Overview
Have you ever had that feeling that your bicycle was holding you back? Leave those doubts behind with Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B. Built with a lively aluminum frame and Salsa’s signature Waxwing carbon fork, this bike promises both stability and a plush ride, whether you’re on tarmac or gravel. Decked out with adventure-ready features—fender, rack, and accessory mounts, plus Three-Pack mounts for that extra flask of campfire coffee—it’s your all-access pass to getting off the couch and into the fresh air. With 650b wheels and chunky 47mm tires, you’ll grip the ground like a mountain goat. And let’s not forget the SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain, a reliable drivetrain for powering over hills and through headwinds. Ready to break free?
If your adventuring ways involve bikepacking, the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b will launch you past the daily grind to full “I’m outta here!” immersion. Imagine loading up your bikepacking bags and setting off on a looong ride. You know how it is, those petty stresses gently fading away with each pedal stroke. This bike’s geometry is tailored for comfort on long gravel stretches, allowing you to focus on the beauty around you. So why wait? Your next bikepacking adventure is calling!
Geometry & Ride Characteristic
The geometry of the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B has a long effective top tube, offering a stretched-out riding position, ensuring stability at varied speeds. The bike’s slacker headtube angle, combined with a consistent BB drop and extended wheelbase, diverges from traditional road bikes, emphasizing comfort and control on diverse terrains. Its steeper seat tube angle ensures efficient power transfer, making it a standout in its category.
Riding the Journeyer Apex 1 650B is an experience of controlled exhilaration. Its geometry ensures a balanced and responsive feel, allowing riders to navigate rough patches with confidence. The bike’s design promotes an upright riding position, reducing rider fatigue during prolonged journeys. The longer chainstays and wheelbase provide a stable ride, making descents and cornering smooth and predictable.
- Effective Top Tube: The Journeyer Apex 1 650B has a length ranging from 493mm to 600mm across sizes. This longer top tube provides a stretched-out riding position, which can offer better stability and control, especially at higher speeds.
- Stand Over Height: With values ranging from 606mm to 796mm, the stand-over height is designed to accommodate a wide range of rider heights. A lower stand-over height can make it easier for riders to mount and dismount, especially in unexpected stops or uneven terrains.
- Reach and Stack: The reach values (366mm to 408mm) and stack values (510mm to 627mm) of this bicycle indicate a more upright riding position. Compared to racing bikes, which often have a longer reach and shorter stack, the Journeyer’s geometry promotes comfort during longer rides.
- Headtube Angle: At 68.5° to 69.5°, the headtube angle is slightly slacker than many road bikes. This results in stable steering, especially beneficial when navigating through rough terrains or carrying loads.
- Seat Tube Angle: Ranging from 73° to 76°, the seat tube angle is steeper than many touring bikes. This positioning allows for efficient power transfer, especially during climbs, and centers the rider over the pedals.
- BB Drop: A consistent 70mm BB drop across all sizes means the bottom bracket sits lower relative to the wheel axles. This design lowers the bike’s center of gravity, enhancing stability, especially when cornering.
- Chainstay Length: The 440mm chainstay length, which is longer than many road bikes, provides added stability and ensures ample heel clearance when using panniers.
- Wheelbase: With values ranging from 1027mm to 1104mm, the Journeyer has a longer wheelbase compared to typical road bikes. A longer wheelbase can offer a more stable and comfortable ride, especially on uneven surfaces.
vs. the Salsa Journeyer GRX 600, 650b
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 600, 650b equipped with a Shimano GRX drivetrain, is a more premium version of the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B. While both bikes share the same frame, the primary differences lie in the componentry as follows:
- Groupset:
- GRX 600, 650b: Features the Shimano GRX drivetrain, tailored specifically for gravel terrains.
- Apex 1 650B: Equipped with the SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain, versatile for a range of terrains.
- Wheel Size:
- GRX 600, 650b: Uses 650b wheels, ensuring quick acceleration and maneuverability.
- Apex 1 650B: Also utilizes 650b wheels, offering similar ride dynamics.
