This bike measures up to the Dakar XLT 2.0 in all ways but one: it doesn’t cost as much. Featuring the same all-mountain XLT frame platform but with 125mm of plush and progressive Fox Vanilla RL coil-sprung suspension fore and aft.
Submitted by
Calebiker
a Cross Country Rider
from Spokane, WA Date Reviewed: September 15, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$330.00
Purchased At:
Craigslist
Strengths:
The Fox air shocks are really great and there is hardly any peadle bob while seated, and the disk brakes are a major upgrade for me, it is such a fun bike to ride. Its really great looking too.
Weaknesses:
everybody was saying that it was heavy at 30 pounds, but my old hardtail was 34 lbs.
Bike Setup:
It is the 2005 model and the guy that I bought the bike from had replaced the tires to panaracer XC pros, and put on a b.g. titanium/carbon saddle. As far as I know everything else is stock.
Bottom Line:
if you find this bike, BUY IT!It made the best mtn. bike of the year in 2003 and is great fun to ride.it's great for light freeriding, but at 5.5 inches of travel there's not enough travel for DH.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Ivanov
a Weekend Warrior
from Saint-Petersburg,Russia Date Reviewed: June 4, 2008
heavy frame (bike's '07 weight in stock= 15+-kg) Maxxis Ignitor - tires for tactors!!
Bike Setup:
Fox Float R - fork & shock, Juicy 3 truvativ husselfelt stem, dmr V8 pedals
Bottom Line:
Dakar XLT '07
want to buy new tyres instead maxxis
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Barbara, CA Date Reviewed: February 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Tunnel
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Craigslist
Strengths:
Durability, components, great at climbing, stable ride.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Dawg & Kikapu Deluxe, FSR XC.
Bike Setup:
Stock w/ platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. It takes beatings very well. Have taken off 5 ft. drops and it just took em in (although you have to tune the shock first..). Am racing in a few months XC on it and feel like I will do great. Climbs incredibly. If you can find an '03 for the right price, buy it. I demo'd the Dawg, Kikapu Deluxe and an FSR XC. They didn't really compare, I love the lockout. Haven't had any cracks though. Great for all mountain. Buy it if you can find one for 500-750.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dmb
a Weekend Warrior
from Philadelphia, PA, USA Date Reviewed: January 1, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
gift
Strengths:
Climbs great, Fox RL shock is indestructible, horst link, plush over bumps, takes drops like it's a freerider, geometry is great for all-mountain riding, great color. Well balanced, low center of gravity, and stable, stable, stable!
Weaknesses:
Name is too long.
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Dakar Sport 2001,
Bike Setup:
2003 Jamis Dakar XLT 1.0 size 17", Silver 2003 Marzocchi Z1 Freeride SL, Alex rims on Formula hubs, LX/XT drivetrain, Avid mechanicals, FSA Vdrive Xtreme crankset, Maxxis Mobster 2.5 up front, WTB Velociraptor 2.1 rear, silver Mosh BMX flat pedals, WTB Speed V saddle
Bottom Line:
This review is for the frame only. Frame size: 17", Rider: 155lbs, 5'6"
This thing does it all. Climbs, hucks, XC. You name it, it does it. I don't know if it's the horst link, or the suspension design, or the geometry, or the head angle, or what, but this thing climbs great. Just stay in the seat and keep pedalling. I don't even use the lockout on the shock. My set up weighs in at 33-34lbs, but I still feel more comfortable pedalling it up a hill than my friend's sub-25lb Giant NRS.
If you like going down hills, just sit back, forget about picking lines, and let the rig speed you down. That Fox shock just soaks it all up, while at the same time giving you total control over that rear wheel.
If you want to do drop offs, go ahead. Lean back and keep your elbows up. It's that simple. It almost dares you to use it for free riding.
This frame gives me confidence in all aspects of riding. Uphills, downhills, drop-offs, urban, it truly is "all-mountain" and then some. I sometimes feel more confident on drops with it than I do with my Norco Launch! It's a great ride for someone who wants to progress as a rider, even if you're already a great rider.
An awesome frame for the indecisive rider who does everything and wants to do everything well. I've heard the later models no longer have the horst linkage and that the geometry is a little more slack, hopefully it hasn't affected the climbing ability of this amazing frame. Jamis's suspension design is a great climber, even without a stable-platform shock.
I've had to replace one pivot bearing in the 3 seasons of riding this frame (five bucks), and that was after a full day of urban nonsense.
2003 was a great model lineup for Jamis. Fox was doing the XLT suspensions then, and the XLT was total bang for the buck.
A better value and a better ride than it's Cannondale and Specialized counterparts (I tested those before agreeing to the Jamis).
Value: Cheaper than any comparable rigs of the more advertised brands.
Overall Rating: An all mountain frame that can do more than just all mountains.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: August 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Powderhead
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Singletrac k
Strengths:
Bang for buck
Weaknesses:
Service from JAMIS
Similar Products Used:
plenty
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock other than ALIUM Pedals, Panaracer tires,
Bottom Line:
Overall I love the bike, have riden many miles, dont baby the bike at all and it keeps performing. I've replaced a lot of parts due to wear, chains, rings, bottom brackets, rear swingarm (cracked - covered under warranty), bearings.
On thing that is deplorable however is the service from JAMIS. I commented earlier how long it took to get a hanger, now I have been waiting 6 weeks for shock bushings. The only part that came relatively quickly (2 weeks) was the rear swingarm that cracked. JAMIS service is the worst I have ever seen from any company.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JohnnyB
a Cross Country Rider
from New York Date Reviewed: April 27, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
Frame & Parts- fork, strong wheels, brakes work well
Weaknesses:
Pedals, tires. Traded them for Mallets and Nokians after a few rides.
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, Heckler, AS-R, Enduro Comp
Bike Setup:
stock xlt 1.0
Bottom Line:
All around great bike used for 2 years on trails, few drops. Handles all conditions well. Have had no problems with the frame, unlike others on this board and I ride mine really hard and very often. The weight is average for a bike that can handle this much action.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington, IL Date Reviewed: March 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Independance Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1425.00
Purchased At:
Little Ade's
Strengths:
For the components, it's cheap and light weight. Has been able to hit everything I throw at it. I've raced it in beginner downhill and XC races and its competed well in both.
Weaknesses:
I've replaces the derailler hanger about 5 times, seems to be flimsy, I'll hope for a after market stronger one. A pivot on the rear shock has come loose twice. Front shock is a little soft. Never even road with stock peddles. Hutchinsons didn't grip a whole lot when they were on there.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Dawg
Bike Setup:
Stock for the most part except heavier springs in the front shocks and a Thompson stem.
Bottom Line:
Very smooth in the trails, you don't have to pay attention to every little detail the single track thows at you like an XC and doesn't have the weight of a downhill when you're climbing plus has lockouts. Hard to beat for the price, Jamis needs to look at some of the fine details to make it perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Connor
a Downhiller
from Eagle Date Reviewed: February 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Hockett
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Venture Sports
Strengths:
I have the 2004 model and the bike comes with awesome components and is very good for the price. It seems to ride really well and the manitou suspension is great for pedaling uphill as well as doing little 3-5 foot drops.
Weaknesses:
the hutchinson tires were designed for mud yet were still put on a retail bike. tires wore out in a month and caused me to crash hard when the sidewall was worn out. Also, this bike is a little bit on the heavy side but nothing you cant easily get used to.
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher's 5-by-5 bike test rode, Marin wolf bike test rode
A great all around bike for the price, awesome for going trail riding with the friends and good for the person like me that likes to race cross-country and go downhilling a few times a week. Wont win you any cross-country races though but could make you a much better racer for using lighter bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BIGRED
a Weekend Warrior
from Baltimore, MD Date Reviewed: September 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Avalon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Broadway Bicycles
Strengths:
Price, was able to upgrade cranks, wheels,tires, FD and shifters without too much extra cost. Very capable bike, high fun facter when ridden aggressively. Climbs pretty good after learning proper spin on cranks.
Weaknesses:
None at this time I have put this bike though-out the East and Colorado and the Southwest, Moab, Sedona, Texas and NC
Similar Products Used:
1st Full Supension, been Mt bike since 80-81 have ridden some GT FS and Klein but didn't like the feel stayed with trusted steel hard-tail. This bike was cheap and it fit good.
