Horsethief
Introduced for the 2019 model year, the third-generation Salsa Horsethief is a 29-inch trail bike designed for long days and varied terrain. Built around 120mm of rear suspension and a 140mm fork, it occupies a versatile middle ground that prioritizes steady pedaling and all-day comfort over aggressive descending. Salsa updated the frame with a revised Split Pivot suspension layout, metric shock sizing, and a flip chip to fine-tune the stance. The V3 platform also adopts Super Boost 157 rear hub spacing, allowing for short 432mm chainstays while maintaining generous tire clearance. True to the brand's adventure-oriented roots, the front triangle accommodates two full-size water bottles across all sizes, supplemented by top-tube accessory mounts. Available in both carbon and aluminum frames, the Horsethief is positioned for riders who want a balanced, predictable platform for backcountry exploration and moderate singletrack.
| Stack | 632mm |
| Reach | 451mm |
| Top tube | 639mm |
| Headtube length | 123mm |
| Standover height | 759mm |
| Seat tube length | 483mm |
Fit and geometry
The Horsethief utilizes geometry that leans toward traditional trail bike proportions rather than the ultra-slack trends of modern all-mountain bikes. A 66.8-degree head tube angle keeps the steering responsive at lower speeds and on technical climbs, though it requires a more deliberate approach when navigating steep, rough descents. The 73.4-degree seat tube angle places the rider in a slightly rearward, relaxed position that favors steady, seated pedaling over a forward-biased attacking stance.
Reach measurements are moderate, sitting at 451mm on a size large, which creates a neutral and upright posture that minimizes fatigue on long rides. A flip chip at the shock mount allows for minor adjustments to the bottom bracket height and head angle. Across the size run, Salsa specs a short 50mm stem paired with wide 800mm handlebars. This wide stance provides substantial leverage to muscle the bike through corners, though riders navigating tight, tree-lined trails may find themselves clipping the bar ends and opting to trim them down.
Builds
The Horsethief lineup spans four primary builds, split evenly between carbon and aluminum frames. Every model features a 12-speed drivetrain, a TranzX dropper post, and a robust Maxxis Minion DHF and DHR II tire combination, ensuring consistent cornering and braking traction regardless of the price point.
The entry-level Deore and mid-tier SLX builds utilize the alloy frame. The base Deore model relies on a RockShox 35 Silver TK fork, Deluxe Select+ shock, and two-piston Shimano brakes. This setup handles moderate trails well but can feel overwhelmed on high-speed, rough descents. Stepping up to the alloy SLX introduces a RockShox Revelation fork, a Fox Float DPS shock, and four-piston brakes for improved damping and stopping control.
The carbon models shed weight and upgrade the suspension further. The C SLX features a RockShox Pike Select+ fork, while the flagship C XT build maximizes performance with a Pike Ultimate RC2, a full Shimano XT drivetrain, and Reynolds Carbon C 309 wheels. The carbon builds offer the strongest component value for riders looking to push the bike harder, while the alloy models serve as reliable entry points.
Reviews
Reviewers characterize the Horsethief as a highly capable, predictable trail bike that excels at maintaining momentum on rolling terrain. The Split Pivot rear suspension earns consistent praise for its pedaling efficiency and traction. Testers found the platform supportive enough to leave the shock open on technical climbs, noting it provides "incredibly efficient pedaling without the need to over-dampen the rear shock" (Mountainflyermagazine). However, out-of-the-saddle efforts can induce some suspension movement, leading reviewers to conclude the bike "feels best when seated and grinding away the vertical" (Outdoorgearlab).
On descents, the bike's temperament largely depends on the build and the rider's approach. The chassis holds speed well and remains stable, but its relatively conservative geometry means it is not a hyper-aggressive descender. Testers riding the entry-level alloy model found it to have a "predictable, mild-mannered, and even temperament" (Outdoorgearlab), making it ideal for moderate speeds. Conversely, those testing the lighter carbon frame with a premium fork felt more comfortable pushing the bike on steeper trails. Across all builds, reviewers agreed that the Horsethief is a highly practical companion for long rides, especially praising the dual bottle mounts.