- Cost:
- GRX 600, 650b: Positioned at a slightly higher price point due to its specialized gravel drivetrain.
- Apex 1 650B: More affordable, making it a value proposition for those seeking versatility without a hefty price tag.
- Ride Feel:
- GRX 600, 650b: Provides a smooth and responsive ride, especially on gravel and road surfaces due to its specialized GRX drivetrain.
- Apex 1 650B: Offers a balanced feel across various terrains, from city streets to rugged gravel roads.
vs. the Salsa Journeyer Sora 650B
The Salsa Journeyer Sora 650B, equipped with a Shimano Sora drivetrain, is a more economical version of the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B. While both bikes share the same frame, the primary differences lie in the componentry as follows:
- Groupset:
- Journeyer Sora 650B: Features the Shimano Sora R3000 drivetrain, which is a 9-speed system known for its reliability and affordability.
- Apex 1 650B: Equipped with the SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain, a single-chainring 11-speed system, offering simplicity and a wide gear range.
- Cassette:
- Journeyer Sora 650B: Uses a Shimano HG200 cassette with an 11-34t range, providing a decent spread for varied terrains.
- Apex 1 650B: Comes with a SRAM PG-1130 cassette, offering an 11-42t range, which gives a broader spectrum of gears for challenging terrains.
- Crankset:
- Journeyer Sora 650B: Features a Shimano MT210 crankset with a 46/30t chainring combination, suitable for both flats and climbs.
- Apex 1 650B: Uses a SRAM Apex 1 crankset with a single 40t chainring, simplifying the shifting experience.
- Brakes and Rotors:
- Journeyer Sora 650B: Equipped with Tektro MD-C550 brakes and Tektro TR160-22 rotors, ensuring consistent stopping power.
- Apex 1 650B: Also uses Tektro MD-C550 brakes but paired with Tektro TR160-22 rotors, offering similar braking performance.
- Ride Feel:
- Journeyer Sora 650B: With its 9-speed Shimano Sora drivetrain, riders can expect a reliable and smooth shifting experience, suitable for casual rides and light touring.
- Apex 1 650B: The 11-speed SRAM Apex system offers a more dynamic ride, catering to those who might venture onto varied terrains, from city streets to rugged gravel roads.
vs. the Kona Rove DL
The Kona Rove DL, built with a butted Cromoly frame and a SRAM Apex drivetrain, offers a sturdy and resilient ride, ideal for rugged terrains and long-distance touring. Its steel construction ensures vibration absorption, delivering a smoother experience. In contrast, the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B, with its aluminum frame and SRAM Apex 1 system, provides a lighter and more responsive feel, tailored for diverse terrains from urban streets to gravel paths. While both bikes prioritize adventure, the Rove DL emphasizes durability, potentially at a slightly higher cost.
- Frame Material:
- Kona Rove DL: Constructed with Kona Butted Cromoly, a type of steel known for its durability and vibration-absorbing properties.
- Journeyer Apex 1 650B: Made with an aluminum frame, which is lighter and offers a stiffer ride compared to steel.
- Fork:
- Kona Rove DL: Features the Kona Project Two Cromoly Disc fork, complementing the steel frame for a cohesive ride feel.
- Journeyer Apex 1 650B: Equipped with the Waxwing carbon fork, providing a balance of stiffness and vibration dampening.
- Groupset:
- Kona Rove DL: Uses the SRAM Apex drivetrain, known for its reliable performance across varied terrains.
- Journeyer Apex 1 650B: Also features the SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain, ensuring consistent and smooth shifting.
- Tires:
- Kona Rove DL: Equipped with Maxxis Rambler EXO TR 650x47c, providing good traction and durability on mixed surfaces.
- Journeyer Apex 1 650B: Features Teravail Washburn tires, ensuring a smooth ride on gravel roads and city streets alike.
- Ride Feel:
- Kona Rove DL: The steel frame and fork combination offers a more compliant ride, absorbing road vibrations and providing comfort on longer journeys.
- Journeyer Apex 1 650B: The aluminum frame paired with a carbon fork delivers a more responsive and agile feel, suitable for quick maneuvers and varied terrains.
