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First off, let me say that I had amazingly high expectations for the El Mariachi Ti. And those expectations have been met in every way, shape and form by this new frame. As an owner of both early generations of the steel El Mariachi, those who know me well are familiar with my love for the frame. In my opinion, the only way to make it substantially better was to make it out of titanium. So when my friends at Salsa told me the ti frame was happening, I knew I had to put my money where my mouth was. Fortunately, I have a very understanding spouse. Thank you Laura!
I built my El Mariachi Ti up with an eclectic mix of light but durable parts based around a Shimano/FSA 2x9 drivetrain, a Mavic Crossmax 29 wheelset, Salsa cockpit components, a Moots titanium seatpost and WTB saddle and tires. A new red King Sotto Voce headset was the cherry on-top (for me at least).
I haven’t had it on a scale, but it’s clearly the lightest 29-inch mountain bike I’ve ever owned and from others’ comments after giving it the “lift test,” clearly it’s light by their standards as well. My seat of the pants impression confirms that as well… It doesn’t feel like I’m riding big wheels, necessarily. It just feels like a fast, light bike. The perception of mass that many 29-inch wheels have is simply not present here. They still roll, but they don’t feel heavy so they accelerate at will and feel very lively. It’s all benefits, as I see it, especially for someone like me that’s six feet tall.
The major benefit of titanium is the ride quality though, and this is where Salsa really nailed it. For those who have never ridden ti before, imagine the best steel frame you’ve ever ridden, now turn all of its great features up to “11” and take more than a pound out of the frame weight while increasing durability and corrosion resistance significantly. It all adds up to what I like to think of as a frame I’ll keep for life. And with the El Mariachi Ti, that’s exactly what I intend to do.
I’ll be riding and smiling right off into the sunset… But don’t think this is the only titanium Salsa I’m going to own. I already have a Ti La Cruz on order, and when additional titanium Salsa models are introduced, you can bet I’ll be right at the head of the line for a number of those models as well. What’s great in steel will be even better when rendered in titanium – that much I know for certain.
Thank you for making this frame a reality! Two years ago, I asked for this frame and wasn’t sure if it would happen or not, but you came through not just with a frame that met my lofty expectations, but fully exceeded them. I feel honored and fortunate to be able to ride one of these incredible frames.
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