Is Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 Worth Buying? [Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 Review]

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Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11

• Price: $2949
• Frame: Beargrease Carbon v2
• Gear: 1×11
• Tires: 27.5 x 4.0″ 120 TPI

What we like about it: The carbon frame fat tire bike takes you on a winding singletrack course and has easy climbing fun.

What we don’t like about it: The single paint color.

Rating: (4.6/5)

Introduction

Do you want to crush the rugged trails that wind and flow? Do you want to say “so easy” to climb? Yes, I do!

In this ride review of the Fat Tire bike, what we really wanted to see was exactly how it performed in the face of climbing up forest roads and through the loose ground. What we really wanted was an excellent bike that could conquer the toughest tracks.

After more than two months of riding, this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 is what I like to call a “flying fatty”.

It is the ultra-light Beargrease Carbon v2 frame of this bike that hides the unique power of softness in a seemingly wild body. The light and simple Shimano Deore M5100 1×11 drivetrain and the radical and unique 45NRTH Vanhelga tires. With strength, this fat bike convinces us.

The light-crushing and effortless climbing gave me an indescribable riding experience that made me trust this fat bike.

Below we break down the trail riding, sand performance, key features, components and specifications of the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 and other versions。

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Cross Country Riding

I’ve heard it said that people who have never ridden up a mountain top to enjoy the early sun don’t understand what it means to ride. I thought for a moment that this was unfounded, but when I took this fat-tire bike for review and put the pedals on, the Samox crankset-mounted pedals provided a comforting boost as I began my trail ride.

Trail Cross-country

The trail we chose for this forest trail ride wound upwards, with debris and leaves on the ground and unfortunately burned tree stumps on either side of the trail. At first, I was a little worried that I wouldn’t be able to handle the wild looking Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11, but what I didn’t expect was that the heavy-looking bike would have nimble handling that didn’t match its looks.

Based on the 120tpi 45NRTH Vanhelga, it has excellent grip when facing climbs. 1129mm wheelbase also makes my ride more stable when climbing, and the relatively steep head tube angle (68.6°) makes it easier when making climbs.

In addition, the Shimano Deore M5100 1×11 drivetrain makes my cross-country riding easier with simple speed changes in the face of variable and unknown trail riding. The dense gear ratio matching also allows me to get a more effortless ride.

In fact, before this trail ride, I noticed that the fat tire bike’s setup without a dropper and front suspension would cause me to feel significant vibration while riding, but the carbon fiber frame absorbed some of that vibration. In addition, the comfortable WTB Volt Steel Medium saddle provides plenty of support while cushioning against bumps.

All things considered, this rugged-looking fat-tire bike hides a surprising amount of cross-country performance, so if you need to handle technical cross-country riding, I think the chunky “Fatty” will be a solid choice for you.

Sand Performance

Many people always encounter a variety of terrain when riding, but if I were to say which terrain is less popular with me, I would say sand riding.

I have been challenged many times to ride in the sand, but always failed because the tires got stuck in the sand because they couldn’t turn, but this fat tire bike, however, made me find confidence in the sand.

The wide tires on this Fat Tire Bike 27.5 x 4.0″ 45NRTH Vanhelga allowed me to float easily in the sand on my sandy rides, and the unique tread design had an excellent grip for a more relaxed ride.

In addition Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 hydraulic disc brakes, even when facing such a loose route and making a descent, will execute your braking commands in a timely manner and with the simple push of a button.

The Beargrease Carbon v2’s frame also minimizes weight in the face of this sandy terrain and therefore improves power delivery.

Not only does the comfortable fit geometry make your ride easier, but the increased length of the Race Face Chester 35 handlebar is not only light but strong enough for better bike handling while riding.

Yes, even when riding in loose sand, this fat tire bike has incredible performance.

Main Features

Frame

What’s the first thing you think of when you see this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 rugged fat tire bike?

I have to say that the first time I saw it I thought I saw a giant wolf running in the snow (even though it was wearing Red Fade color paint). The strong paint color and the huge body gave me a visual impact that I can’t describe.

It’s hard to believe that such a Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 is only 13.6kg, and I think this may be due to its premium Beargrease Carbon v2 frame. This material offers higher stiffness, better vibration damping, and excellent durability compared to other frame materials, and allows for a lighter weight.

