Salsa Blackthorn 125 C GX AXS Transmission Full Suspension Trail Mountain Bike - 29", Carbon, Slate / Citrus, MD, GRADE A - LIKE NEW - 210000074557

Salsa Blackthorn 125 C GX AXS Transmission Full Suspension Trail Mountain Bike - 29", Carbon, Slate / Citrus, MD, GRADE A - LIKE NEW - 210000074557

Blackthorn 125 is Salsa’s trail bike. It’s a well-balanced machine for riders who want the speed and agility to handle anything the trail may bring; it’s fluid in the tight sections and precise when navigating techy descents. Designed to bring everything you need for long rides without weighing you down, Blackthorn 125 excels at going farther without compromising the joy of the ride.

Features                    

• Carbon fiber frame, seatstays, and chainstays with 6061-T6 aluminum links for durability
• Split Pivot suspension design features 125mm of efficient travel that’s fully active under braking and supportive throughout its stroke, paired with a 140mm suspension fork
• Split Pivot + design philosophy lets riders switch travel class to the 145mm rear/160mm front travel found on Blackthorn 145 by swapping out shock link, shock, and fork
• Rear Flip chip adjusts the head tube angle and bottom bracket height to accommodate varying terrain, wheel sizes, and personal preference
• Integrated strap location on frame for tube and multitool
• Fits two bottles on all sizes
• Top tube mounts for use with EXP-R Series Trillium Top Tube Bag or K-Edge computer mounts
• Clearance for up to 29 x 2.5" tires
• Compatible with mixed wheel sizes
• Compatible with most coil shocks
• Molded frame protection

Specifications

• FRAME: Blackthorn 125 Carbon
• FORK: Fox 34 Performance Elite, 140mm
• REAR SHOCK: Fox Float X Performance Elite
• COLOR: Dark Pine/Citrus
• CRANKSET: SRAM GX Eagle Transmission, 30t w/ MRP 1x iO SL ISCG-05 aluminum bashguard
• FRONT DERAILLEUR: N/A
• REAR DERAILLEUR: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission
• CASSETTE: SRAM GX Eagle Transmission, 10–52t, 12-speed
• CHAIN: SRAM GX Eagle Transmission Flattop
• GRIPS / BAR TAPE: WTB Wavelength Lock-On
• HANDLEBAR: Race Face Turbine
• STEM: Salsa 35.0 Guide Trail, 40mm
• HEADSET: FSA Orbit 1.5E ZS NO.57E
• SHIFTER: SRAM AXS Pod controller, Right, w/ MatchMaker X Clamp
• BRAKES & ROTORS: SRAM Code Bronze Stealth, SRAM CenterLine 2.0 (6-bolt, 200mm front, 180mm rear)
• SADDLE: WTB Solano, Medium, Steel SL, Fusion Form
• SEATPOST: TranzX REVERSE w/ GL Stealth MMX Lever, SM: 160mm travel; MD: 180mm travel; LG–XL: 210mm travel
• FRONT WHEEL: WTB Frequency 15 x 110mm hub, WTB ASYM i30 TCS, 28h rim
• REAR WHEEL: WTB Frequency 12 x 148mm hub, WTB ASYM i30 TCS, 28h rim
• TIRES: Teravail Clifty, 29 x 2.5", Durable casing front, Teravail Drawpoint, 29 x 2.5", Durable casing rear
• ACCESSORIES: WTB TCS Sealant Included
• PEDALS: not included

What our Experts Think  

• Trail versatility standout: The Salsa Blackthorn 125 C GX AXS Transmission Full Suspension Trail Mountain Bike is widely regarded as a do-it-all trail platform, blending efficient climbing with confident descending and long-ride capability.
• Climbing performance: Efficient pedaling geometry and supportive suspension make it a strong choice for big elevation days and technical climbs, staying composed even on long rides.
• Descending behavior: Slack geometry and stable chassis deliver high-speed control and confidence on rough terrain, though rear travel can feel limited under aggressive riding.
• Suspension feel: Split Pivot platform provides active, predictable traction, especially on mixed and technical singletrack.
• Real-world trade-offs: Experts note the bike favors balanced efficiency over plush enduro cushioning, meaning riders may “out-ride” the 125mm rear travel in heavy hits.
• Build advantage (GX AXS Transmission): The electronic drivetrain delivers precise, load-shifting performance and low-maintenance reliability, ideal for modern trail riding.
• Upgrade note: Stock tire choice is often considered the weakest link, with many riders recommending an early tire upgrade for optimal grip and control.

                
Q&A

Q: What type of rider is the Salsa Blackthorn 125 C GX AXS best for?
A: It’s built for aggressive trail riders who want a lightweight carbon frame, 125mm rear travel, and 140mm fork balance—ideal for technical climbs, fast singletrack, and rough descents with control.

Q: Is the SRAM GX AXS Transmission drivetrain reliable?
A: Yes. The SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission delivers wireless shifting, high durability, and precise gear changes under load, making it ideal for demanding trail and enduro-style riding.

Q: Can this bike handle rough downhill terrain?
A: Absolutely. The Split Pivot suspension design keeps the bike stable under braking and active through rough terrain, giving confident control on rocky, steep descents.

Q: What wheel size does it use and why?
A: It uses 29" wheels, which improve rollover speed, traction, and stability—perfect for maintaining momentum on technical trails.

Q: Is this a good climbing bike?
A: Yes. Despite its trail focus, the geometry and efficient suspension make it a strong climber with excellent traction on steep or loose climbs.

Q: What does “Grade A – Like New” mean for this listing?
A: It means the bike is in near-new condition with minimal wear, often showroom or lightly ridden quality, offering premium performance at a reduced price.

                   
Maintenance Tips      

• Drivetrain (SRAM GX AXS Transmission): Clean chain regularly, avoid degreaser on electronics, keep firmware updated, and ensure derailleur alignment for crisp shifting.
• Suspension (140mm fork / rear shock): Check sag monthly, clean stanchions after every ride, and follow 50-hour lower-leg + 100-hour full service intervals.
• Frame & pivots (carbon): Inspect linkage bolts for play, torque to spec, and keep pivot areas clean and dry to prevent bearing wear.
• Wheels & tires (29” trail setup): Maintain correct PSI for terrain, check tubeless sealant every 2–3 months, and inspect sidewalls for cuts.
• Brakes (hydraulic disc): Monitor pad wear, keep rotors clean, and bleed brakes when lever feel soft or annually.
• Dropper post: Clean shaft regularly and re-lube wiper seal to prevent stiction.
• General care: Wash with low-pressure water only, avoid bearings/AXS components directly, and dry fully after wet rides.