Test 2016 off-road racer: Salsa Warbird Carbon - Gravel bike: Salsa Warbird Carbon on test

It was not only the term that proved to be formative for the genre. Many gravel bikes that came onto the market afterwards are also recognisably modelled on the Warbird. But what exactly makes the bike a gravel bike? Salsa primarily refers to the large tyre clearance of the carbon frame in the fork and rear triangle, which allows for tyres up to 44 millimetres wide. There are also thru axles for the wheels and, of course, disc brakes. Sceptics will rightly criticise the fact that these are not yet clear criteria for differentiating the Warrior from a cross bike. Especially as the geometry of the Warbird is not fundamentally different from that of cross bikes. You sit relatively upright, comparable to a marathon road bike. The wheelbase is also quite long at 1,035 millimetres in size 56. However, you can certainly find cross bikes with similar geometries.

Another feature of the bike is the remarkably effective vibration damping. The extremely shaped rear triangle with wide, narrow seat stays without a connecting brake bridge - which is not necessary due to the disc brakes - proves to be extremely forgiving. So much so that following passengers can even see how the struts flex. The price for the exquisite comfort is that the frame does not appear to be incredibly stiff in the steering head and bottom bracket. In cross races, this can be a disadvantage due to the frequent acceleration and rhythm changes. For the intended target group, however, the objection should be of secondary importance because the Warbird is more suited to long distances at a steady pace. The bike is equipped with very good functional features, consisting of a mechanical Ultegra groupset, hydraulic brakes from Shimano and many products from the range of Salsa importer Cosmic Sports.

The 32 millimetre wide X'Plor MSO tyres from Clément are a good match for the intended use. With closely spaced lugs on the tread and more pronounced lugs on the shoulder, they can cope with many different surfaces and also roll very comfortably on asphalt.

In Germany, the Warbird is only available as a frame set for a hefty 2,199 euros. Sensibly constructed complete bikes are available from around 3,500 euros. It is therefore unlikely that you will see many "warbirds" in this country - which is a shame. All test riders succumbed to the charm of the bike, to which the pretty paintwork also contributes. If you have a heart for winding courses, you might be better off with a shorter competition crosser. However, the Warbird's smooth ride, due to the long wheelbase and flexible rear end, is a quality in itself. It gives you an idea of the actual intention behind the gravel bikes.

PLUS High suspension comfort at the rear, plenty of tyre clearance
MINUS expensive, no mudguard eyelets

Info www.salsacycles.com
Frame material/sizes Carbon / 51, 53, 55, 56, 58, 60 cm
Price/weight 2,199 euros (frame set) / 8.5 kilos

WHAT THE TEST DRIVERS SAY

Jens Klötzer " Very close to a cross bike in terms of ride feel. Actually too classy for a utility and off-road bike."

Christoph Allwang " Very comfortable. The bike isn't as direct and manoeuvrable as I actually like cross bikes to be. It doesn't feel super stiff to me, but that doesn't cause any problems."

Thomas Musch " The bike gives a good idea of the idea of the gravel bike: a comfortable long-distance rider for gravel tracks. The flex in the rear triangle is phenomenal."

Alternatives GT Grade Carbon, Specialised Diverge Carbon, Norco Search Carbon

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