Overview
Imagine facing the harshest gravel roads with a smile. Meet the Stormchaser, Salsa’s gravel warrior. Crafted with a robust 6066-T6 alloy frame, it’s equipped with their signature Class 5™ Vibration Reduction System, ensuring every ride is smooth, even when the gravel isn’t. Its carbon fork not only offers agility but also shields against the wrath of muddy terrain. And that single speed drivetrain, this is the power transfer system won’t let you down no matter how mucky it gets. Whether you’re a single-speed aficionado or a gravel enthusiast, the Stormchaser’s adaptability, from its frame mounts to its versatile dropouts, makes ready for whatever mother nature has in store for you. Are you ready to chase the storm?
Imagine the thrill of escaping the mundane, loading up your bikepacking bags, and setting forth on iconic gravel routes like the Great Divide or the Trans North Georgia. With the Salsa Stormchaser, every pedal stroke is a dance of joy on gravel. Its design is a love letter to bikepackers, merging ruggedness with finesse, making those long stretches of the Flint Hills or the rolling terrains of the Ozarks feel like a breeze. So, why wait? Break free from the daily grind, embrace nature, and let the Stormchaser be your ticket to gravel-laden euphoria.
Geometry & Ride Characteristics
The Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed’s integrates the Class 5™ VRS (Vibration Reduction System) which is specifically designed to absorb the roughness of gravel roads. This system employs uniquely shaped seatstays that promote vertical compliance by allowing them to “flex” outwards on impacts, while the chainstays are oriented horizontally to resist torque and maintain a laterally stiff rear end. The absence of bridges on the seatstays and chainstays further enhances flexibility, ensuring a geometry that’s both resilient and adaptive.
Riding the Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed is akin to embracing the unpredictable with the assurance of control. Its specialized geometry ensures a ride that strikes a balance between agility and stability, perfect for those who are undeterred by challenging terrains and unpredictable weather. The Class 5™ VRS provides a cushioned experience, absorbing the jolts of rugged paths, ensuring that riders can maintain speed without compromising on comfort. Whether you’re navigating muddy trails after a downpour or speeding through a gravel race, the Stormchaser offers a ride that’s both responsive and comfortable, making every journey feel like a well-choreographed dance with nature.
Road Plus Design: The Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed boasts a geometry tailored for gravel racing, diverging from traditional road bikes with slimmer profiles. This design not only allows for a broader tire base but also emphasizes tire clearance. Specifically, the Stormchaser is designed around a 700x42mm tire, measuring 720mm in diameter, enhancing comfort and versatility on diverse terrains and ensuring added cushioning on rugged surfaces, distinguishing it from conventional road bikes.
Head Tube Angle: With a consistent angle of 70° across all sizes, the Stormchaser offers stability. In comparison, racing bikes might have steeper angles for quick responsiveness, while touring bikes might lean towards shallower angles for stability.
BB Drop: The Stormchaser features a consistent BB drop of 70mm across all sizes, ensuring a low center of gravity. This contrasts with some cyclocross bikes which might have a higher BB for obstacle clearance, providing the Stormchaser with stability, especially on descents.
Wheelbase: The wheelbase of the Stormchaser, ranging from 1017.5mm to 1116.3mm, is longer than many aggressive road bikes. A longer wheelbase generally offers more stability, especially at high speeds, making it suitable for challenging terrains.
Chainstay Length: The Stormchaser has an adjustable chainstay length of 435–450mm across all sizes, ensuring flexibility in handling. This is slightly longer than some performance-oriented road bikes, providing stability and comfort, especially on rough terrains.
Top Tube Length: The effective top tube lengths on the Stormchaser provide a range that ensures riders get a comfortable reach. Compared to endurance bikes, which might have elongated top tubes, the Stormchaser offers lengths that cater to a more neutral posture.
Seat Tube Angle: With angles ranging from 73° to 75.25°, these angles ensure an optimal pedaling position. Some aggressive race bikes might have steeper seat tube angles for a forward-leaning posture, while the Stormchaser leans towards a balance of performance and comfort.
