Overview
Introducing the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b—a bike designed to redefine your gravel and bikepacking adventures. With its 6061-T6 aluminum frame and carbon Waxwing fork, you’ll enjoy a harmonious blend of control and comfort for every mile you tackle. The Journeyer’s versatility is a game-changer, equally adept at handling bikepacking trips and daily commutes. Rolling on high-volume 650b x 47 mm tires and powered by Shimano’s GRX 810 drivetrain, the Journeyer sets a new benchmark for what an entry-level gravel bike can be. So gear up, and let this bike be the catalyst for your next two-wheeling adventure.
Imagine the crackling of a campfire as you share stories of the day’s ride with friends, the aroma of pine in the air, and a sky full of stars overhead. That’s the essence of gravel bikepacking, and the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b is the perfect brush for you to paint this picture. Its cargo capability lets you load up your bikepacking bags with ease, turning any gravel road into potential avenue of adventure. As you pedal through winding roads and reconnect with with yourself and nature, you’ll find the Journeyer’s design elements—like its high-volume tires and dependable drivetrain—make it an ideal choice to fulfill your gravel bikepacking ambitions.
Geometry & Ride Characteristics
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b showcases a geometry that is both accommodating and versatile. Its elongated top tube provides ample room in the cockpit, enhancing rider comfort during long hauls. The slack head tube angle adds a laid-back character to the bike, making it more forgiving on descents and stable at high speeds. The bike’s moderate bottom bracket height offers a balanced center of gravity, which aids in both climbing and cornering. Lastly, the uniform length of the chainstays across all sizes contributes to a consistent and predictable handling experience.
Riding the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b feels like a blend of agility and steadiness. The slack head tube angle and longer wheelbase make it stable on descents and comfortable over long distances. Its unique reach and stack measurements ensure that the bike remains responsive, allowing for quick manoeuvres when needed. The bike is designed to offer a balanced ride that can handle a variety of surfaces with ease.
- Elongated Top Tube: The Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b has an effective top tube length ranging from 493mm to 600mm across sizes. This is longer compared to many traditional gravel bikes, providing a more spacious cockpit for enhanced rider comfort.
- Slack Head Tube Angle: The bike features a head tube angle of 68.5° to 69.5°, depending on the size. This is more relaxed than the typical gravel bike, adding forgiveness on descents and stability at higher speeds.
- Uniform Chainstay Length: The chainstay length is consistently 440mm across all sizes. This contributes to predictable and consistent handling, unlike some bikes that adjust chainstay length based on frame size.
- Generous Wheelbase: The wheelbase varies from 1027mm to 1104mm depending on the size, adding to the bike’s overall stability. This is a longer wheelbase compared to many gravel bikes designed for quick responsiveness.
- Reach and Stack: The bike’s reach ranges from 366mm to 408mm, and the stack from 510mm to 627mm, offering a balanced ride. These measurements ensure that the bike remains agile and responsive.
- Seat Tube Angle: The seat tube angle ranges from 73° to 76° depending on the size. This angle allows for efficient power transfer and is well-suited for both climbing and flat terrains.
- Reach: With reach measurements ranging from 366mm to 408mm, the bike offers a comfortable yet sporty riding position.
- Seat Tube Angle: The seat tube angles range from 73° to 76°, which is versatile enough for both aggressive riding and relaxed cruising.
- Wheelbase: The wheelbase, ranging from 1027mm to 1104mm, provides a stable and confident ride, especially at higher speeds.
vs. the Salsa Journeyer GRX 600, 650b
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 600, 650b equipped with Shimano GRX RX810 components, is a more economical version of the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b. While both bikes share the same frame, the primary differences lie in the componentry as follows:
- Drivetrain:
- GRX 810, 650b: Equipped with a 1×11 drivetrain setup, eliminating the need for a front derailleur. Utilizes a Shimano GRX RX812 rear derailleur and a Shimano M7000 cassette with an 11–42t, 11-speed range.
- GRX 600, 650b: Features a 2×11 drivetrain, incorporating a Shimano GRX RX810 for both the front and rear derailleurs. The cassette is a Shimano HG700 with an 11–34t, 11-speed range.
- Brakes:
- GRX 810, 650b: Fitted with higher-end Shimano GRX RX810 brakes, offering superior stopping power and control.
- GRX 600, 650b: Uses Shimano GRX RX400 brakes, which are functional but not as high-performing as the RX810 brakes on the 810 model.
- Crankset:
- GRX 810, 650b: Utilizes a Shimano GRX RX810 crankset with a single 40t chainring.