Bike Setup:
XT drivetrain, CHRIS KING ISO/Mavic F519 Thompson Stem and Seatpost,
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review, now I have had this bike for just over a year and the frame has suffered no cracks in frame at all. I'm 6'2" 210lbs and have put this bike though good rides and the only failure has been the BB. I went up to New Jersey for the US OPEN MT biking in June and did some of the downhill course's that sure was fun, but I'm in my 50'ies now so I don't ride real hard I will try to tackel everything the trail throw's my way and I'm pleased that this did and has done everything extremly well. The only thing now is a good rear shock would help the pedel bob.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Falls Church, VA USA Date Reviewed: August 30, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
used mtbr classifieds
Strengths:
Cheap! Got it on mtbr.com classifieds in very good condition used for 900 shipped with SPD pedals and cleats. Very plush (compared to my old POS). Great for xc singletrack as well as free ride. No chain stay or any other problems. The front and rear lockout make it ridable on the road if you need to use it for singletrack and free ride as well as getting to school or work.
Weaknesses:
none yet!
Similar Products Used:
my old bike doesn't even compare. However I did test ride the 2004 in the shop. The 2004 might have been a little more plush, but this was $550 cheaper.
Bike Setup:
Pretty much all stock.
Bottom Line:
I've heard about chainstay problems but never had any. I've gotton 5+ feet of air on this thing with NO problems. The chainstay stuff worried me too, but then again I'm only 130 lbs so I probably stress it less then someone thats 200 lbs. The perfect bike for someone who loves to ride and doesn't have alot of money for multiple bikes because it can do it all. All in all, I love it and you'll have a hard time finding anything better then this for $900.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
REEK
a Weekend Warrior
from Baltimore MD Date Reviewed: August 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Clementine loop in CA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
locally
Strengths:
Parts specs, Horst link, cool grey color
Weaknesses:
Chainstay integrity, some of the pivots seem sloppy, rear seatstay brace hits seat tube
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC1, Specialized Enduro, Marin Wolf Ridge
Bike Setup:
Shiver SC, XT/XTR 8 speed, Swinger air 4 way
Bottom Line:
Great parts specs for the price. I parted mine out completely and put my "old" parts on it. That's the way I like it. A few things draw back from a near perfect frame. The rear seat stay brace hits the seat tube on full compression, the pivots seem a bit sketchy - none have given out yet but still seems sloppy. The worst, the chain stay broke near the main pivot. took almost 4 weeks to replace it. I think that was more of a local bike shop problem rather than a Jamis problem. I spoke with the guys at Jamis in N.J. and they were willing to send me a chainstay sight unseen. I just needed to call my Jamis dealer and have them file the warrantee papers. But the LBS not only treated me like a criminal for relaying the message from Jamis but also dragged their feet unbelievably. So I went to my local Performance bike shop and got results. again, unbelievable.
Anyway, the bike rides great with the SPV upgrade. It really didn't need it with the rear suspension design/horst link design but I was going from coil to air anyway so I got a Swinger air 4 way. The more XC-ish head angle is actually nice. I know some say it's sketchy on the downs but overall as a trail bike, I like the quicker steering and better climbing.
New chainstay seems thicker but I'm treating this as a hefty XC bike now rather than taking big drops on it. Love the ride too much to part with the frame just yet.
In my opinion, I'd rather keep the 03 rather than get a new 04 XLT mainly for the rear suspension design and head angle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ted Bertele
a
from Longmont, CO, USA Date Reviewed: July 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
locally
Strengths:
Price, 4-bar linkage, etc
Weaknesses:
Low BB, frame integrity
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock, 550 spring, race face bask guard
Bottom Line:
An update, broke another chainstay. I have been maintaining my bike religiously, making sure all components are tight and functional. It still broke. Getting nervous about owning this bike, i ride a lot, and somewhat aggressively, but WTF Jamis? I purchased a spare frame just for this reason, now i have a hot swap while I wait to see if I can get another chainstay. I wish i could find an actual Jamis engineer, but their web page is pretty good at hiding their location, customer service, etc. I still love to ride this bike, but starting to think this is a disfunctional relationship!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JD
a
from Chula Vista, CA Date Reviewed: June 2, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Frame & Fork
Strengths:
Cheap for what I paid for it. Does the job for most riders out there. Good on tight single track.
Weaknesses:
Does not feel plush, and I have a 500# spring on it. It probably feels better with an air shock. Low BB Height, Steep Head Angle for a Freeride Frame, Jamis relaxed it a couple of degrees on the 04 Models.
Similar Products Used:
Marin Tara, Gary Fisher Sugar
Bike Setup:
Full XTR and all Top of the components
Bottom Line:
Its a good budget Freerider, Get the 04 model with an Air rear shock, the relaxed Head Angle makes a world of difference and more confidence inspiring on sketchy sh*t!!! Ride On
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
NOWELL WHITTAKER
a Weekend Warrior
from SALT LAKE CITY UT USA Date Reviewed: April 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
ANYTHING MOAB OFFERS
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
HIGHLANDER BIKES
Strengths:
FUN SUSPENSION BIKE. WAY CHEEP. GOOD WARRENTY.
Weaknesses:
SEEMS THERE IS A CRONIC PROBLEM WITH GEARING. ALWAYS SEEM TO BE TUNING IT IN. I HAVE GONE THROUGH 2 SETS OF CHAINRINGS IN FRONT. DONT KNOW IF ITS THE MIX OF COMPONENTRY OR WHAT. ALSO, FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AND FROM READING OTHER REVIEWS, THE REAR CHAIN STAY IS EXTREMELY WEAK. I BROKE MINE NEAR THE PIVOT. COULD HAVE BEEN A TOTAL DISASTER IF NOT IDENTIFIED IN TIME. ONE HARD HIT COULD HAVE BROKE IT IN TWO PRODUCING ONE BAD ACCIDENT. MINE CRACKED ON ONE SIDE LUCKLY. ALSO, THE BIKE DOES'NT SEEM AS RESPONSIVE ON TIGHT TURNS. LOVE THE SUSPENSION, JUST NOT A TIGHT FEELING BIKE. I RIDE A MIX OF TRAILS, GROOMED ALPINE MOUNTAINS, TO HARDCORE BOULDER POPPERS. ITS A HEAVY BIKE, WITH THAT WEIGHT I WISH THERE WOULD BE A LITTLE MORE SECURITY IN THE FRAME. JUST A LITTLE GUSHY ON THE TURNS.
Bottom Line:
GOOD FUN FOR BEGINNER RIDER. COMPONENTS ROCK, JUST WORRY ABOUT THE FRAME. IF THE MANUFACTURER PUT A LITTLE MORE TIME INTO IT, THEY WOULD HAVE A KILLER RIDE!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ted Bertele
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, Colorado Date Reviewed: April 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Hall or Walker Ranch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
locally
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my broken chainstay saga (see below). I went to my LBS (Acme Bikes in Longmont, CO). They took it and within two weeks, I had a new one to swap out. Thank-you Acme for pursuing this issue for me. I thought I was screwed because I purchased this bike used (see below), but Jamis stepped up and took care of it. I understand also why it happened, when any part of the linkage becomes loose, it affects the entire rear suspension, in this case, it cracked my chainstay. I put part of the blame on myself, but Jamis, dont tell me how to replace my wheel reflectors in the owners guide, tell me how to maintan my bike. If its that important, then you better well document that. My 1980 schwinn banna seat cruser has a better owners manual. Well regardless, thanks Acme and thank-you Jamis for stepping up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ted
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: March 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Hall or Walker Ranch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Good components, nice brakes, rides nice over rough terrain that would normally leave me rattled on a hard tail. 5 inches of travel is awsome for a XC bike
Weaknesses:
Seem to hit the BB more often, bottoms out on rocks, frame is weak, and the brakes always rub. Also a bit heavy. The seat is horrible!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock with the exception of new tires and peddles.
Bottom Line:
I tried to buy this bike at the end of last year, nobody had anything in stock anywhere. I found one in the paper and when I checked it out, it was mint. Some guy put maybe two rides on it around his driveway, no dirt or damage other than a few chain dings. I rode it on an off this winter, maybe a dozen times, mostly when the snow had melted enought to get a dry ride in up on Hall. Last week, I inspected the frame and found that the lower bracket was cracked near where it attaches to the hinge behind the BB. Also one of the large bearings was trashed as well. I am extremely dissapointed that this frame has failed already. These were mellow winter rides in muddy conditions, no drops, no mad downhills, mostly firebrake roads and rolling trails. This should not have happened and I will pursue Jamis on this. I know other people have had similar occurences, hopefully I will get this resolved. I love riding this bike, hopefully I will be on it soon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Stevens
a Weekend Warrior
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: March 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tai Mo Shan, HK
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Kam Po Bicycles
Strengths:
Handles beautifully, fills me with confidence on all terrain.Going much faster over the scary stuff. Love the Fox forks, although spring set up too soft on stock bike for my weight - 200lb. Ideal for anyone who rides hard and fast, both up and downhill.
