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Submitted by
Michael Murphy
a Weekend Warrior
from Mankato, MN, USA
Date Reviewed: March 6, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Kato | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | frame only | | Strengths: | Lightweight (5.5lb frame), active suspension | | Weaknesses: | Slightly flexy, paint is a little brittle, | | Bike Setup: | 17 inch frame RockShox Judy XC long travel, '98 Deore XT brake levers, brakes, rear hub, 9speed Deore XT cranks, bb, shifters, cassette, derailleurs, Icon bar and 90mm stem, Orbit DL headset, Bontrager post, Selle Italia Flite Ti saddle, Bontrager Red label / blue label rims, Trek System 3 front hub, IRC Mythos XC 1.9 tires, Coda SPD pedals, Titec L bend bar ends. | | Bottom Line: | I built this thing because I was working a lot and had money in my pocket; I'd never ridden a dual suspension rig before. Then I let it sit because I figured it was heavier / less efficient than my hardtails.
When I finally weighed it, it was 26.4 lbs... same as my hardtail. Shocking. Then I started riding it on the more agressive trails around here. The suspension aids in climbing and descending (more with descending) and there's really no weight penalty. I run the Cane Creek air shock pretty stiff. I can float over rougher stuff that I stuttered on with my hardtail.
The newer Dakar frames are two or three pounds heavier. For someone who is a finesse rider / lighter weight person, this frame is sweet. I wouldn't recommend an Easton Elite frame like this for a hammerhead or heavier rider. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fred Sled
a Weekend Warrior
from Spawn Ranch, CA
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | The sidewalk | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Purchased At: | SuperGo | | Strengths: | Light, fast, low center of gravity, the best suspension setup for all around trail riding. | | Weaknesses: | The rear triangle was built a little out of alignment, I would have rather had bearings vs. bushings for suspension pivot points. | | Similar Products Used: | Foes, GT, Diamondback, Mongoose, Motiv, KHS, Chumba | | Bike Setup: | XT Groupo W/ V-brakes, Easton carbon bars and post, White Industries tracker hubs, butted spokes on X517 wheels. Panaracer XC pro's, RS SID XC fork, Flight deck computer, Ruffian grips, Azonic ORC stem. Odyssey mtb pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This is an excellent all around bike, my bike weighs exactly 27 pounds with slimed tubes. It climbs excellent, and decends the same. I feel very confident with the balance and low center of gravity. With the fork I am using the bike has a lower bottom bracket height than most bikes, I can climb the trials many people walk their bikes up. The seat tube and head tube angle make this bike steer and handle like a BMX, I like that feel so I went with a short stem, and a riser bar. It bunny hops and jumps excellent. Short of hucking off loading docks, there isn't much this bike can't do setup right. I like the feel of this bike so much, I'm buying a Dakar XLT frame to build into a 5" travel bike that can handle bigger stuff. The top of the line XLT frame goes for $529.00 new, a 5" travel frame with this quality of suspension is an amazing value. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zak
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Strengths: | Smooth as silk, great styling, pleanty of frame stiffness, amazingly durable, extremely light-weight. | | Weaknesses: | Cane Creek AD-8 rear shock was a dud. Bad O-rings around bushings, paint chips like crazy (the bike includes a jar of touch-up paint!) | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, Schwinn | | Bike Setup: | 1997 Jamis Dakar frame, XT drivetrain, XT hollowtech crank, LX breaks, mavic 517 ceramic rims, Manitou SX front fork, Bontrager kevlar tires, specialized "hemorrhoid-saver" seat, Cane Creek AD-12 rear shock | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line, this is a FANTASTIC bike. I built it from the frame-up, which accounts for the high price, but it was worth every penny. This bike has for the past several years been my primary ride. My other bike is a 1996 vintage Trek 7000 with similar upgrades. The Jamis handles bumps beautifully. It's smooth, it's reliable, and when people don't just look at it... they stare. I've had dozens of people compliment the bike over the years and there's no way in hell I'd ever get rid of it. I took the bike up to Whistler in British Columbia last year and it excelled on the downhills. As far as cross-country on this bike is concerned: 20 miles on the Jamis feels like 10 miles on the Trek. The bike climbs beautifully, the bob is minimal and it wants to hop around like a wild pony, but it never gets out of control. Truly an amazing machine, and my standards are VERY HIGH. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from australia
Date Reviewed: May 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | everywhere | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Purchased At: | a Taiwan warehouse | | Strengths: | pretty light,not too bouncy,nice feel | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | giant xtc,manatou,some cheapies | | Bike Setup: | avid discs,judy sl's',xtr dr's and shifters,specialized crank | | Bottom Line: | found 15 frames in the back of a warehouse in Taiwan,and bought them all for a song.I'm now converted from a die hard hardtail upbringing.You can really boof into these things without bouncing all over the place,but they smooth things out nicely when you want it. The frames are not the latest whizz bang hi tech toys on the market,but they really work.I use mine for everything and it loves it.-Excellent all rounder-You won me Jamis | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tuck
a Cross Country Rider
from Utah
