Salsa Horsethief

77/100
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
29.81, 30.3, 31.06, 31.94, 34.75 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Salsa Horsethief. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

15 reasons to buy

  • The Salsa Horsethief has 120mm of rear travel, making it ideal for a variety of trails.
  • The bike’s slack head tube and 29” wheels create stability for descents and cornering on the bike.
  • The geometry of the bike allows riders to push more on the downhills.
  • The Horsethief has an efficient pedaling platform. The rider can use the bike’s full gear range without needing to dampen the rear shock.
  • The bike’s wide range of gears helps riders on steep technical climbs.
  • The wide 800mm handlebars help the rider maintain stability on steep descents.
  • The head tube and bottom bracket are adjustable with flip chips. This allows riders to adjust the bike to their comfort or the terrain they hope to tackle.
  • The Horsethief has room for two water bottles in the frame.
  • The bike has mounts on the top tube for a bag.
  • The Super Boost 157mm hub provides clearance for mud and a tire up to 2.6”.
  • The 76.3 degrees seat tube angle positions riders for efficient pedaling.
  • Riders find it easy to shift their weight from seated to standing with the long wheelbase and large 29” wheels on the Horsethief.
  • The geometry places riders in a position for climbing that allows them to maintain traction on both wheels as they climb.
  • The bike is available in sizes small through XL, fitting a wide range of riders.
  • There are five build options available to allow riders the choice of frame material and components that meet their needs and budget.

3 reasons not to buy

  • Experts found that the handlebars were too wide on the Salsa Horsethief.
  • The bike’s only available with a 1x setup.
  • One expert found the bike’s dropper post was short, with only 125mm of travel.

Bottom line

The Salsa Horsethief is a full suspension trail bike. It has the capability of taking on longer distances. The bike has 29” wheels with a Super Boost 157mm rear hub, to provide clearance for mud and wide 2.6” tires. The bike has a Split Pivot suspension providing riders with comfort over roots and rocks. The bike is a stable and confident descender. Experts note that the wide handlebars and dropper post on the bike may not meet the expectations of all. The Salsa Horsethief is affordable. It is best for non-aggressive riders.

Expert Reviews

77/100 based on 1 rated expert review
77

Salsa Horsethief Deore Review

We feel the Horsethief is a good value and a great option for riders who aren’t necessarily pushing their limits and are simply out riding for the fun of it.

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Good Trails

2019 Salsa Horsethief Review: What a Beast!

Absolutely, without a doubt, the best descender of the day.

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MNFATBIKEFAMILY 1

Salsa Horsethief Test Ride

This bike’s nice.

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First Ride: Salsa’s New Spearfish and Horsethief

The Horsethief is Salsa’s 120mm travel trail bike. With a 67-degree head tube angle and 140mm of travel up front, the bike is geared to be a versatile all-arounder.

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Bikepacking.com

2019 Salsa Horsethief and Spearfish: First Look

Going back down is where I felt the bike come to life. It felt confident in and out of corners and handled most of the rough terrain with ease.

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First Ride Review: 2019 Salsa Horsethief Trail Bike is No One-Trick Pony

I feel the trail we rode was just the tip of the iceberg for the Horsethief’s descending capabilities, and considering how well the bike pedals I’d be happy to ride it just about anywhere.

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Mountain Flyer

Tested: Salsa Horsethief

The Horsethief is designed as a versatile 29-inch-wheel trail bike with the capability to take on a wide range of terrain.

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User Ratings

0/100 based on 0 ratings
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Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#162 Best Mountain
Bottom 20%
#66 Best Trail
Bottom 20%
#9 Best Salsa Bike
Bottom 20%
#615 Best of All Bikes
Bottom 20%

Bike Comparison

Salsa Horsethief in comparison to averages

Forum Discussions

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