Weaknesses:
The chainstay developed a crack near the hub after only 4 rides. Have returned to shop under guarantee.
Similar Products Used:
GT XCR 3000
Bike Setup:
XTR gears, cassette and drive train. Mavic wheels. Hayes 6 inch disc brakes
Bottom Line:
I fell in love with the bike after one ride but I'd heard about the weak chainstays and had hoped I would be one of the lucky ones. Don't know how long I'll be waiting for a replacement. Meanwhile, back to my battered but indestructible 1998 Marin Nailtrail hardtail. Value rating would definately go up if they can sort out the chainstay issue.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BIGRED
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore,MD Date Reviewed: January 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Patapsco/avalon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
1100.00 Broadway Bicycles
Strengths:
Fairly good supension design,componet group is good for the price, bike spec's for 19" frame are close to my custom Strong fits very good. Hayes brakes adds great control. Fox Forx is smooth and plush doesn't get knock off line at speed.
Weaknesses:
Weight and hub drag, bottom bracket a little low. Truvativ cranks are heavy, cassette lacks 34th gear needed for the weight of this bike.
Similar Products Used:
1st Full-supension, I have been true hardtail lover forever.
Bike Setup:
Thomson Stem & Seatpost,switch to XT cranks & built Chris King ISO Disc wheelset with XT cass 12-34 on Mavic F519 and Nokian NBX 2.3 and my old Flite saddle.
Bottom Line:
This being my 1st FS bike took alwhile to get used too. When I took this bike up to Mount ST-Ann at the end of June to give it a good run it seem to take a lot of energy to keep it moving this was attributive to Shimano Deore Hubset and the rotors being out of true. As long as you were going DH this bike was fun. The Fox forx and Vanilla rear with 600lbs spring ate everything in its path no need to pick at line,but hardtail habits are tough to break. 3 & 4 foot drops seem to disappear, at speed were extremly confidence inspiring which can be considered foolhardy at 50plus. When I returned to Baltimore I quickly built some new wheels change the cranks to XT. What a diffence, now this bike climbs sometimes better than my hardtail. The disc brakes are wonderful I really like the way they haul the bike from speed with no-lockup. Overall, this a good bike for the dollar,but the new frame for 04 lost the Horst-link thats not a good idea to sacrifice a good frame design for better work rear shocks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
snoopy
a Weekend Warrior
from amherst., nh Date Reviewed: January 2, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1391.00
Purchased At:
souhegan cycleworks
Strengths:
5 inch front and rear travel. Gusetted frame. Lock-out on the front and rear suspension is handy although not entirely necessary on the back.
Weaknesses:
Most of the weaknesses are very minor. Little on the heavy side. Pedals are very annoying. After about just a 10 mile ride that seat had really tenderized my meat packs so i wouldn't suggest it for boney people. Brakes are still burning in but iv been told they'll be excellent once they finish their break-in period.
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension. Last bike was a 2002 raliegh m60(hardtail) The jamis is a monstrous step up from that piece.
Bike Setup:
pretty much stock. Haven't had it for long. I did swap out the seat for the Avenir on my raliegh. Put some cheapy platform BMX pedals on for the time being. I'll probably go clipless soon anyway.
Bottom Line:
I love it. I've been shopping and researching for a few months now and it all came down to either the Jamis or trek LIquid 20. Unfortunately the guys at the shop with the trek blew the deal by accidentally telling us the wrong price. So it ended up too high. I'm just as happy as can be with the jamis though. Since i got it just over a week ago iv been itching to get out and jump it off of anything i can find. It is heavier than my hardtail but it's not really a problem for me. I've only been able to find a few fun drops. 3 1/2 feet at the most. Nothing else is really ideal. But it performed great through what little testing iv put it through. There just enough snow out here to prevent me from doing any trail riding but of course not enough to do anything snow related (snowboarding). This is a great bike if it's gonna be your first full suspension and you may plan on doing a bit of racing on it. Otherwise it's a great all mountain or freeride bike. Amazing value too. At just about $1400 you'll be hardpressed to find a better package anywhere else. Wish they had more than 5 chilis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
flotsom
a Cross Country Rider
from Las Vegas Date Reviewed: December 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere in Bootleg Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Copeland's(why not?)
Strengths:
Rugged, nice compononts, low price, cushy ride on washboard fire-roads.
Weaknesses:
Weight, already obsolete suspension (not SPV or pro-pedal). I suppose you could upgrade if the stock Vanillas blow out. No 34-tooth rear cog for those really steep, slow climbs. Makes you get stronger on the climbs or you have to buy another cog.
Similar Products Used:
None, 1st full suspension.
Bike Setup:
Stock except had SPD's put on in place of those 1-sided spd/platform things.
Bottom Line:
The bike is pretty bad ass looking and you can't beat that price (closeout deal). I figure even if the frame breaks, I'm still money ahead if I go buy an American made frame and swap components. Only one ride on the bike and I'm trying steep drops I never tried before - the bike instills confidence. Love the brakes & Fox suspension. It's 5 lbs heavier than my hardtail but I don't mind. The Jamis is not as fast but it's more comfortable. The chain did mysteriously pop off after I pegged a pedal on a rock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a
from Sacramento, CA Date Reviewed: December 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Clementine loop
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Online and added SPV
Strengths:
Looks sweet, nice component package for the price, nice geometry, has the horst link suspension, 5 inch rear travel.
Weaknesses:
Should have full bearings in rear suspension instead of just main pivot and bell crank pivot. Tires stink.
Similar Products Used:
FSR ground control (98), Giant XTC DS (pre-NRS), FSR Enduro sport (00), Giant NRS, Marin Wolf ridge
Bike Setup:
Wicked wendy front fork, AC cranks/race face rings, Attack shifters with XT rear, XTR front derailler, Hayes disc 8" front, 6" rear, Manitou SPV 4 way shock, Dt-swiss wheelset
Bottom Line:
I parted the bike out, put my "preferred" parts on. Love it. Sweet suspension BEFORE changing the fox RL to a manitou SPV. Even Sweeter afterwards. Buy this bike. The swing link bell crank pivot looks suspect but has held up so far. Not too hot about the ZS headset designs. I'm going to see if the adapters from my NRS will work in this bike and switch to a regular headset if they do. You can get them from a giant dealer by the way. Too bad about losing the horst link for 2004.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rog
a Weekend Warrior
from CA Date Reviewed: December 15, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Classifieds
Strengths:
*Strong frame *Great components *Pretty light for such a bulky bike (31 lbs) *Just a nice bike
Weaknesses:
*Tires are lame, i changed them the first day *Pedals are kinda annoying so they are half clip- in, half downhill
Similar Products Used:
Heckler
Bike Setup:
Standard except for Ritchey tires
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike, once you change the horrid tires this baby is sweet. It is a great deal for all the sweet stuff you get on it. I got it on sale brand new for $1,100 which was sweeeeet. An all around awesome bike. I think it is a good bike for anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tal
a Cross Country Rider
from Jerusalem Israel Date Reviewed: December 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Rochavim
Strengths:
Frame tubing is stout, wheels are tough, parts are solid and strong. Active suspension is generally a good thing
Weaknesses:
All replacement parts are unobtainable. Link bearings are very poor quality. Rear shock needs to be updated to a stable platform. bottom bracket height is WAY TOO LOW. Brakes are always needing readjustment
Stock; Easton EA50 bar, Truvativ Stylo team crank, Time carbon pedals, Panaracer Fire Pro 2.1, Ti post and Fizik nicene saddle.
