features a Shimano SLX M7100 rear derailleur and a 12-speed drivetrain, providing reliable but less refined shifting.
- Ride Feel:
- Kona Big Honzo DL: Offers a balanced ride that is well-suited for both climbing and descending, thanks to its well-rounded componentry.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Provides a reliable ride, with a focus on versatility over performance nuances.
- Geometry:
- Kona Big Honzo DL: Designed for a balanced, all-around capability, making it a versatile choice for various types of trails.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Shares similar geometry specs with the Big Honzo DL but leans more towards customization and adaptability, thanks to features like adjustable chainstays.
vs. the Surly Karate Monkey SUS
The Surly Karate Monkey SUS and the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ offer different ride characteristics rooted in their component choices. The Karate Monkey features a 100% Surly Chromoly Steel frame and a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork with 140mm travel, providing a plush, comfortable ride with added durability. In contrast, the Timberjack SLX 27.5+ comes with an aluminum frame and a RockShox 35 Silver TK Air fork with 130mm travel, focusing on reliable performance and versatility. While the Karate Monkey offers a more forgiving and durable ride, the Timberjack leans towards adaptability and customization.
- Frame and Fork:
- Surly Karate Monkey SUS: Features a 100% Surly Chromoly Steel frame and a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork with 140mm travel. This combination is designed for a plush and durable ride.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Comes with a Timberjack v2 Aluminum frame and a RockShox 35 Silver TK Air fork with 130mm travel. This setup is geared towards reliable performance and versatility.
- Rear Derailleur and Drivetrain:
- Surly Karate Monkey SUS: Equipped with a Shimano Deore XT M-8100 rear derailleur and a 12-speed drivetrain, offering precise and smooth shifting.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Features a Shimano SLX M7100 rear derailleur and a 12-speed drivetrain, providing reliable but less refined shifting.
- Brakes:
- Surly Karate Monkey SUS: Comes with Tektro Gemini HD-M520 brakes, offering consistent and modulated stopping power.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Equipped with Shimano MT401 brakes, providing reliable but less modulated braking.
- Ride Feel:
- Surly Karate Monkey SUS: Offers a forgiving and durable ride, thanks to its steel frame and higher-end fork, making it well-suited for long-distance and rugged terrains.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Provides a reliable but less refined ride, focusing on versatility and adaptability for various trail conditions.
- Geometry:
- Surly Karate Monkey SUS: Designed for comfort and durability, with a geometry that leans towards stability and control, especially on rough terrains.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+: Features similar geometry specs but leans more towards customization and adaptability, thanks to features like adjustable chainstays.
Features
RockShox 35 Silver TK Air Fork: The 130mm travel fork provides a good balance of performance and affordability, offering reliable shock absorption without breaking the bank.
Shimano SLX M7100 Rear Derailleur: This component is a highlight in its price range, offering reliable and smooth shifting that’s often found in more expensive models.
TranzX YSP05JL Dropper Post: The inclusion of a dropper post at this price point is a significant advantage, providing on-the-fly saddle height adjustments for better control and comfort.
Internal Cable Routing: The bike features sleek internal cable routing, which not only enhances the aesthetic but also protects the cables from external elements, a feature often found in higher-end models.
Bag and Rack Mounting Points
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ is equipped with the following mounting points to cater to all your gear-hauling needs:
Top Tube Mounts: The bike features mounts on the top tube, allowing for easy access to essential items like snacks or a phone, usually through a top tube bag. These mounts are compatible with the Salsa Top Tube bag, making it especially useful for long rides and endurance races.
Rear Rack Mounts: The bike’s rear is equipped with mounting points for a standard rear rack, suitable for panniers or additional equipment. However, due to the absence of upper mounting eyelets on the seatpost, it requires a Salsa Racklock Seatpost Collar. Salsa Wanderlust Rack recommended. Salsa Bent Rack Struts also required for installation on 58 cm and 60 cm frames. Not compatible with Salsa Wanderlust HD Rack
Down Tube Mounts: The down tube has mounts for a water bottle cage or for attaching additional gear.
Seat Tube Mounts: The seat tube also has mounts for a water bottle cage.
Under Downtube Mount: There’s a mount under the downtube, which is a common place to carry an extra water bottle or tool keg.
Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ Featured in the Wild
Ultimate Bikepacking Build | Salsa Timberjack | Episode 1 – The Bike
The YouTube video by Speedy Garage focuses on the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ as the foundation for an ultimate bikepacking build. The reviewer discusses the bike’s components and why he chose it for his project. He takes the bike out for a spin and shares his first impressions, stating, “We’ve chosen the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ as the canvas for our build.” The video emphasizes the bike’s versatility and potential for upgrades, making it an ideal choice for those looking to customize their bikepacking adventures.