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | when I'm ridin w/ bros | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1999.00 | | Purchased At: | Wild Rose Cycles | | Strengths: | for its age, this bike couldn't have been better. It was the red one with Easton Elite tubing and the cane creek shock. I looked at everything from $2g-2500 and I couldn't find anything more attractive. It was lighter out of the box than most more expensive bikes and it wasn't noisy and heavy like a GT LTS and it wasn't stupid like a Y-bike. This bike worked!!!! its climbing traction was awesome it railed on the singletrack | | Weaknesses: | a little flexy after a while, although I am 190+ I had to replace the cane creek a couple of times, its ok they sent me a better one each time | | Similar Products Used: | a couple c-dale hardtails, specialized Enduro, soon a tomac scandium!! | | Bike Setup: | Originally stock with a a couple of upgrades. I then replaced the things when they needed it.... Caramba cranks broke but everything else that was replaced needed it solely because it was time. It finally had some mavic 517 ceramics riser bars xt drivetrain.... whatever worked. this bike ruled. nice and light and not stupid. | | Bottom Line: | I was just being lazy and figured I'd browse good old mtbr, I figured I'd look and see what people had to say about the bike that truly I will never forget. What can I say, after 4 seasons it got a bit squirrely and just tired. I replaced the bushings numerous times but its reliabilty was becoming an issue. I loved this bike and wish that Jamis still made the same one. I thought about buying another one through mail order closeouts but figured it was time for some new technolgy. Unfortunately I finally gave it up for a bike I am really unhappy with. I got a smokin smokin deal on a Specialized Enduro frame with a z1. Talk about an unresponsive heavy high center of gravity low bottom bracket mistake. It was good going down the hills but thats it. I really miss my Jamis but I just moved back east and I'm getting back to the roots of it all with a new Hardtail. I can't say enough about the Dakar though what an amazing epic ride trailbike. Those of you who have one know exactly what I'm talking about. Sometimes I would just catch myself staring at it and smile. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric Merchant
a Cross Country Rider
from Modesto, CA
Date Reviewed: April 21, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The Flume | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$275.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Great frame, good flexibility and sturdy as hell. | | Weaknesses: | I had to rebuild the AD10 but that's to be expected with that particular rear shock. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher | | Bike Setup: | Noleen 100's for the front suspension, Deore LX all the way around. Titec stem, azonic bars - great setup | | Bottom Line: | For the buck - this bike rocks. Great for very technical single track riding, and can handle pretty tough downhill as well, I pounded the hell out of it at a local ski area last summer and it held up killer. I may change out the rear shock if I does not make it through this season, but other than that I can't find anything else worng with the whole package. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris muhr
a Cross Country Rider
from Fruita, Colorado
Date Reviewed: January 3, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Mack Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Outfitters | | Strengths: | Light weight, great geometry for cross country and tight singletrack riding | | Weaknesses: | AD 8 and AD 10 shocks both needed rebuilding and/or replacement and I broke one of the Caramba Cranks in half. | | Similar Products Used: | Proflex | | Bike Setup: | Everything has been replaced with lighter or more durable products with the exception of the fork, stem, and seatpost. I replaced the grip shift with rapid fire XT for more precise shifting and have replaced both the stock wheels and some custom builts with Mavic 517's which are performing fine.
Replaced the Cane Creek shocks with another brand that will hopefully be more durable. | | Bottom Line: | Although I've had some rear shock problems, and a stock crank which broke in half, I think the Dakar is one of the best setups out there for technical singletrack. Our riding here consists largely of tight, ledgey(is that a word?)singletrack that frequently breaks some of the best bikes and components on the planet. Overall the Jamis Dakar has been an excellent bike and their service has been very good (I haven't had to buy a new rear shock, I just wanted a new type). Anyway, I keep sinking more money into better and newer components because the new bikes out there don't seem to be as light or as well adapted to our riding as the good old Dakar. Happy Trails!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard Hart
a Cross Country Rider
from Novato, CA
Date Reviewed: September 22, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Storm Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Strengths: | Love the bike - I'm pretty light so I like it's flex adjustability | | Weaknesses: | Backed up by pathetic customer support. I've broken the "replacable" dropout and no shops in my area have a replacement. I emailed them about getting another and got a terse response - "go to a dealer" Thanks guys...You'd think they'd be a little more helpful after I poured almost a month's salary into their company. | | Bike Setup: | XT/XTR/Judy | | Bottom Line: | Great bike, bad karma | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Ape Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Light
Nice Looking
Inexpensive | | Weaknesses: | Pivot problems | | Similar Products Used: | '98 Dakar freeride
'97 Dakar Cross Country | | Bike Setup: | Freeride: Z1, XT, Vanilla RX
Cross Country: SID, Cane Creek | | Bottom Line: | I have owned two different Jamis frames. I prefer the '97 rendition; however, the newer frames are quite good too. I like the post '98 edition's horst type linkage as oppossed to the pre '98 edition's seatstay pivot. However, the '97 and older were much lighter. I like both bikes.