Bottom Line:
I would not buy this bike again. 1) These Hayes brakes have a good rep but I am always adjusting them to avoid rub 2) the quality of the link and bearings has been very poor; at this price I bought lesser quality, I grant 3) One can save a lot of weight by adding and subtracting here and there. As the cross country geometry design of this bike will tell there is really not very much room for changes in the suspension hardware. Other parts can and will save weight. This XLT package is strong. 4) I have been using a Fox AVA R which has improved the rear suspension with the option of adjustment. I will not use the Fox Vanilla again. 5) Jamis customer service is...where is it?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Shryock
a Racer
from Whitefish, MT U.S.A Date Reviewed: December 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Spooky Petes
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Glacier Cyclery
Strengths:
Fox Fork & shock, frame strength, hayes discs(very powerful), overall Geometry
Weaknesses:
Stock tires & pedels, little heavy, some minor disk rub
Similar Products Used:
kona stinky, specilized enduro
Bike Setup:
It has a fox fork RL up front and a fox Vanilla RL in back. I replaced the worthless stock tires with Kenda 2.6 DH's and the stock pedals with some burly platforms. The crank is a truvative with LX/XT derailers.
Bottom Line:
This is an all around great bike. The stock tires are worthless, and I replaced them with Kenda's 2.6 DH monsters. It was night and day. Also, if you want to do XC get a pair of clipless, and if freeride is your gig go with platforms. But the platform/clipless combo pedal that comes on it are no good for either. I mostly ride long gradual fireroad to the top of some great single track descents. On the climbs the Kenda 2.6's add some considerable roling mass to an already portly ride. But there is not too much pedal bob, and if the trail is smooth enough, I lock out the rear, which helps greatly. Also, I am 6'3, 180 lbs, and I found the stock spring settings to be a little light. I swiched out the 500lb spings for 600's and it made all the difference. Once on the downhill, this bike rips. It has a balanced feel and great stearing presision. The fox fork RL is about as plush as a 5" fork can be and this bike has taken many 8ft drops and even a scary 13 footer which it handled very well. Overall I would highly recommend this ride to anyone looking for a great descender that will still climb and not break the bank. Five flammin' chili's for the 1.0
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Corey Schultz
a Downhiller
from Tustin, CA, usa Date Reviewed: October 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Bail out at Northstar in tahoe
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
This bike is pretty good for a lighter weight person for downhill. It can handle big drops and it is light enough to ride some xc.
Weaknesses:
One problem is that Jamis built the back end wrong on my bike so the rear suspension design is bottoming out to much. The bar by the seat tube is hitting the frame. That is the only problem but you do have a warrenty.
Similar Products Used:
similar bike are
Bike Setup:
15" frame, 125mm of travel, fox rear and fork with lockout(Vanilla series)
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that you should buy this bike and take on the rockiest trails but you are still able to ride xc. This is a great all around bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from marin, ca. Date Reviewed: October 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
shhhhhhh
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
nomad cyclery s.f.
Strengths:
travel components
Weaknesses:
weight, tires, pedals
Similar Products Used:
hard tails
Bike Setup:
stock except for speedplay pedals
Bottom Line:
I like the bike but there is a knock in the rear linkage epecially when the bike gets moved side to side or just moving it around while not riding. the dealer says it is just part of the design. they had another xlt on the showroom and it seemed to do the same thing. Has anyone else had this problem? It is as if there is some play in one of the pivots. I still love the bike for an all around machine
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Fredericton, NB, Canada Date Reviewed: October 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
trail at Jellystone campground
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
suspension is plush and easy to set up. Gearing makes bike seem lighter. Good climber and very nimble on singletrack.
Weaknesses:
tires were useless and pedals were cheap quality.
Bike Setup:
removed clipless pedal component from pedals. tioga factory dh 2.10 rear, nokian 2.3 front. kept the rest as is.
Bottom Line:
very good trail bike. very fast on descents and good climber. will hold up to light freeriding although hard to manual and geometry keeps you centered rather than laid back. only needed one tuneup after initial 600 miles. no bob unless you lock out rear shock. a few cheap parts on bike, but easy to upgrade. ideal for riders who love singletrack and are not overly concerned about weight. rear hydraulic brakes had a tendency to rub a bit and levers needed to be dialed in fairly often.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gee
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: September 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Crampshake
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Little Ed's
Strengths:
Suspension, brakes
Weaknesses:
Tires, lack of REPLACEMENT parts!
Bike Setup:
Stock plus: Bontrager saddle, Race Face Prodigy (80mm) stem
Bottom Line:
I had the bike 3 weeks and blew apart the dropout hanger....Long-Story-Short...the dealer finally (after 5 weeks of waiting) yanked one off a Dakar Sport on their showroom floor to get me back on my bike. Last weekend I was informed that the 4 I ordered back in early June probably won't be in until "sometime next year".
Great bike...bad service. Sharpen up Jamis, you've got a good thing going here...don't shoot yourself in the foot!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta Date Reviewed: September 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Powderface
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Singletrack
Strengths:
Bang for buck.
Weaknesses:
hanger, tires, pedals. Same problems a few people have mentioned, I bent the hanger and had to wait a while for a replacement, order an extra one. Pedals were swapped, no problems with a squeeky seat, as some mention and mine stays put.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Alium Pedals, Fire XC tires.
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my original review. After over 6 months on the bike I am very happy. With new pedals and tires the bike has been great. with lots of serious and technical trail riding and some small drops (4FT) the bike has never let me down. Nothing broken yet, but at 200Lbs the springs are a little weak for my weight. Handles great. A blast on fast rocky decents (very smooth); I just keep going faster and faster with this bike on every type of surface/grade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ed ellsworth
a Cross Country Rider
from charlemont Date Reviewed: August 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
hawely
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1.00
Strengths:
this is a up date of my derailer hanger saga.
Weaknesses:
i recived avoice mail today from jamis say that my hangeris being sent directly to me
Similar Products Used:
so im hopeing to be on the trails this weekend
Bike Setup:
all ican say is that i love my jamis but if you have problems go right to the top
Bottom Line:
i left a well placed voicemail and got action
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: August 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Canfield #9
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Fat Tire Farm
Strengths:
Suspension!! Easy to use, and super smooth!
Weaknesses:
The stock pedals.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
15" XLT 1.0 - Stock except for I changed out the pedals.
Bottom Line:
Sweet bike for the money. It's brought my mountain biking to a whole new level. My previous bike was a fully rigid barracuda!
This bike is great. I'm kind of a cross country guy gone free rider!! This bike has enabled me to take much more aggresive lines! It's a little on the heavy side, but I can loose the added wait around my waist line for a lot less money. I checked out the Specialized enduro, and I felt that for the same price the Jamis came better equiped! The suspension is smooth, and easy to adjust.
There are just a couple of issues. One is that when the rear shock is bottomed out the rear cross brace on the swing arm hits the seat tube. I'm currently working with Jamis to figure it out, and they've been great to work with. The next thing is that the replaceable hangers are hard to come by. I'm ordering at least 2 to just keep with me. As far as the performance goes, and I have no complaints!!!
I would recommend getting the bike from your local shop if you can, and make sure they do more then simply put it together out of box and call it good. I bought mine from a shop out of town, and all they did was put it together out of the box. They did not fine tune it at all. I had nothing but fits with it during my first ride. I've since found a local shop that knows what they're doing, and they've helped me out a lot. Oh well, it's all a learning experience.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ed ellsworth
a Cross Country Rider
from charlemont Date Reviewed: August 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
mt toby
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1.00
Strengths:
most bang for your buck
Weaknesses:
jamis can't supply derailer hangers for this bike
Similar Products Used:
i've called ever shop with in a 100 miles and no one has one or can get one i wonder if katrina miller has this problem
Bike Setup:
broken
Bottom Line:
i broke my hanger in early may and still can't get one i geuss if i want to ride at all this season i'm going to have to buy a different frame set seems stupid to junk a frame cause of a 12.00 dollar hanger
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hayden
a Weekend Warrior
from bangor,ME,USA Date Reviewed: August 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the playground(black diamond)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
roses bicycle shop orono manie
Strengths:
the bike is smooth handling.. instills confidence i weigh 234lbs and riding 4-5ft drops no problem did add heavier spring in back..great price good product specs........
Weaknesses:
seatpost clamp i fixed mine by twistin the hell outta the kob and then squeezing it together and givivn it a good kick to close the clamp all they way........ tires n pedals were gone off that beast before i even laid out the dough....chain sucks too snapped the first day and in need of a new one at present time...
Similar Products Used:
none had oldy oclvv y-33........also had last years dakar sport (until i cracked the rear chainstays)
Bike Setup:
stock except for tioga 2.1 dh tires.......and old style bmx bear claw pedals.........