- Geometry:
- Kona Rove DL: Designed with a geometry that emphasizes stability and comfort, especially beneficial for long-distance touring and rugged terrains.
- Journeyer Apex 1 650B: Shares a similar emphasis on stability but leans more towards versatility, catering to both urban commuting and gravel adventures.
Features
Versatile Geometry: The Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B features a geometry meticulously designed for a range of terrains. Whether navigating city streets or rugged trails, riders can expect a harmonious blend of comfort and control. The bike’s geometry caters to riders of diverse sizes, striking a balance between performance and rider comfort.
Efficient Drivetrain: The Journeyer Apex 1 650B is equipped with the SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain components. It boasts the SRAM Apex 1 shifter and a SRAM Apex 1 rear derailleur, ensuring smooth gear shifts, consistent performance, and long-lasting durability.
Robust Braking System: The Journeyer Apex 1 650B incorporates Tektro MD-C550 brakes coupled with Tektro TR160-22 rotors. This combination offers riders precise braking capabilities, ensuring safety and command across different riding scenarios.
Internal Cable Routing: The Journeyer Sora 700C benefits from internal cable routing, providing a sleek appearance and minimizing the risk of cable entanglement or damage. This design not only enhances the bike’s aesthetic but also slightly improves aerodynamics, contributing to enhanced performance.
Bag, Rack and Fender Mounting Points
The Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B is equipped with the following mounting points to cater to all your gear-hauling needs:
Top Tube Bag Mounts: The top tube features mounts that can accommodate a toptube bag, providing easy access to essentials during a ride.
Front Fork Mounts: There are multiple mounts on both sides of the front fork for water bottles, cargo cages, or front racks.
Rear Rack Mounts: The rear of the bike has mounts for attaching a standard rear rack for panniers or other gear.
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.
Fender Mounts: The bike has mounts for full coverage fenders, which are essential for wet weather riding.
Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B Featured in the Wild
Salsa Journeyman Apex 1 650 Review
Dave Arthur of off-road.cc provides an in-depth review of the Salsa Journeyman Apex 1 650B, highlighting its versatility and capability across various terrains. While the bike’s aesthetics and ride quality earn praise, Arthur points out its weight and mechanical disc brakes as areas where the Journeyman falls short compared to its rivals. He states, “The Journeyman is a lovely looking bike and it rides very well… But the weight, the mechanical disc brakes and quick-release axles smack of cost-saving and unfortunately blunt the performance.” Despite its strengths, the bike faces stiff competition from better-specced alternatives in its price range.
Salsa Journeyman 650B Review: 7 Days on The Prairie
In Logan Watts’ review on BIKEPACKING.com, he recounts an adventurous trip through Montana’s rugged terrains with the Salsa Journeyman 650B. Despite initial skepticism due to a broken derailleur incident early on, the Journeyman proved its mettle, handling a variety of challenging terrains from soft sand to rocky roads. Watts praises the bike’s lightweight aluminum frame, carbon fork, and larger volume tires, which together provide a comfortable and smooth ride. He notes, “I found that with the carbon fork and larger volume tires the Salsa Journeyman 650B rode really well and didn’t exhibit the harshness I expected.” The bike’s affordability and capability make it a standout choice for those venturing into gravel and adventure biking.
Salsa Journeyman (APEX 1 650b) Long-Term, All-Terrain Review
In this video review, the creator delves into a comprehensive long-term assessment of the Salsa Journeyman Apex 1 650b. The bike is described as “much loved” and is showcased in various terrains, from gravel to singletrack. The reviewer provides insights into the bike’s performance, durability, and overall experience. While a direct quote from the video isn’t available, the emphasis on the bike’s adaptability across different terrains is evident from the content description. The Salsa Journeyman’s versatility in handling both gravel and singletrack terrains is a testament to its all-terrain capabilities.
