Is Salsa Warbird C Worth Buying? [Salsa Warbird C Review]

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Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS

• Price: $5,499
• Frame: Warbird Carbon
• Gear: 1×12
• Tires: 700c x 42 mm

What do we like about it: Lightweight, high-modulus carbon frame and premium vacuum tires to tame tough terrain for you.

What we don’t like about it: too little choice of paint colors

Rating: (4.7/5)

Introduction

Whether it’s in a professional triathlon, a traditional gravel race, or when I want to do a fun road ride, I think many people like me would like to have a gravel bike that is good enough to accompany us on our adventures and achieve victory.

This Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS in its red battle dress appeared before my eyes. At first, aside from the bright paint color, its plain-looking exterior made me a little dismissive. But after I went for an actual ride, I shut up.

This Salsa Warbird C with its light and sturdy Warbird Carbon frame, neat and characterful 1×12 SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS drivetrain, and quieter and more powerful SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes left us amazed at its performance on gravel roads. And it also dazzled us with its outstanding performance on climbing trails.

After three months of riding, the Gravel Warrior took us through a 20-mile stretch of Dirty Sheets in South Fulton County in the City of Chattahoochee Hills. It accompanied us to enjoy the gravel road in this scenic countryside and challenged to climb the smooth trail with me like a comrade in arms. Not only did I feel the bike’s excellent gravel riding experience, but it also gave me unexpectedly deft climbs.

Yes, the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS has me hooked on its blistering speed and gentle gravel riding experience.

Below we break down the gravel riding, climbing performance, key features, components, and specifications of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS and other versions.

To learn more, please stay tuned to us.

Gravel Riding

In fact, when I was faced with bumpy and rough terrain, I always thought the experience would be best on a bike with full suspension. So I paid little attention to gravel bikes, which I thought were just a variation of road bikes (an idea that wasn’t true). However, the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS has given me a new appreciation for it.

Whether it’s on rough and bumpy trails or gravel roads, I have to admit that in its price range, it’s among the best. Its performance gives it – the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS bike – a big thumbs up from me.

Dirty Sheets

We headed to South Fulton County to experience the far-famed Dirty Sheets, a 20-mile gravel trail that I was a little worried about in terms of endurance. Secondly, the sharp, unmaintained trail had me worried, but the actual riding experience put all those worries to rest.

Based on the bike’s lightweight and durable 700c x 42 mm vacuum tires, the Teravail Cannonball has a steep seat tube angle (73°) and different seat tube lengths in different size configurations, allowing you to ride in comfort even on bumpy trails or rough and uncharted roads with performance that will blow your mind.

Also with its 1×12 SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS drivetrain, I didn’t have to worry about dropping the chain when facing these bumpy gravel roads, and the simpler 1× drive made my speed changes easier and quicker.

Objectively speaking, we noticed the bike’s no-shock setup, so we weren’t expecting it to perform on gravelly, bumpy roads at first. But its Warbird carbon frame and vacuum tires and its carbon fork make up for it in this regard. So even on rough and bumpy gravel roads, it absorbs shocks well. In the same price range, it combines the advantages of both speed and vibration absorption. But I have to say it’s a bit inferior to the more expensive full-suspension bikes, but I prefer the lighter Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS to the bulky full suspension.

Climbing

Climbing powerhouse – the hardtail bike. In rugged, steep uphill climbing, if it calls itself second in the same price range, I’m afraid no bike dares to call itself first. But in this review of the Salsa Warbird C, I have to admit that climbing is one of the Salsa Warbird C’s strengths on uphill climbs.

I have plenty of confidence in it due to its high quality and lightweight carbon frame. But the not wide enough tires make me a little worried that it doesn’t have enough grip and traction in climbing. During the actual ride, I experienced the wonderful climbing moments of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS.

South Fulton County

We came across an obscure climbing forest road near South Fulton County. To evaluate the bike’s climbing performance, I stood up and pedaled. The timely acceleration got me up and running quickly, and the nimble, lightweight bodywork made it easier to keep control. And its 700c x 42 mm Teravail Cannonball vacuum tires gave it great traction, making it easy to jump and climb with its supple performance, even against the small mounds of dirt on the climbing path.

In addition, its 1×12 SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS drivetrain has a relatively dense gear ratio in the face of such climbs, allowing me to vary my speed according to the terrain to achieve the most appropriate and labor-saving results.

