Custom Build: Salsa Spearfish Eagle 90 T-Type Full Suspension Trail Mountain Bike
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Build Overview
This Salsa Spearfish custom build is set up as a more all-around, trail-focused version compared to the XC-oriented Spearfish build we shared previously. Fall is the season where we get creative in the shop — sifting through takeoff parts, leftover pieces from other custom builds, and mixing them with new parts to put together unique, high-value builds.
This one combines new mechanical Eagle 90 T-Type transmission, a 130 mm Fox 34 SL, takeoff Stans Flow wheels, Shimano XT 4-piston brakes, and some trail-friendly Schwalbe Nobby Nics. It’s still running the stock 120 mm rear travel, but the front end is bumped to 130 mm to make it more capable and forgiving for everyday trail riding.
If someone down the road wants to convert this to full AXS, the platform is ready for it, but the Eagle 90 mechanical transmission feels surprisingly good and keeps the build cost in check.
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Full Build Specs
- Frame: Salsa Spearfish C, DLX finish
- Rear Shock: Fox Float SL Factory (120 mm travel)
- Fork: Fox 34 SL Factory, 130 mm travel (trail configuration)
- Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 90 T-Type mechanical transmission
- Cassette: T-Type (GX-level equivalent)
- Crankset: Eagle 90 mechanical crank
- Wheels: Stans Flow (takeoff set)
- Tires: Schwalbe Nobby Nic (front & rear)
- Brakes: Shimano XT 4-piston (takeoff)
- Handlebar: Race Face riser bar (takeoff)
- Dropper Post: Demo dropper (test unit)
- Bottle Mounts: Multiple inside-frame bottle mounts + top tube bag mount
Build Notes
We built this Spearfish to land squarely between a pure XC race bike and a full-on trail bike. The Fox 34 SL in a 130 mm configuration gives the bike a more planted feel up front, especially for riders who want a little more confidence without giving up the Spearfish’s efficient pedaling.
The Eagle 90 mechanical T-Type drivetrain shifts cleanly, and after seeing a few of the new factory Spearfish bikes go out the door with this group, we’re pretty impressed with how it performs. It’s a good middle ground for riders who want T-Type toughness without going full AXS right away.
The Stans Flow wheels and Nobby Nic tires were takeoffs from previous builds and perfect for someone looking for a more trail-oriented configuration. The takeoff Shimano XT 4-piston brakes were a win — they’re powerful, consistent, and a favorite for riders who love that Shimano bite point.
This is the time of year when riders are wrapping up their season, figuring out what worked, what didn’t, and what they want in their next setup. We enjoy putting together builds like this that land exactly where a rider needs: efficient, capable, and customizable.
If you’re thinking about a Spearfish or any custom trail/XC build for next season, we’ve got more frame sets coming and plenty of options — including Santa Cruz Blur, Highball, Stigmata, and more.
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Work With Us On a Custom Build
If you’re thinking about a custom trail or XC build, we can spec it, order it, and build it exactly the way you want.
