Joel and I both are about 6′ tall and rode the 57cm model. This incredibly versatile platform comes in mutiple wheelsizes, and handlebar configurations. Thanks to a gate closure clamp and a rock, we forged it back into shape and Joel managed to finish the trip with the bike relatively unscathed. We believe travel by bicycle encourages conservation and inspires respect for people and cultures. Note that this isn’t a full review as we only rode these bikes loaded. Salsa Journeyman 650b Olive 50cm Gravel Bikepacking 2x8 Shimano Claris : Condition: Used “ Great condition. Aside from one hell of a “death mud” mechanical, the Salsa Journeyman handled it all pretty well. Sorry, this Locator is only available for North American residents. The Apex rear derailleur was bent pretty bad, however, as was the derailleur hanger. If you want a cheap, high-quality, comfortable, and fast bike, you shouldn’t hesitate to get it. All Salsa forks However, Jacques bravely jumped into our borrowed transport van, said “see you soon” and drove off in search of a bike shop. A great bike for all types of trails or dirt roads, easily converted for gravel riding too. An excellent entry-level choice for those dreaming of expanding their all-road horizons, the Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris 650 bike is at home on gravel rides and light tours. Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. Each had a carbon fork and was shod with 2.1″ Teravail Sparwood tires (set up tubeless, which is not standard). - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … Paired with the Journeyman's generous tire clearance — up to 650b x 2.2 or 700c x 50 — you'll find yourself venturing farther and longer than ever as new route opportunities unfold. Any products not specifically included above are hereby excluded. Support our independent reviews: https://www.paypal.me/pathlesspedaledhttp://www.pathlesspedaled.com/subscribe-monthly/The Salsa Journeyman … Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. Brand: Salsa, Product: Journeyman Flat Bar Claris 650 . The $899 Salsa Journeyman Is Ready for Gravel, Dirt, and Paved Roads Chart your route, fill your bottles, and hit the road. OFF-ROAD EXPEDITION / WORLD TOURING / CREATIVE THINKING, ASTM Riding Condition Classification Chart, Journeyman Drop Bar Custom Frame Bag Guide, Fantail Deluxe Fork with Three-Pack Mounts, Formula, 32h, 100mm, WTB STP i23 TCS 650b, 2.0mm spokes, brass nipples, Formula, 32h, 135mm, WTB STP i23 TCS 650b, 2.0mm spokes, brass nipples, 1x crankset: 46t max, 2x crankset: 52/36t max, Details Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. All Journeyman frames also have internal cable routing for both the rear derailleur and rear brake. Every Salsa frame, component, and apparel has a useful product life cycle. 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. X. Loading... Prev Next. There are a few things I like about the Apex 1 build, and some others I don’t. - Journeyman Aluminum 650b Flat Bar frame We certainly weren’t hammering, nor did we want to, but we were pushing at a relatively good clip to make up time lost during the morning mud fest. Salsa’s Journeyman Apex 1 650 is a versatile gravel bike that can easily pull double duty as a capable bikepacking rig or serviceable daily commuter. Positives include a decent set of cockpit components. While generally fine on most of the gravel roads we were riding, once the going got steep, the 26 gear inches provided by the lowest 40T/42T chainring/cog combo wasn’t low enough. 2020 Salsa Journeyman Claris 650B. This warranty gives the consumer specific legal rights, and those rights and other rights may vary from place to place. Ended: Oct 30, 2020. Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. Proof of purchase is required before a warranty claim is processed. Jordan comes from the steep streets of Pittsburgh PA, where he learned to dodge cars and rip single track. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Mounts on the Fantail fork allow you to carry extra water or gear, or to run a low rider rack and panniers. The 2019 Salsa Journeyman Range Alright, the first decision you’ll need to make is between 700C or 650B wheels. The 650b Sora model has the same frame/fork as the Apex 1, but features a Shimano Sora 2×9 drivetrain, a Sunrace 9-speed 11-34T cassette, and an FSA Vero Pro Adventure crankset with 46 and 30 tooth chainrings. If you have any questions contact support@salsacycles.com, Inspiration in your inbox I’m happy to report that the fork and tires do a good job of managing vibrations overall. I have a Mongoose cyclocross bike that I would have to more time and money than it may be worth to get it back on the road. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Both Joel and I were happily surprised at how capable the Journeyman felt in this mixed bag of terrain. The Steelman maxes out at 700×33 and a bottom of 36×28. Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Given the more relaxed geometry and wider tires, is there any reason to skip the Journeyman 650b? And for those on a budget, it offers a lot of capability for a minimal investment. Save your dated receipt for proof of purchase. Road. The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa's comfortable Cowbell handlebar, and a cushioned WTB Volt saddle. We provide inspiration and information through original bikepacking routes, stories, and coverage of gear, news, and events that help our community thrive. Legal Disclaimer Wider 650b tires let you take on rough roads with extra stability and traction, while flat bar handlebars lend a more upright and familiar body position. Riders looking for a drop-bar mountain bike to ride singletrack on a regular basis might opt for something like a Salsa Fargo, Cutthroat, or a Bombtrack Hook ADV, which all have a suspension-corrected frame, meaning that its designed around a fork length that can accommodate a suspension fork. Sorry, no results were found. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it … Support us and pass it along... to support us & get The Bikepacking Journal, Frame and fork are well designed and offer a great bang for the buck, Frame geometry suited for a blend of exploration and fun, 650B x 2.1″ tires offer a wide range of capability, Cowbell handlebars and cockpit components are solid, Apex 1 drivetrain isn’t too bad, but definitely not great, Gearing is too high; a crankset that could fit a smaller chainring or 11-46T cassette would be better, Thru-axles are commonplace these days and QR skewers feel like an unnecessary step backward, Non-tubeless compatible tires come standard on all model, If I’m splitting hairs, I’d prefer 27mm internal width rims and a Cowchipper handlebar. Salsa’s Journeyman Claris FB 700: $899.00 Salsa’s Journeyman Claris 650B: $899.00 The full Salsa Journeyman All-Road platform. 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. If bikepacking or dirt roads are in the mix, one of the five Salsa Journeyman 650b models will likely be a more capable option than the 700c x 38mm models. First, a rundown of the Salsa Journeyman 650b. - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … - Journeyman Aluminum 650b Flat Bar frame Paired with the Journeyman's generous tire clearance — up to 650b x 2.2 or 700c x 50 — you'll find yourself venturing farther and longer than ever as new route opportunities unfold. SRAM’s 1x drivetrain and 11-42 tooth cassette were commended. All other suspension frame parts (excludes hanger, pivot hardware, bearings), One-Year Warranty Journeyman Claris 650 Flat Bar is a versatile all-road bike that provides maximum comfort and confidence on a variety of terrain. Mounts on the Fantail fork allow you to carry extra water or gear, or to run a low rider rack and panniers. Please see our Dealers page. Upon unboxing, the Salsa Journeyman 650B (Apex 1) exceeded my expectations. - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … BIKEPACKING.com is dedicated to exploration by bicycle. But … The one difference is that the pink version comes standard with WTB Nanos where the yellow model has Sparwoods. Journeyman Sora 650 - $1,099.00. REAR DERAILLEUR: Shimano Claris GS 9-Speed. According to Salsa, “The Journeyman provides features the cycling enthusiast is looking for to take on their first gravel race or their first ramble down that old ‘B’ road.” It’s clearly a bike designed for gravel/bikepacking-curious riders who are looking for a feature-rich and versatile rig but aren’t quite ready to pony up the big bucks for a Warbird or Tour Divide-ready Cutthroat. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Salsa’s Journeyman Claris FB 700: $899.00 Salsa’s Journeyman Claris 650B: $899.00 The full Salsa Journeyman All-Road platform. 650B; 700C; MSRP $699. Fork: 405mm Seatpost: 27.2mm Seat collar: 32.0mm Reach: 449mm Stack: 638mm Wheelbase: 1136mm. This warranty applies only to Salsa Cycles products purchased through an authorized dealer or distributor. But if God wanted our lives to be easier He wouldn’t have given us Il Douche. I'm considering the Journeyman Sora 650b, 52cm. However, when they tried to bend the aluminum hanger back into shape, it snapped. 3x crankset: 53/39/30t max, Measurements listed are based on a 700 x 38mm tire measuring 706mm in diameter, Standover (P) for all sizes is measured vertically to top of toptube from a position 50mm forward of BB center. All Salsa components, Two-Year Warranty NOTE: All warranty periods below apply to original owner only, Five-Year Warranty These were ridden less than 25 miles. - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … And while I think that QR skewer axles are also a step backwards, this won’t be a major issue to many buyers. View All Features. Wider 650b tires let … Journeyman Claris 650 Flat Bar is a versatile all-road bike that provides maximum comfort and confidence on a variety of terrain. Journeyman Claris 650 Flat Bar is a versatile all-road bike that provides maximum comfort and confidence on a variety of terrain. Email Poster. Toptube Bag Mounts + Wheelsize and Tire Options for Different Riding Styles + Fantail Aluminum Fork + Journeyman Geometry + Journeyman Specific … A few scratches on the frame and a small tear in the handlebar tape, … It comes in either 700c or 650b, and in flat-bar or drop-bar variations. Aluminum frames Simply put, bikepacking