These bikes are no Intense Tracers or other fancy bikes, but for a third the money they have 80% the performance. Plus, you can buy new ones while that 2k Ellsworth is all beat to crap after riding it too long (who wants to sell a 2k frame for cheap due to damage?).
I am a Jamis fan! I have found their customer service fine. A guy I know had a '97 frame with a tiny crack due to incessant downhilling he got warranted when they should have laughed at him. They cover people.
The pivots are cheap when they go bad, but these bikes can have pivots problems. They are easy to replace.
They are good bikes at a great price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ray Kerr
a Weekend Warrior
from Parker, Colorado
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Light weight, design, ride, RED paint | | Weaknesses: | Paint chips too easily | | Bike Setup: | XT 8-speed drive train, Avid AR 50 w/ 2.0 levers, Truvativ FireX SL cranks, Richey pedals, Mustang rims w/ Panaracer FireXC Pros and 97 Answer SX (soon to be 99 X-Vert)Forks | | Bottom Line: | This bike has replaced my aluminum HT. I was looking for a lightweight FS that wouldn't break the bank (yeah, right... boys and their toys). The best way to describe the ride is SWEET. My kidneys and other internal organs love it. I'm enough of a retro-grouch to appreciate the conventional front triangle. The real down tube is a plus as I sometimes (actually quite a bit) pull a Tag-a-long with requisite eight year old. It provides a stable and predictable ride. Love the RED paint!!! All in all I'd recommend this to anyone that wants to build a quality XC/Trail bike and that doesn't want/need all the Buck Rogers looks of many of the current crop of frames. Oh, yeah, for you non-believers... I weigh in at 220 and the frame can take it... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
allen
a Cross Country Rider
from ral, n.c.
Date Reviewed: January 17, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | dunn rd. | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | great geometry, light easton elite tubing, cane creek ad-8 with 3.5" of travel and low cost of frame set | | Weaknesses: | soft paint | | Similar Products Used: | c'dale super v, trek -y22-, gt zaskar | | Bike Setup: | z-1 alloy, xtr, race face, spox | | Bottom Line: | i got this frame set for $475. decked it out myself, and with a 4" bomber on it, it still wieghs less than 27 lbs. this bike is the s**t. i wanted to wait several months before i reviewed this frame. now that i've ridden it, i can say that together with it's light weight and strong frame design, i'll be riding this sweet machine for a while. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Edge
a Cross-Country Rider
from Palm Beach, Florida
Date Reviewed: January 5, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: |
Loxahatchee | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Well constructed, great design which works very well. Good looks and great value | | Weaknesses: |
On the heavy side (26 lbs. despite using very light components) | | Similar Products Used: |
Litespeed Tellico
Litespeed Owl Hollow
Litespeed Obed
Mongoose SX | | Bike Setup: |
Major changes since Oct 98 first review:
Marzocchi Bam front forks with titanium upgrade, Cane Creek AD10 rear airshock,Ibis titanium stem, Dean titanium seatpost, Easton carbon fibre handlebars, WTB SST98 saddle on titanium rails. SRP carbon fibre cranks and bottom bracket, Race Face chainrings, Shimano 646 pedals, Avid Extreme Arch brakes, Shimano XTR combo shifters,Chris King headset and hubs. Wheelset Bontrager Valiants with DT Comp spokes, Michelin Wildgripper S and latex innertubes. IDO locking grips and Gore cablesets. Control Tech titanium lock skewers. | | Bottom Line: | Even when it was set up much heavier, the Dakar Pro handled well and was a pleasure to ride on long (3 hr.) trips. Now it has been significantly lightened, the bike is nimble as well as plush.
I stripped off the clearcoat and decals, spent many hours and tubes of Flitz to bring the frame to a beautiful lustre. The good guys at Jamis were very prompt and helpful in providing replacement decal kits. Now they have a website, Jamis are much easier to deal with. Excellent customer service which usually indicates great product....this is no exception to that rule. The final accolade is that the Jamis is terrific value for money. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ALLEN
a Cross-Country Rider
from RAL, N.C.
