Overview
Our inspiring review is coming soon, for now here is what Salsa says:
The all-new Timberjack SLX 29 delivers a carefully-calculated blend of fun and versatility that embraces our Adventure by Bike mantra. Updated geometry offers more stability in technical terrain without losing hardtails’ treasured pedaling and climbing capabilities—it feels like that friend who says “you’ve got this” before every intimidating trail feature. Adjustable Alternator 2.0 dropouts let you tune ride characteristics and change up your drivetrain if you so desire.
We loaded this aluminum hardtail frame with mounts to make carrying stuff on your bike easier—ride your favorite trails without the weight of a pack, or gear up for bikepacking overnighters to your favorite backcountry spots. The 29 x 2.6” wheel and tire combo is strong in the grip and rollover departments, and Shimano’s SLX drivetrain delivers performance you can count on in all conditions. The all-new Timberjack is ready for all-out trail sessions and adventures that go well beyond your local loops.
Geometry & Ride Characteristics
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″ features a slack headtube angle that provides stability when descending with a loaded bike, while the steep seat tube angle allows for efficient pedaling, even when carrying extra gear. The short chainstay length contributes to the bike’s agility, making it easier to navigate through technical sections or tight spots that you might encounter on remote trails.
When it comes to ride feel, the Timberjack SLX 29″ excels as a bikepacking bicycle. Its geometry provides a comfortable yet responsive ride, making it easy to navigate through technical trails while also being stable on long descents. The bike’s balanced reach and stack height contribute to a riding position that minimizes fatigue, which is crucial for long days in the saddle.
- Headtube Angle: The Timberjack SLX 29″ features a slack headtube angle of 66.4 degrees, which is generally more relaxed than typical cross-country bikes. This provides better stability on descents, especially useful when bikepacking with added weight.
- Seat Tube Angle: With a seat tube angle of 75.1 degrees, the bike positions the rider more directly over the pedals compared to bikes with slacker seat angles. This allows for more efficient pedaling, particularly beneficial when carrying extra gear.
- Chainstay Length: The chainstay length is 420 mm, shorter than many traditional touring bikes. This contributes to the bike’s agility, making it easier to handle in tight turns and technical terrains.
- Reach and Stack: The reach ranges from 410.7 mm to 492.6 mm across sizes, and the stack ranges from 599 mm to 625.5 mm. These dimensions offer a balanced geometry that accommodates a wide range of rider heights and builds.
- Headtube and Seat Tube Angles Across Sizes: Both the headtube and seat tube angles remain consistent across all sizes at 66.4 and 75.1 degrees, respectively. This ensures a consistent riding experience regardless of the frame size.
- Bottom Bracket Drop: The bike features a 56.6 mm bottom bracket drop, which is moderate compared to other bikepacking bikes. This helps in maintaining a lower center of gravity for better stability.
- Wheelbase Across Sizes: The wheelbase varies from 1120 mm to 1211.7 mm across sizes, providing a stable platform that is neither too twitchy nor too sluggish, making it versatile for both trail riding and bikepacking.
vs. the Salsa Timberjack XT 29″
The Salsa Timberjack XT 29″ is a premium version of the Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″. While both bikes share the same frame, the primary differences lie in the rear derailleur, fork and brakes as follows:
- Fork
- Salsa Timberjack XT 29″: Features a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork with 130 mm travel.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Comes with a RockShox 35 Silver TK fork with 130 mm travel.
- Rear Derailleur
- Salsa Timberjack XT 29″: Equipped with a Shimano XT M8100 SGS rear derailleur.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Features a Shimano SLX M7100 SGS rear derailleur
- Brakes
- Salsa Timberjack XT 29″: Equipped with Shimano M4120 four-piston brakes.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Comes with Shimano MT401 two-piston brakes.
vs. the Salsa Rangefinder Deore 12 29″
The Salsa Rangefinder Deore 12 29″ and the Timberjack SLX 29″ differ notably in their ride characteristics. The Rangefinder features a more moderate geometry with an SR Suntour XCR34 or RST Aerial fork, which offers less travel compared to the Timberjack’s RockShox 35 Silver TK fork. This makes the Rangefinder more suited for less technical terrains and longer, steadier rides. The Timberjack, with its more aggressive geometry and higher-end fork, excels in technical trails and offers a more dynamic ride. While both are capable, the Timberjack provides a more performance-oriented experience at a relatively higher cost.