Is The Salsa Timberjack SLX A Good Mountain Bike? [Review]
The review from BestBikeSelect praises the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ for its high-performance features and versatility. The bike is constructed with a top-of-the-line 6061-T6 aluminum frame, offering a lightweight yet durable build. It also comes equipped with a RockShox 35 Silver TK shock fork and a Shimano SLX drivetrain, providing a balanced ride on both steep climbs and descents. The author notes, “It’s excellent at climbing and descending steep trails,” and gives the bike a rating of 4.6/5. Despite its high performance, the bike is often out of stock, which the author attributes to its popularity and the general increase in mountain bike prices.
Bike Check | Salsa Timberjack 27.5+
The YouTube video by Oliver Page offers a detailed bike check of the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+. While the video content is not fully accessible, it appears to focus on the bike’s features and performance. The video encourages viewers to subscribe and check out other related channels, suggesting that it’s part of a broader discussion about biking. Unfortunately, a direct quote from the author was not available, but the video seems to aim at providing a comprehensive look at the Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+.
Specs
Build Kit
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ drivetrain is highlighted by a Shimano SLX M7100 rear derailleur and a 12-speed Shimano Deore M6100 cassette. For stopping power, it employs Shimano MT401 brakes with Center Lock rotors. The bike also includes quality components like an FSA Orbit NO.57E headset, Salsa Guide Trail stem, and Race Face Chester handlebars. The wheelset consists of Shimano MT400-B and MT410-B hubs, coupled with WTB ST i40 rims and Maxxis Minion DHF and Rekon tires.
Frameset
- Frame: Timberjack Alloy V2
- Fork: RockShox 35 Silver TK, 130 mm, 44 mm offset
Drivetrain
- Front Derailleur: N/A
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano SLX M7100 SGS
- Cassette: Shimano Deore M6100-12, 10–51t, 12-speed
- Chain: Shimano Deore M6100
- Crankset: Shimano MT510, 30t
- Shifter: Shimano Deore M6100 I-SPEC EV
- Brakes: Shimano MT401
- Rotors: Shimano RT10 Center Lock (180 mm front, 160 mm rear)
Components
- Headset: FSA Orbit 1.5E ACB
- Stem: Salsa Guide Trail
- Handlebar: Race Face Chester 35.0 mm
- Grips / Bar Tape: Salsa File Tread
- Seatpost: TranzX YSI05 RAD+, Shimano MT500 lever, 30 mm travel adj
- Saddle: WTB Volt 250 Steel
- Seatclamp: Salsa Lip-Lock
Wheels
- Front Wheel: Shimano MT400-B 15 x 110 mm hub, WTB ST i40 32h 27.5″ rim
- Rear Wheel: Shimano MT410-B Micro Spline 12 x 148 mm hub, WTB ST i40 32h 27.5″ rim
- Tires: Maxxis Minion DHF front, Maxxis Rekon rear, 27.5 x 2.8″, EXO, TR
Frame Construction
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 27.5+ features a Timberjack v2 Aluminum frame, known for its durability and lightweight characteristics. The frame employs a versatile dropout system that allows for adjustable chainstay lengths, enhancing the bike’s adaptability. The frame is designed to accommodate a wide range of tire sizes, with a maximum wheel/tire diameter of 760.5 mm and a minimum of 728 mm. It’s compatible with both suspension forks with 100–150 mm travel and rigid forks. The frame features a ZS44 upper headset and a ZS56 lower headset, along with a 30.9 mm seatpost. It also supports internal routing for dropper posts. The bottom bracket is a 73 mm BSA, and it’s designed for a 1x drivetrain with a max ring size of 34t. The rear spacing is 148 mm, and it uses an M12 x 180L rear axle. The frame employs the Alternator 2.0 Swing Plate for the derailleur hanger.
