Imagine a grueling 300-mile gravel race with nearly 17,000 feet of elevation gain, pushing riders to their absolute limits. Now picture a team dominating this brutal challenge on a bike that doesn't even officially exist yet. That's exactly what happened at the Mega Mid South ultra race, where Salsa Cycles' unreleased Flyway gravel bike stole the show. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this mysterious new bike a game-changer poised to replace Salsa's beloved Warbird, or is it a completely different beast altogether? The cycling world is buzzing with speculation.
The Mega Mid South, organized by the Mid South team from their Stillwater, Oklahoma headquarters, is no ordinary race. Unlike its fully supported counterpart, this ultra-endurance event is self-supported, free to enter, and relies solely on Trackleaders tracking for participation. It's a raw, unforgiving test of both rider and machine. When the 2025 Mid South race fell victim to wildfires, the focus shifted to the Mega, where riders like Ted King and Chase Wark battled for the fastest known time (FKT). This year's grand depart saw Salsa Cycles riders Matt Acker and Jill Martindale claim victory in the men's and women's categories, respectively, with Martindale also securing the women's FKT. Another Salsa rider, Britt Mason, was on pace to shatter the women's record by nearly five hours before technical issues forced her to withdraw at mile 285.
What caught everyone's attention, though, was the bike they were all riding. This sleek, uncatalogued machine, later revealed to be the Flyway, was more than just a prototype—it was a statement. Salsa teased its presence at the event on Instagram, hinting at demos, but it was clear their riders were putting it through its paces on Oklahoma's demanding red dirt roads. This strategic 'slow leak' marketing tactic, reminiscent of what brands like Factor and Orbea have done at events like Unbound, builds anticipation months before an official launch. And this is the part most people miss: It's not just about the bike; it's about the story it tells—of innovation, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Mega Mid South isn't just a race; it's a testament to the gravel community's spirit. While the event itself is largely unorganized, the Mid South media team does an exceptional job of amplifying its energy on social media. Watching from home, I couldn't help but notice the Flyway's distinct design as Salsa's riders led the pack. It's a bold move, debuting a bike in such a high-stakes environment, but one that pays off in spades.
So, is the Flyway the Warbird's successor, or is Salsa carving out a new niche in their lineup? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: this bike has already made its mark. What do you think? Is the Flyway a worthy heir to the Warbird's throne, or is it something entirely different? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
