Salsa Journeyman Sora 700
- Price: $1199
- Frame: Journeyman Specific Aluminum Tubing
- Gear: 2×9
- Tires: 700 x 37mm
What we like about it: The fast-rolling 700 x 37mm vacuum tires allow you to really fly on the road.
What we don’t like about it: The single paint color has too little choice.
Rating: (4.6/5)
Introduction
Yes, I always want to be fast enough on the road and wish I had a gravel bike with more speed. This Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 has Journeyman Specific Aluminum Tubing
The frame, wide-range Shimano Sora 2×9 drivetrain, and fast-rolling 700 x 37mm WTB Riddler tires left us stunned at its extremely fast roll speed on the road.
After a 3 month long review, this bike jumped and flew from my sight and left a lasting impression on me. I rode it through Vermont, known as the Green Mountain State, through dry trails among the fields. The Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 is powered by an excellent Shimano Sora drivetrain, and the 700c’s WTB Riddler tires provide great traction for nimble maneuvering around the twisty trails. That’s right, it’s as fast as a snake, with aggressive rolling steering that we can’t help but be impressed by.
Below we break down the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 for road riding, gravel riding, general riding, key features, components and specifications, and other versions.
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Road Riding
It is a known fact that professional road bikes can leave many riders in the dust when it comes to speed on flat roads. In this ride review, it has to be said that this Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 may break that law.
At the outset, the WTB Riddler tires on the 700c that surprised me were a pretty straightforward indication that it’s deserving Number one in terms of speed for its price point. the relatively wide 2×9 Shimano Sora gives you a relatively wide range of speed options for road riding, and while some would consider it an entry-level drivetrain, it’s more than adequate and powerful for road driving. and powerful on the road.
On our review trip to Vermont, known as the Green Mountain State, each road has its own charm. The Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 did not disappoint, as the seasonal changes in the color of the leaves and the fallen leaves made it difficult to ride.
With fast-rolling WTB Riddler tires that easily crush leafy roads, the TCS – Tubeless Compatibility System is prepared to let you experience a better quality ride. The steep head tube angle (70.5°) gives you an exciting ride on the road and has relatively faster steering, which always allowed me to get better results in the corners in this review.
In this road review, Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 allows me to enjoy the colorful road scenery in autumn while enjoying the speed and the charm of natural changes.
Gravel Ride
Not only flat roads, but bumpy gravel routes in front of gravel bikes are equally its domain. On the Vermont ride, we likewise took the bike to relatively dry trails in the mountains. The gravel that slides down the sloping mountain faces caused some difficulty for the ride, but this was hardly a problem for the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700.
The Fantail Deluxe-based carbon fork and tubeless setup allow for a smooth and confident ride over such rough roads.
Some people may think that the aluminum frame is not light enough, and without the effect of shock absorbers, its damping effect will not be as good. But in the actual riding experience, a relatively strong aluminum frame is not so heavy, strong frame also has good resistance to impact.
Also, one of the things that attracted me was the maintenance afterward. The aluminum frame is also not very expensive to maintain, which is a real consideration for me when considering the price. the WTB Volt Sport 142’s saddle is effective at dispersing the pressure on the hip and legs when facing such bumps, and the Salsa Gel Cork Bar Tape grips provide good cushioning. It keeps the arms comfortable even on relatively long gravel rides, and the soft gel material provides some shock absorption.
What surprised me on such a bumpy gravel ride was the drivetrain of this bike, the Shimano Sora 2×9. While I thought the wide range of shifting options was good enough, the lack of chain tangles when shifting here really gave it a thumbs-up from me.
Some may consider this bike’s gearing to be entry-level, but I have to say that at a mere $1199 it will not make you regret owning it.
General Riding
This aluminum Salsa Journeyman Sora 700, in addition to being capable of gravel and road riding, it is equally capable of riding even on normal mountain terrain.
The aggressive WTB Riddler has great grip even in the face of mountainous terrain. The relatively slim tire width also allows you to catch the last minute to clock in at work. The comfortable WTB Volt Sport 142 saddle also allows you to enjoy short rides, and a wide range of accessories allows you to ride farther and more colorfully.
Main Features
Frame
The Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 with its plain white paint impressed me at first, but I still have some complaints that the single paint color is too barren. But if you like blue, the Salsa Journeyman Sora 650’s blue paint color might impress you.
In addition Journeyman Specific Aluminum Tubing has a frame that felt rigid as soon as I started riding on the bike. This material has relatively high fatigue resistance and a longer life span.
The internal cable arrangement is more simple and more generous in appearance, and it is easy to maintain and clean. It is worth mentioning the installation of this frame bike fender, which allows you to keep relatively dry riding even in bad weather.
If the water bottle mount holes and rack setup determine how far you ride, then I think this bike can take you anywhere. With multiple water bottle mount settings and rack mount settings, you don’t have to worry about going further distances without supplies, and being fully prepared will give you more great rides.
Geometry
Many bikes may not look much different on the outside, but when you get on the pedals, they always make a different sound, and that’s where geometry matters. A well-fitting geometry will give you unparalleled pleasure in your ride.