Standover Height: The varying standover heights across sizes, from 686.86mm to 842.79mm, ensure that riders of different heights can comfortably straddle the bike. This is crucial for stop-and-go situations, especially in challenging terrains.
vs. the Salsa Stormchaser GRX 810 SUS
The Salsa Stormchaser GRX 810 SUS, equipped with a suspension fork and an 11-speed Shimano GRX RX812 drivetrain, is a more premium version of the Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed. With a very similar frame, the primary differences are in the componentry as follows:
- Frame and Fork:
- GRX 810 SUS: Features the same 6066-T6 alloy frame as the Single Speed but is paired with a RockShox Rudy XPLR suspension fork for added comfort on rough terrains.
- Single Speed: Uses a 6066-T6 alloy frame paired with a rigid Waxwing Deluxe Carbon fork, offering a direct and responsive connection to the terrain.
- Groupset:
- GRX 810 SUS: Equipped with the Shimano GRX 810 groupset, designed specifically for gravel riding, offering a wide range of gears.
- Single Speed: As the name suggests, it operates on a single-speed setup, simplifying the drivetrain and reducing maintenance.
- Ride Feel:
- GRX 810 SUS: The suspension fork provides a smoother and more cushioned ride, especially beneficial for longer gravel adventures or rough terrains.
- Single Speed: Offers a raw and direct ride feel, ideal for riders who seek a pure gravel racing experience and are undeterred by challenging terrains.
- Geometry:
- GRX 810 SUS: While it shares the foundational geometry with the Single Speed, the presence of the suspension fork might slightly alter the ride height and handling characteristics.
- Single Speed: Features a geometry tailored for gravel racing, integrating the Class 5™ VRS for vibration reduction and comfort on rugged roads.
- Versatility:
- GRX 810 SUS: The added suspension and geared drivetrain make it more versatile for varied terrains and extended rides.
- Single Speed: Its simplicity makes it resilient against adverse conditions like mud, which could potentially damage more complex drivetrains.
- Cost:
- GRX 810 SUS: Due to its added suspension and advanced groupset, it comes at a higher relative cost.
- Single Speed: Simpler in design and components, it is relatively more affordable.
vs. the Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed
The Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed offers a versatile ride experience, designed for simplicity with its single-speed drivetrain, making it suitable for both trails and urban commuting. Its steel frame provides a classic, resilient feel, absorbing road vibrations and offering a more relaxed geometry. In contrast, the Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed is tailored specifically for gravel racing, featuring an alloy frame with the Class 5™ VRS for enhanced vibration reduction and a more aggressive geometry. While both bikes prioritize simplicity, the Stormchaser leans towards performance on rugged terrains and may come at a higher relative cost.
- Frame Material:
- Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed: Crafted from double-butted crmo steel, known for its durability and classic ride feel.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Made from 6066-T6 alloy, offering a lightweight and responsive ride.
- Fork:
- Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed: Steel fork, complementing the frame for a cohesive ride feel.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Waxwing Deluxe Carbon fork, providing stiffness and vibration reduction.
- Groupset/Drivetrain:
- Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed: Single-speed drivetrain, emphasizing simplicity and low maintenance.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Single-speed setup, tailored for gravel racing conditions.
- Ride Feel:
- Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed: Offers a versatile and smooth ride, suitable for varied terrains from trails to urban settings.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Delivers a raw and direct gravel racing experience, enhanced by the Class 5™ VRS for comfort on rugged terrains.
- Geometry:
- Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed: Features a more relaxed geometry, catering to both commuting and light trail riding.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Aggressive geometry tailored specifically for gravel racing, ensuring optimal performance on challenging terrains.
- Versatility:
- Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed: Designed for a wide range of applications, from city commuting to light off-road adventures.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Primarily focused on gravel racing, though its simplicity makes it resilient in varied conditions.
- Cost:
- Bombtrack Arise Singlespeed: Given its straightforward design and steel construction, it might be positioned at a more affordable price point.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: With its specialized design and advanced features like the Class 5™ VRS, it may come at a higher relative cost.
vs. the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C
The Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C is tailored for gravel adventures, featuring an all-new aluminum frame and a Waxwing carbon fork, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride across varied terrains. It’s equipped with the SRAM Apex 1 groupset, providing a wide gear range for versatile cycling. In contrast, the Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed, with its rigid frame and single-speed setup, offers a raw and direct connection to the terrain, specifically designed for gravel racing. While both bikes are rooted in gravel design, the Journeyer leans towards comfort and adaptability, potentially at a higher relative cost than the performance-focused Stormchaser.
