FRAME: Kinesium alloy main triangle and 7005 rear, cartridge bearing pivots, multiple linkage design with 90mm rear travel, Fox FLOAT R shock, replaceable derailleur hanger, international disc brake mount.
Submitted by
nzgoon
a Cross Country Rider
from Wellington, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Makara peak
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Top componentry for the price. Very good forks.
Weaknesses:
Wheels are very basic and don't match the rest of the package. Obviously where they saved money. The bottom bracket bearings are weak.
Similar Products Used:
Bauer Supra (hard tail)
Bike Setup:
Stock with upgraded wheels XT/Mavic xc717, enduro bearings for bottom bracket and Lock out for the R7's.
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike for the money, just needed some upgrades to be a really sweet ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Calvin Stone
a Weekend Warrior
from Chesapeake, VA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Hardwood Mills
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
banana-online
Strengths:
This is my first full suspension, air travel, hyd disc brakes. I love the active ride on the suspension. The bike climbs very well when you stay in the saddle. Bars are a little wide for me, but that's an easy fix. Brakes worked 4.0 through wet and muddy conditions.
Weaknesses:
Didn't have any as of now. Everything worked great.
Bike Setup:
210lbs in Fox Float, and 130lbs in R-Seven. Didn't bottom on two foot drops.
Bottom Line:
I love the way this bike rides. I'm going to keep playing with shock air pressure to adjust ride. Not sure if I can get any lighter and keep it from bottoming out. This seems to be a great bike and component set-up for the money. I know I couldn't have touched what I got on this bike with any other manufacturer for this price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: November 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1039.00
Purchased At:
Jensonusa
Strengths:
Nicely specced components for this price range. Reasonably light (31 lbs) yet seems strong enough for slightly aggressive trail use.
This bike is amazing for what I paid ($1039 on clearance from jensonusa). I never thought I could get this level of components for that price on a full suspension (or even a hardtail). The stock bike weighed in at 31 pounds which isn't racing weight, but is pretty light for a stock full suspension rig. The Frame is reasonably light but seems strong. the R7 fork, and float R shock are well above other suspension you see in other bikes in this price range ,as are the X-9 shifters/deraileurs, and the Juicy 5 brakes. The cranks and wheels aren't the greatest, but they aren't crap either, they're reasonably light and strong and I'm not in any hurry to upgrade them. The only weak points are actually rather minor, the seatpost and cassette are way too heavy, and I'm not liking the tires, but I generally expect to switch out the tires on a new bike anyway. The 27" bars are way too ride for the tight singletrack I ride, so I cut them down right away. I'm 5'10" and got the 19" frame. It leaves rather minimal standover, but otherwise fits me. At my height, I think I'm right between frame sizes and probably could have gone with either the 17 or the 19, but I'm happy with the 19" for XC riding. I've only had the bike for 2 weeks so far, but have ridden it a lot during that time and have been very impressed. This is my first full suspension, but I've been riding hardtails for 15 years.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from Charlottesville, VA Date Reviewed: October 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Walnut Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$349.00
Purchased At:
rbikes.com
Strengths:
Fairly light, good welds, strong (so far)
Weaknesses:
Paint job looks nice, but has worn down from cable rub faster than some other bikes I've owned.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Jamix XC Comp, RS Reba Race, XT shifters, Avid BB7 brakes, Thomson Elite seatpost with Speed V saddle, LX derailleurs and crankset.