Date Reviewed: October 25, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
DUNN. RD. | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
LIGHT WEIGHT, CANE CREEK AD-8, GREAT GEOMETRY, PRICE | | Weaknesses: |
SOFT PAINT | | Similar Products Used: |
Y-22, C'DALE | | Bike Setup: |
JUDY SL, RACE FACE, XTR | | Bottom Line: | I BUILT UP A DAKAR FRAME AND LOVE IT. GREAT SUSPENSION DESIGN AND LIGHT WEIGHT. I'M PRETTY HARD ON MY EQUIPMENT BUT IT'S HOLDING UP FINE. I GOT A GREAT DEAL TOO. $500 FOR FRAME AND CANE CREEK. AWSOME!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gene/ 97 jamis dakar team(polished)
a Cross-Country Rider
from miami fl
Date Reviewed: October 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
oleta river state park | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
lightweight for
full-suspension frame
with set-up that works | | Weaknesses: |
placement bolt for air
shock rusting | | Similar Products Used: |
first full suspension
purchased but have ridden all types from friends and aquaintances | | Bike Setup: |
shock-manitou sx-ti
wheels- sun rims with
xtr hubs and bontrager
revolt tires--front rim
0degree rear rim
0degreeXC with Ti XTR
cassette
stem- kore elite
handlebar- easton monkey
lite riser
headset- chris king
post- thomson
seat-selle italia Ti gel
pedals- bontrager r-1
grips- wtb
XTR- brake lever shifter
pods, cranks, bottom
bracket, front and rear
derailleur shimano IG-90 chain | | Bottom Line: | BROKEN SPOKE RACING first of all my bike was customized to my taste
and pocket thanks to chris and hector from broken
spoke bikes in miami. bike was built piece by
piece and sale by sale.
i tend to brake things on my other bikes because
of the foolish things that i try but this bike is
indestructible so far. i nick-named my bike TANK
because the frame works so good no matter what i
am going through. it shines the best when riding
XC terrain and climbing at least for me. i really
love my bike because its different and looks good
too | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gene
a Cross-Country Rider
from miami fl
Date Reviewed: October 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
oleta river state park | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
lightweight for
full-suspension frame
with set-up that works | | Weaknesses: |
placement bolt for air
shock rusting | | Similar Products Used: |
first full suspension
purchased | | Bike Setup: |
shock-manitou sx-ti
wheels- sun rims with
xtr hubs and bontrager
revolt tires--front rim
0degree rear rim
0degreeXC with Ti XTR
cassette
stem- kore elite
handlebar- easton monkey
lite riser
headset- chris king
post- thomson
seat-selle italia Ti gel
pedals- bontrager r-1
grips- wtb
XTR- brake lever shifter
pods, cranks, bottom
bracket, front and rear
derailleur | | Bottom Line: | first of all my bike was customized to my taste
and pocket thanks to chris and hector from broken
spoke bikes in miami. bike was built piece by
piece and sale by sale.
i tend to brake things on my other bikes because
of the foolish things that i try but this bike is
indestructible so far. i nick-named my bike TANK
because the frame works so good no matter what i
am going through. it shines the best when riding
XC terrain and climbing at least for me. i really
love my bike because its different and looks good
too | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
david hepburn
a Cross-Country Rider
from redding, ca.
Date Reviewed: October 20, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
recliner | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
point and go! climbs great w/o chain feedback and minimal bobbing. light and strong. | | Weaknesses: |
bushing maintainence is too freqyuent to maintain plush feel in rearend. weak dealer in town. | | Similar Products Used: |
cannondale, spec fsr, proflexy | | Bike Setup: |
96 dakar team, full xtr, 97 judy DH | | Bottom Line: | the best all around bike i have ridden. 2.5 years of hard ridding and still going strong. original bushings, but well maintained. poor dealer suport in my town, so i go out of town for assistance. i wish they would have kept the same line of dakars, light and strong then i would have a hands down choice for my next bike. i still feel my dakar i right up there with all the 'new' full suspended bikes out there. if you find a dakar team c the noleen coil over buy it you will not be disapointed. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john k
a Weekend Warrior
from west palm fl
Date Reviewed: September 29, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
k mart | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
rugged frame,good looks,quality construction, nice parts mix(shemano) | | Weaknesses: |
tires(changed um to pythons)bouncy suspension, broke seat(flattened it)but was good/ comfortable before,wimpy grips(put on calamari),changed seat to new specialized body geometry | | Similar Products Used: |
cannondale(top tube to short) | | Bike Setup: |
40lbs (for sand use)tires shimano 535 pedals | | Bottom Line: | good bike but wished it wasnt so bouncy over multiple bumps | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil
a Weekend Warrior
from Randolph, Vermont
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Mud Pond loop | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Comfort, solid feel, FANTASTIC component spec for the money. | | Weaknesses: |
Typical bobbing during climbing. | | Similar Products Used: |
Just about all of the big-name competition. | | Bike Setup: |
Stock build-up from Jamis, with the addition of Race Face riser bars. | | Bottom Line: | This is an amazing ride for the money. I bought it new this past winter for $1400.00!!!