The full set of tubular internal alignments used not only adds to the neatness of the appearance but also makes it easier for me to perform maintenance. Meanwhile, the triangular frame is equipped with 2 water bottle mounting holes inside, so you can be fully prepared for anywhere you want to go and not interrupt your riding trip by not having enough supplies.

Geometry

Whether it’s a road bike or a fat tire bike, comfortable geometry will make your ride twice as good.

In fact, this Beargrease geometry was redesigned for 2019 and we can focus on its 440mm rear dropout fork, and 427mm reach creating a wider range of movement and increased confidence on the trails.

In addition, the steep seat tube angle (73°) allows for not only easier pedaling but also improved standover height, and the relatively long 1129mm wheelbase allows for a stable ride even on loose ground.

Also, the relatively long 85mm Trail makes my steering more stable and sensitive. The relatively steep head tube angle (68.8°) will also handle better in the face of sharp descents, and it allows you to climb technical singletrack effectively in the face of forest climbs.

Components and Specifications

Shimano Deore M5100 1×11 Drivetrain

It may seem to you that the 1×11 shifting range is relatively narrow, but if you ride this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11, you may feel that it is adequate and the simple and smooth shifting will also amaze you.

In the rugged cross-country riding, I was initially a little worried about whether it would have the risk of dropping the chain when shifting because of the vibration. What I didn’t expect was SHIMANO’s chain stabilization technology to reduce the risk of chain drop, so its smooth and fast speed change in my cross-country riding gave me peace of mind. And whether you’re shifting large ratios or small ratios, it provides quiet shifting in all gears.

In addition, SHIMANO’s RAPIDFIRE PLUS DEORE shifter gives you light and responsive handling, providing smooth control even on the track.

All in all its excellent gearing gave me more speed experience during my riding review trip.

Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 Hydraulic Disc Brake

Whether you are riding cross-country or in the sand, without excellent braking, your safety and security will be reduced, so I attach great importance to the braking configuration.

I was happier when I saw that the fat tire bike was a hydraulic disc brake, because I do prefer hydraulic disc brakes to mechanical disc brakes.

First of all, regardless of the situation can play a strong and timely braking ability is already enough to attract attention, not to mention its relatively lightweight lever, even with less force, it can have a large enough brake to stop your wheels rolling.

Secondly, the dual piston brakes, although many people think it may not be quite enough, its stable and precise braking made me cheer when I made a downhill emergency stop in the sand.

Finally, some people may worry about the post-maintenance of hydraulic disc brakes, but I would like to say that there is no need to worry too much, the open system makes your maintenance easy and will not consume too much of your energy.

45NRTH Vanhelga Tires

As you can see the 27.5 x 4.0″ tire is wide enough to be a “fatty” compared to the slim tires on road bikes. But if you know anything about the Vanhelga, you’ll know that it’s designed for cross-country riding in loose snow, so it’s a great performer on both the trail and in the sand.

The first thing you can see about Vanhelga’s tread design is the slope of the center lug, which improves rolling efficiency when riding. Also, the splayed side lugs give you more confidence when I make cornering turns.

In addition, the vacuum tires are ready to go and not only have a lighter weight but also provide you with ultra-soft ride quality and have the effect of further enhancing grip.

Other Versions of Salsa Beargrease

In this review, we take a realistic look at the $2949 Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 with a Beargrease Carbon v2 frame and Bearpaw fork, Shimano Deore M5100 and Tektro HD-M275/HD- M276 hydraulic disc brakes, and vacuum-ready 45NRTH Vanhelga tires. to give you a more complete picture, we learned that Salsa also offers a wider selection of versions.

Multiple versions

From the slightly earlier 2019 version to the latest version, whether it is the highest priced Salsa Beargrease C X01 Eagle (priced at $7099) or the relatively inexpensive 2019 Salsa Beargrease Carbon Deore 1x ($2299), they all offer great value for money! riding experience.

But it is true that the relatively high price has a more advanced group price configuration, like this Salsa Beargrease C X01 Eagle it has 1×12 shifting, and better SRAM G2 RSC hydraulic disc brake, but the price of $7099 is not an easy figure for most people.