In addition, the steep head tube angle (70.8°) and seat tube angle (73°) not only made my pedaling easier, but also allowed me to have a better line of sight and better climbing results during the climb.

All in all, the Salsa Warbird C shows its unique charm, whether it excels in the gravel section where it excels, or in the unexpectedly excellent performance in the climb.

Main Features

Frame

At only 20.2 Ibs, the lightweight Warbird Carbon frame has me intrigued. But that didn’t stop me from being dissatisfied with its barren selection of only one paint color (although there’s nothing wrong with its red paint color).

In addition, the internal alignment is designed to look clean and tidy without making you feel cluttered. And even after a muddy road, the internal alignment design makes it easier to maintain and clean the bike.

Is that the only thing? No, not really! Let’s turn the view around. You’ll see that it can also mount 700c x 45 mm or 650b x 2.0″ tires, allowing you to choose the tire size that best meets your needs. There are also 2 water bottle mounting holes in the main triangle frame (a whispered reminder that there is room for 3 from 56cm and up), allowing me to take plenty of water with me on long, leisurely rides. And the fenders are set up to allow me to ride longer even in rainy or wet weather, allowing me to enjoy nature’s baptism.

Geometry

If the speed of the bike depends on the rider’s pedaling and tire roll, then I would argue that the comfort of the bike depends on its geometry. The thoughtful geometry will allow you to have a comfortable ride on any terrain.

For the steep seat tube angle (73°) of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS, it allows me to keep a comfortable upright ride. It doesn’t make me feel like I’m going to struggle with the pedals, it’s much easier to pedal. And the bike’s steep head tube angle (70.8°) makes me feel sharper when riding and has a more agile steering response and a strong boost for climbing.

In addition, the bike’s properChainstay Length (430mm) not only gives me more flexibility in weight distribution but also gives me a responsive performance on technical rides. And look at the relatively low BB Height (279mm), which not only lowers my center of gravity, but also allows me to stay stable even on the steeper descents.

Yes, even if it looks like a mediocre geometry design, any data it has on your ride will affect your performance in the race. The ergonomic geometry of this Salsa Warbird will give you a comfortable ride during the race and increase your chances of winning the race.

Components and Specifications

SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 Electronic Drive System

The 12-speed is an excellent drivetrain with a wide range of shifts in the 1× drivetrain. Even though I have an almost harsh pursuit of multiple shifts, I have nothing to criticize about this drivetrain.

The first thing we can see is that the 1×12 gearing is a wide enough range of speed options. Whether I’m facing a forest road climb or a gravel ride or a normal road ride, I can choose to shift to the right gear. Shifting to a more suitable gear ratio allows you to have a more relaxed ride and save enough energy.

If that’s all I won’t say anymore. Salsa Warbird C This SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 electronic drivetrain not only provides a neat drivetrain, but unlimited proven eTap shifting and advanced chain management for a more intuitive, effortless, and reliable drivetrain that is easily personalized of speed changes.

SRAM Rival Hydraulic Brake

Riding without brakes to me is like jumping out of a plane without a parachute. It leaves me with no sense of security at all, which shows how much I value the braking system.

In fact, when I saw SRAM’s brakes, my heart was already half down. After all, SRAM is a relatively good manufacturer, and the hydraulic disc design also raised my trust in it by one layer.

At this point, there are bound to be people who will say that talking about data without actual riding experience is a rogue’s act. I must admit that this statement is a bit rude, but it makes sense.

To get a true taste of its braking performance, we threw the Salsa Warbird on a slippery downhill slope for repeated reviews. Its braking did not disappoint us.

First of all SRAM’s CenterLine Disc rotors improve braking performance. These rotors have a consistent center of friction throughout the rotation, and this design allows me to have quieter operation when braking.

Secondly, the advanced hydraulic disc brake provides powerful braking in any situation. The better lever has a soft and easy but powerful and stable braking performance even in adverse conditions.

It gave me enough security during the ride.

Teravail Cannonball Tires

Without a pair of excellent feet, how to reach the other side of the dream? Without a pair of excellent tires, how to ride to farther places to appreciate the magic of nature, to experience the joy of cycling?

Yes, this Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS has excellent “legs” – Teravail Cannonball tires.

The excellent Teravail Cannonball tire is a durable tubeless (vacuum) tire. The chic tread design provides great cornering traction in real-world riding and also gives the wheels greater rolling efficiency because of the low rolling resistance.