- GRX 600, 650b: Comes with a Shimano GRX RX600 crankset featuring a dual 46/30t chainring setup.
vs. the Bombtrack Hook Ext C
The Bombtrack Hook Ext C and the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b differ significantly in their ride characteristics. The Bombtrack features a high-modulus carbon frame and fork, making it lighter and more responsive, while the Salsa opts for a more traditional aluminum frame. The Bombtrack uses SRAM Rival 1 components, offering a 1×11 drivetrain with a wide 10-42T cassette, compared to the Shimano GRX RX812 and 11-42T cassette on the Salsa. The Bombtrack is designed for more aggressive off-road riding with its 27.5″ x 2.0″ tires, whereas the Salsa is versatile but leans towards gravel and touring with its 650b x 47 mm tires. The Bombtrack generally targets a performance-focused market, while the Salsa offers a balanced, all-around experience.
- Frame and Fork:
- Bombtrack Hook Ext C: High-modulus carbon frame and fork for lighter weight and increased responsiveness.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Aluminum frame with a Waxwing fork, offering durability and a more traditional feel.
- Drivetrain:
- Bombtrack Hook Ext C: Features a 1×11 SRAM Rival 1 drivetrain with a wide 10-42T cassette.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Equipped with a 1×11 Shimano GRX RX812 drivetrain and an 11–42t, 11-speed Shimano M7000 cassette.
- Brakes:
- Bombtrack Hook Ext C: Uses SRAM Rival flat mount hydraulic disc brakes with 160 mm rotors.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Features Shimano GRX RX810 hydraulic disc brakes, also with 160 mm rotors.
- Tires:
- Bombtrack Hook Ext C: Comes with WTB VENTURE TCS LIGHT 27.5″ x 2.0″ tires, designed for aggressive off-road riding.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Features Teravail Washburn 650b x 47 mm tires, suitable for gravel and touring.
- Ride Feel:
- Bombtrack Hook Ext C: Offers a more aggressive and responsive ride, tailored for off-road and technical terrains.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Provides a balanced ride that is versatile but leans more towards gravel and long-distance touring.
- Geometry:
- Bombtrack Hook Ext C: Geometry designed for aggressive off-road riding, with features like triple cage mounts on the fork.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: More traditional gravel bike geometry, with a focus on comfort and versatility.
vs. the Kona Rove DL
The Kona Rove DL and the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b diverge significantly in their riding characteristics. The Kona features a butted Cromoly frame, which gives it a more compliant, shock-absorbing ride, while the Salsa uses an aluminum frame for a stiffer and more responsive feel. The Kona employs SRAM Apex and Rival 1 components with a 40t chainring and 11-42t cassette, compared to the Shimano GRX RX812 and 11-42t cassette on the Salsa. The Kona is equipped with TRP mechanical/hydraulic brakes, whereas the Salsa features full hydraulic Shimano GRX RX810 brakes. The Kona leans more towards an adventure and touring focus, while the Salsa is versatile but more performance-oriented.
- Frame and Fork:
- Kona Rove DL: Features a butted Cromoly frame, known for its shock-absorbing and compliant ride qualities.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Utilizes an aluminum frame with a Waxwing fork, offering a stiffer and more responsive ride.
- Drivetrain:
- Kona Rove DL: Employs SRAM Apex and Rival 1 components with a 40t chainring and an 11-42t cassette.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Equipped with a 1×11 Shimano GRX RX812 drivetrain and an 11–42t, 11-speed Shimano M7000 cassette.
- Brakes:
- Kona Rove DL: Uses TRP mechanical/hydraulic brakes, offering a blend of mechanical and hydraulic features.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Comes with full hydraulic Shimano GRX RX810 brakes, providing superior stopping power.
- Ride Feel:
- Kona Rove DL: Leans towards an adventure and touring focus, offering a more compliant ride.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Provides a balanced but more performance-oriented ride, suitable for a variety of conditions including gravel and touring.
- Geometry:
- Kona Rove DL: Features a geometry that is more oriented towards comfort and long-distance touring.
- Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b: Offers a versatile geometry that is well-suited for both gravel riding and long-distance touring.
Features
Streamlined Drivetrain: The Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b features a 1×11 drivetrain setup with a Shimano GRX RX812 rear derailleur and an 11–42t cassette. This eliminates the need for a front derailleur, making gear changes and maintenance more straightforward.
High-Quality Brakes: The bike is equipped with Shimano GRX RX810 hydraulic disc brakes, offering excellent stopping power and control, particularly in challenging weather conditions.
Thru-Axle System: The bike uses a thru-axle system for both the front and rear wheels, enhancing stability and making wheel removal easier.
Tubeless-Ready Wheels: The wheels are designed to be tubeless-ready, providing better traction and reducing the likelihood of flats, a key feature for off-road adventures.
Internal Cable Routing: The bike benefits from internal cable routing, which not only improves its aesthetics but also minimizes the risk of cable-related issues.
Bag, Rack and Fender Mounting Points
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b is equipped with the following mounting points to cater to all your gear-hauling needs:
Top Tube Bag Mounts: The top tube features mounts that can accommodate a toptube bag, providing easy access to essentials during a ride.