However, it is worth mentioning that this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 is a good value for money choice in the $2949 range for both its riding performance and its component configuration, so if your budget is a little tight, I think this would be a good choice.

In Short

The Salsa Beargrease offers a good enough selection of models, all of which are amazing to ride, and of course, the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 was the one that received the most votes from our review group, but all of the Salsa Beargrease is relatively good bikes.

Learn More: Would the Amazing Carbon Fat Tire Bike Be Your Choice? –Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11

What do we like about it?

• In the sand, fat tires allow you to float and enjoy the ride.

• Beargrease Carbon v2 gives you a stronger and lighter frame.

• The Shimano Deore M5100 1×11 drivetrain allows you to shift the right speed gears on any terrain.

• With its lighter weight, the ready-to-go 45NRTH Vanhelga vacuum tire offers premium rolling speed and a supple ride.

• Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 hydraulic disc brakes give you consistent braking in all situations.

What don’t we like about it?

• It is too limited to choose only one color for the bike paint.

• They excel cross-country and in the sand, but the wide tires are not suitable for on-road use.

FAQs

• What is the frame material of this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11?

The frame material of this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 is Beargrease Carbon v2.

• What sizes are available in Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11?

Size chart for Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11: XS 157cm – 166cm, SM 164cm – 176cm, MD 174cm – 184cm, LG 182cm – 191cm, XL 189cm +.

• Can Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 be fitted with a rear rack?

Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 can be fitted with a rear rack.

Salsa Beargrease C Specs

Bike	Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11	Salsa Beargrease C SLX	Salsa Beargrease C X01 Eagle
Frame	Beargrease Carbon v2 BB Standard: BSA, 100mm, Threaded Color: Red Fade	/	/
Fork	Bearpaw	/	/
Crank	Samox Direct Mount, 30t	/	/
Chain	KMC X11 EPT Anti-Rust	/	/
Bottom Bracket	100mm BSA threaded	/	/
Shifters	Shimano Deore M5100	/	/
Front Derailleur	N/A	/	/
Rear Derailleur	Shimano Deore M5100	/	/
Rims	SUNRinglé SRC 15 x 150 mm hub, SUNRinglé Mulefüt SL 80 mm rim	SUNRinglé SRC 15 x 150 mm hub, SUNRinglé Mulefüt SL 80 mm rim	DT Swiss 350 15 x 150 mm hub, WHISKY No.9 76W rim
Rear Hub	Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 brakes, Tektro rotors (6-bolt, 160 mm)	/	/
Tires	45NRTH Vanhelga, 27.5 x 4.0″ 120 TPI, Tubeless-Ready, Folding	/	/
Brakes	Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 brakes, Tektro rotors (6-bolt, 160 mm)	SRAM Guide T brakes, SRAM CenterLine rotors (6-bolt, 160 mm)	RAM G2 RSC brakes, SRAM CenterLine rotors (6-bolt, 160 mm)
Handlebar	Race Face Chester 35	Race Face Chester 35	Salsa Guide 35.0 Carbon
Stem	Salsa Guide Trail, 35,0 mm clamp	/	/
Seat Post	Salsa Guide	/	/
Saddle	WTB Volt Steel Medium	/	/
Grips	Salsa File Tread	/	/

Video

Bicycle Comparison

BIKE	PRICE	DRIVETRAIN	TIRE	BRAKE	Click VIEW
Framed Alaskan Carbon GX Eagle Fat Bike 27.5″	$3300	1×12	27.5 x 3.8in	SRAM Level T Hydraulic Disc Brake	Click View
Salsa Mukluk Deore 11	$2149	1×11	26 x 4.6″	SRAM Level Hydraulic Disc Brake	Click View
KHS 4 SEASON 4000	$3349	1×12	26 x 4.8″	Shimano M4100 hydraulic disc brake	Click View
Fezzari Kings Peak Elite	$2899	1×12	27.5×4.5	SRAM G2 R Hydraulic Disc Brake	Click View

Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 vs Framed Alaskan Carbon GX Eagle Fat Bike 27.5″

The Framed Alaskan Carbon GX Eagle Fat Bike 27.5″ is available in two paint colors, which is an additional option compared to the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11, but Salsa Beargrease C offers the Salsa Beargrease C SLX and Salsa Beargrease C X01 Eagle are two unique versions of the paint.