Bottom Line:
this bike is good for rabbid freeriders who will drop even their drawers on anything less then 10ft...the fox fork is very plush plus easily adjusted same for rear shock....needs to have heavier springs(front&rear) when shipped.......and better tires and those pedals don't even get me started..........and that damn seatpost issue hmmmmmm overall the bike kicks some major @#$ for 1500 you'd be hard pressed to find a similar ride.....oh you guys at mtbr need a another depict of rider.......i'm not the weekend warrior or a downhiller or a xc guy where's the hardcore guy who hit's the trails 3-4 a week..........
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Huntington Beach CA Date Reviewed: July 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs Point SF
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Nomad Cyclery
Strengths:
Components and frame
Weaknesses:
Tyres and pedals
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro/Stumpjumper, Ellsworth Dare,
Bike Setup:
complete XT lineup and Easton carbon fibre, seat post and, riser bar, easton ea50 stem, Time ATAC pedals
Bottom Line:
This is by far the best bike a rider could have. For the price and performance you can't go wrong with this ride. Fox's compliment each other nicely, man the fork is buttery smooth. It's easy to bunny-hop on this bike, clipped in or not. Hayes are phenomenal under hard braking. There is a slight rubbing now and then, but it's all good man. Give a good month's worth of riding on the saddle and see how it feels then. I like it, it's one of the more comfy saddles out there. Switched out to XT's after about a month's worth of riding and man what a difference especially with the lighter cranks. The Truvativ were awesome cranks, but you will notice a difference with the lighter XT's. It's like having a lightened flywheel for your car, kicks ass! Bottom line, get this bike if you see it out there, don't hesitate.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a Weekend Warrior
from Ma Date Reviewed: July 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1429.00
Purchased At:
Souhegan Cycle NH
Strengths:
For a realtively low price, you get very good components like the Fox Vanilla RL front and rear, Truvative cranks, and Hayes brakes, plus a strong bike that corners extremely well
Weaknesses:
The seat is very uncomfortable and the tires suck. My first ride on the Jamis was at Attitash Bear Peak in new hampshire, and the tires wouldn't hook up on either the xc or the downhill trails. I bought a Specialized body geometry seat and a pair of Nokian freeride tires, and the bike now feels and performs much better
Bike Setup:
Stock except the Nokian NBX freeride tires and the Specialized Body Geometry seat
Bottom Line:
You can't beat the bike for the price. The component selection is awesome for a $1400 bike, and I love the lockouts on the fox fork and shock. The frame looks tough enough to handle 5-6 foot drop-offs, but at 30.5 lbs, it's still light enough to use for cross country. The only problems I had were with the seat and tires, but now with the upgrades there's nothing to complain about. A warning for anyone who is reading this and might want an XLT 1.0; I bought the second to last 1.0 in the country according to Jamis, so the only way to get your hands on one now is to buy used or wait for the 2004's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chip
a Racer
from chattanooga, TN, USA Date Reviewed: July 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the Dump in Victoria, BC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Suck Creek Cycles
Strengths:
In my opinion, this bike spanks just about anything else offered for under $2k as just a fun, do anything bike. It climbs better than its weight implies and the suspension is active without being sloppy. It's the kind of bike that you sit on and just want to wheelie. the components are adequate, and the spattering of Deore will work fine until it breaks, and then can be upgraded. I'm 6'2", 215, and ride hard. I've blown out several air shocks and broken a few frames. I didn't want air shocks or a "petite" bike. I want something that will take abuse. the 1.0 served my purpose much better than than its more expensive sibling.
Weaknesses:
As far as weaknesses go they are pretty minor. The tires really are a bit sketchy, but most manufacturers skimp on tires anyway. The seat creaks, but it feels pretty good on my fat ars so i can live with. Finally, the FOX fork rattles sometimes...but I don't care. My last bike rattled much worse.
Similar Products Used:
My last bike was a trek Y-50 & it had many rough miles on it. I've ridden tons of bikes, though. Kona Stinky, Specialized big hit, I-drives, Sugars...Lots. Also broke two hard tail frames before i realized I wasn't cut out to be a cross country racer.
Bike Setup:
Stock until something breaks. I do have a Piglet head hanging from teh stem and a Super Man ooga horn, though.
Bottom Line:
I like the bike. It's fun and at the end of an epic ride I don't feel like I've been trampled by a herd of rabid monkeys. It gives me an excuse to go slow on climbs which i like, and it allows me to go balls out on descents....which I really, really like. I can ride a decent wheelie on it, and if I'm bored i can go sit on it in the garage and bounce up and down like a lunatic. What else can you ask for?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
marc klein
a Weekend Warrior
from pompano Date Reviewed: July 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
oleta. markam and qw
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
downtown cycles
Strengths:
product spec, jamis didn't go cheap with any house brand components like some other companys do.
Weaknesses:
trash the pedels and switch out the tires before you leave the shop and youll be happy. also the dreaded hayes rub ends after about 12 hours of riding
Similar Products Used:
cannondale superv500, trek liquid 20, santa cruz bullit, heckler
Bike Setup:
all stock except for plat freeride pedels and specialized 2.4 enduro tires, odi lock jaws
Bottom Line:
this bike proves that a company can build a great bike with out cutting corners and still offer it at a great price. only downfall is getting one , i waited 2 months, and i was told the model up was sold out for the year. this bike is not a free ride bike, its an aggressive xc bike for those of us who dont race and dont hop off of cliffs. were the riders that ride for pure ejoyment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Downhiller
from San jose ca Date Reviewed: July 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
dead campers, santa cruz
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
west virgina
Strengths:
i got a better price than anyone on here, it was built up stonger than the cheap stock version, it can climb and go down fast, the rear lock out is nice, four bar linkage, its not to heavy
Weaknesses:
I guess I heard about the headset being flat, my friend told me about that, it wears the frame down where the headset lays?? not sure??
Similar Products Used:
went through 3 SC bullits i had in the past!
Bike Setup:
came from the bike store custom to be stronger but keeping the cost down, so they put a titec DH stem, easton DH 70 bar, titec DH post, 2003 Z-1 FR 20mm fork, ringle DH hubs laced to sun/tomac rims, 2003 LX cranks and BB, LX shifters, XT front Derailuer, XT cassette, weir wolf 2.5 race tires, 545 shamino pedals, thats the upgrades the rest is stock which is worthy!! all this was included in the price $1500 shipped no tax, so cant get a better deal than that new!
Bottom Line:
i got a better price than anyone on here for a custom bike for $1500 shipped and NO tax and i made to order custom built up stronger than the sorry stock components it comes with, it was built up stonger than the cheap stock version, u cant ask for a new bike for it delievers for its price. it will hold its own, but u have to change the stock version to worthy components. that deore crap they give u is NO good! Its a all around xc/free ride bike, but the only thing I wish it has was a piggy reserve on the rear fox, maybe 2004 will have that. or even a 5th, and fix the flat headset and still keep that price, u will have A Smoking Gun, wow thats dreaming!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from Jefferson Oregon Date Reviewed: July 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Falls City trails Oregon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Copeland Sportng oods
Strengths:
Great handling, great brakes, excellent forks, the most comfortable bicycle seat I have ever sat on.
Weaknesses:
I broke the swing arm near the pivot above the bottom bracket after a month of riding It was fixed for free under warranty but it took 1 month just to have the replacement part shipped. The tires are a little lacking in the traction department also
Bike Setup:
stock except for stiffer springs for my weight (185lbs.)
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a great bike for an even better price look no further, the Jamis XLT 1.0 is the bike for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Belmont, CA Date Reviewed: June 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Water Dog my local trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Nomad Cyclery SF
Strengths:
Brakes, plush suspension
Weaknesses:
Pedals are a pain but its not fatal, tires, handlebars too wide
Similar Products Used:
tested Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
Put on flat bars and bar ends. otherwise stock
Bottom Line:
great bike, no big complaints but here are the small ones.
pedals are tricky to use. i am contemplating putting a weight, maybe a reflector, on one end so they consistently hang one way. right now, half the time the SPD side is up, the other half the other way.
the bars were too wide for my riding (mostly XC) so i put on flat bars and bar ends. BIG improvement, much tighter handling.
lock outs on the shocks very easy to use. i frequently lock the front for control and leave the back springy.
brakes rub. it annoys me b/c of the sound but i don't notice a difference in the ride. POWERFUL BRAKES. they rock.
suspension is awesome. this is my first dual susp. bike. so comfy, no idea why i waited so long. not as light as my hardtail cannondale but whatever. much more fun to ride. weight? bah. i need to lose the weight from ME, not worth the extra $$$ to shed the pounds from my bike.
clamp on seat tends to slip, but i really jammed it down and it appears to be holding now.
tires are a bit suspect -- contemplating swapping out for something more aggressive. have slipped off the trail a couple times. not sure if its me or the tires. will probably try new tires and see if it is the skins or WTF is wrong with me.
great bike. i recommend it highly to whoever will listen. the only people who have ridden it and NOT liked it are the fussy weight-watcher types. is a spider XVP REALLY TWICE THE BIKE? c'mon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Myles Chisholm
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada Date Reviewed: June 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
saluga
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Lake Shore bikes
Strengths:
The fork and shocks are wicked
Weaknesses:
The seat calmp
Bottom Line:
Best bike for the buy
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA, USA Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
porcupine rim, UT
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
free range cycle
Strengths:
Suspension, brakes, value for the buck, quality Fox products - oh, yeah - did I mention suspension. Heavier than a XC bike the Jamis nevertheless pedals extremely effeciently - the 5" of plush travel more than make up for that handicap.