In addition, the 700c x 42 mm Teravail Cannonball casing offers significant weight savings, and you get a softer, more comfortable ride with additional puncture protection that makes it fearless on any surface.

It will take you anywhere.

Other Versions of Salsa Warbird C

In this review, we have provided a comprehensive and objective realistic assessment of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS in terms of frame material, geometry, drivetrain, and brake configuration. To give you a more detailed and comprehensive understanding, we have prepared other versions of it.

Salsa Warbird C GRX 810 2x

With the identical carbon frame and tire configuration, riders who don’t have some experience might mistake them. But for me, whether it’s the lighter body of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS (Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS weighs 20Ib 3oz, Salsa Warbird C GRX 810 2x weighs 21Ib 3oz), or the more technically simple SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 electronic drivetrain. Or the more technologically simple SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 electronic drivetrain that doesn’t confuse them for me.

In terms of drivetrain, I love the advanced 1×12 electronic drivetrain of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS, both in terms of speed options and smoother, more fluid shifts. Even though the Salsa Warbird C GRX 810 2x has more speed options (2×11), I’d rather get a better and easier drivetrain.

But it also means I’ll have to spend an extra $900, and I think it’s worth it to get more cheers for a better race result.

Salsa Warbird C Force eTap AXS Wide

This Salsa Warbird C Force eTap AXS Wide is driving me crazy! The 2×12 electronic shifting, both for easier speed changes and wider speed options is like a great battle buddy. I can’t wait to ride alongside it. If I thought the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS was a trusted friend, the Salsa Warbird C Force eTap AXS Wide is a hurricane in my book. Advanced hydraulic disc brakes, a high-end drivetrain, and the same rugged tires as the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS make it a ride you can’t imagine in any situation.

If you want a higher-end riding experience with better race results in the Salsa Warbird C Force eTap AXS Wide is worth spending more for.

If your choice of gearing is not so high-end, the somewhat more friendly priced Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS will grab your attention.

What do we like about it?

• Lightweight body design, even for petite women can also be well controlled.

• SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 electronic drive system for easy individuality.

• Advanced SRAM Rival hydraulic brakes are fearless in any situation.

• The powerful, hard-wearing Teravail Cannonball tires take you further afield.

• The design of multiple water bottle mounting holes and the compatibility of the rear rack allows you to ride long distances without fear.

What do we don’t like about it?

• Barren color selection.

• Some people think that the design without shocks will make the ride less enjoyable. (In fact, I was smiling the whole gravel ride)

FAQs

• Can Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS be fitted with a rear rack?

The Salsa Warbird C can be fitted with a rear rack.

• How many water bottle mounting holes does the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS have?

The Salsa Warbird C has 2 water bottle mounting holes (3 for 56 cm and up).

• What is the frame material of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS?

The frame material of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS is Warbird Carbon.

Salsa Warbird C Specs

	Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS	Salsa Warbird C GRX 810 2x	Salsa Warbird C Force eTap AXS Wide
Frame	Warbird Carbon BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Color: Red	Warbird Carbon BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Color: Green	Warbird Carbon BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Color: Berry
Fork	Waxwing Deluxe	Waxwing	Waxwing Deluxe
Saddle	WTB SL8 Medium Cromoly	WTB SL8 Medium Steel SL	WTB SL8 Medium Cromoly SL
Seatpost	Zoom SP-C255 Alloy -OR- Salsa Guide Carbon	Salsa Guide	Zoom SP-C255 Alloy -OR- Salsa Guide Carbon
Rear Derailleur	SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS	Shimano GRX RX810	SRAM Force eTap AXS
Front Derailleur	N/A	Shimano GRX RX810	SRAM Force eTap AXS Wide
Shifters	SRAM Rival eTap AXS	Shimano GRX RX810	SRAM Force eTap AXS D1
Cassette	SRAM XG-1251 10-44t, 12-speed	Shimano HG700, 11-34t, 11-speed	SRAM XG-1270-D1 10-36t, 12-speed
Brakes	SRAM Rival Hydraulic, SRAM CenterLine rotors (160 mm)	Shimano GRX RX810, Shimano RT70 rotors (Center Lock, 160 mm)	SRAM Force Hydraulic, SRAM Paceline rotors (160 mm)
Rims	DT Swiss G 1800 12 x 100 mm	Shimano RS470 12 x 100 mm hub, WTB EZR i23 TCS rim, 28h	DT Swiss 350 12 x 100 mm hub, Whisky No.9 GVL Carbon 700c rim, 24h

