Salsa

2017 Marrakesh Drop Bar Touring Bike

I bought the Marrakesh instead of the LHT. THe day after i purchased it, I made my first ride with two full Ortlieb Back Roller panniers and proceeded to ride 116 miles from home to stay in the Malabar Farm Hostel. This is my first touring bike. My enthusiasm carried me well, but my legs began to feel the extra weight. I just slightly slowed my pace. This bike was smooth and balanced all the way. I never got into the big ring. The middle ring was fine for all the progressively larger rolling hills I rode upon. I put on a Pletscher Double Leg kickstand. A godsend for this bike for just parking or working on the bike. The Brooks saddle was very comfortable. The BB7 brakes were impeccable. I got occasional wheel rubs from the SKS 50 front fender. The Spurcycle Black Bell was so clear and long lasting. A Zen Tintinnabulation. The Crank Brothers Double Shot pedals were awesome. No problems clicking in and no occasional hot foot as with the lesser platformed Candy SL. I liked having an extra bottle cage on the front fork. Easy access. Better than the bottom of the bottom tube. Once I put front racks on, the bottle cage will have to go. I did 96 miles the following day and 50 miles the day after that. I felt great on this bike and have enjoyed many rides since buying it. Yes, it is heavier than my cf road bike. My avg speed has gone up as the result of the strength achieved by riding the extra weight of the Marrakesh.