- Frame Material:
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C: Crafted from aluminum, providing a balance of weight and durability.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Made from 6066-T6 alloy, offering a lightweight and responsive ride.
- Fork:
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C: Features the Waxwing carbon fork, designed for comfort and vibration reduction on varied terrains.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Uses a Waxwing Deluxe Carbon fork, providing stiffness and vibration reduction tailored for gravel racing.
- Groupset/Drivetrain:
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C: Equipped with the SRAM Apex 1 groupset, offering a wide gear range suitable for diverse cycling conditions.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Single-speed drivetrain, emphasizing simplicity and direct connection to the terrain.
- Ride Feel:
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C: Designed for a smooth and efficient ride, suitable for long gravel adventures and versatile cycling.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Offers a raw and direct gravel racing experience, with a focus on performance on rugged terrains.
- Geometry:
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C: Features a geometry tailored for comfort and adaptability, catering to both commuting and gravel riding.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Aggressive geometry specifically designed for gravel racing, ensuring optimal performance on challenging terrains.
- Versatility:
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700C: Highly versatile, designed for a range of applications from city commuting to gravel adventures.
- Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed: Primarily focused on gravel racing, though its simplicity makes it adaptable to varied conditions.
Features
Gravel Racing Focus: The Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed is specifically tailored for gravel racing, ensuring optimal performance on challenging terrains.
Vibration Reduction System: The bike incorporates the Class 5™ VRS, designed to absorb road roughness, providing enhanced comfort on rugged roads.
Direct Terrain Connection: With its single-speed setup, the Stormchaser offers a direct and responsive connection to the terrain, ideal for those seeking a pure gravel racing experience.
Single-Speed Drivetrain: The Stormchaser comes with a single-speed setup, simplifying the drivetrain and reducing maintenance while offering a direct and raw connection to the terrain.
Bag, Rack and Fender Mounting Points
The Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed is equipped with the following mounting points to cater to all your bikepacking needs:
Three-Pack 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 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.
Top Tube Bag Mounts: The top tube features mounts that can accommodate a toptube bag, providing easy access to essentials during a ride.
Double 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 Stormchaser Single Speed Featured in the Wild
Announcing the 2023 Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed
Salsa has introduced the 2023 Stormchaser Single Speed, a streamlined gravel bike crafted to endure challenging conditions, especially when terrains become muddy. As Lucas Winzenburg notes, the bike is “designed to keep you rolling through drivetrain-clogging conditions.” The 2023 model boasts a 6066-T6 alloy frame paired with a carbon fork. It offers tire clearance for both 700C and 650B sizes up to 50mm and incorporates Salsa’s Class 5™ VRS for vibration reduction. Additionally, the bike’s Alternator Flat Mount dropouts provide flexibility for both single-speed and geared drivetrains. The design emphasizes resilience and adaptability, ensuring riders can tackle a variety of terrains with confidence.
Salsa Stormchaser: A Single-Speed Gravel Bike for Uncomplicated Rides
The Salsa Stormchaser stands out as a gravel bike designed for those who appreciate simplicity and challenge. As Cory Benson puts it, the bike is for “riders who like to suffer” and those moments “when all you can think about is pushing down on the pedals… the singlespeed means you only have to think about one thing – keep going forward.” This bike is ideal for terrains that are so demanding that riders feel they spend more time walking than cycling. While Salsa has introduced modern amenities to the Stormchaser platform, the essence remains: a straightforward aluminum gravel bike with a rigid carbon fork and a single gear.
Salsa Stormchaser Review – A Single-Speed Gravel Machine
The Salsa Stormchaser is a unique gravel bike, standing out with its single-speed drivetrain. Jeff Balton from Bicycle Guider highlights its adaptability and quality, stating, “The Stormchaser has everything you can ask for in a gravel bike and more. It will be lightweight, fast, and offers a level of simplicity other bikes don’t.” Designed for mixed-terrain and gravel enthusiasts, the Stormchaser combines simplicity with performance, making it both a casual gravel bike and a potential race machine. The bike’s design emphasizes adaptability, speed, and a refreshing simplicity in the world of multi-geared bikes.
