The Bike

​

I am starting this adventure with a 2021 Salsa Timberjack Ti built up with the most solid and durable components I could source. My goal for this build was to create a platform that is capable of enduring any terrain while still maintaining a lightweight ride feel. I wanted a bike that isn’t incredibly sluggish on pavement sections but can still handle most any remote dirt rode out there. This wasn’t meant to be a super snappy bikepacking rig, but rather an ultra-distance long term touring bike. The end result is a hybrid of traditional touring bike with bikepacking capability. I am able to carry everything I need for full comfort and liveability while touring for an extended period of time. A traditional bikepacking setup just doesn’t offer enough storage space to carry along electronics and an ultra capable cooking system. Storage space was a key focus, hence the rear rack and from rack with basket. 

 

I built up this bike during the height of the COVID pandemic so certain components were impossible to get or had prohibitive wait times. My preference is a 2x drivetrain, however I chose a SRAM GX 12s due to availability and durability. I have used a GX drivetrain in the past and it has proven to be extremely reliable so I’m sure this new generation GX will be just as solid. Apparently 12s drivetrains also have the most durable chains ever designed so I am hoping that end up being true. 

​

I do have some carbon components on this build. The front fork is a WHISKY No. 9 carbon fork and I love it! This fork is very lightweight and offers a very supple yet snappy ride feel. While pedaling on even terrain, it retains an efficient amount of stiffness and doesn’t have excess flex while under load. There is a subtle amount of vibration reduction while on uneven and chattery terrain. I run it will Tailfin Fork Racks on the legs and with an Old Man Mountain Divide rack up front. Even under heavy loads, this fork has proven to be very reliable all while looking good. 

​

This bike is running on Reserve 27 carbon wheels with DT Swiss 350 hubs. Although aluminum wheels are the traditional choice, these carbon fiber wheels have proven to be an amazing upgrade. The most noticeable benefit is that they have a consistent stiffness and track very well while under heavy loads. A stiffer construction may lead to less issues with the spokes over time due to less stress being placed on them, however time will tell. They also have a lifetime warranty which is pretty rad.

​

These are my preference for hubs and they perform amazing! 350’s with the ratchet engagement is just the best hub out there. I have upgraded the ratchet for better engagement so it really makes for instant energy transfer. Another benefit is they are so simple to service. You can literally pop off the cassette in seconds and service the rear hub if needed. They aren’t the lightest hub out there but I prefer these because they are just a little bit beefier. 

​

I have an overall upright and comfort focused positioning on this bike. The riser bars help relieve stress from my hands, arms, shoulders, and back. It’s not a racing set up but more akin to a traditional bike touring configuration. I also have a leather Selle Anatomica saddle which is my favorite saddle I’ve ever used. I’ve tried numerous saddles and this one has proven to be the best for rides longer than 30 miles. I do like this saddle, but my butt always hurts at the end of the day regardless of saddle choice! My goal was to make this the most comfortable set up possible for long days of pedaling. I have taken it on many bikepacking trips and it’s proven to be a really great set up for me. 

​

While building this bike up, I tried my hardest to ensure everything is serviceable while on the road. Nearly every component is extremely bomber but also simple to service at the same time. I have the capability of breaking down every system and thoroughly servicing everything. I am taking a Wera Allan key set with every key I need for my bike for ease of service when the time comes. I am hoping everything goes smoothly and I can find replacement parts every where I go! I wished it upon a star once.  

​

Frame: Salsa Timberjack Ti

Wheels: Santa Cruz Reserve 28 w/ DT Swiss 350 Ratchet Hubs

Fork: WHISKEY No.9 MTN Boost Carbon 

Drivetrain: SRAM GX Mechanical 12speed

Chainring: Absolute Black Elliptical 30t

Handlebars: Spank Spike Riser Bar

Brakes: Shimano XT 2 Piston

Pedals: Supacaz Orbitron DH Platform

Stem: PNW Range

Seatpost: Thompson Elite Setback

Saddle: Selle Anatomica X Series

​

​

​

​