Weaknesses:
Original spec tires, pedals and seat post clamp. Chain will move enough to contact the swing arm which is only a problem if you're anal about the paint job.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro, Gary Fischer Joshua
Bike Setup:
Don't buy this bike if you are interested solely in racing XC in smooth terrain. Buy it for everything else....
Bottom Line:
Why spend more money for a bike of this nature? 5" of plush, tuneable suspension, the best disc brakes made, durable and well-spec'd components. From experience this bike will more than keep up to the average crosscountry bike and when the trail gets rough and/or steep the extra suspension and powerful brakes allow you to motor away from all but the most burly freeride/downhill bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Westford, MA Date Reviewed: June 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Value, Ride, Strength.
Weaknesses:
Slipping seatpost.(If you know how to fix it.. Let me know)
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I've had it only for a short time but I can already tell you that it's changed the way I look at riding. The area that I live in has nasty rocks all over the trails which made riding my old sugar and softails rather harsh. Now I just blast over everything. I don't even notice the weight during climbs. I love this bike. Buy one of you have a low budget and ride the rocky trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: June 10, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Pinnacle Sports
Strengths:
Suspension, frame, the bike just rides great.
Weaknesses:
-stock pedals
Similar Products Used:
-had a Specialized FSR -demoed the Trek Liquid, Giant AC
Bike Setup:
-stock except for pedals and seat -added a Race Face bashguard -tires might go soon
Bottom Line:
The bike is awesome for my type of riding. I do the local xc races on this bike, so the lockout is awesome and easy to reach for the long climbs and just flies on the downhill sections. Then I do the freeride/technical xc trails were the 5 inches comes into play. It rocks. Basically I was looking for something light enough for XC but at the same time beefy enough and with enough travel for freeriding, and I found it and don't regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jarryd boyd
a Downhiller
from Wells Maine USA Date Reviewed: June 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Clay hill YORK ME
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Strahtam NH
Strengths:
IT KICKS ASS
Weaknesses:
the rear suspension is weak the area where it is held look weak but i am havin no probs so far except the soft front fork
Bike Setup:
all stock except MRP chain guide, 650 lbs spring
Bottom Line:
this bike is a great bike for us urban assualt riders and free riders all it needs is a MRP and a stiffer spring and maybe new forks
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dana
a Weekend Warrior
from Mesa Date Reviewed: June 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Slippery Pig
Strengths:
Gusseted front triangle...very beefy, component package for the price is great, suspension setup is awesome.
Weaknesses:
Creak in the back that I can't seem to find yet. Stock tires (hutchinson scorpions), pedals... but these are personal preferances not weaknesses.
Stock except the pedals (DK platforms), and the rear shock is being changed to a Vanilla RC with an #800lb spring.
Bottom Line:
Great bike and so far, rock solid. I have the XL 21 as I'm 6'7" and 250lbs, they changed the geometry of the XLT 21"s from the older Dakars (much better rear suspension geometry). I'm impressed with the Fox Vanilla 125 RL Fork, have been riding a Marzocchi Z1 CR for the last 2 yrs and loved it...we'll see. Other than a phantom creak in the back I can't find yet, this bike rocks. It is a good all around do anything bike at a great price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: June 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Fat Tire Farm
Strengths:
Price Durability Component spec
Weaknesses:
The fact that you can buy it at copelands bothers me for some reason... Tires Pedals Paint is a little thin Seatpost slipping
Bike Setup:
Stock (for now) except for heavier springs front and back.
Bottom Line:
I waited until I had a little time in the saddle before reviewing this bike. Right now I have about 100 miles on it so I am pretty comfortable giving an honest review. The bike is great, but does have a couple weak areas. First, the seatpost keeps slipping...no matter how tight the clamp is tightened down. Hopefully the shop can fix this, but if not I am going to get a new clamp or something. The tires are ghetto. We have had a variety of weather here lately so I have ridden in crazy 2 foot deep mud all the way to dry dusty dirt and to be honest the tires dont seem to perform that great in any of it. The pedals are ok but they are NEVER on the side you need them to be. If you ride them like flats then the spd part is always facing up...if you clip in then the flat side is always up. That is just what happens with a combo pedal I guess...I have some other flats I am going to put on anyway so its not a big deal. The color is boring and the paint seems to be coming off fairly quickly...and the JAMIS sticker on one side is trashed...a nice thick clear coat would have done wonders for the long term appearance. The only problems I have had with the bike are just the normal new bike things...cable stretching and the like. Ok, enough negativity...on to the good stuff. The bottom line is that for the price this is one of the best deals out there. I rode a lot of bikes in this price range and this just felt the best all around. It didnt seem like any corners were cut in the major areas (suspension, wheels, brakes, frame) so I'm happy. When the front derailleur and shifters go (or when I get some money) I will gladly replace them with XT level stuff. I admit I haven't owned the bike that long, but I have put it through the paces and it seems to be holding up just fine. Just don't buy it at copelands :>
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BayAreaBiker
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Copeland Sports
Strengths:
I got this bike at Copeland. The MSRP of this bike was 1500 but the guy at Copeland gave me a 10% discount. (you can also get this discount by signing up for their credit card). Since the day I got this bike, I have loved riding it. The Fox suspension is smooth and Disc Brakes (Hayes) are just awesome. It is taking me sometime to get used to a wider handle bar. I would give this bike a high rating. The price is just perfect and its a hell of a deal for all the components.
Bottom Line:
Great Buy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erin
a Downhiller
from Eugene, OR Date Reviewed: May 29, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
copelands sports
Strengths:
fox fork...$$$$, or lack thereof. 4 bolt stem
Weaknesses:
pedals suck
Similar Products Used:
specialized big hit
Bike Setup:
stock...except for primo pro pedals and a race face bashguard
Bottom Line:
unbeatable for the value so far...ditch the stock pedals for sure...the handlebars can be slimmed by and inch on each side if you ask me...a bit tight in the trees and when cutting railed or fenced in corners for urban riding. my lower linkage in the rear shock has worked its way loose recently. just tighten and apply some locktite. bashguard and fat pedals=5 and 5 freeride machine for the money. 4 footers...10 stairs...first freeriding...super happy with this bike. lockout is sweet for climbing. great all around bike. no compliants here...except for the pedals. perfect for the budget freerider...first full susp. bike shopper...or anyone in the market for a quality allaround bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Brown
a
from Fairview NC USA Date Reviewed: May 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
why tell? just means more people...
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
BioWheels
Strengths:
Phenomenal component spec for $, great suspension design, in the 19" size with extra gusset frame looks bombproof- except for racing, has potential to best all-around bike out there
Weaknesses:
Tires are OK for front, but might as well have a road tire in the rear. Go big and knobby ASAP. Didn't even try the pedals and the reach adjusters on Hayes brakes will not stay in one place. But, see "bottom line" for a final comment.
Similar Products Used:
Test rode Yeti, Tomac, Marin, Ellsworth (almost bought the demo ISIS, it was ssssweeet). But none compared at the $...