Bottom Line:
This review is for the Frame only, but I've built it up fairly close to spec. The biggest upgrade is the Rockshox Reba Race fork, which I think works awesome with this Frame. Everything fit on the frame perfectly. I'm 6'-0" at 170 lbs, and the 19" frame is a perfect fit. I really like this bike. The stock rear shock (Fox Float R) is everything I need, and nothing I don't. 3" travel, and I've yet to go past about 2" of travel. Granted the biggest jump I've probably done is 3 feet, but I don't need to do anything more than that, which means the XC Comp travel is exactly what I need. I think the XLT would have been too much unnecessary travel. Rear shock is currently at 150 psi. I highly recommend Jamis bikes - I beat the heck out of the bike this weekend at Sherando Lake, and other than a flat, the bike held up fantastically.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
raphael
a
from cali baby Date Reviewed: July 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
craigslist
Strengths:
very light, and um iv got lots of xtr componants on it. it a 2003 model. the air shock fox float is greaat
Weaknesses:
very heavy haha jk. the marizochi bomber is a tad bit stiff but tht is good for down hill
it is good for trails and down hill if you are not gonna do drops that are more then 30 ft cuase i bottomed out when i did that.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Carry
a Cross Country Rider
from MN Date Reviewed: June 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Rides nice when it is working
Weaknesses:
Here is my list I have broke the chainstay TWO TIMES had to have the bottom bracket Warranted twice and finaly gave up and bought a decent one at my cost. I also had problems with the jucy five brakes, they need contant adjusting. I had to buy new rims and hubs (tacoed the old ones and the hubs are junk) had to put a new headset in (at my own cost) the original was junk.
Bike Setup:
was stock when purchased
Bottom Line:
Extremely disappointed with this bike.Don't buy the 2005 Jamis dakar xc comp bike it is junk. The local bike shop has done there best to help me out with the cost but Jamis does not warrenty there labor
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Federal Way, WA USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Phil's South Side Cyclery
Strengths:
Price. $1,700 MSRP. Purchased year end 2006 closeout for $1,300.
Good dealer support on warranty repair of Fox Float R.
Weaknesses:
None for the $'s it is great value.
Naturally, for this priced bike, the rim/ hub combo isn't going awesome, just adequate. I would like to upgrade the wheels/ hubs. Other upgrades will come as my $'s and skill set warrants.
Similar Products Used:
Not many, this is my first full suspension.
I was using a Rock Hopper for a year prior to this.
Bike Setup:
100% stock except for upgrade to Shimano PD545, plant bike fenders and some WTB tires more suited for muddy Pacific NW winters. Because this was 2006 closeout. It has a unique mix of 2006 and 2007 parts. I notice my handle bar was from the next expert model up so I faired well. Seat Post Easton 30, Avid Juicy 5 Brakes, Easton 30 Stem, Easton 50 Low Rise Bar, SRAM X9 Rear, SRAM X Gen Front, SRAM X9 Shifters, Mavic XM117 Rims, Shimano 525 Hubs, Hyd Brakes, Truvative Fire X Crank, Manitou R7 Comp Fork, Fox Float R Shock.
Bottom Line:
Great bike, love it. It is light and handels well. I've been quite satisfied thus far. I look forward to many years of use.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
connor Toth
a Weekend Warrior
from usa Date Reviewed: August 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
skytop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
mike bikes
Strengths:
this is the best bike i have ever used. great handling pretty light overall very good
Weaknesses:
juicy 5 pads arent the greatest but get the job done
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock except for carbone handlebar
Bottom Line:
i woul but this bike a million times over.Plus i got a great deal a $1200 but i would buy it again if it cost double that much.You should buy this bike if u dont have like 3000 dollars to spend on a bike but want a great bike.I have taken it out on some pretty tough trails and it has stood up to everything
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Utah Date Reviewed: August 24, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
UWC (Bangkok, Thailand)
Strengths:
the rear is really sensetive but it doesnt bob when u pedal and its pretty cheap too
Weaknesses:
avid juicy 5 pad is not that great but its still fine
Similar Products Used:
Gaint Anthem Team
Bike Setup:
2006 model with components from the manufacturer
Bottom Line:
a good bike for money and this bike is almost a top of the line bike because it came with nice components
the differences between the pro model is not very far
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Jackson
a Cross Country Rider
from Cedar Park Tx Date Reviewed: August 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
where posible
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
frame for cranks
Strengths:
agile,fairly light,good climber,hangs tough.
Weaknesses:
creeks alot
Similar Products Used:
hard tails,GT,cannondale
Bike Setup:
fox float,marzocchi eta pro,race face prodigy xc,thomsom stem,easton post, risers from a marin,avid5 brakes, shimano lx/xt drive line, fsa bottom braket, clipless,517 rear, bonregar front,rollxs for tires.