Many 97' Dakar Team owners make fun of the new Dakar Pro for its weight, but it is a far more reliable design. I have broken many lightweight bikes and parts in the past, and I'll take added weight over reliability problems any day. I'm not light(190lbs) and this bike feels solid! There is some bobbing under acceleration, but that minor squabble is greatly outweighed by the fun factor of this bike. I also own a 22.something pound Titus hardtail, which climbs like a mountain goat. But for sheer fun the Dakar wins hands down. A friend of mine raced his through the entire 98' XC season with no mechanicals (except blown tires and slightly out-of-true rims). He had 5 top 5 finishes in local races on his Dakar Pro. Most XC racers will tell you it's impossible to race on a 28 or 29 pound bike, but what the hell do you think everybody was racing on 10 years ago? I live in central Vermont. The riding here varies from rock and root infested technical singletrack to wide open logging roads. This is a great trail bike, and for anyone who doesn't feel that they MUST have a lightweight bike, the Dakar Pro is a steal
on the used market. See you at the New England Mountain Bike Festival, in my backyard! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan
a Weekend Warrior
from NYC
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Buttermilk (you probably wouldn't know it) | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
I have a Jamis Dakar Team (i think its a 96. Its 1 of the lightest frames available basically it kicks ass | | Weaknesses: |
none that i know of | | Bike Setup: |
A Judy XC long travel fork. Mavic crosslands wheel set. XTR V-Brakes and derailluers | | Bottom Line: | i previously owned a Jamis Diablo riged, dont get me wrong its a good bike but my Dakar its such a pleasure to ride its like Sienfeld said once you've flown first class you cant go back | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roger
a Cross-Country Rider
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: April 19, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Light,agile,well-built. | | Weaknesses: |
Everyone asks whats a Jamis? | | Similar Products Used: |
Pro-flex, cannondale. | | Bike Setup: |
98 Manitou X-vert, single crown. Cane creek AD-8. | | Bottom Line: | I have owned a Jamis Dakar since they were rigid. My first was a 1988 and had U-brakes. Great bike at the time. Then I had the 1993 Dakar that I think Serotta built. I had a soft ride stem and my bike weighed only 21lbs. I was cautious to buy the 1995 full suspension Dakar because I was a retro-grouch and didn't think I needed suspension. My riding actually improved and found my average speeds and fun factor went up! So, I hope I can stop this madness and stick with this great bike I have now. 1997 Dakar Team, 24lbs., with Moots- stem,bar,seatpost. Cook Bro's cranks, Atac pedals, Chris king headset, White Ind. BB, and Mavic Crossmax wheels with Conti. tires. I probably could save a pound if I changed the X-vert for something lighter but the bikes dialed in so well I don't want to mess with it. Maybe, I'll see what's new for 2000. Definitely 5-stars!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Utah
Date Reviewed: April 19, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Strong frame. Race ready out of the box. | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
cannondale | | Bike Setup: |
marzocchi | | Bottom Line: | This company may not be big, but the quality they have been putting out over the years has been second to none!! My Jamis Dakar kicks booty!! Try one and you will never go to any other!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
lisa
a Cross-Country Rider
from colorado
Date Reviewed: April 19, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
lightweight and quick. | | Weaknesses: |
nil | | Similar Products Used: |
cannondale,trek,giant. | | Bottom Line: | My bike weighs only 22.5lbs and climbs/decends like no other. Suspension actually helps braking and doesn't interupt pedal strokes when climbing. I go faster:) I have a SID and the lack of travel doesn't bother me as much because I'm so light anyway. My brother hates the SID and prefers the Manitou SX ti. Definitly 5 stars. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Cutchins
a Cross-Country Rider
from Blacksburg, va
Date Reviewed: April 15, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Brush Mountain | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Downhill capability, plushness, great fork and shock | | Weaknesses: |
Still a little bouncy in the rear end going up steep hills, but I think I need to adjust the fork for more compression damping. Stock tires don't seem all that great. | | Similar Products Used: |
Spec FSR, Hardrock. | | Bike Setup: |
I added Avid 3.0 brakes (I think that's what they were), Shimano 636 pedals, and a Cateye Enduro 2 computer. | | Bottom Line: | On steep hills I am getting a little too much wheel spin, which I think is a combination of the not so great stock tires and the fact that I think I need to add more compression damping to the fork. I think that when I bear down on the pedals, the fork compresses too quickly, unweighting the back and causing spin. The bike seems to bounce a little too much too, but same problem I think.
The Avid brakes are fantastic. The stock seat, stem, and wheels great. I get the feeling that the brake and shift levers will be replaced pretty soon, though.
All in all, I'm happy with the bike. This is my first full suspension bike, and I love climbing, so I was worried - but I get the feeling that once I get everything dialed in this bike will be a definite keeper!