is the synthesis of mountain biking and minimalist camping; it evokes the freedom of multi-day backcountry hiking, with the range and thrill of riding a mountain bike. Very little drivetrain wear <100mi. BRAKES: Promax DSK-330R flat mount , 160mm rotors. Salsa Journeyman 650B Flat / Shimano Claris 8-speed / Aluminium Fork / 12.2kg / 27lb / US $899 The 2019 Salsa Journeyman 700C Flat. Salsa Cycles does not guarantee the compatibility of original components with a warranty replacement frame. Salsa Journeyman Olive Claris. High-volume 650b x 2.1” tires felt smooth at lower pressures. The Salsa Journeyman Claris is ready for whatever you can throw its … Find the full build kit below, then photos of the pink version that Joel rode, followed by thoughts and impressions from our ride. Click the link below to learn about each. RIMS: WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0 650B. Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. CRANKSET: FSA Vero Pro Adventure, 46/30t. - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … Both are specced generally the same and have a carbon fork, Cowbell handlebars, an Apex 1 drivetrain with a 40T chainring … - Journeyman Aluminum 650b Flat Bar frame Salsa is well known for the its touring bikes, but can it deliver a gravel riding light-tourer for under $1,000? This makes them non-tubless compatible, which is quite frustrating. Journeyman Sora 700 - $1,099.00. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Journeyman Sora 650 offers a great mix of speed and comfort for a variety of missions. With bigger 27.5 x 2.1″ tires, it’s certainly better suited for tackling rugged terrain. This 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. Salsa Cycles therefore strongly encourages warranty registration at salsacycles.com. Some small scratches in paint, small tear in ”... Read more. After our escapades with mud and mechanicals, we spent the better part of day one going up and down gravel roads. I will say that Jacques’ Journeyman was the only one of the three that had a 2x drivetrain. He was up and running. The Journeyman lacks suspension correction, which rules out that option. Little did we know that this beauty of a route would break components and dish out everything from soft sand to softball-sized rock roads, from endless smooth gravel to rutted and rough two-track, and sometimes no tracks at all. Join our email list. Wider 650b tires let you take on rough roads with extra stability... Journeyman Claris 650 Flat Bar is a versatile all-road bike that provides maximum comfort and confidence on a variety of terrain. These include a pair of top-tube bag mounts, three-pack bosses on each fork blade, three bottle mounts on the frame, a fork crown light mount, rear rack mounts, and a rack and fender kit. This post filed under topics: Gravel Harrison Maddox Salsa … The sticky death mud built up on his tires, got into his chain, and somehow slung the derailleur into his spokes. - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … JOURNEYMAN MODELS. That said, the ADV 3.2 is only available in one version (with 650b wheels and drop handlebars), while Salsa offers t… I certainly never noticed any overt harshness to the point where I wished I was on a carbon or steel frame. Salsa Journeyman 700C Flat / Shimano Claris 8-speed / Aluminium Fork / 11.8kg / 26lb / US $899. Both cables enter the downtube on the non-drivetrain side and exit at the bottom bracket shell (which I never managed to get a photo of while we were out riding). That being said, within an hour, Joel’s Journeyman Apex 1x nearly suffered a similar fate. The 2x Sora gearing was a little better with 24 gear inches in the 30×34 gear. We entered the Upper Missouri River Breaks, a remote and rugged landscape pocked with hoodoos, steep doubletrack, and sometimes technical rutted out dirt roads. Triathlon & Time Trial. Having the chain a little closer to the tire may have played a role in having mud gum up the chain, in turn fouling the rear derailleur. Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa's comfortable Cowbell handlebar, and a cushioned WTB Volt saddle. And coupled with Salsa’s relatively new Fantail Carbon Fork and 2.1″ tires (tubeless, with about 20-22psi), it certainly didn’t feel too stiff or harsh, as one might expect. Paired with the Journeyman's generous tire clearance — up to 650b x 2.2 or 700c x 50 — you'll find yourself venturing farther and longer than ever as new route opportunities unfold. Three of us happily rolled out on the Salsa Journeyman fitted with 27.5 x 2.1″ Teravail Sparwood tires. 