Bottom Line:
This bike is fast. And gets tweeky on loose decent, and climbs well with the older horst type rear triangle keeps up with hard tails(99 model pivots on the lower chain stay)this bike finds a grove and goes with it on single track and hard pack terrian it's easy to work or thread through techical places and climbs (with the right tire presure)I've raced this bike once and it did well, I didn't.It has not given up on me yet and have had no real problems to speak of i'm a 145 lb rider 5'6"and I love this bike slightly less than my wife. This bike does well with 4" travel for cross country riding and can take advaced technical trails well Jamis did a good thing with this bike. If I had the 1800.00 for this bike I would have paid it. Instead I built my dream bike for a set of cook brothers cranks for the frame,
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dominick Layfield
a Cross Country Rider
from Park City, UT Date Reviewed: July 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Value for money.
Weaknesses:
None.
Bike Setup:
Switched out stock pedals (for Shimano PD-M540), and saddle (for WTB Rocket V).
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price. My first full-suspension bike. A little heavier than my old hard-tail, but still reasonably light. Stock components are all decent quality, but leave room to upgrade.
Apart from changes noted above, I took a hacksaw to the handlebars (which seemed unduly wide) and trimmed about an inch off each end.
Also plan to switch the SRAM trigger shifters for SRAM twist-grip shifters, which are lighter. (I know this is a matter of personal taste, but I find that in bumpy terrain, especially when I'm losing control of the bike, I often accidentally hit the trigger shifters and unintentionally change gear at the worst possible moment -- doesn't seem to happen with the twist type.)
Overall a great bike to get into XC racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Tan
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: July 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Hup Leong Company
Strengths:
Value for money package. High quality frameset; Kinesis Superlight Aluminum. Great kit for the money. Lightweight chasis. Climbs well on ascends and descends just as well. Proven swing-link suspension platform. Nice colour scheme.
Weaknesses:
Paintwork rather susceptible to minute scratches when cleaning. So watch out ! Avid Juicy brakes comes with lousy pads and the brakes tend to leak so watch out for that too.
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra Race
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar XC Comp, Manitou R7 Comp, Fox Float R shock, Avid Juicy 5 hydros, SRAM X-9 rear D/shifters & X-Gen front D, SRAM PC991 chain, '06 XT cassette, Truvativ FireX Team crankset with outboard bearings, Mavic XC717 Disc rims laced with DT Comp spokes to Hope Pro II hubs and Maxxis CrossMark 2.1s, Truvativ XR contact points, WTB Pure V Race saddle, Jagwire black cables, Shimano M-505 clipless pedals
Bottom Line:
GREAT bike for intermediates. Lightweight, so its good for the climbs. Fully active and plush rear suspension action when going downhill. Well built frame and excellent kit for the money. Race-ready. What more can you want at this price range ?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Tan
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore Date Reviewed: March 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Hup Leong Company
Strengths:
Great Lightweight Kinesium Aluminium frame. Great race-ready componentry for the money. 13.27 kg, light for a full sus with 4" rear travel. Looks good
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra Race 2001
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar XC Comp - Manitou R7, Fox Float R shock, Avid Juicy 5s, Truvative FireX Team crankset, Truvativ XR contact points, Mavic 117 rims with WTB 14g stainless spokes and Deore disc hubs. SRAM X-9 rear D and X-gen front D, SRAM X-9 impulse shifters, Maxxis CrossMarks 26 x 2.1", XT chain and casette.
Bottom Line:
GREAT bike, haven't tested it out at the trails yet though but its sure to be great. Collecting it tomorrow ! Will do a further evaluation from there
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Curt
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: March 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Pendleton
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
RichardsBikes
Strengths:
Climbs like a goat. Just enough suspension to let you rocket down the hills. No pedal bob that I can notice.
Weaknesses:
Most of the time the bike is muddy anyway so I guess it does not matter, but the anodized paint rubs off very easy. If you want a pretty bike look elsewhere.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F1000
Bike Setup:
Reba Race w/ pop-loc; Fox RP3; cranbros eggbeater SL; X-9 triggers and rear derailer; X-Gen front; Avid BB-7's; Easton Monkeylite Bar; Syncros Al seatpost; Deore Disc Hubs on Rhynolites; IRC Mythos XCs
Bottom Line:
This bike really is a great piece of gear. Bought the frame online from richardsbikes.com for $349. Easy on the pocket book and a blast on the trails. I barely notice the added weight on the climbs compared to my light weight hardtail. Have had no problems at all. Ride on some pretty aggressive loose rocky trails aboard Camp Pendleton and the local San Diego trails and this bike handles everything I have tried so far. Seriously look at picking one of these up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO/Williamstown, MA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
1600
Strengths:
Value, componentry, suspension design, fun bike, looks, fast
Carbon flat bar, Mavic Crossland's with Michelins, XT rear cassette, PC99 chain...