Front Fork Mounts: There are multiple mounts on both sides of the front fork for water bottles, cargo cages, or front racks.
Rear Rack Mounts: The rear of the bike has mounts for attaching a standard rear rack for panniers or other gear.
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.
Fender Mounts: The bike has mounts for full coverage fenders, which are essential for wet weather riding.
Specs
Build Kit
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b features a 1×11 drivetrain with a Shimano GRX RX812 rear derailleur and an 11–42t Shimano M7000 cassette, eliminating the need for a front derailleur. The bike is equipped with high-end Shimano GRX RX810 hydraulic brakes and Shimano RT10 rotors for exceptional stopping power. For comfort, it has a WTB Volt Medium saddle and black cork grips. The wheelset includes Shimano Tiagra RS470 hubs and WTB EZR i23 650b rims, wrapped in Teravail Washburn 650b x 47 mm tubeless-ready tires.
Frameset
- Frame: Journeyer Drop-Bar Thru-Axle
- Fork: Waxwing
Drivetrain
- Front Derailleur: N/A
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano GRX RX812
- Cassette: Shimano M7000 11–42t, 11-speed
- Chain: Shimano HG601
- Crankset: Shimano GRX RX810, 40t on sizes 53 cm + (Shimano GRX RX600, 40t, 165mm arms on sizes 49 and 51 cm)
- Shifter: Shimano GRX RX810-R/LA
- Brakes: Shimano GRX RX810 brakes
- Rotors: Shimano RT10 rotors (Center Lock, 160 mm)
Components
- Headset: FSA NO.42 ACB IS-2
- Stem: Salsa Guide 31.8, 6-degree
- Handlebar: Salsa Cowbell 3, 31.8
- Grips / Bar Tape: Black Cork
- Seatpost: Salsa Guide, 27.2 x 350 mm
- Saddle: WTB Volt Steel Medium, 142 x 265 mm
Wheels
- Front Wheel: Shimano Tiagra RS470 12 x 100 mm hub, WTB EZR i23 650b rim, 28h
- Rear Wheel: Shimano Tiagra RS470 12 x 142 mm hub, WTB EZR i23 650b rim, 28h
- Tires: Teravail Washburn, 650b x 47 mm, 60 tpi, Durable casing, tubeless ready
Frame Construction
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b is built with specialized Alluminium alloy tubing developed specifically for the Journeyer frame. This tubing is then heat-treated to meet T6 alloy standards, enhancing its strength and durability. The frame features a Thru-Axle dropout system, which adds to the bike’s stability and simplifies maintenance. When paired with the Waxwing fork, the bike offers a well-balanced mix of stability and agility. The frame of the Salsa Journeyer GRX 810, 650b is designed for durability and performance, featuring a drop-bar thru-axle system that enhances stability and simplifies maintenance. Prepared for disc brakes, the frame adheres to flat mount standards for both the front and rear. It is also engineered for compatibility with internal dropper post routing.
Geometry
| Size | 49cm | 51cm | 53cm | 55cm | 57cm | 60cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Effective Top Tube | 493 | 510 | 530 | 550 | 570 | 600 |
| B. Stand Over | 606 | 641 | 677 | 713 | 749 | 796 |
| C. Reach | 366 | 368 | 372 | 376 | 387 | 408 |
| D. Stack | 510 | 528 | 552 | 570 | 598 | 627 |
| E. Total Seat Tube Length | 340 | 380 | 410 | 450 | 490 | 520 |
| F. Headtube Length | 90 | 105 | 130 | 150 | 180 | 210 |
| G. Headtube Angle | 68.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 | 69.5 |
| H. Seat Tube Angle | 76 | 75 | 74 | 73 | 73 | 73 |
| I. BB Drop | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 |
| K. Chainstay Length | 440 | 440 | 440 | 440 | 440 | 440 |
| L. Fork Length Axle to Crown | 402 | 402 | 402 | 402 | 402 | 402 |
| M. Fork Offset | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| N. Wheelbase | 1027 | 1028 | 1040 | 1050 | 1072 | 1104 |
| Crank Arm Length | 165 | 165 | 170 | 172.5 | 175 | 175 |
| Handlebar Width | 380 | 400 | 420 | 440 | 460 | 460 |
| Recommended Rider Height | 142 – 152cm | 150 – 160cm | 157 – 170cm | 165 – 178cm | 173 – 185cm | 183 – 196cm |
| Stem Length | 60 | 70 | 80 | 80 | 90 | 100 |
Measurements based on:
- a fork measuring 405mm with 50mm offset
- a 700 x 38mm tire measuring 706 mm in diameter
- Stand over measured vertically to top of top tube from a position 50mm forward of BB center
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.