Oh - and the price I paid? I ordered a bike from Jamis (for $800) that had been tested by a magazine, so it was a little beaten up. They call me a few days later and say that they were wrong, that they didn't have that bike in stock so they were giving me a brand new one at the same price. Wow!!! A great deal, and if this is any indication of their commitment to customer service, a great company!!! I was going for 4-stars, but the company itself boosted it to a 5! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Larry
a Racer
from Pennsylvania
Date Reviewed: March 20, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
Already did a review but have been hounding my sales rep about a website. See review summary.
| | Weaknesses: |
nota | | Similar Products Used: |
Jamis Dakota
Jamis Aurora | | Bottom Line: | Haven't checked the site yet but suppose to have one at www.jamisbikes.com. If it isn't up yet it will be soon. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thommy
a Racer
from Dukes
Date Reviewed: March 18, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
The Dakar Sport starts with the same frame as the Team model. At least it did when I got my Team97. How can you go wrong with a quality frame. | | Weaknesses: |
WEAK, HEAVY COMPONENTS!!! | | Similar Products Used: |
My Dakar Team (I t is the ultimate out of the box race machine.) | | Bottom Line: | If you can't ride a Team because of low cash-flow (save up some ciggarette, beer or pot money) or buy the Sport!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike lees
a cross-country rider
from England
Date Reviewed: March 6, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a Dakar-sport 97 In need of some TLC I would like someone to help me find a set of decals and some bushings to keep me on the trail. I have been very pleased with this bike which has been well ridden, x-country and raced in two countrys. I would recommended it to everyone, but Jamis is not avalible in the UK. Can you help! M.J.Lees | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mikel G
a weekend warrior
from Capital of PA
Date Reviewed: February 7, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Just noticed page & had to respond. I have had my dakar sport hardtail since they first came out - this bike has performed flawlessly since. Therefore, I have never had the opportunity to deal with some of the customer service issues that i have just read, neither bad nor good, but i can say this - I love the bike & so does everybody that rides it!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JR
a weekend warrior
from SoCal.
Date Reviewed: February 5, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Yo, Bruce, the racer from Pennsylvania: Please see the below rebuttal to Scott and kindly substitute your name everywhere you find Scott. Have a nice day! Oh, By the way, computor is spelled computer... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Howard
a weekend warrior
from Southeastern PA
Date Reviewed: February 4, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Unfortunately, JR is most likely correct. In 1998, Jamis abandoned
it’s beautiful ‘97 Dakar design which used Easton Elite aluminum and
boasted 5.5 lbs. in favor of a heavy-duty freeride-oriented frame. I
have followed Jamis since 1994 and have watched this company flounder.
A family owned business, they formerly produced some of the best
lightweight cromoly frames around. The bikes have been manufactured
in Taiwan for some time, but high quality was assured by the fact that
Mrs. Joannou inspected the premises herself. Their entrance into full
suspension was on the right track--four bar linkage, fully
active--some tweaking of which produced the excellent ‘97 Dakar frame.
Merely observing the rave MTBR reviews of the Ventana Marble Peak and
Rocky Mountain Element, two similar frames, would have confirmed that
serious racers and cross-country riders appreciated this conservative,
but lightweight and effective design. But it is any surprise that
Jamis, one of the few bicycle companies still without a website or
even an email address, would be out of touch with the serious riders
and oblivious to the opinions posted online. Jamis’s only real
problem was lack of visiblilty, a problem that could have been easily
solved with a web page and more sensible advertising. Unfortunately,
the marketing and design departments were blind to this and attempted
to boost their name by abandoning their older, loyal customers, and
trashing the elegant paint and lettering scheme, in favor of an
impossible-to-read logo and screaming graphics apparently aimed at the
body-piercing crowd (no offense intended toward that crowd). As an
insecure company without direction it succumbed to the “freeride” fad,
much as lost souls are drawn to cults, and in 1998 produced a line of
leadweight, ugly clunkers. For the top of the line, the proven
lightweight, multi-linkage design was dumped in favor of the El
Diablo, carbon frame/bottom bracket pivot, which in theory should be
superior, but in practice is a disappointment. Besides, how many
would pay $4000 for a bike that weighs 25.5 lbs. I have found
customer service to be excellent (although trying to get a full-size
catalog is like pulling teeth), but the product is not what it once
was. I love my ‘97 Dakar, and will keep it until it falls apart, but
my next bike will be a Ventana or Rocky Mountain.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bruce
a racer
from Pennsylvania USA
Date Reviewed: February 4, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
My 96 Dakar Team is the BEST !! Your bike SUCKS !!!!! Just get away from the computor and ride . It's all in the pilot anyway dude . Good day . | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
micah livingstone
a cross-country rider
from vassalboro, maine
Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a '98 Jamis Dakar Expert about a few weeks ago. This bike is absolutely the best riding bike out there(I have rode many). I was amazed at how well the 17 inch frame fit me(5 6'). I love this bike and I have nothing bad to say about it at all. I kicks ass.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gregg
a cross-country rider