The bike’s steep head tube angle (70.5°) allows you to have an exciting ride with a faster steering response. The second steep seat tube angle (73°) allows you to pedal more easily and maintain a comfortable upright position even when you feel fatigued from long rides. The compact 440mm rear lower fork length gives you more responsive handling while riding.
Also, the relatively short Fork Offset (50mm) makes it easier for you to keep the bike stable.
In short, the thoughtful geometry will allow you to enjoy your ride whether you are on a long ride or a multi-turn ride.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Sora 2×9 Drivetrain
A great drivetrain translates to better pedaling efficiency. The transmission of this bike Shimano Sora 2×9 is entry-level to many, but it has to be said that the SORA is the most attractive and robust 9-speed component ever made. The simple and stylish design is practical enough for both sports and fitness.
In addition, with a wide range of speed options, even if you want to do less difficult mountain riding, you can get the most suitable speed for your ride by smoothly changing speed.
Even riders who like 1× drive are willing to try it if they can change speeds smoothly. Advanced level kit technology allows even new beginner riders to have a comfortable sports riding experience.
Promax DSK-330 Mechanical Disc Brake
The more popular now is the hydraulic disc brake, but the hydraulic disc is relatively expensive and relatively heavy, and not simple to maintain at a later stage.
The Promax DSK-330 mechanical disc brake for this bike is affordable, relatively lightweight, and simple post maintenance has brought it back into the public eye. With mechanical disc brakes, you don’t have to worry about the risk of a flat tire like you would with a cable-pull brake.
Whether you’re driving on an aggressive course or speeding down a smooth path, it will provide stable braking in any situation. It’s a good, inexpensive braking partner you can trust.
WTB Riddler Tires
It has to be admitted that the tire of a bicycle is an important component that cannot be missing in the whole architecture.
The relatively slim width of the tires on this bike, the WTB Riddler, allows for excellent speed on the road. If speed is important to you, then this 700 x 37mm tire configuration has a faster-rolling speed, and we have seen how fast it is in actual road riding.
The unique design of the side lugs allows it to have flexible steering even in corners. Not only that, the center protruding lug has incredible grip in the face of normal mountain riding.
Notably, puncture protection allows you to ride the gravel trails without fear, and the tubeless-compatible setup gives you a more comfortable ride.
Other Versions of Salsa Journeyman
For this review, we tested a version of Salsa Journeyman’s Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 ($1199). It features a Journeyman Specific Aluminum Tubing frame and Fantail Deluxe Carbon fork, Shimano Sora drivetrain, and Promax DSK-330 mechanical disc brakes, as well as vacuum-compatible WTB Riddler tires. To accommodate more riders, Salsa also offers four additional versions of the Journeyman.
The other four versions are the Salsa Journeyman Sora 650, which is the same as the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 at $1199. The three lower-priced bikes are the Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris 700 and the Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris 650. The Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris 650 and Salsa Journeyman Claris 650 are the same prices at $949, but the Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris only has a 2×8 gearing range and is slightly heavier. The Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris is the same price $49. But they are mechanical disc brakes, which also have a strong braking effect.
However, compared to 650c tires 700c tires will effectively reduce rolling resistance and achieve greater rolling efficiency.
There are currently four other versions available at Salsa Journeyman, all of which offer a comfortable ride, but we were more appreciative of the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700’s review performance, both in terms of price and its functionality, and it impressed us.
What do we like about it?
- The Journeyman Specific Aluminum Tubing frame is ready to accompany you on all kinds of adventure rides.
- The Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 is priced at $1,199, which will give you the king of value for the money you want.
- Shimano Sora’s 2×9 transmission, smooth and multi-selective shifter becomes one of the selling points.
- The vacuum-compatible WTB Riddler tires roll well on all kinds of terrain.
- Fenders and multiple water bottle mounting holes are set up to allow you to take longer riding trips.
What don’t we like about it?
- The choice of paint color is too single.
- Relatively low component settings.
FAQs
- Which other version of the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 is available?
In addition to the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700, there is also the Salsa Journeyman Sora 650.
- What is the frame material of the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700?
The Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 has a frame made of Journeyman Specific Aluminum Tubing.
- What is the drivetrain of the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700?
The drivetrain of the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 is a Shimano Sora 2×9 drivetrain.