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike, but I feel like it has been cursed from the start. I race it, and I am hard on my gear, but the amount that this bike visits the shop is very frustrating. I don't think I could even list all the problems I have had with the Juicy 5's. The Black fork was sent back twice! We'll see if it is fixed this time.
The frame is solid as hell, and the bike looks like it will eat anyone in its way, but the paint chips off like it hates the frame. When set up with a flat bar this bike is fast. I can climb well and bomb down trails to the point where I feel nervous about landings. The Jamis always sticks them, though.
Bottom line...an incredible value, a good design, I think mine is cursed...
Jamis is incredible about warranty stuff and they choose their componentry based on customer service too. If you are thinking about getting into the full suspension XC market, I highly suggest you ride one of these bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Morgan
a Racer
from Metamora, IL Date Reviewed: December 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
All of Pisgah NC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Little Ade's in Pekin IL
Strengths:
UPDATE TO MY POST A YEAR AGO....This bike still rocks!!!! I have changed the setup quite a bit to take it closer to a racing bike. I have raced a full season this year and am very impressed with how it handled the abuse. The bike handles great and climbs very well. I have ridden it on fast flowing single track in Illinois to to tight very rocky switchbacks in North Carolina...Pilot Rock Trail, Pisgah NF for example. And the bike has performed excellent!
Weaknesses:
I did crack the chainstay at the main pivot in North Carolina in October. But I was riding drops and rock ledges that are more suitable for the big hit rigs. Oh well! Jamis replaced, no questions asked!
Bike Setup:
As of now the bike is set up as follows. Stock frame and rear shock, stem, handlebars and XT shifters and rear derailleir. Avid mechanicals as well. I have replaced the Manitou Black Elite front fork with a Fox R100 RLT, Mavic Crossmax XL wheels with IRC Serac UST tires. Just got my new Velo Pronto SL-Z3 Saddle ordered as well as a Thomson seat post. Cranks are being replaced with Race Face Dues as well. Before the next season starts I want to replace the stem and handlebars to a lightweight configuration.
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike, I started racing a year and a half ago, and this coming season I am preparing for a 24 hour race. So I decided to upgrade a lot of stuff on the bike. I loved the bike stock out of the box and if I would not have been bitten by the racing bug, I would have been more than pleased with the bike as a trail rider.
I am so impressed with Jamis' bike and how it feels under my rear end, that I had no problem dumping more money into slowly building it into a great racer as opposed to just buying a prebuilt one.
My only regret is that my hardtail is not a Jamis and neither is my road bike. But it is my favorite by far
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jen
a Cross Country Rider
from Albany, NY Date Reviewed: December 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
depends
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Elevate Cycles
Strengths:
Great bike. Great value.
Weaknesses:
Scorpion tire in rear slips in wet eastern conditions. Not a lot of clearance between rear tire and frame (my 2.1 Kenda Nevegal comes very close to the frame). Also, I had a problem with my bottom bracket coming loose--got it fixed and it's fine now.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first dual suspension bike.
Bike Setup:
2004 stock version except 2.1 Kenda Nevegal tire on rear, new chain, Time platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
I highly recommend this bike. It is an all-round good performer in a variety of conditions we see in the east (mud, sand, rock gardens, logs, climbing and descending hills). Moving from a hard tail to this bike improved my confidence, speed, riding, and fun. I think this bike is so good that I would have had to spend over $2,000 to get noticeably better performance.
The Hutchinson Scorpion tires were OK in the front, but slipped in wet conditions in the rear. If you replace your rear tire, you probably should get a 2" tire or less--my 2.1" Nevegal comes a little closer to the frame than I would like.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dogg
a Cross Country Rider
from Upstate NY Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Great entry level full suspension XC bike. Decent components. Climbs really well. Avid mech brakes work well and are easy to adjust. Comfortable fit. Looks great.
