The 2024 Salsa Cutthroat: A Game-Changer in Carbon Bikepacking Bikes

In the ever-evolving world of adventure cycling, the 2024 Salsa Cutthroat stands out as a beacon for riders who demand performance, comfort, and versatility in their bikepacking setups. Designed with rugged off-road touring in mind, the Salsa Cutthroat has earned a reputation as one of the top choices for those who want to explore long distances, whether it’s a multi-day bikepacking expedition or competing in events like the Tour Divide. With its 2024 iteration, Salsa has upped the ante in the world of carbon bikepacking bikes by refining its already successful platform. Here's a deep dive into what makes this new model a must-have for bikepackers.

Why Choose a Carbon Bikepacking Bike?

Before diving into the specifics of the 2024 Salsa Cutthroat, it's essential to understand the benefits of opting for a carbon bikepacking bike. Carbon fiber frames are renowned for their lightweight nature, which translates to better speed, easier handling, and reduced fatigue over long rides. Carbon also provides a certain level of vibration dampening, which is crucial for endurance events or off-road adventures where terrain can be rough and unpredictable. Additionally, carbon frames offer superior stiffness, ensuring that the power from each pedal stroke translates into forward motion, rather than being lost in frame flex.

For serious bikepackers, a carbon bike means more than just a reduction in weight. It’s about comfort, speed, and efficiency – all critical factors when you're out on the trails for days at a time. The 2024 Salsa Cutthroat perfectly embodies these traits, making it a leading choice in the category of high-performance carbon bikepacking bikes.

Cutthroat Versus Salsa Fargo 

Admittedly it has been a long time since I've ridden my Salsa Fargo but it used to be my bike of choice. In fact, I had the titanium version circa 2012 and it was, at the time, the most incredible I had ridden. The high praise on the carbon Cutthroat is warranted. I dare say it is a smoother ride than my old Ti Fargo. But I digress...

For those considering the Salsa Fargo versus the Cutthroat there are a few important considerations. The steel Fargo is going to come in at a much more affordable price, whether you go for a frameset or a complete build. You could build up a Fargo with solid and dependable components and come in at less than the price of a Cutthroat. Another important consideration between these two bikes is the geometry. The Fargo sports a more relaxed geometry while the Cutthroat gives you a more aggressive race tailored geometry. For longer days in the saddle when touring is your main consideration, the Fargo just might be a better choice. 

If you're looking for a great bikepacking rig or adventure touring all terrain bike you can't go wrong with either of these bikes. 

Salsa Cutthroat In The Wild

What’s New in the 2024 Salsa Cutthroat?

The Salsa Cutthroat has long been celebrated for its off-road prowess and endurance capabilities, but the 2024 model introduces several upgrades that take it to the next level. Let's break down the key features of the 2024 Salsa Cutthroatthat make it a standout in the world of bikepacking.

1. Updated Geometry for Enhanced Comfort and Control

The first noticeable change in the 2024 Cutthroat is its updated geometry. Salsa has refined the geometry to cater to long-distance comfort without sacrificing performance. The new design offers a slightly more upright riding position, which reduces fatigue on the upper body during multi-day rides. This, combined with a longer wheelbase and slacker head tube angle, provides more stability on rough terrains and high-speed descents, making it ideal for the rigors of off-road bikepacking.

2. Carbon Frame and Fork

True to its legacy, the 2024 Salsa Cutthroat features a high-quality carbon fiber frame and fork. Salsa’s proprietary Class 5 VRS (Vibration Reduction System) has been further improved for 2024, ensuring that the bike provides maximum comfort even on the harshest terrains. The system is designed to reduce vibrations that travel through the frame, helping riders stay comfortable and in control even after hours on rough gravel roads or rocky trails.

3. Increased Tire Clearance

Another major update is the increased tire clearance. The 2024 Cutthroat now accommodates tires up to 2.4 inches, making it more versatile and capable of handling a wider range of terrains, from loose gravel to technical singletrack. Whether you're crossing muddy paths or tackling sandy sections, the added tire clearance provides extra traction and stability, essential for bikepackers venturing into unpredictable environments.

