2026 Salsa Blackthorn 145 Frameset - Black Spruce

If you're going to build the best all-mountain bike, frame choice is critical. Our Blackthorn 145 frameset starts you off right, with a Fox Float X2 Performance Elite shock, chain guide, and headset included. The durable aluminum frame features geometry balanced for all the climbing and descending that comes with big days on the mountain.

The Split Pivot suspension allows us to optimize pedaling and braking performance for predictable traction whether pedaling through tech or braking on rocky, rooty descents. Our Split Pivot + design philosophy means you can swap travel class to 125mm rear/140mm front for bikepacking missions or changing up the ride ƒor new terrain.

Blackthorn's cargo mounts give you freedom to wander, with space for two bottles, a repair kit, snacks, and everything else you'd want for a big day out. Start your build now with the Blackthorn 145 frameset.

Features

Split Pivot Suspension System

• Allows us to tune the pedaling and braking forces independently
• Maximizes pedaling and braking performance without compromising either
• Results in optimal pedaling efficiency and traction when braking

Split Pivot +

• Multiple travel classes in one chassis provides riders with the opportunity to adapt their bikes to various adventures

Flip Chip

• Provides the ability to alternate wheel and tire sizes
• Riders can adjust for their terrain, or desired handling characteristics

Suspension Kinematics

• Lively, responsive ride feel with good bottom-out resistance
• Free, active, and uniform suspension feel under braking
• Efficient pedaling, stellar climbing traction, supple small-bump performance
• Tunable for all riders

On-Bike Storage

• Adventures require gear and riders should get to choose whether they carry it on their bike or on their body

Frame Protection

• Our products are built from experience - we've been there enough to know that a carbon fork can benefit from added protection just as much as the downtube on a suspension bike.

Frame Specs

• Design Wheel/Tire Sizes 55-63.5mm (2.2-2.5")
• Alternate Wheel/Tire Sizes 584/27.5" Rear Wheel Only 63-70mm (2.5-2.7")
• Max Tire Outer Diameter Tire Clearance Frame: 29 x 2.5"
  Tire Clearance Fork: 732 mm Diameter / 81mm Width
• Frame Construction 6061 Aluminum
• Suspension Fork Length (Travel) 160mm travel
• Fork Offset 44mm
• Rear Spacing 12 x 148mm
• Rear Axle Size 12 x 188mm, TP=1.0, TL=20
• Rear Brake (Rotor) 74mm Post Mount (180-200mm rotor)
• Front Brake (Rotor) 74mm Post Mount (180-220mm rotor)
• Headset - Upper ZS44/28.6
• Headset - Lower ZS56/40
• Rear Shock Size 210x55
• Shock Mount, Fore ø10 x 30mm
• Steerer Tube 1.125-1.5" Tapered
• Crown Race 59mm
• Seatpost 30.9mm
• Dropper Post Compatible Yes (internal)
• Seatpost Clamp 35.0mm
• Max Post Insertion SM: 215mm; MD: 240mm; LG: 265mm; XL: 290mm
• Derailluer Hanger SRAM UDH
• Bottom Bracket 73mm BSA
• Crankset (Max Ring) 34t (55mm)
• Accessory Mounts Top Tube Accessory Mounts: 1
• Bottle Mounts 2
• Fork Mounts None
• Front Fender Mounts None
• Rear Fender Mounts None

Additional Features

Split Pivot rear suspension design

Split Pivot provides a host of impressive suspension characteristics because the system isolates pedaling forces and braking forces from each other, allowing us to tune and optimize the bike for both independently. The concentric rear axle pivot, in conjunction with precise wheel link, brake link, and control link placement, results in excellent bump compliance and pedaling efficiency, smooth and predictable braking throughout travel, and maximum traction.

Split Pivot + design methodology

The Split Pivot+ design methodology allows our engineers to optimize a frame for more than one travel class. This means that Blackthorn 145 riders can swap control and shock links, in addition to the rear shock and fork, to switch travel to Blackthorn 125's 125mm rear and 140 mm front capability. One frame, multiple bikes.

Progressive leverage rate

Blackthorn is designed with a progressive leverage rate that offers plenty of bottom out performance at the end of the stroke, promoting more confidence and control on bigger hits and a deeper feel to the travel. The beginning and mid-stroke provide extremely supple small bump compliance off the top for a smooth ride and consistent mid-travel support to help combat rider fatigue and maintain bike geometry.

Purpose-tuned suspension

Blackthorn-specific control link and shock links optimize the frame geometry and kinematics for its suspension travel, delivering a well-rounded, balanced trail feel.

All-mountain geometry

Blackthorn 145 is long, low, and slack, with a dash of moderation to preserve pedaling performance. A 63.9-degree head tube angle creates a long front center with the stability to descend loose, steep trails in total confidence, while a steep 77.4-degree seat tube angle makes seated pedaling and climbing more comfortable. Short 432-433mm chainstays keep Blackthorn agile for handling tight situations.

Flip chip

A flip chip allows a simple and quick 5mm adjustment to bottom bracket height and 0.3-degree adjustment to head tube angle to account for your personal preference, terrain, or wheel size and tire diameter.

6061-T6 aluminum frame

Heat-treated aluminum frame for stiffness and durability.

Top tube accessory mounts

Top tube mounts accommodate direct-mount top tube bags or the K-Edge Top Tube Mount for bike computers.

Fits two bottles on all sizes

Stay hydrated on long trail rides with space for two bottles on all frame sizes.

Integrated repair kit location

Bring your multitool and tube without scuffing your frame or hauling around a hip pack.

Versatile wheel and tire fit

Blackthorn features clearance for up to 29 x 2.5" tires and is compatible with mixed wheel sizes.

Coil shock compatibility

Blackthorn is compatible with most coil shocks.

Molded frame protection

Molded rubber down tube, seat tube, chainstay, and seatstay guards protect your frame from impacts and abrasion.

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?? WARNING:

This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.