Weaknesses:
Broke the chainstay after 2 months of riding (warrantied quickly, still a hassle to fix though). Less than 4" of travel. Brakes squeak and need regular adjustment (easy to do). Rear suspension stiffens up during downhill braking. Not a big fan of the stock Hutchinson Scorpions.
Similar Products Used:
Lots of Jamis bikes, Giant VT, Specialized HardRock
Bike Setup:
17" frame, eggbeater pedals, easton monkey lite bars, IRC Trailbears 2.25, bashguard, Race Face 120mm stem, XTR shifting cables.
Bottom Line:
Pretty darn good bike for the money. Was disappointed when the chainstay broke, but kinda of expected it and Jamis had a new one ('05 version) shipped to me in 3 days (had to do all the labor myself though). I like the dual control shifters, and the bike climbs really well, especially after getting a longer stem to move my weight up a little farther. Manitou Black Elite 100mm fork works quite well.
I've put 1000 miles on it this year, and ride it pretty hard on lots of different wooded terrain. I'll upgrade soon to a bike with a little more suspension, but I can't knock this bike - good price for a good bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wamprunner
a Cross Country Rider
from North Attleboro, MA, USA Date Reviewed: November 17, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Scottee's Westport Bike Shop
Strengths:
Same frame as their 2004 Pro series, light and strong, great components for the money, overall well constructed, very durable, black/platinum paint job is sharp looking, Jamis does all the little things right, no reason to spend more for a Fisher or Specialized or Trek or anything really.
Weaknesses:
Handlebars too wide (trimmed 1" both sides and it's fine), crap Hutchinson tires (first thing I swapped).
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar 3
Bike Setup:
Conti Explorer Pro's, platforms w/Power Grips, shortened bars, Sigma BC1600 wireless computer, Zefal front fender
Bottom Line:
Very good mix of components for the money. Jamis is tough to beat in that respect. Mine is a left over 2004 model so it has the Avid mech discs and the Deore XT Dual Control levers and Deore XT derailleur. Brakes can be tricky to modulate at times, but they're easy to adjust with lots of stopping power and no messing with hydraulic fluid. Bike shifts flawlessly. I love the dual control brake/shifters. When shifting they offer best of both worlds, downhill my fingers never leave the brake levers, uphill fingers never leave the bar grips since it also has thumb triggers. I'd have a hard time going back to triggers only. I ride mostly hard scrabble technical stuff. This bike handles it all. Great climber and stable on decents. Adjustments on the Manitou front and Fox rear shocks allowed me to get the bike exactly right for my weight (175lbs) and style (semi-aggressive XC). Don't waste your money on bigger name brands... Jamis is the real deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa, FL Date Reviewed: October 6, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Flatlanders Cyclery
Strengths:
Great components and frame
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bottom Line:
True this is my first full suspension bike, but the list of components and frame give you a lot of bang for your buck. Mine is a 2005 model so it has Sram shifters and derailers, Avid Juicy 5 hydralic breaks, and the list goes on. I'm faster and can handle the trails better with this bike, (I know, it's the bike not me).
I would suggest this for anyone interested in a moderatly priced full suspension xc bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from mid-michigan Date Reviewed: April 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
All Marquette Trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Strengths:
Climbs Great, and descends like a champ. Seems to be low maintance on a day to day basis. Set it and ride. Predictable handling, and strong suspension. Rough terrain and 2-3 foot drops no problem. This is without a doubt one of the best bikes for the price. It leaves me asking, "Why would the everyday rider pay more?"
Weaknesses:
As previously stated the tires are lacking, but they are not too bad. The handlebars were a bit wide for me, and I cut 1" off each side ( I guess not a real "problem"). Avid's are fussy at times, but once set-up properly they work great. Only 3.5" rear travel- so not as plush as other bikes.