from Tempe, Arizona
Date Reviewed: December 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After looking around for a full suspension bike that would work well with my small size and weight(5 foot 4 in., 140 pounds) I settled on a dakar expert. It was reasonably priced and everyone I talked to seemed to have something good to say about it, including the Sept. issue of Mountain Biker mag. I have been riding it now for a couple of months and myself have nothing but good things to say about it. I have been switching components ( at this point mostly XT drive and brakes, race face Ti B.B., azonic riser bar, mavic/hugi/irc mythos K)to bring the weight down to a goal of 25 pounds, but even with the LX components this bike performed great. I get no bob on the steepest of climbs, and it handles well on downhills. I would reccomend this bike to anybody, especilly at the price! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob Wynko0p
a cross-country rider
from Cleveland, TN
Date Reviewed: November 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a '95 Dakar with All XT and a Judy SL. I believe the best move i made was switching the Noleen NR-4 for the Cane Creek AD-10. This has been an excellent ride, how ever, i am reluctant to race it. In The vast array of mountains of Tennesse, the Dakar seems to be sluggish at going up hill... It's a wonderful teenage riding around town-step jumping bike, but i wass not pleased at the lack of traction at my last race. However, I would suggest this bike to anyone, i invested $800 this summer and i have a sweet cushy ride that looks and rides awesome. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Hartzell
a racer
from Lebanon, New Hampshire
Date Reviewed: November 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What a perfect machine. After riding a display model I was sold. I build up my own dakar team edition with a SID, titanium spoked wheels and such which ended up weighing in at just under 23 pounds. Bike is plush as a barca lounger, corners like a dream, and doesn't bob going up hills, yet is still active. see a picture of my beast at http://www.turbont.net/crh/sore/pics.htm . The bike is (again) perfect for XC riding / racing. It ain't bad on the downhills either other than the fact that a 23 pound bike can get kinda light goint 30+ down a bumpy hill. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JASON GILL
a cross-country rider
from GREENSBORO. N.C. GUILFORD
Date Reviewed: October 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I HAVE A 1996 DAKAR SPORT THAT I RECEIVED DECEMBER 96,AND IT HAS WITHSTOOD MY LIMITS LONGER THAN I EXSPECTED. CONSIDERING IT'S LIGHT WEIGHT AND FORGIVING FRAME I AM MOST IMPREST. I LOVE THIS BIKE, IT'S FACTORTY COMPADIBILITY WITH A 18 INCH FRAME IS EASY TO OPERATE ON A SINGLE TRACK COURES WHILE RAISING HELL WITH YOUR FREINDS! I HAVE KEPT GREAT MAINTINCE ON THIS BIKE, IT IS THE LAST OF MY FOUR BIKES. THROUGHT LOCAL BIKE SHOPS JAMIS HAS PULL THOUGH ON DAYS I DID'NT THINK I WAS GOING TO GET TO RAISE SOME AND TAKE SOME ANGER OUT ON TRAIL AFTER WORK. I WILL ALWAYS STICK JAMIS, AS LONG AS THEY DON'T MERGE WITH ANOTHER COMPANY OR HIRE SOME RIFTRAPH THAT RUINS THERE PRODUCTION | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Edge
a cross-country rider
from Palm Beach, Florida
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought a 98 Dakar Pro frame and built everything I wanted, including Synchros cranks, ActionTech titanium bottom bracket and rear cassette, White ti bar, White hubs on Rhino Lites, Black Spire chainrings, Shimano 636 pedals, FSA Orbit Extreme headset, Shimano XT shifters and rear derailleur, XTR front derailleur,Gore cables, Sella Italia Turbo saddle on a Dean titanium seatpost, not forgetting Oury grips....Result, a great bike that takes me thirty five miles through the dirt roads, sand and mud five times a week. Had to strip off the nasty mango coloured decals and clearcoat so that the bike looks as good as it rides..!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Wilson
a weekend warrior
from Prescott, AZ.
Date Reviewed: September 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I wonder why Jamis does not have a web site or email.It seems
to me that a hi-tech company should have these systems. If
someone is afraid to put an email address on the web then one
might be apprehensive about their willingness to provide complete
customer service. I do a lot of shopping on the web and I would like
to see a Jamis dealer list and more. What gives here? I think the Jamis
Bikes are a super fine ride all still!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Larry
a racer
from Brockway, Pa
Date Reviewed: September 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I may be a little biased because my wife and I sell Jamis bikes but I can't help but brag alittle about my Jamis Dakar. I have raced this bike for two seasons now and except for one gear cable and some Pedros Ice Wax it hasn't cost me a dime. I did have a problem with my Cane Creek AD 4 but Cane Creek was willing to upgrade it for free to an AD-5. Also as a dealer I have had to deal with Alex from the warranty department and have always been treated very professionally by him and he really does know his business. As a Bike Dealer I can't believe that a shop owner would expect a customer to take care of his own complaints..Really...your dealer should take care of all complaints for you. Anyway, everyone keep biking and enjoy your bikes. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ashly
a cross-country rider
from utah/oklahoma
Date Reviewed: September 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Unfortunately I don't own a Jamis, but I'm submitting a review anyways . . . Three of my friends ride the Jamis Dakars (sport and AL) and I have heard nothing bad about them ever. I rode a Jamis for only about a mile, but to tell the truth I fell completely in love with it. Right now I own a Fisher full-suspension, but I've gotten very interested in the prospect of building my own bike, and although I won't give up the Fisher, I plan on building onto a Jamis frame. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kat Kateris
a cross-country rider
from Northvale, N.J.