- Fork
- Salsa Rangefinder Deore 12 29″: Offers either an SR Suntour XCR34 Boost or RST Aerial fork with 120 mm travel, providing adequate shock absorption for moderate terrains.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Features a RockShox 35 Silver TK fork with 130 mm travel, better suited for technical trails.
- Rear Derailleur
- Salsa Rangefinder Deore 12 29″: Equipped with a Shimano Deore M6100 SGS rear derailleur, reliable for a wide range of riding conditions.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Features a Shimano SLX M7100 SGS rear derailleur, known for its precise and quick shifting.
- Brakes
- Salsa Rangefinder Deore 12 29″: Equipped with either Shimano MT200 or Promax DSK-925 brakes, which are adequate for general use but may lack the stopping power for more technical descents.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Comes with Shimano MT401 two-piston brakes, offering better stopping power, especially in technical conditions.
- Ride Feel
- Salsa Rangefinder Deore 12 29″: More suited for less technical terrains, thanks to its moderate fork and reliable components.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Excels in technical trails due to its higher-end fork and more responsive rear derailleur.
- Geometry
- Salsa Rangefinder Deore 12 29″: Features a more moderate geometry, complemented by its versatile components.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Comes with a more aggressive geometry, optimized for technical terrains and enhanced by its performance-oriented components.
vs. the Surly Krampus SUS
The Surly Krampus SUS and the Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″ offer distinct ride experiences rooted in their design and components. The Krampus SUS features a 100% Surly Chromoly Steel frame and fork, providing a more compliant and forgiving ride, especially on rough terrains. It also comes with wider Surly Dirt Wizard 29 x 3″ tires, enhancing grip and stability. In contrast, the Timberjack SLX 29″, with its alloy frame and RockShox 35 Silver TK fork, offers a more responsive and agile ride, particularly suited for technical trails. While both are performance-oriented, the Krampus leans towards rugged versatility at a higher cost.
- Frame
- Surly Krampus SUS: Features a 100% Surly Chromoly Steel frame, known for its durability and shock-absorbing qualities.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Comes with a Timberjack Alloy V2 frame, which is lighter and offers a more responsive ride.
- Fork
- Surly Krampus SUS: Equipped with a RockShox 35 Gold RL, 15 x 110mm, 120mm Travel, providing a compliant ride.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Features a RockShox 35 Silver TK fork with 130 mm travel, better suited for technical terrains.
- Tires
- Surly Krampus SUS: Sports wider 29 x 3″ tires for enhanced grip and stability.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Comes with Maxxis Minion DHF front and Maxxis Rekon rear tires, 29 x 2.6″, optimized for varied terrains.
- Rear Derailleur
- Surly Krampus SUS: Features a Shimano Deore RD-M6100 rear derailleur.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Equipped with a Shimano SLX M7100 SGS rear derailleur, known for quick and precise shifting.
- Brakes
- Surly Krampus SUS: Comes with Avid BB5 mechanical brakes.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Features Shimano MT401 two-piston brakes, offering better stopping power in technical conditions.
- Ride Feel
- Surly Krampus SUS: Provides a compliant and shock-absorbing ride, ideal for rugged terrains.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Offers a responsive and agile ride, particularly suited for technical trails.
- Geometry
- Surly Krampus SUS: Features a geometry that leans towards stability and comfort, especially on rough terrains.
- Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″: Comes with a more aggressive geometry, optimized for technical terrains and bikepacking.
Features
130mm RockShox 35 Silver TK Fork: This bike comes with a RockShox 35 Silver TK fork with 130 mm of travel. This fork offers a good level of shock absorption, making it a reliable choice for uneven trails and enhancing the bike’s overall comfort and control.
Shimano SLX M7100 SGS Rear Derailleur: Equipped with a Shimano SLX M7100 SGS rear derailleur, the bike ensures smooth and reliable gear shifting. This level of rear derailleur quality is a strong feature, especially for those who require a wide range of riding styles.
Shimano Deore M6100-12 Cassette: The bike features a Shimano Deore M6100-12, 10–51t, 12-speed cassette, offering a broad range of gearing options. This makes the bike versatile for both climbing steep hills and achieving high speeds on flat terrains.