Similar Products Used:
Tested: Trance 2 and 3, Trek ex, Specialized FSR, many others
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I am 5'7 158lbs, and riding a 17" bike. My riding style could be clasified as aggresive cross-country. I ride hard on varying rough terrain, and like good climbs. This bike fits my riding style perfectly. It seems to be one of the better all-around bikes I have ridden. Often bikes that are set-up to "do everything"--do everything fairly well, and nothing great. This bike is a great entry cross-country bike that does everything else fairly well. Great Job Jamis!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Morganton, NC, USA Date Reviewed: March 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Kitzuma
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Climbs as good as any hardtail I've ever ridden. It won't break. Great shifters. Some good Components.
Weaknesses:
Hutch. Scorp. tires won't last long. Bars too wide. Don't like the Crank or Bottom Bracket.
Similar Products Used:
Many HT's and one FS before this one.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for better tires and bar chopping.
Bottom Line:
I'm glad I got this bike. I'm 230lbs so I was worried if the bike could handle it. It has and shows no signs of suffering. Had to max out the Fox due to my weight but I haven't bottomed. The bar is too wide so I chopped an inch on each end. Put some locktite on the pivot bolts or you'll lose one. The Scorpion tires are light but you'll blow out the sides in no time. My biggest hassle has been the BB. For some reason it gets tight and hard to pedal. Losen a crank bolt alittle and retighten and its fine for awhile. Could be something I have set up wrong. Bottom line is this is the best Mt. bike I've ever owned and I'm very happy with it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ice-T
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento Date Reviewed: February 21, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bikes
Strengths:
This rig is an all around great trail bike. Plush suspension, balanced ride, decent weight, and very durable.
Weaknesses:
The stock tires were garbage, as mentioned before, the damn things would slide in a corner then suddenly hook up. Not a good feeling when you're near a big drop off or a tree. The avid brakes can be a pain at times, just make sure they're set up before every ride.
Similar Products Used:
Trek hardtails, old school schwin rocket full sus, Santa Cruz Super Light
Bike Setup:
Swapped tires out for Fire XC Pro's (Japan Version), new seat, chain stay protector, everything else stock.
Bottom Line:
Jamis makes great mtn bikes, and yes they are also priced well. The Dakar is a superb trail/XC bike depending on how you set it up. This bike has taken a good beating while riding some gnarly trails up in Mammoth Mtn CA and flown down the XC trails in Auburn with no probs. The bike has a great feel to it, it's balanced well and the suspension feels good going uphill or downhill. The only thing that needs to be changed is the junk tires and you're ready to tackle any, and I mean any trail. I've heard of guys using this bike for mtn cross events so the bike can handle jumps no problem. Consider swapping the disc brakes for some good avid 7's or something if you want to shave some weight and have less maintenance to deal with. Mech. Disc brakes are nice but a bit overkill for dry conditions on XC trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Morgan
a Cross Country Rider
from Metamora, IL Date Reviewed: December 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Farmdale Park, East Peoria
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Little Ade's, Pekin, IL. Rocks!!!
Strengths:
Awesome bike, my first full suspension and I am not dissapointed. I love the climbing ability, especially when I go down to Pisgah NC to ride. It takes a heck of a beating too. I love the seat and am impressed with how easy it is to transition in and out of it. The Scorpion tires seem to be perfect for the midwest trails, they grip well and shed mud easily and provide great cornering traction. Though I mainly do XC I have done plenty of jumping and drops with it and the bike more than handles the abuse with nothing to show for it. Great bike for the dough!!!!!!!
Weaknesses:
Avid brakes do tend to rub and "sing" at times (rear only for me). No matter how I try to adjust, the problem always returns. Paint does wear but I really don't care anyway.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! I can ride all day and not feel at all like poopin' out, like on my hardtail. Rides awesome, climbs and descends beautifully. Shifting is a dream. I am already considering an XLT for the more extreme stuff. If you love XC riding and are limited on cash, this is the bike for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Munising, MI, USA Date Reviewed: November 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Bruno's Run, Hiawatha National Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Munising Bay Outfitters
Strengths:
I really like the whole package, especially the shifters and disc brakes. The fit and finish was right on for my 225#, 5'10" body. The geometry doesn't demand a heavy pressure on the handlebars but is just right for good weight shifting and manuevering.
