Has anyone ridden both original and later spit frame models and care to give an opinion on difference in ride? Accidentally acquired both types of frames and can only afford to build one.
I prefer the look of the earlier frame as it has cleaner lines and the painted finish is brighter compared to the dyed anodising of the split frame which I think looks slightly agricultural. It’s much more angular but then it is a different geometry.
I want to try a ‘semi full sus’ as getting old and the pain in my hips knees and one elbow is not getting any less from hovering over my rigid frame and absorbing the bumps.
If you go on Muddy Moles, Muddy Dave will be able to help.
All I can tell you is that the original version is an awesome xc rig. I have the 2012 with Easton haven wheels and I love it. I too am an old chuffer, but this thing flies!
I even turned down a demo on the orange version of the split pivot when it came out, as I didn't want to like it!
It's my go to bike for long distance xc stuff......
Got a 2013 one of the original frames off here, absolute flying machine and I love it.
Never ridden a split
pivot one. Sorry.
Coming from a 2011 Camber Pro I was amazed at how fast and capable it is. Builds light too. Much more than just a long distance xc bike. You can have a lot of fun on a Spearfish! Won't be getting rid of my one any time soon!
Just check the original rear triangle and make sure that it's not cracked on the chainstay behind the BB. This is the weak point and you cannot get replacement parts.
You can still get replacement parts for the split pivot frame.
I had a horsethief and the efficiency difference in Bob was massive.
The older frames were a fair bit shorter, so if they are the same size check the difference in reach. The Spilt link frames also had much shorter back ends, not necessarily an issue as it didnt really hinder the originals, which everyone correctly identifies are amazing bikes. I had an original and fitted a 1.5 degree angleset headset and it made it such a nice bike, fast and stable. I want a 2017 but they are near impossible to get hold of, and im worried the 2018 will be 1x11 only which either doesnt get the range i want or 1x12, which is too expensive to abuse like this bike deserves.
Hello, and yes, I've ridden and owned both.
I've kept the Split Pivot version - now on second Alu one, carbon one landing in the next week or two.
Short version:
Travel on the SP version is more stable under pedalling and braking than the older version when loaded - remember it was designed as a bike to race the CTR.
When you get the suspension set to your weight - the SP version climbs a bit better.
SP versions snapped less. Although I broke one, which was replaced. Hurrah for Salsa.
SP version can easily accommodate 2.8 on 35mm 650b rims. SP version rides better when run as SS.
142 x 12 rear end does make a difference to rear end stiffness under cornering unless you're running a very rigid wheelset - which will then probably trash the bearings.
Negatives:
Cable routing is a bit love or hate.
Suspension yoke will fill with grit and strip the paint.
You'll probably ride faster than you expected and crash - but that is also a positive as it's a very capable XC bike.
If it were my money - I'd build the SP verison.
STATO - there will be no more Spearfish in the Salsa lineup in 2018.
If you want a 2017 carbon one, I know of another one landing in the UK this week without a current owner. Size large.
@OP
I'm considering getting a short travel full susser so if your frames are L/XL I could be interested in buying the one you don't want if it'll be for sale.
Email in profile
Cheers
Steve
After much deliberation decided to go with the early version. Was discussing the frame options with Mrs M and her take was go with the one you like the look of most. If I had as many bikes as she has handbags ............
Any way split frame will be appearing in a for sale ad near here soon.
Hi Mariner
sent you a pm