This is the year of plus sized tires. From mountain bikes to overland epics, it seems manufacturers are quickly finding new and interesting applications for this latest crop of large volume tires (and it’s complimentary Boost 148 standard).
For the new 2016 model year, Salsa is introducing two new plus sized model, and a heavy duty tourer that will accept up to 2.0″ tires.
Starting with biggest tires first, the new Deadwood (pictured above) is a 29+ model that was designed around a similar concept as the beloved Fargo. The new oversized wheelsize is claimed to offer more cushion on challenging terrain and increased traction.
According to Brand Manager Justin Julian, “It makes for the perfect bike when the trail gets a little more unruly.”
For extra carrying capacity, the carbon fork has three pack bosses. Out back, the Alternator Dropouts allow the end user to adjust chain stay length or set up the frame as a single speed.
The Deadwood also utilizes the Boost 148 standard, which Engineer Sean Mailen says “allows for the same Q-Factor and proper crankset fir with a 3″ tire, without sacrificing geometry or forcing some crazed chain stay design”
MSRP is $2,599
The new Pony Rustler shares the same 120mm travel split pivot platform as the 29er Horsetheif (which was updated to a Boost 148 rear end this year), but is compatible with 27.5″ x 3″ tires.
The 27.5+ tire has a similar overall tire diameter as a 29er, but the larger volume tires allow you to run sub 20 psi tire pressure.
Prices for the Pony Rustler start at $3,499 for a GX 2X kit and top out at $5,499 for the X01 version. A frame only version is also available for $2,499.
More interested in touring the world than bikes named after the American West? The new Marrakesh is designed to get you out and back again with a traditional touring inspired geometry.
As Peter Koski, the engineer behind the new model states:
“A true touring bike should have a lower bottom bracket and longer chainstay/wheelbase than a similar sized road, gravel, commuting, or mountain bike. The lower BB also lowers your saddle, and therefore your body relative to the axles. This all results in a center of gravity that makes riding and steering a loaded bike easier and more predictable.”
The Marrakesh will be offered in two versions: a drop and flat bar. Each frame features a unique geometry and will be available in two different color ways. The drop bar will have six different sizes, while the flat will be available in five.
Frames will come stock with a Brooks Saddle and the Alternator 135 Low Deck Rack. The fork has three pack mounts for anything cages or additional water bottles mounts, the frame also has three water bottle mounts. For a more traditional front pannier setup, the fork also includes low rider bosses.
Other features include a spare spoke mount and a kickstand plate.
For more on the new models, visit Salsa Cycles