Bike Setup:
Don't like skinny grips, so put ODI lock-ons- great product. Shorter stem, improved handling. Plain old Ritchey pedals. Conti Vertical Pro in back, WTB weirwolf in front is what I have now, but again see the bottom line.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike- I've called it an airplane for the way it flys through the air, a battleship for the way it blasts through things, a couch for the all-day comfort, and there's nothing smoother than Fox suspension. With that said, I've had one HUGE issue that prompted me to submit this review- I broke the REPLACEABLE BREAKABLE derailleur hanger in late April. Despite huge efforts by both my topnotch local shop and myself, Jamis is, at latest forecast, not going to be able to provide this REPLACEABLE BREAKABLE part until mid-June- that's date already been moved back from mid-may to late may to early June to mid-June- think I'll get it by August, or at least this year? This is a part that is designed to break and be replaced, and I cannot get a replacemetn part- and that just plain sucks....This bike is going from a 5-5 rating to 5-3 rating for that reason onyl.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Kleist
a Cross Country Rider
from stateline nv USA Date Reviewed: May 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the rim or chan
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
shop form
Strengths:
great bike out of the box for your average rider
Weaknesses:
none that I have found so far
Similar Products Used:
lots of test rides on other bikes
Bike Setup:
not stock anymore mavic 317 rims wtb speed xc hubs alloy nipples wtb 2.25 mutano raptor rear wtb 2.25 moto raptor front avid speed dial 7 levers avid mech disc brake fsa freeride bars fsa freeride stem 90 mm 96 deg thomson seat post wtb laser v seat w/ titanium rails xt shifters xt front xt rear xt bottom bracket xt crank 22 granny 36 middle e-thirteen dual ring guide with bash guard
Bottom Line:
this bike rocks I'm a 41 yr old cross country rider who is looking for a little dowhill every now and then and this bike does it all a great buy even stock but I prefer my upgrades climbs like a monkey climbs a tree but descends even better and will handle 3 to five footers all day
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carl Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, Ca Date Reviewed: May 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Copeland Sports
Strengths:
Great components and parts for the price. Built to take a hit
Weaknesses:
None so far except the fact that you cannot find them anywhere right now.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar, Specialized Elite
Bike Setup:
Stock except for stiffer shock spring
Bottom Line:
It took me forever to find one of these. Jamis has them on backorder for 3-4 months. I have rode it everyday for the past month and love it. I am a tall guy with an athletic build and this thing takes hits and keeps moving. The Fox Fork is unreal how plush it is. i will get rid of the pedals later for soemthing that is a little better but i have had no problems. Compared to the 2.0 this bike rides the same pretty much. Get one now
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Taylor Wood
a Cross Country Rider
from West Simsbury, CT, United States Date Reviewed: May 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Backyard Freeriding
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Pig Iron Sports
Strengths:
The price is the best part. It is really low for all the amazing components. It has a really beefy frame, the front fork and rear shock are amazing, all the components are awesome, and it is just a great all around bike.
Weaknesses:
The pedals on it were not as bad as everybody had said. The clipless side sucked, but the flats are not that bad, they are just a little small. It is a little heavy for climbing but I can always use the exercise. If you are a racer I would suggest getting another lighter and less beffy bike. Also when you do big drops and downhills, I found that the rear seattube hits the brace they have in the rear and put a little scratch on the frame so I put a little protector there.
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC2, IronHorse SGS Sport, Specialized Big Hit, and lots of other bikes.
Bike Setup:
Stock right now but I am going to change out the pedals and put on a Race Face bashgaurd.
Bottom Line:
This is an amazing bike and if I had to go back and choose one for all kinds of riding on a budget, I would still choose it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sean brady
a Weekend Warrior
from riverside, ca Date Reviewed: April 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
the Path
Strengths:
wow! this bike is terrific! it steers quick. its forgiving of rider error. it pedals well. it's got travel galore. it does absolutely everything i ask it to do. and it costs half as much as anything that comes close to doing what it can. i really don't know how Jamis does it (well, actually i do, but i'll get to that later)....
Weaknesses:
mmmm. it might be a little heavy. and it's not as pretty as other comparable high end bikes. Jamis really specs out their bikes with great stuff but it comes at a price, which means theheavier tubing, not as pretty welding, and one color to choosing from. and you know what not a single bit of this matters. i've heard and read people saying that the XLT line is good for racing, gee, no s***, it's a real do anything mountain bike.
Similar Products Used:
turner xce (i really don't have the money for a two thousand dollar frame)
Bike Setup:
i bought the frame forks and headset as a package, my bike now has a singletrack xt wheelset, raceface crank, xtr cassette 8 spd, xt derailluers, thomsonstem and seatpost, race face handlebars, hayes brakes and xt 8 spd shifters.
Bottom Line:
this bike is fantastic. why pay 2x or 3x more than the jamis? you coulighten it up or make it more aggresive...you really have the choice to make your "own" bike with the jamis. you're not paying for some name that was made here in north america. sure it's a little heavier and the welds look like tooth paste but i'll gladly over look that to save a thousand dollars. and if weight is that important to you, lose some weight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dan
a Cross Country Rider
from poros, ca. USA Date Reviewed: April 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
classified
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
copeland's
Strengths:
Price, FOX!!! component package, great brakes. nice color (I call it battleship grey)
stock except specialized enduro pro tires, wtb rocket V saddle
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike!! great descender, excellent climber. lockouts really help. The Fox combo rocks!! The cross country geometry is very versatile cause you can actually climb hills which was very important to me. It's like a 5" travel xc rig. Rear suspension doesn't bob. Love the hayes brakes. This is my perfect all-mountain rig. Buy another bike to race, ride this one everywhere else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, AB, CA Date Reviewed: April 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Powderface
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Singletrack
Strengths:
Component quality (FOX with lockout, hayes, etc), great price. Lots of travel and not too heavy.
Weaknesses:
Tires are horrible in the mud, snow, ice, wet leaves......pretty much anything wet....Pedals should be swapped out.
Similar Products Used:
Giant VT, Norco Fluid, Gary Fisher Sugar 3....tested only. K2 Hardtail for the last 3 years. I tested the Jamis last, before that I was sold on the VT. When I tested the XLT I knew this was the right bike for me.
Bike Setup:
Swapped out the cheezy pedals for some Time Alium, changed the tires to Panaracer Fire XC Pro.
Bottom Line:
Even testing the bike I could tell the pedals were not going to stay on long so when I bought it we negotiatied and the Time Alium replaced the stock ones. My first few rides were very disapointing, the tires might be good on hardpack and slickrock, but they sucked in the mud and wet spring conditions. I went down more times than I care to remember. Swapped out the tires to the panaracers and it became a different bike. Took my first serious trail ride yesterday with some very technical spots and great decents. I am still grinning ear to ear. This bike isnt light and I am used to a 25lb hardtail but it climbed fantastic and on the decent it inspires confidence like you wouldnt believe. It handles the technical stuff so well I was floored. Despite its weight it is extremely responsive; easy to handle and throw around. THIS BIKE ROCKS!!!
I am going to leave the bike the way it is....instead of trying to lighten it up I'll just work on loosing the 20Lbs of flab I'm hauling around with me.....thats more than I could ever drop off the bike, and the components are working extremely well. I am used to XT shifters and I do find a difference with the Deore, but its more preference than anything. I'll keep riding and see if I get used to it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sky Pilot
a Weekend Warrior
from Lynnfield, MA, USA Date Reviewed: April 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Western Cycle, Danvers
Strengths:
Frame is beefy; excellent components for the $$; the fork and rear shock are great.
Weaknesses:
Pedals are a hassle. Won't fit my very standard Thule rack. Also wouldn't fit on the very adjustable Saris bones. Mine is the 21" size.
Similar Products Used:
Tested the Enduro; I fit better on the Jamis for less $$.
Bike Setup:
What it came with; see below or the Jamis website.
Bottom Line:
This is my first dual suspension ride. I've had it 10 days. It is such an improvement that I can't really compare it to other stuff. I'm tall and heavy (6'4" and 250) but the bike feels smooth beneath me.
You should get one too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clint
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: April 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
City Park / Walnut Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Buck's Bikes
Strengths:
Great Specs. Smooth travel. Incredible price. Climbs great and is a blast to ride downhill. The most fun bike I have ridden on trails. The disc brakes are buttery smooth.
Weaknesses:
Wish it had a bashgaurd instead of the big chainring. I'll swap it out when I break it. A little heavy at 32 lbs for the 17" model. The pedals stink, so I put those on my wife's bike.
Similar Products Used:
Demo'ed SC Heckler (expensive and a long back-order). Trek Liquid (rode great but it was heavy and expensive for what you got).
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Shimano PD-M646 pedals.