Internal Cable Routing: The Timberjack SLX 29″ features sleek internal cable routing. This not only enhances the bike’s aesthetic but also protects the cables from external elements, a feature often reserved for higher-end models.
Bag and Rack Mounting Points
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″ 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 29″ Featured in the Wild
Salsa Timberjack SLX 29 – How Will You Ride Yours?
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 29 is a hardtail bike that offers a blend of modern trail bike geometry and adventure-ready features. The review by Singletrack Magazine highlights its adjustable dropouts, which allow for chainstay lengths of either 420mm or 437mm, offering versatility in ride feel. The bike comes with a 130mm RockShox Silver RC35 air fork, Shimano SLX shifters, and a TranzX travel adjustable dropper post. The author, Hannah, states, “In a world of bikes where the waters seem to be parting into ‘gravel bikes’ on one side and ‘enduro beasts’ on the other, a trail bike with some adventuring proclivities makes a refreshing change.” The review suggests that while the bike has some compromises, like its entry-level brakes, it’s a solid option for those who want a versatile bike for both trail riding.
Salsa Timberjack SLX 29 Review – YouTube
The YouTube review by Mike in CC delves into the 2019 Salsa Timberjack SLX 29, highlighting its modern geometry and bikepacking capabilities. Among the high points mentioned are its 29 x 2.6 tires, 11-degree sweep handlebars, and a large front triangle space for bikepacking. The bike also comes with tubeless wheels and an 11-46 rear derailleur with a 30T front chainring, described as a “poor man’s Eagle gear equivalent.” Mike in CC notes, “This is a ‘poor man’s’ Eagle gear equivalent,” emphasizing the bike’s affordability without compromising on essential features.
Salsa Timberjack Unboxing & First Ride Impressions
The YouTube channel Ride Year Round provides a detailed review of the 2021 Salsa Timberjack SLX 29. The reviewer was in search of a hardtail MTB that offered modern geometry, the ability to fit plus tires, and the option for singlespeed. He found that the Timberjack SLX 29 met all these requirements. The reviewer notes, “The redesigned 2021 Salsa Timberjack SLX 29 ticked all of those boxes,” highlighting how the bike perfectly aligned with his needs. The video includes both an unboxing and first ride impressions, giving viewers a well-rounded understanding of the bike’s capabilities.
Specs
Build Kit
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″ drivetrain consists of a Shimano SLX M7100 SGS rear derailleur and a 12-speed Shimano Deore M6100 cassette. Braking is handled by Shimano MT401 brakes with center lock rotors. The bike also includes quality components like an FSA Orbit 1.5E ACB headset, Race Face Chester 35 handlebars, and a TranzX YSI05 RAD+ seatpost with 30 mm travel adjustment. The wheelset consists of Shimano hubs and WTB ST i30 32h 29″ rims, wrapped in Maxxis Minion DHF and Rekon tires.
Frameset
- Frame: Timberjack Alloy V2
- Fork: RockShox 35 Silver TK, 15 x 110 mm, 130 mm Travel, 44 mm offset
Drivetrain
- 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
- Grips / Bar Tape: Salsa File Tread
- Seatpost: TranzX YSI05 RAD+, Shimano MT500 lever, 30 mm travel adj
- Saddle: WTB Volt 250 Steel
Wheels
- Front Wheel: Shimano MT400-B 15 x 110 mm hub, WTB ST i30 32h 29″ rim
- Rear Wheel: Shimano MT410-B Micro Spline 15 x 110 mm hub, WTB ST i30 32h 29″ rim
- Tires: Maxxis Minion DHF front, Maxxis Rekon rear, 29 x 2.6″, EXO, TR
Frame Construction
The Salsa Timberjack SLX 29″ features a Timberjack v2 Aluminum frame, known for its durability and lightweight characteristics. The frame is designed to accommodate a wide range of tire sizes, from 53–66 mm for 29″ wheels and up to 71 mm for 27.5″ wheels. It’s compatible with both suspension and rigid forks, with lengths ranging from 483–563 mm. The frame features ZS44 and ZS56 headsets for the upper and lower sections, respectively. A 30.9 mm seatpost and 35 mm seat collar are standard, and the frame is dropper-post compatible with internal routing. The bottom bracket is a 73 mm BSA, and it’s designed for a max 34t chainring on a 52 mm Boost chainline. The rear spacing is 148 mm, and it uses an M12 x 180L rear axle. The frame employs 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.