Specs
Build Kit
The Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed drivetrain is simplified, featuring a Race Face Ride crankset with a 38t chainring and KMC Z1 Anti-Rust chain. For braking, it employs TRP RRL levers and TRP Spyre-C Flat Mount brakes with Shimano RT30 rotors. The bike rides on Teravail Rutland 700c x 42 mm tires, mounted on WTB ST i23 rims with Shimano RS470 hubs.
Frameset
- Frame: Stormchaser Aluminum
- Fork: Stormchaser Carbon
Drivetrain
- Front Derailleur: N/A
- Rear Derailleur: N/A
- Cassette: Race Face Ride, 38t
- Chain: KMC Z1 Anti-Rust
- Crankset: 17t and 18t cogs with spacer kit
- Shifter: N/A
- Brakes: TRP RRL levers, TRP Spyre-C Flat Mount brakes
- Rotors: Shimano RT30 rotors (160 mm)
Components
- Headset: FSA No.42 ACB
- Stem: Salsa Guide
- Handlebar: Salsa Cowchipper
- Grips / Bar Tape: Anti-Slip Gel handlebar tape
- Seatpost: Salsa Guide, 18 mm offset
- Saddle: WTB Volt Medium Steel
- Seatclamp: Salsa Lip-Lock
Wheels
- Front Wheel: Shimano RS470 12 x 100 mm hub, WTB ST i23 700c TCS rim, 28h
- Rear Wheel: Shimano RS470 12 x 142 mm hub, WTB ST i23 700c TCS rim, 28h
- Tires: Teravail Rutland, 700c x 42 mm, tubeless-ready, Durable casing
Frame Construction
The Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed features a precision-welded Aluminum frame. This frame guarantees durability and exactness. The main triangle of the frame is designed to optimize strength while maintaining a lightweight profile. The bike adopts a 12 x 142 mm TA rear spacing, combined with the specific Salsa rear axle design. This setup ensures adaptability and compatibility with diverse wheel configurations.
Geometry
| Size | 49cm | 52.5cm | 54.5cm | 56cm | 57.5cm | 59cm | 61cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Effective Top Tube | 506 | 527 | 545 | 560 | 575 | 590 | 605 |
| B. Stand Over | 686.86 | 726.74 | 756.48 | 785.5 | 794.05 | 820.44 | 842.79 |
| C. Reach | 366.53 | 371.06 | 374.06 | 383.35 | 392.64 | 401.93 | 411.22 |
| D. Stack | 529.73 | 543.82 | 562.61 | 581.41 | 600.2 | 619 | 637.79 |
| E. Total Seat Tube Length | 390 | 440 | 475 | 510 | 520 | 545 | 570 |
| F. Headtube Length | 90 | 105 | 125 | 145 | 165 | 185 | 205 |
| G. Headtube Angle | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 |
| H. Seat Tube Angle | 75.25 | 74 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 73.1 |
| I. BB Drop | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 |
| K. Chainstay Length | 435–450 | 435–450 | 435–450 | 435–450 | 435–450 | 435–450 | 435–450 |
| L. Fork Length Axle to Crown | 420 | 420 | 420 | 420 | 420 | 420 | 420 |
| M. Fork Offset | 51 | 51 | 51 | 51 | 51 | 51 | 51 |
| N. Wheelbase | 1017.5–1032.2 | 1027.1–1041.9 | 1037–1051.8 | 1053.1–1067.9 | 1069.2–1084 | 1085.4–1100.2 | 1101.5–1116.3 |
| Crank Arm Length | 165 | 165 | 170 | 170 | 175 | 175 | 175 |
| Handlebar Width | 40cm | 42cm | 44cm | 46cm | 48cm | 50cm | 52 |
| Recommended Rider Height | 142cm–157cm | 155cm–165cm | 162cm–173cm | 170cm–180cm | 178cm–188cm | 185cm–193cm | 190cm–UP |
| Stem Length | 60 | 70 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 100 | 110 |
Measurements based on:
- a fork measuring 420x51mm
- a 700x42mm tire measuring 720 mm in diameter
- standover (B) measured vertically to top of toptube 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.