Geometry
| Size | XS | SM | MD | LG | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Effective Top Tube | 570 | 594.1 | 615.3 | 639 | 659.3 |
| B. Stand Over | 702.9 | 722.6 | 742.1 | 772.1 | 792.9 |
| C. Reach | 410.7 | 433.6 | 453.6 | 475.5 | 492.6 |
| D. Stack | 599 | 599 | 607.4 | 613.5 | 625.5 |
| E. Total Seat Tube Length | 342.9 | 370 | 395 | 432 | 457.2 |
| F. Headtube Length | 100 | 100 | 105 | 115 | 125 |
| G. Headtube Angle | 66.4 | 66.4 | 66.4 | 66.4 | 66.4 |
| H. Seat Tube Angle | 75.1 | 75.1 | 75.1 | 75.1 | 75.1 |
| I. BB Drop | 56.6 | 56.6 | 56.6 | 56.6 | 56.6 |
| K. Chainstay Length | 420 | 420 | 420 | 420 | 420 |
| L. Fork Length Axle to Crown | 543 | 543 | 543 | 543 | 543 |
| M. Fork Offset | 44 | 44 | 44 | 44 | 44 |
| N. Wheelbase | 1120 | 1142.5 | 1164.5 | 1180.5 | 1211.7 |
| Crank Arm Length | 165 | 165 | 170 | 170 | 180 |
| Handlebar Width | 780 | 780 | 780 | 780 | 780 |
| Recommended Rider Height | 157cm–163cm | 160cm–175cm | 173cm–183cm | 180cm–191cm | 188cm–UP |
| Stem Length | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
Measurements based on:
- an 510.5mm fork which is equivalent to an average 543mm length 29″ 130mm suspension fork at 25% sag
- a 27.5 x 2.8″ tire measuring 724.5mm in diameter
- Standover is measured vertically to top of top tube from a position 50mm forward of BB center with an unsagged suspension fork
- Wheelbase at 420mm chainstay length
Warranty
WARRANTY REGISTRATIONS
Register your purchase at Salsa’s Warranty Registration.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Salsa Cycles ( “Salsa ” ) makes the following limited Warranty:
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. Every Salsa frame, component, and apparel has a useful product life cycle. The length of that useful product life cycle will vary depending on the construction and the materials of the product, maintenance and care the product receives, and the amount and type of use the product is subjected to over its life. Your bike has an intended level of use as defined by the ASTM Riding Condition Classification Chart. Failure to adhere to the use cases identified in this chart will void your warranty. Save your dated receipt for proof of purchase.
NOTE:
All warranty periods below apply to the original owner only
ONE YEAR WARRANTY
All apparel
All frame bags
Salsa Cycles does not guarantee the compatibility of original components with a warranty replacement frame. Salsa Cycles is not responsible for parts or labor required to remove and/or refit and re-adjust the product within the bicycle assembly, including wheel rebuilds.
Salsa Cycles cannot guarantee a color match to the original frame, component, or apparel in the event of a replacement.
This warranty applies to 2014 and newer model bicycles and covers only Salsa Cycles branded product. Any other original part or component shall be covered by the stated warranty of the original manufacturer. Any products not specifically included above are hereby excluded.
TWO YEAR WARRANTY
Aluminum chainstays of suspension frames
Aluminum seatstays of suspension frames
Carbon seatstays of suspension frames
All other suspension frame parts (excludes hanger, pivot hardware, bearings)
THREE YEAR WARRANTY
Aluminum frames
Aluminum front triangles of suspension frames
All Salsa forks
All Salsa components
FIVE YEAR WARRANTY
Steel frames
Titanium frames
Carbon frames
Carbon front triangle of suspension frames
THE WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER THE FOLLOWING
Damage due to improper assembly or follow-up maintenance or lack of skill, competence or experience of the user or assemble
Bicycles that were not assembled or serviced by an authorized Salsa Cycles dealer
Products that have been modified, neglected, used in competition, or for commercial purposes such as rental, courier, police, security, etc, misused or abused, involved in accidents or anything other than normal use
Installation of components, parts, or accessories not originally intended for use with or compatible with Salsa frames and components
Salsa Cycles bicycles, frames, components or softgoods purchased from an unauthorized dealer
Salsa Cycles bicycles, frames, components or softgoods purchased from third-party internet sites, including auction websites, and regional trading websites (examples: Amazon, eBay, and Craigslist) are not covered under this warranty, even if you have a receipt
Sandblasting, sanding, grinding, wire brushing, filing, welding, brazing, drilled holes, anodizing, refinishing, powder coating, or chrome plating the bicycle, frame, or component will void the warranty
Internal rust perforation on all steel frames
Wear, scratches, chips and cracks to paint, finish, or coating on all Salsa frames and components
Bent or broken derailleur hangers or Alternator plates
Labor required to remove and/or refit and re-adjust the product within the bicycle assembly, including wheel rebuilds
Damage to carbon fiber caused by any carbon assembly paste
Normal wear and tear
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This limited warranty is expressly limited to the repair or replacement of a defective product, at the option of Salsa Cycles, and is the sole remedy of the warranty. This limited warranty applies only to the original purchaser of the Salsa Cycles product and is not transferable. This warranty applies only to Salsa Cycles products purchased through an authorized dealer or distributor. In no event shall Salsa Cycles be liable for any loss, inconvenience or damage, whether direct, incidental, consequential, or otherwise resulting from breach of any express or implied warranty or condition of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or otherwise with respect to our products except as set forth herein. This warranty gives the consumer specific legal rights, and those rights and other rights may vary from place to place. This warranty does not affect your statutory rights.
TO THE EXTENT NOT PROHIBITED BY LAW, THESE WARRANTIES ARE EXCLUSIVE AND THERE ARE NO OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS INCLUDING WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
For 2013 and older model bicycles and products, please consult your Owner’s Manual, Salsa Cycles product instructions, or contact Salsa Cycles or your authorized Salsa dealer for the applicable warranty information.