Salsa Horsethief or Spearfish for AZT and CTR?

[Heath]

Which one would be better for events like the AZT/CTR. I have decided that I want the full squish on these rough trails.  Also what size tires and with 27.5(650b) becoming a thing again, would any of you choose that size over a 29er rim? I have ridden both bikes and both feel great, the Spearfish is lighter and a little more precise, and the Horsethief seemed bigger and heavier but also more forgiving on the the trail with picking your lines.  However I don't have enough experience on these two bikes to know how they are on multiday events. I am 6 foot tall and around 200 lbs and wanting to get down to 190 185 if that helps. And if not these two, what would you recommend?

[Dana Ernst]

I can’t speak to the Horsethief, but I’m in love with my Spearfish.


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[offroute]

I'd get whatever setup I prefer for trail riding in general. They all work better for bikepacking

[ec_duz_it]

Get the Horsethief!  Mine has completed the AZT300, CTR and TDLP.  You won't be disappointed, this bike can handle anything!

[Heath]

That’s awesome! Real world experience was what I was looking for. The Spearfish is 24lbs and the Horse is 29lbs according to Salsas website. Did you ever think it was too heavy or that the Spearfish would have been better because of its weight? And over long rides day after day was  the extra suspension adding to your comfort and soeed or taking away?  Or is the suspension and weight differences between the two negligible?

[ec_duz_it]

I have the carbon version of the Horsethief.  It felt way lighter than my aluminum Stumpjumper that I had before.  No problem on the walk a bike of the high elevation passes of the CTR.  I am sure both bikes are great bikes, I just like maximum squish and comfort, since the trails I ride near me are rocky.  The Spearfish is probably a faster bike on less technical terrain, but the Horsethief can conquer junky and chunky trails all day long.  Message Salsa on Facebook and ask them when they are doing a demo day near you.  That's how I rode my bike before purchasing.