Salsa Notch C (GX Eagle Transmission) Review
The Notch C earns its name, with the “C” standing for carbon. The frame, handlebar, and wheels are all carbon, giving the bike a stable, vibration-dampening, and lightweight foundation. From a performance standpoint, it’s an excellent starting point and helps keep the usual weight penalties of an eMTB from becoming a major complaint.
Salsa’s split-pivot rear suspension design plays a big role in how the bike rides. By allowing braking and suspension forces to operate independently, the system delivers strong control and consistency. The overall ride feel is firmer than I initially expected, but not harsh. With some tuning, it’s easy to find a sweet spot. The suspension leans more supportive than plush, which works in the bike’s favor when grinding through technical climbs without excessive sag, then charging downhill on a platform that feels stable and predictable.
The RockShox suspension setup is a strong match for the bike’s geometry. All that travel, combined with the frame design, gives the Notch a true enduro personality. It feels comfortable railing steep descents while staying composed through corners. The stock 170/180mm setup is more than enough for our local terrain, but the platform can be pushed even further if you want. The bike is compatible with up to 200mm of travel and a dual-crown fork for riders chasing a more downhill-focused build.
The split-pivot design also pairs well with the braking system. Keeping the suspension active under braking is only part of the equation, and the SRAM Maven brakes deliver the stopping power to match. This is the year I’ve fully come around on what Mavens bring to the table. They’re extremely powerful and inspire confidence when things get fast, steep, or unpredictable and you need quick, controlled stopping.
The GX Eagle Transmission remains a favorite here at Electric Bike Report. Electronic shifting isn’t a necessity, but it’s a genuine luxury on an eMTB. More importantly, it’s practical. The system manages shifts under load, helping ensure the Bosch motor’s high torque doesn’t prematurely wear chains or cogs.
The bike rolls on full 29-inch wheels with Teravail Kessel tires, which feel rugged and offer solid grip across a range of conditions. If you prefer a mullet setup, the Notch is mixed-wheel compatible with a 27.5-inch rear wheel. A flip chip allows you to make the necessary geometry adjustments to match that configuration.
The 444 chainstays with 27.5-inch rear would give you a fairly maneuverable setup. As is with the full 29-inch tires and the bike’s fairly long wheelbase, it’s more of a blanted experience, but one that feels relatively light and agile for it’s size.