4. Mounting Points Galore

One of the most crucial aspects of a bikepacking bike is its ability to carry gear efficiently. The 2024 Cutthroat doesn’t disappoint in this regard. Salsa has maintained its reputation for offering numerous mounting points across the frame and fork, allowing riders to attach bags, water bottles, and other essentials easily. The frame features an ample number of bosses for bikepacking bags, as well as options for rear racks, fenders, and additional bottle cages, making it a versatile option for all types of adventures.

5. Modern Drivetrain Options

The drivetrain on the 2024 Cutthroat has been modernized to cater to both traditionalists and those seeking cutting-edge performance. It comes with several build options, from the reliable SRAM AXS Eagle 12-speed electronic shifting system to more affordable, but still robust, mechanical drivetrain setups. The wide gear range, especially in the electronic shifting version, ensures that you can tackle steep climbs and fast descents with equal confidence. The 2024 Cutthroat’s drivetrain options provide riders with the freedom to choose a setup that matches their style and the demands of their adventures.

6. Improved Brake System

Salsa has also equipped the new Cutthroat with high-performance hydraulic disc brakes. Known for their superior stopping power and modulation, these brakes ensure that riders remain in control, regardless of weather or terrain. Whether you’re navigating steep descents or winding technical trails, the brake system delivers confidence-inspiring stopping power.

Ideal for Adventure: The 2024 Salsa Cutthroat's Versatility

One of the standout features of the Salsa Cutthroat is its versatility, and the 2024 model only enhances this reputation. It’s not just a bike for bikepacking enthusiasts; it’s a machine that can handle various types of riding with ease.

• Touring: With its comfortable geometry and ample gear-carrying capacity, the Cutthroat is a fantastic option for long-distance touring. Whether you're riding paved roads, gravel paths, or forest trails, this bike can handle it all.
• Gravel Racing: The Cutthroat has a history rooted in the Tour Divide, and the 2024 version is more than capable of tackling endurance gravel races. Its lightweight carbon frame, efficient drivetrain, and ample tire clearance make it a top contender for serious gravel racers.
• Off-Road Exploring: For those who seek adventure off the beaten path, the Cutthroat provides stability and comfort on rugged trails. The bike’s durability and adaptability mean you can confidently take it on off-road adventures without worrying about your equipment holding you back.

Who Is the 2024 Salsa Cutthroat For?

The 2024 Salsa Cutthroat is designed for riders who are serious about adventure cycling and bikepacking. Whether you're planning an epic multi-day trip, competing in a gravel race, or simply want a capable bike for off-road explorations, the Cutthroat is built to handle it all. Its lightweight carbon frame, combined with its robust components and thoughtful design, make it an excellent choice for riders who want to push their limits and explore new horizons.

• Experienced Bikepackers: For those who already have experience with multi-day bikepacking adventures, the Cutthroat offers the features and performance needed to tackle more challenging and extended trips.
• Endurance Racers: If you're looking to compete in endurance events like the Tour Divide, the 2024 Cutthroat offers the lightweight and efficient platform needed to go the distance.
• Adventure Enthusiasts: Even if you're not racing or embarking on weeks-long trips, the Cutthroat is an excellent bike for weekend warriors and adventurers who crave off-road excitement.

Why the 2024 Salsa Cutthroat is a Top Choice in Carbon Bikepacking Bikes

The 2024 Salsa Cutthroat sets a new standard for carbon bikepacking bikes. With its updated geometry, advanced carbon frame, increased tire clearance, and versatile mounting options, it’s designed to excel in a variety of off-road conditions. Whether you're a seasoned bikepacker or an adventurous gravel racer, the Cutthroat delivers performance, comfort, and reliability.

For those seeking the ultimate in bikepacking performance, the 2024 Salsa Cutthroat should be at the top of your list. Its blend of lightweight materials, modern technology, and thoughtful design makes it a true game-changer in the world of carbon bikepacking bikes.

A Note About Salsa Cycles:

Salsa Cycles and adventure truly go hand in hand. The brands motto is "Adventure By Bike" and this shines through in the DNA in every single one of their bikes. Salsa has been at the forefront of innovation and is credited with the first true production gravel bike with the Warbird and they helped to popularize the drop bar mountain bike with the original Salsa Fargo. If you love adventure and you love bikes then you're going to head to your local Salsa dealer and test ride some bikes.