Video

Comparison Table

BIKE	PRICE	DRIVETRAIN	TIRES	BRAKE	CLICK VIEW
Giant Revolt Advanced Pro 1	$5200.00	2×12	700x40c	SRAM Rival eTap AXS Hydraulic Disc Brake	Click View
Salsa Cutthroat C GX Eagle AXS	$5699.00	1×12	29 x 2.2″	SRAM Rival Hydraulic Disc Brake	Click View
Cervelo Aspero Campagnolo Ekar	$6500	1×13	700×38c	Campagnolo Ekar hydraulic disc brake	Click View
Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS / 1X / Carbon CC / 700c	$5799	1×12	700x40c	SRAM Rival 1 Flat Mount Hydraulic Disc Brake	Click View

Salsa Warbird C vs Giant Revolt Advanced Pro 1

At first glance, I noticed the hydraulic disc brakes on both bikes. The strong braking power that is stable in any situation and the smooth and quiet braking operation make me can’t stop liking them.

It must be said, however, that the electronic drivetrain of the Giant Revolt Advanced Pro 1 2×12 is advanced and extensive enough, but only in terms of additional speed options. Both bikes use the same SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS. The Salsa Warbird C Force eTap AXS Wide is a higher-end version of the Salsa Warbird C series that also has a 2×12 e-drive, and it’s lighter in weight.

Also about the same size tire in real-world riding, I prefer the Teravail Cannonball vacuum tire on the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS. It gives me a comfortable ride both in terms of weight and its traction or grip.

If you need a drivetrain that is light enough and comfortable and simple, I think the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS would be a quality choice for you.

learn more：Giant Revolt Advanced 3 Review – The Best Carbon Gravel Bike For The Money

Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS vs Salsa Cutthroat C GX Eagle AXS

I can say that the Salsa Cutthroat C GX Eagle AXS is a durable bike. the Cutthroat Carbon frame is relatively light, but it will still be 3Ib 2oz heavier than the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS, so in terms of lightness here. I would go with the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS.

Also, the electronic shifting of these two same 1×12 makes them comparable. However, the Salsa Warbird C has more speed options (2×11) than the lower-end Salsa Warbird C GRX 810 2x. While it may not be as easy to change speeds as the Salsa Cutthroat C GX Eagle AXS, it gives riders who prefer more speed more options.

Whether you prefer more speed options or the easier and faster shifting Salsa Warbird C, there’s a bike for you to choose from.

learn more：Salsa Cutthroat Apex 1 Review-Gravel Bike Looks Cool, Wouldn’t It?

Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS vs Cervelo Aspero Campagnolo Ekar

Both bikes have the same carbon frame. We can see that the Cervelo Aspero Campagnolo Ekar is $1901 more expensive than the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS.

It must be said, however, that the Cervelo Aspero Campagnolo Ekar 1×13 has a relatively better electronic drivetrain. However, if compared to the high-end Salsa Warbird C Force eTap AXS Wide, the lighter body, wider gearing and powerful hydraulic brakes will be an eye-catching sight on your race track.

In addition, the slimmer 700 x 38c tires will be faster on flat roads. But on climbs, the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS would stand out more in my real-world experience. The slightly wider tires and special tread pattern allow for more traction and grip to be added to it.

Whether you want a high-end bike with more gearing or an affordable bike that will get you results in gravel races, the Salsa Warbird C gives you plenty of options.

learn more：Cervelo Aspero Apex 1 Review – Taking You On A Fast And Comfortable Gravel Ride

Salsa Warbird C Rival AXS vs Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS

This version of the Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS / 1X / Carbon CC / 700c has a relatively larger selection of paint colors. But both have the same SRAM Rival XPLR AXS 1×12 drivetrain. However, the Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS / 1X / Carbon CC / 700c will cost $300 more.

In addition, the SRAM Rival 1 Flat Mount hydraulic disc brake on this Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS / 1X / Carbon CC / 700c requires very little force, but the braking is not to be underestimated.

Despite this, in my actual riding, the braking of the Salsa Warbird C was no slouch. The excellent hydraulic disc brakes’ powerful braking force makes me trust it.

It is worth mentioning that the Santa Cruz STIGMATA Rival AXS / 1X / Carbon CC / 700c also has a 650c version, which allows you to have a more suitable choice when facing different terrains.

But the compatibility of the two tire sizes of the Salsa Warbird C Rival XPLR eTap AXS allows me to ride more comfortably in the face of different terrain.

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