Sea Otter Classic is in Monterey at the Laguna Seca Raceway.  It is a weekend in April every year where dozens of bike companies show off their new gear.   Lots and lots of people go to it.  There are races, rides, events but sadly, we have never seen an actual Sea Otter except the costumed one.

We have gone up to enjoy the weekend.   Most years some of us race. Every year, we camp and enjoy the weekend.    Here are some photos of the food, our site and the hammock we brought.  It was a fantastic weekend of bikes and fun.

Today Salsa Cycles revealed the Redpoint. This is the modern 150mm trail bike designed to handle the roughest terrain around while not being too sluggish on the climbs. With Split Pivot technology from Dave Weagle the short chainstays combined with 27.5″ wheels give the Redpoint an amazing feel on the climbs. Other than a slight “bump” or “bob” out of the suspension I thought I might be climbing a hardtail while seated.

When Salsa released the Horsethief a few years ago they intended on it being able to ride any terrain in the world. I still think this is true but moving from 120mm of suspension to 150mm adds quite a bit more versatility. Also, the change from 29″ to 27.5″ wheels does several things for the Redpoint. We get a stronger wheel along with 148 boost spacing, shorter wheelbase for better climbing, and more maneuverability out of the bike. The Redpoint is also capable of handling 26+ wheels on a 40-45mm wide rim.

While I enjoy most every Salsa that I ride, their full suspension bikes have really come up to the next level. From the Spearfish, Horsethief, Ponyrustler, and now Redpoint the progression continues. Salsa makes a full line of Split Pivot bikes that can handle any type of dirt you enjoy riding on. Most of the bikes have gotten lighter over time  as well.

The past few generations of Salsas have seen carbon fiber frames. While this is a bold move from a company that used to base themselves solely in steel and alloy, adding carbon to the line has helped Salsa grow as a company and produce some of the nicest bicycles on the market. However, don’t take Salsa as a run of the mill big box bike company….

Their old slogan “Ride and Smile” still translates on any Salsa you throw your leg over while their new mantra “Adventure By Bike” shines through the heart and soul of the company. Salsa prides themselves on making bikes that help take the rider on a journey. An adventure can range from riding a Cutthroat or Fargo down the tour divide route or now taking the Redpoint up to Whistler and riding some true big mountain trails.Whatever it may be, Salsa has you covered.

The Redpoint is available in three models. A Sram GX 2×10 equipped aluminum frame starts at $3599, while the bike pictured is the Carbon GX1 model at $4599. The flagship model featuring a carbon frame and X01 drivetrain runs $5599.

I think Salsa really nailed this bike. It looks great, rides great, and completes their off road line. This is the most playful bike that they have put out to date and you can tell Pete Koski (Salsa’s head engineer) really put a lot of thought and attention to detail into this bike.

The Redpoint lives and breathes dirt and is worthy of any trail you can think to ride it down. It climbs great, descends better, and goes well with your favorite can of beer after a hard ride. Check out Salsa’s website for a quick introduction and their story-site for a great look at what the Redpoint can deliver. Thanks to Salsa for getting us this demo to play around on! These bikes are currently available and this bike is now in our full-time demo fleet and available to rent, swing by and have some fun in Topanga!

-Jay

Mike picked up his Surly Long Haul Trucker today. He was able to UnPredict his Wednesday and get a Surly. He is casually doing Route 66 so he and Chris plotted a training ride in July from Santa Barbara to LA. A super nice mid day bicycle pick-up.

Mike picked up his Surly Long Haul Trucker today. He was able to UnPredict his Wednesday and get a Surly. He is casually doing Route 66 so he and Chris plotted a training ride in July from Santa Barbara to LA. A super nice mid day bicycle pick-up.