Weaknesses:
The Huthinson Scorpion tires are pure junk, IMO. You just never know when the extremely soft compound was going to dig in or let you go for a slide. Replaced them with a low cost Maxxis tire, don't remember which model. Another weakness might be the paint. Seems to wear off rather easy where cables rub.
Similar Products Used:
Did alot of statistical comparing with other brands but did not ride any other.
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock. Added bar ends, computer, and Maxxis tires.
Bottom Line:
I really like this bike. It is a whole new experience for me compared with the 10 year old Trek Singletrack I had. The fatigue factor after 3-4 hours in the woods is way less than the old days. The seat and grips also work well for me. Customer service through dealer/distributor was excellent. We had a serious brake malfunction early in the season when it looked as if the screws holding rear brake disc to hub did not have locking compound added. Screws backed out and broke castings in hub. Voila, NO BRAKES! Once replaced, all is great. After a full season in our part of the country, I can offer 5 chilis on this bike. It has been good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
erik
a
from boston Date Reviewed: September 21, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Strengths:
Good overall package. Good lateral rigidity, excellent climber. Impressive value.
Weaknesses:
The seat, tires, and headset will eventually have to go. Another thing is that the freewheel doesn't have enough teeth in it or something. You know how bmx bikes whizz really fast so each pedal stroke catches immediately? That doesn't happen with this bike. There's a bit of a lag. It freaked me out at first but it hasn't been a problem on the trail.
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Komodo, Giant NRS, most full susp. you find at most regular bike shops (Cannon., Spec., Gary Fisch.). This bike smokes all but the NRS, which it ties.
Bottom Line:
I'm a pretty good rider who's been in a few races but mostly likes to bang around in the woods. I was struggling with spending big bucks on a more name brand bike, but opted to go for the value package. I could not be more pleased. This bike allows me to ride longer and better than I used to be able to.
This bike is smooth up and down hills, over everything and off everything. 2-3 foot drops no problem. Biggest improvement this bike made for me was climbing: the back wheel always stays put and gives lots of traction.
I planned on breaking and replacing the Black fork with an upgrade, but it has been able to take anything I have been able to throw at it. I like the XT integrated shifters, except when I do some trials like moves where you pivot on one wheel. Sometimes during these moves I press on the brake lever and it shifts when I don't want it to. This never happens during xc riding.
Overall the bike gives a smooth, confident ride. I haven't seen a better bike for the money. As noted, it's not perfect, but it is outstanding, which earns it 5 chilis. And if there were a 6th for value, it would grab it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
vinnie
a Weekend Warrior
from jamestown,RI,US Date Reviewed: August 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
breakheart
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$14000.00
Purchased At:
Narragansett Bikes
Strengths:
awsome bike good components for the money.LIght as far as fs is conserned. A great ride climbs like a dream. The black is a great fork and is really user friendly. the tires work great for the type of riding over here we see a litlle of everything and i've rode in it all and they work great.
Weaknesses:
avid disc brakes had alot of trouble. they stop on a dime but constantly creak and rub. Have had them adjusted several time the problems continue. the fizik saddle switched it out for a wtb and love it. Because of the drastic slope in the top tube a longer seatpost is needed and they fail to supply one
stock with the exception of a longer stem tompson setback post straight truvative bars and the saddle
Bottom Line:
the bike is great. It is perfect for the weekend worrior who wants a nicer bike but doesnt have the cash to support one. Jamis is a well known company and u get allot for ur hard earned dollars. Needs better disc brakes and the shifters are a matter of oppinion but other than than it is all personal preference and tweaking. If u havee the cash go a model but as far as weight there isn't much to talk about unless ur a gram counter.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Oceanside, CA, USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Pontiac Lake, MI
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
The Path, Tustin CA
Strengths:
Just about everything - handling, suspension, climbing, descending, braking - all fantastic.
Weaknesses:
Hutchinson Scorpion is a terrible rear tire for hardpack. Deore front der seems bad, but could just need adjustment.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS-2, Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Specialized seat and Time Alium-S Pedals.
Bottom Line:
I have been researching this purchase for years, and Jamis always topped my list. It surpasses all of my expectations, and every positive review I have read. It climbs better than my old hardtail, and loves to go downhill. It is balanced perfectly, and can handle any trail, as long as I don't get in the way by braking or steering eratically.