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. Throughout the week we rode on this route, the Salsa Journeyman 650B didn’t disappoint. Journeyman is an all-road bike for backroads, bikepacking, or gravel riding and racing. The Salsa Journeyman 650b Apex 1 comes in either yellow or pink. Salsa Journeyman 650 Claris Road Bike Features. Ultradynamico Cava Robusto Tires 650B x 47.99mm (ridden less than 75 miles), setup tubeless. We checked out the high-end, $1,499 Apex 1x model for this writeup and also had a $1,199 Sora 2×9 model along for the ride. I'm 5'4" and was signed up for the DFW MS150 by my wife. Whether you choose the stock 650b build or decide to add a set of 700c wheels and smoother rubber for speed and efficiency, make the Journeyman a trusted companion in exploring your surroundings. Two of us took a dive while descending a very rubbly and steep section of road in the mountains. View The Map, There are some routes that are made classic by their sheer perfection, and others by races. One thing to love about the growing crop of 650B “gravel plus” rigs is that they can indeed offer a one bike solution—that is, if drop-bars are your thing and a mix of paved roads, gravel, two-track, and non-downhill singletrack is your preferred playground. About the author: Jordan Villella. In the same category, Co-op Cycles’ ADV 3.2warrants similar praise. 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. Specs. I felt like the Journeyman fit well right out of the box and stayed comfortable as we topped 65 miles during the evening hours that first day. WARRANTY REGISTRATION: That sounds about right—not crazy light, but not at all heavy. This limited warranty applies only to the original purchaser of the Salsa Cycles product and is not transferable. On longer descents it remained stable and confident, and on short and steep bits, it didn’t seem to hesitate. But it also felt surprisingly fast. The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa's comfortable Cowbell handlebar, and a cushioned WTB Volt saddle. Journeyman Claris We decided to bring three 650B Journeymen along; we thought they’d be a good fit for the mix of gravel and doubletrack that we laid out. Aluminum front triangles of suspension frames The wider tires allow you to ride with ease on rough terrain with good traction and stability. Generally speaking, the Journeyman holds its own when pushed on the rough stuff. But, as per the norm, Salsa geared the bike slightly too high. Visit the shop's website to browse and buy or contact them Steel frames - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa… Your bike has an intended level of use as defined by the ASTM Riding Condition Classification Chart. Paired with the Journeyman's generous tire clearance — up to 650b x 2.2 or 700c x 50 — you'll find yourself venturing farther and longer than ever as new route opportunities unfold. And, you'll find two bolts on the top tube designed to accept Salsa's … Mountain . Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. In the age of carbon gravel bikes, which I’m convinced I’ve typed a thousand times this year, Salsa chose 6061-T6 aluminum for the Journeyman frame. Failure to adhere to the use cases identified in this chart will void your warranty. I wasn’t carrying a travel scale, so I didn’t get an official weigh-in, but Salsa claims about 25.5 lbs (11.56 kg). Please enter a different location or un-check "Show only retailers with confirmed stock.". Find a Salsa retailer using the Bike Inventory Online tool on this page (close popup). Fortunately, Salsa fitted each of these demo bikes with tubeless tires for us. Details about Salsa Journeyman 650b Olive 50cm Gravel Bikepacking 2x8 Shimano Claris See original listing. HUBS: Novate 32h 100mm/135mm In addition to the build seen here, Salsa also offers a flat-Bar Claris option with 650b wheels for $899. Journeyman Claris 700 Flat Bar - $899.00. Salsa Journeyman Claris Flat Bar is a good introductory choice for recreational riders and beginners. All apparel In addition, it’s nearly impossible to find a smaller chainring in the odd asymmetrical bolt pattern that SRAM gave the Apex 1 crankset. The Journeyman can be bought or fit with either 650b or 700c wheels. You can’t blame the bike for this incident. Failure to register will not affect consumer rights under the limited warranty stated above, so long as the consumer can show in a reasonable manner proof of original ownership and the date the Salsa Cycles product was purchased. And, contrary to some opinions I’ve read on the interwebs (of which there are many), the Apex 1 drivetrain is pretty solid. In this feature story, Ben Page offers a reminder of the value of getting out on shorter, simpler trips, instead of getting wrapped up in planning something big... We took three Salsa Journeyman 650B bikes on an epic trip through the wilds of Montana to see how Salsa’s budget off-road drop-bar rig would perform. Last but not least, while some diehards may write off the idea of an aluminum frame, I found that with the carbon fork and larger volume tires the Salsa Journeyman 650B rode really well and didn’t exhibit the harshness I expected. Instead, the Journeyman’s relaxed geometry and excellent price point will likely attract new riders dabbling in adventure and gravel road rambling. phone and ship them right to your door. Please enter a valid North American address or zip code. Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Sora 2019 Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Sora 650B. Given the terrain on this route, several falls, and sheer chances, I’d say that’s a fact that shouldn’t go ignored. Here are photos of the yellow version I rode, outfitted with a custom Rockgeist wedge frame pack built around a Widefoot cage coupled with a 32oz Klean Kanteen. Cockpit parts include the Salsa Cowbell bar and Guide stem and post while the bike rolls on Formula/WTB i23/i19 rims and WTB 650b x 2.1″/700c x 37mm tires. The all-new Journeyman represents Salsa Cycles’ first drop-bar bike to wear a triple-digit price tag. Learn More, As important as it is to have a reliable bike and pack as light as you can, choosing the right route is perhaps the key to your enjoyment. In addition, the pink Apex and blue Sora builds come with WTB Nano Comp tires, which re also non-tubeless compatible. Most Popular Bikes. 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. Built around a 6061-T6 aluminum alloy frame and either a Fantail carbon or alloy fork–depending on the model—Journeyman 650b variations come with a 2×9 Shimano Sora, 2×8 Claris, or SRAM Apex 1x drivetrain. Report Contact Poster by Email. About the author: Jordan Villella. He would ultimately finish the seven-day ride with all of us. The Journeyman certainly fits squarely within this camp. With a 440mm chain stay, it’s not as quick as the Warbird, but it feels pretty snappy. However, if I were looking to purchase a drop-bar rig, it would certainly be on my radar based on the tire clearance, mounting options, and value. And some people might actually appreciate the more traditional standard. The Steelman maxes out at 700×33 and a bottom of 36×28. A few weeks ago Joel Caldwell, Peter Hall, Jacques Boiteau, and myself set out one rainy morning for a week-long ride in Montana’s remote north-central prairie and river breaks. Kids. After a broken derailleur in the first half mile, we were skeptical. That alone puts this bike in its own category. Mounts on the Fantail fork allow you to carry extra water or gear, or to run a low rider rack and panniers. Mounts on the Fantail fork allow you to carry extra water or gear, or to run a low rider rack and panniers. Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Journeyman Claris 650 - $899.00. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Want To Compare These Touring Bikes With Dozens of Others? The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa… Life Style & Commuter. - Journeyman Aluminum 650b … This warranty applies to 2014 and newer model bicycles and covers only Salsa Cycles branded product. You do have a choice on wheel size, but you do not have a choice on color – the 700c is white, and the 650b is blue. This puts you in a more upright position. Luckily he laid off the pedals just in time. Its not likely going to be the bike for a roadie transitioning to gravel. The reason you have this choice is that 650B wheels with wider tyres closely match the … The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa… Lastly, Salsa built the Journeyman around standard 135/100mm QR dropouts. All frame bags. Equipped with 650b wheels and wider tires, it offers comfort and traction on rough terrain. Click the link below to find out how to start. Mounts on the Fantail fork allow you to carry extra water or gear, or to run a low rider rack and panniers. A 36T ring would be much friendlier to the knees when riding up steep roads with a bikepacking load. I typically have to adjust a few things due to numbness or pain when riding a new bike for long days. The fourth issue of The Bikepacking Journal hit mailboxes this spring. Here’s what happened, the full review, and ride impressions from the trip…, On the last day of May, four of us set off into Montana’s rugged backcountry to scout out a new week-long bikepacking route around the Upper Missouri River. Kudos to Salsa for speccing a 46/30 chainset, instead of a larger compact road double, as many gravel bikes often get. It would be easier on a modern gravel bike, like Salsa’s Journeyman Claris 650, with its 2.1-inch 650b’s and low end of 30×34. Salsa 650b OR 700c Offerings. Journeyman Claris 650 offers the versatility to explore any road with confidence. Currently, three of our all-road bike platforms offer 650b/700c interchangeability. There’s no doubt that it’s comfortable and stable. The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa… While the Sparwood is generally fine on hardback and loose gravel, when it comes to deep railroad gravel on steep roads, they loose their stability, as many tires in this category would. 2020 Salsa Journeyman Claris 650b Olive 54cm … SADDLE: WTB Volt. Start Here, Broadly speaking, there are three bikepacking genres to choose from – Multi-day Mountain Biking, Ultralight Race & Gravel, and Expedition & Dirt Touring. The Claris build gives you a dependable 16-speed Shimano/FSA drivetrain matched with flat-mount mechanical disc brakes, Salsa… This warranty does not affect your statutory rights. On another front, it’s an affordable option for mountain bikers looking to diversify their quiver and try out drop-bars for fast mixed terrain rides, winter training, and weekend National Park exploration. 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. Learn More, We have ~100 routes on our worldwide bikepacking routes map. Paired with the Journeyman's generous tire clearance — up to 650b x 2.2 or 700c x 50 — you'll find yourself venturing farther and longer than ever as new route opportunities unfold.