Bottom Line:
I'm 30 years old, and I'm an out of shape mountain biker who is sooo glad I got this bike. The bike is an absoulte blast to ride, I'm such a better rider already. This is my first FS bike and I love the 5" of travel. The spec's are great at a price about $500 less than I expected to pay. Now I just have to get in shape.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eran
a Racer
from Israel Date Reviewed: April 6, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Slalom bikes
Strengths:
Great bike for a great price. Provides 5" of suspension front and rear at an unbelievable price. Great parts spec - Fox vanilla 125 RL up front , Fox vanilla RL shock. Hayes hydraulic brakes , mavic rims - All provide for a great agressive trail bike. 4 bar rear suspenion is fully active at all time. The WTB lazer V is incredibly comfortable. This bike is great for technical stuff and extreme terrain riding.
Weaknesses:
One thing only - bike is a little heavy for XC riding. Not something you can't deal with - but if you are upgrading from a thin model type racerbike you will feel the extra weight going up hills. You can solve this problem by swapping to a lighter crank, bars , stem , seatpost. But hey - if you'r not planning to race this bike - who cares about a little extra weight ?
Similar Products Used:
Specialized enduro , SC Heckler .
Bike Setup:
Stock - As stated above.
Bottom Line:
A true trailbike for an unbelievable price. I really think that there is not a better value for the money out there. This bike gives you much much more then the common conventional 4" dual suspension bike. It will really build up your confidence and make it easier for you to ride the technical stuff. This is the one to go with for an all day trail ride. Sure there are lighter faster bikes, but if you are looking for a bike that can do anything, go anywhere ,fully spec'd with no need for a single upgrade and for a price cheaper then some frame kits alone - this is the one for you. It is obvious why I give this bike 5 chilis for value rating, but I will also give it 5 chilis for overall rating . I am not saying that there are no better bikes on this planet , but because value and price is not something most people ignore when buying a bike , I think for the price this bike rates the highest.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a
from Glendale Arizona Date Reviewed: March 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Slippery Pig
Weaknesses:
could use stronger hubs, I bent my rear axel.
Bike Setup:
stock except for wellgo platforms and a raceface bashguard
Bottom Line:
Love the bike it's my first dual suspension, have been riding pretty hard, lots of freeride and urban sessions, mixed in with some rough trails, name the "Teacher of Terror" at south mt. Ive had trouble with the frame, cracking the chainstay right behind the linkage above the bottem bracket. I dont know it this is an isolated incident or what but with my 150 lbs and relitivly smooth riding style, I dont think its me. now I'm just dealing with Jamis, and i'll see how that goes..... hopefully well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Devin Reilly
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: March 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
locally - Hall Ranch in Lyons, CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Performance B&M
Strengths:
Very responsive suspension. Very little bob when preload is stiffened. This bike is very smooth and instills great confidence.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy at 32ish lbs, but this will change as I upgrade drivetrain and control components, especially the suck-ass pedals.
Similar Products Used:
Enduro, Kona Bear, Kona Dawg, Giant VT
Bike Setup:
Stock except for pedals for now, but I have a full XT drivetrain ordered to be installed this week including crank, bb, shifters, front der (already has xt in rear), and cassette - all for $200 (yea internet sales!). I'll probably go with lighter seatpost and steering later this year. After all upgrades I should be under 30 lbs.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for someone into xc with some light hucking. I'll do 2-3 footers now, but I'm sure I'll be dropping 5 footers before long. Climbs easily even on tight steep switchbacks and descends easily on everything. Better weight distribution than the Dawg (much easier to ride a wheelie). At 1st I thought that 5" may be too much as most of the trails we ride are technical xc, but there is so little bob that I'm glad I chose it over the 4" Konas which cost $700 more. Hayes hydrolics rub a little, but I've only ridden twice and still breaking them in. Overall, a lotta bike for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave-O
a Cross Country Rider
from Burning Hell, South Florida Date Reviewed: March 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Oleta State Park, Miami
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Bell's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Great componant mix. Bang-fo-da-buck. Cushy, but very responsive. Great cornering, easy climber, low low low bobbing for the 5'. Thank you, FoxForks. AEvn MBA loved it (April 03 issue.) Dealer service.
Weaknesses:
Why even ship it with the Wellgo POS Pedals, put my HT Shimano 945s on, and they are great. Gonna get some Time ATACS. Rear drop out had to be replaced after the 10th hard ride, but at least it was replaceble. Heavyweight stem/bars and seatpost could save about 1.4 lbs if replaced. Deore shifters are a little cheap, but hey, for the money....
Similar Products Used:
Specailized FSR, Gary Fisher Sugar, Cannondale, Giant VT
Bike Setup:
STOCK, STOCK STOCK. I'm def. gonna try and reduce the weight if my shop has some great deals on Monkey Lites and a Thomp. Elite.
Bottom Line:
Buy this ride. Its a sweet deal, solid, and rides really well. You can shop every bike around, and no one gives you this mix. It goes full though all the different ride styles, and even is a bit of a hucker. Happy Trails
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Allen
a Weekend Warrior
from Adelaide, South Australia Date Reviewed: March 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Mach II
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1450.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Express
Strengths:
5" front and rear, Great group set for under $3000AUD ($1500USD,) Lock out (rarely used,) lateral stiffness, zero flex, Unique (only one in SA) Weight & value Vs Specalized DH Comp. Looks great
Weaknesses:
In Australia this bike comes stock with Marzocchi 03 Z1 FR, so don't be fooled by the catalog. Stock Rear spring too soft (500lb's), Peadles (go get time's,) Z1's oil levels were down. Bike came without suspension; Marzocchi and Fox took 3 months to ship them to Aus. No longer an issue.
Bike Setup:
Stock 17"+Time ATAC & Z1's
Bottom Line:
This is my first soft tail and after my LBS changed the rear spring and corrected the oil levels in the forks free of charge it rides like a dream. The prgressive stroke of the Z1's means no bottom out on the front, and the stiffer rear coil nerver bottoms either. The 6" Hayes comps are fantastic, I run out of traction way before I run out of brakes, which is all I ask. The Stiffer coil also eliminates peadle bob on the flat. Lastly this bike has the best specs for under $3000AUD, Foger Specalized, Giant, Mongoose and any other playes. This bike is miles ahead as far as value for money is concerned. Just the off the shelf price of the brakes, forks, shock and rear wheel exceed the retail of the complete bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yolie Rogers
a Weekend Warrior
from Riverview, Fl Date Reviewed: February 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
trout creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1450.00
Purchased At:
mutli gear bike/sport
Strengths:
This is a nice bike...My Major sides puts me at 150lbs and 5'7....best of all...im over 40....a fine wine....the fork is great...and rear suspension too...made by fox of course. Shifts great and better than the hard tail i used to ride
Weaknesses:
none yet....just dont want to be crash dummy
Similar Products Used:
jamis, giant
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I love this ride...I can keep up with mr clydesdale hubby if he rides the hardtail...but not when he rides the 2.0
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Balthazar 2000
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle, WA, USA Date Reviewed: February 3, 2003
Hardcore freaks will consider it just a touch heavy, but I didn't notice. Ditch the pedals, too.
Similar Products Used:
This is my 3rd Jamis in 15 years. Tested a few others, like the Santa Cruz Superlight and the Kona Kikapoo.
Bike Setup:
Stock (see their website) except for Egg Beater pedals.
Bottom Line:
I put a deposit down on this bike the minute I saw it in Mountain Bike Action's January issue (upon closer examination of that pic from the Las Vegas show, you can see the MSRP was $1500, which had me racing to the Jamis website to see what was on it). After a month of impatience, I finally got it this past Saturday, and promptly took it through it's paces.
It climbs like a bat out of hell (even though it has a lockout, there was no need), and flies down the trail. I immediately started setting up stunts in the local park to test the 5" of suspension, where I took multiple 3 foot drops with my arse firmly planted on the seat. No damage to the twig and berries! The 5" of front and rear travel are absolutely perfect for the cross country rider who likes to flirt with teeter totters, big drops, and other crazy technical sections, without having to sacrifice all the weight for added suspension.
Whatever you do, make sure to buy it from a reputable shop. Much of the factory assembly was pretty lean on lubing up parts. And the pedals were absolutely worthless; the bearings hardly moved until my mechanic gave them a nice whack on the table to get them rolling again. Go with Egg Beaters, you'll be glad you did.
This bike is absolutely phenomenal for the price. This is my 3rd Jamis in 15 years, and even though I've shopped around, I just love the geometry of their bikes. I can't wait to hit Skookum Flats near Mt. Rainier. If you hear howling in the woods nearby, don't worry, it's just me on my XLT 1.0!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