I would recommend replacing the tires. The Scorpion is a terrible rear tire for SoCal - hardpack, with loose sand and rocks on top. It seems to be OK as a front tire, though.
Bottom line - possibly the ultimate cross country full suspension. Try it - I drove an hour and a half just to demo it, and I bought it on the spot.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodbridge, VA Date Reviewed: May 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Fountainhead
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
I know everyone says the bike they bought has the best "bang for the buck", but this bike really takes the cake. I love the XT shifters and the Avid disc brakes.
Weaknesses:
The paint does seem to scratch and rub off easily. Just put some clear tape under the cables were it rubs the most and it shouldn't be a big problem. The OEM Manitou Black Elite fork is a little disappointing, but not enough to keep me from loving the bike. The handle bars are a bit long (680mm)so I cut 20mm off each side. The pedals are great when it's dry, but don't shed mud well.
Bottom Line:
I just rode a 12 hour race this weekend and the bike performed as well as I could have hoped for. Being on a two man team I had plenty of time on the course for something to go wrong and nothing did. At first I thought the tires were going to be suspect but they have endeared themselves to me. They gripped well when it was dry and they were acceptable when it started raining. The dual control shifters are the best, period. I don't care what anyone says, the shifters are super easy to use. The dual control shifters, combined with the "low-normal" rear derailleur, rip off buttery smooth shifts every time. The seat fits me very well. There is plenty of padding (I hate the seats that feel like a board) but it is shaped so I can slide on and off it easily. The shocks compliment each other and smooth out the trail. The ProPedal on the Fox shock really works. Pedal bob is reduced to a reasonable amount while still being able to smooth out small bumps. The bike is simply great. If you don't at least try this bike out then you are doing yourself a disservice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a
from boulder, co Date Reviewed: April 15, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1375.00
Strengths:
Looks cool, nice suspension for traversing all kinds of trails cross country outings. Great beginner, intermediate bike, as you will not have to upgrade too much later on. Nice brakes and shifters.
Weaknesses:
seat(gotta protect the goods), tires
Similar Products Used:
khs, trek, cannondale
Bottom Line:
I would highly recommend this bike if looking for a good bike that won't need too many upgrades right away. I like the shifters. The bike has a nice linear feel to it. It's all about finding the right geometry as what bike will work for you and what wont. This things rocks!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from LV,NV Date Reviewed: April 14, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Pinpoint steering, lighter weight in its class, quality components, frame
Weaknesses:
will need new tires.
Similar Products Used:
canondale, marin, trek
Bike Setup:
none
Bottom Line:
This is a lot of bang for the buck. It's does everything fast and efficiently. Great handling uphill and downhill, will little bob if you are not too large. Nice shifters that are only seen on bikes twice the price. Nice truvativ components. Made from a company who put pride in their bikes, and knowing it has a good warranty is a plus. The store I bought it from is also a plus.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Morgan
a Weekend Warrior
from Ulysses, Ks Date Reviewed: April 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Xtreme Cycles
Strengths:
This bike is a great out of the box racer. The full suspension works great and the Shimano XT shifters are easy to use. The frame is responsive and the Avid Breaks are great to use.
Weaknesses:
The Manitou Black Fork was not my favorite, so I changed it out for a Fox TALAS RCL
Bike Setup:
I just added a cateye Enduro computer and ODI Lockon grips
Bottom Line:
This is a great into to a full suspension field. With a few upgrades and work, it makes this a really geat bike for a first full suspension.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scotty Lang
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff Date Reviewed: March 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$14995.00
Strengths:
Handling, looks, functional, great handling bike
Weaknesses:
PAint Chips easily, brake vibration felt in frame, MAniyou Elite not really an elite- OEM that doesnt have Lockout, as stated in JAmis website. HEAVY. New XT shifters -got carpal tunnel after 1 ride. Imtegrated headset
Similar Products Used:
You name it.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Its kinda heavy , has no lockout, paint chips and vanishes under slight cable contact but handles good. My frame buzzed w/ application of rear brake, couldnt get brake setup dialed in in rear I guess or I had a contaminated rotor - either way the frame would buzz annoyingly w/ application of rear brake, not sure why. I dont believe the weight as advertised by manufacturer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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