In addition, we can see that the Framed Alaskan Carbon GX Eagle Fat Bike 27.5″ is a 1×12 SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, which gives it more gearing and the same easy and smooth shifting as the 1×, although the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 has a slightly narrower gearing range. The Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 has a slightly narrower gearing range, but in real-world riding, whether I’m riding in the sand or taking on an cross-country challenge, it’s adequate and satisfying.

In fact, there is not much difference in braking power between the SRAM Level T hydraulic disc brakes on the Framed Alaskan Carbon GX Eagle Fat Bike 27.5″ and the Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 hydraulic disc brakes on the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11, but in the price range, the Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 hydraulic disc brakes feel relatively smoother. The Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 hydraulic disc brakes in this price range feel relatively smoother to me.

If you’re thinking about budget, the slightly cheaper $351 Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 might be a good choice for you.

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Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 vs Salsa Mukluk Deore 11

Both bikes are from Salsa, but the Salsa Mukluk Deore 11 uses a 6066-T6 aluminum frame, which is slightly heavier than the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11’s carbon fiber frame at 3.08Ibs, so for a lighter bike, I’d prefer the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11. Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11.

The two bikes are also Shimano Deore M5100 1×11 drivetrains, and there is little difference in the range of shifts and smoothness of speed changes, although the relatively lighter Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 will be slightly easier to operate.

In addition, the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11’s WTB Volt Steel Medium saddle gives more support to my hip and legs while riding, so you’ll have a relatively comfortable ride even on bumpy terrain.

Also, hydraulic disc brakes (although the brand is different), have almost the same strong braking power, but within this price Salsa Beargrease C Deore, 11 Tektro HD-M275/HD-M276 hydraulic disc brakes will be a little more carefully considered.

Both fat-tire bikes from Salsa are impressive, but if you prefer a lighter body, the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 might be the bike for you.

Learn More: Fat Tire Bicycle Salsa Mukluk Deore 11 Review-Sand Buster

Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 vs KHS 4 SEASON 4000

In fact, I would have thought the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 was big enough before the KHS 4 SEASON 4000 came along, but after seeing the KHS 4 SEASON 4000 with 26 x 4.8″ Maxxis Colossus vacuum tires, I thought it would be bigger. I think this KHS 4 SEASON 4000 is bigger, and the 4.8” tires will have better float in loose sand or rough snow. However, the relatively small tires of the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 will give you an unexpected experience on sandy rides as well.

In addition, both bikes are carbon fiber frames, so they are relatively light in weight. It is worth mentioning that the KHS 4 SEASON 4000 has a 31.6mm travel dropper setup, so it will have a relatively outstanding performance in terms of shock absorption.

But the Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11’s widened Race Face Chester 35 grip design has improved the problem of many fat-tire bikes that can’t steer flexibly in the face of tight spaces, and the unique surface makes your ride more comfortable.

If you want a comfortable ride at a friendlier price, this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 is the one to try!

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Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 vs Fezzari Kings Peak Elite

Yes, I was slightly excited when I saw this Fezzari Kings Peak Elite. The Fezzari Kings Peak Elite is priced at $2,899 and its drivetrain is a 1×12 SRAM GX Eagle, which has a relatively wider range of shifts, and also ditches the complicated 2× or 3× adjustment shifts for a quicker and faster 1× shift. And the carbon fiber frame, also has relatively lightweight, which will also make the operation more flexible.

If you think Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 is raising the white flag on this, you’re mistaken.

We can see that this Salsa Beargrease C Deore 11 has a rugged exterior with only 30  Ibs weight, which makes you more nimble in the actual riding, and the ergonomic geometry also makes your riding easier, the steep seat tube angle also makes your pedaling easier, the comfortable saddle also gives you better support in the face of bumps, and the hydraulic disc brake also gives you strong and stable braking even after rain on slippery roads.

If you are choosing a fat tire bike, I have a little advice, be sure to choose one that suits your Salsa Beargrease C SLX.

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