Specs
Build Kit
The Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650B drivetrain is highlighted by the SRAM Apex 1 system, including an 11-speed SRAM PG-1130 cassette and a 40t crankset. The bike ensures reliable stopping power with Tektro MD-C550 brakes and TR160-22 rotors. For rider comfort, it boasts a Salsa Cowbell 3 handlebar and a WTB Volt Medium saddle. The wheelset, featuring WTB Serra hubs and ST i23 650b rims, is complemented by Teravail Washburn tires, designed for both performance and durability.
Frameset
- Frame: Journeyer Drop-Bar Thru-Axle
- Fork: Waxwing
Drivetrain
- Front Derailleur: N/A
- Rear Derailleur: SRAM Apex 1
- Cassette: SRAM PG-1130, 11–42t, 11-speed
- Chain: SRAM PC-1110
- Crankset: SRAM Apex 1, 40t
- Shifter: SRAM Apex 1
- Brakes: Tektro MD-C550 brakes
- Rotors: Tektro TR160-22 rotors (6-bolt, 160 mm)
Components
- Headset: FSA NO.42 ACB IS-2
- Stem: Salsa Guide 31.8, 6-degree
- Handlebar: Salsa Cowbell 3, 31.8
- Grips / Bar Tape: Black Cork
- Seatpost: Salsa Guide 27.2 x 350 mm, 12 mm offset
- Saddle: WTB Volt Medium, Steel, 142 x 265 mm
- Seatclamp: Salsa Lip-Lock
Wheels
- Front Wheel: WTB Serra 12 x 100 mm hub, WTB ST i23 650b rim, 28h
- Rear Wheel: WTB Serra HG10 12 x 142 mm hub, WTB ST i23 650b rim, 28h
- Tires: Teravail Washburn, 650b x 47 mm, 60 tpi, Durable casing, tubeless ready
Frame Construction
The Salsa Journeyer Sora 650B frame is made from high-quality aluminium, ensuring durability and a lightweight feel. It’s designed for 650b x 47 mm wheels, but it also accommodates alternate sizes, ranging from 650b x 47–50 mm to 700c x 32–50 mm. The frame integrates a 12mm Thru-Axle dropout system for the front (100mm) and rear (142mm), guaranteeing both stability and straightforward maintenance. The Waxwing fork, boasting a 405 mm axle-to-crown length and a 50 mm offset, harmonizes with the frame’s architecture, delivering the right balance of stability and agility. The frame is disc brake-ready, adopting flat mount standards for both the front and rear. Additionally, it’s compatible with a dropper post, featuring internal routing.
Geometry
| Size | 49cm | 51cm | 53cm | 55cm | 57cm | 60cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Effective Top Tube | 493 | 510 | 530 | 550 | 570 | 600 |
| B. Stand Over | 606 | 641 | 677 | 713 | 749 | 796 |
| C. Reach | 366 | 368 | 372 | 376 | 387 | 408 |
| D. Stack | 510 | 528 | 552 | 570 | 598 | 627 |
| E. Total Seat Tube Length | 340 | 380 | 410 | 450 | 490 | 520 |
| F. Headtube Length | 90 | 105 | 130 | 150 | 180 | 210 |
| G. Headtube Angle | 68.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 |
| H. Seat Tube Angle | 76 | 75 | 74 | 73 | 73 | 73 |
| I. BB Drop | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 |
| K. Chainstay Length | 440 | 440 | 440 | 440 | 440 | 440 |
| L. Fork Length Axle to Crown | 402 | 402 | 402 | 402 | 402 | 402 |
| M. Fork Offset | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| N. Wheelbase | 1027 | 1028 | 1040 | 1050 | 1072 | 1104 |
| Crank Arm Length | 165 | 165 | 170 | 172.5 | 175 | 175 |
| Handlebar Width | 380 | 400 | 420 | 440 | 460 | 460 |
| Recommended Rider Height | 142 – 152cm | 150 – 160cm | 157 – 170cm | 165 – 178cm | 173 – 185cm | 183 – 196cm |
| Stem Length | 60 | 70 | 80 | 80 | 90 | 100 |
Measurements based on:
- a fork measuring 405mm with 50mm offset
- a 700 x 38mm tire measuring 706 mm in diameter
- Stand over measured vertically to top of top tube from a position 50mm forward of BB center
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.