Salsa Journeyman Specs
| Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 | Salsa Journeyman Sora 650 | Salsa Journeyman Claris 650 | Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris 650 | Salsa Journeyman Flat Bar Claris 700 | |
| Frame | Journeyman Drop Bar BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: White | Journeyman Drop Bar BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: Blue | Journeyman Drop Bar BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: Dark Olive | Journeyman Flat Bar BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: Black | Journeyman Flat Bar BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: Copper |
| Fork | Fantail Deluxe Carbon Fork with Three-Pack Mounts | Fantail Deluxe Fork with Three-Pack Mounts | Fantail Fork with Three-Pack Mounts | Fantail Fork with Three-Pack Mounts | Fantail Fork with Three-Pack Mounts |
| Rear Shock | N/A | / | / | / | / |
| Bottom Bracket | 68mm BSA | / | / | / | / |
| Headset | VP sealed bearing | Salsa Cowbell | VP Sealed Bearing | VP Sealed Bearing | VP Sealed Bearing |
| Stem | Salsa Guide | / | / | / | / |
| Handlebar | Salsa Cowbell | Salsa Cowbell | Salsa Cowbell | Salsa Salt Flat | Salsa Salt Flat |
| Saddle | WTB Volt Sport 142 | / | / | / | / |
| Seatpost | 27.2 x 350mm | / | / | / | / |
| Grips | Salsa Gel Cork Bar Tape | Salsa Gel Cork Bar Tape | Salsa Gel Cork Bar Tape | Salsa File Tread | Salsa File Tread |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Sora 9-speed | Shimano Sora 9-speed | Shimano Claris GS 8-speed | Shimano Claris GS 8-speed | Shimano Claris GS 8 SPD |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Sora | Shimano Sora | Shimano Claris | Shimano Claris | Shimano Claris |
| Crank | FSA Vero Pro Adventure, 46/30t | / | / | / | / |
| Shifters | Shimano Sora | Shimano Sora | Shimano Sora | Shimano Claris | Shimano Claris |
| Cassette | Sunrace 9-speed, 11-34t | SunRace 9-speed 11-34t | SunRace 8-speed, 11-34t | Sunrace, 11-34t | Sunrace, 11-34t |
| Chain | KMC X9 | KMC X9 | KMC X8 | KMC X8 | KMC X8 |
| Brakes | Promax DSK-330R flat mount 160mm | / | / | / | / |
Video
Comparison Table
| BIKE | PRICE | DRIVELINE | TIRE | BRAKE | CLICK VIEW |
| Marin Four Corners | $1289 | 3×9 | 700c×42mm | Shimano Mechanical Disc Brake | Click View |
| Specialized Diverge E5 | $1300 | 2×8 | 700x38c | Tektro Mira mechanical disc brake | Click View |
| Vitus Substance V-2 Flat Bar Gravel | $1036 | 2×9 | 700c x 40c | Tektro MD-C310 mechanical disc brake | Click View |
| Kona Rove | $1599 | 2×9 | 650x47c | Tektro MDC550 mechanical disc brake | Click View |
Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 vs Marin Four Corners
The Marin Four Corners is a Shimano Sora 3×9 drivetrain with more gearing options, but it is heavier and the 3× may not be as novice-friendly. The gearing may not be as friendly to newcomers.
Although both are mechanical disc brakes, the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 gives me a more comfortable feeling when riding, and the relatively smoother and simpler 2×9 transmission makes my ride more interesting.
If you like relatively simple speed changes, you can try the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700, which gives you a comfortable ride on both flat roads and normal mountain riding.
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Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 vs Specialized Diverge E5
The first thing that struck me about this Specialized Diverge E5 was its choice of three paint colors, at which point I have to admit that the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 doesn’t do enough.
Also, the Specialized Diverge E5 has a Shimano Claris 2×8 drivetrain, the fact that with the Shimano Sora both are entry-level drivetrains. However, the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 will have a bit more gearing for the 2×9. It is worth mentioning that if you are looking for quality and comfort, then Shimano Sora should be your first choice.
In addition, we noticed that the Specialized Diverge E5’s 700x38c tires are a little fatter than the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700, and I would be more comfortable sitting on the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 on an actual ride.
If your wallet is not prepared enough, the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700, which is $101 cheaper than the Specialized Diverge E5, is an unbeatable choice.
Learn More: Specialized Diverge Comp E5-A Multifunctional Bike That Gives You More Fun
Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 vs Vitus Substance V-2 Flat Bar Gravel
The same aluminum frame, but surprisingly, the Vitus Substance V-2 Flat Bar Gravel is 0.2kg lighter, and both bikes traveled at 58km/h in our real-world review, with the same 2×9 gear range and 700c tires allowing them to reach relatively fast speeds on the road.
In addition, the carbon fork of the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 has a certain shock absorption function in the face of gravel trails, and the cushioned grip allows you to have a more comfortable ride.
As we can see both bikes use mechanical disc brakes, but their braking ability is undeniable, and the ability to brake consistently in all conditions is one of their strengths.
If saddle and grip comfort is more important to you, I think the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 will be just what you need.
Learn more :
Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 vs Kona Rove
I have to admit that 700c tires are the trend right now, and this Kona Rove has a 650x47c tire setup, which makes it probably not as fast as the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700. the steel frame is slightly bulkier than the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700’s aluminum frame.
Also, the same 2×9 shifting, which makes me not so happy with its $400 price tag over the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700.
The geometry of the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 makes my ride more comfortable and with the same mechanical disc brakes, but for the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 the braking is more convenient for me, although the Kona Rove isn’t bad either.
I would prefer the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700, both in terms of frame material and tire choice.
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