Date Reviewed: September 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Dear Gary from Stamford, CT.,I sorry to hear that you are having troubles with you 97 Dakar. I can tell you that I have not received any letter from you concerning your situation. If you are having a problem, you should contact our warranty dept. at 800-222-0570, ext.202. Alex, who handles the warranty dept. will be happy to help you. He also has a vast knowledge of the very same bike, because he rides the very same frame. So if you are having any trouble at all, please contact us. We are very willing to help. Why would we not want to help you and risk, having you get online like this and trash us. Call Again, and your situation will be taken care of. Any thing that we may replace, will have to be sent to your local Jamis Dealer, but I would like for you to call personally and talk to Alex, so that you can hear for yourself, that we want to help you and we are willing to helpAgain I apologize, but I did not receive your letter, otherwise you would have received a call from me. Please call the warranty dept. so that we can get you taken care of. Best Regards
Kat Kateris
Jamis Bicycles | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary
a cross-country rider
from Stamford, CT
Date Reviewed: August 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 97 Jamis Dakar. I love how the bike rides, but I have a recurring problem with the rear shock pivots. They wear out, resulting in a loose tail and an annoying rattle. I called Jamis Customer Service about the problem, but they would not return my call. I wrote a letter to Kat Kateris who has posted a contibution below. I heard nothing back. I am totally unimpressed. I spent $120 at a local bike shop to replace all the bushings on a bike that is only 1 year old. Now, it is starting to rattle again. Maybe I am missing some basic element of preventive maintenance -- but I wouldn't know since nobody from Jamis will contact me. I own a Diablo as well as a Dakar. I have been a huge Jamis fan. But I cannot recommend the bike. I will not buy another Jamis. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
will andrews
a racer
from Ft Collins, CO USA
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 98 Jamis Dakar Pro and it rides very well. I work in a shop and Jamis gave me a great deal, the bike probably has the best parts spec for the money on the market. It was a stroke of brilliance for Jamis to spec some forged Canadian parts on it from the factory (syncros). I put a Syncros bar, seatpost cranks and I'm thinking about the hubs. Syncros has an excellent warranty department (I guess you get what you pay for. The Frame is nothing fancy, but it is a proven and reliable design that is not too active or too harsh. As for the Manitou X-vert R, I'm really impressed with the ultra simple and reliable design (take a hint Rock Shucks). My only concerns with the bike so far are some minor divots (almost holes) in the welds under the down tube at the BB junction. Also, a gusset at the head tube junction would be a cheap insurance policy for Jamis considering the sometimes immense forces applied by a triple clamp fork. Time will tell, but I have had no indication of failure so far, even after jumping at the local bmx. In the end the bike has more than $3500 worth of parts on it stock, and the retail is two grand, what else can you ask? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: July 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just built a cross country bike with a '98 Jamis Dakar Pro frame with a Fox Vanilla RX, Atom Bomb, King hubs, and mostly XT everything else. It weighs more than I'm used to on a bike, but I think these bikes are great. It doesn't flex, climbs fairly well, and is a downhill freak for a CC machine. I would recommend this bike for CC riding...I give it 5 stars for quality at a killer price.... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Klausmeyer
a cross-country rider
from Jensen Beach, Florida
Date Reviewed: July 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased the 97' Dakar 'Sport' before the downgrade. This one has the ad-4 shock, all aluminum tubing, stx-rc components, and is black with the indy c xl fork. I have changed out the seat, stem and bars and tires for one's I like better, but overall I am very happy with this bike and have never had one problem with it. I ride florida's rooty trails and prefer the bike to my Cannondale f-700 team volvo hardtail. My only coplaint with the dakar sport is that they did continue the same name on to a much less valuable bike the next model year. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
garcia, j.
a cross-country rider
from washington hts,new york
Date Reviewed: July 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I CURRENTLY PURCHASED A 1998 DAKAR PRO BIKE FROM A FRIENDS BIKE SHOP IN THE BRONX, NY MORALES PRO BIKE SHOP. MY FRIEND RECOMMENDED THE BIKE TO ME. I'VE RIDEN THE BIKE 4X'S OFF ROAD IN THE WEEK THAT I HAVE HAD IT. MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM HARD TAIL TO FULL SUSPENSION HAS BEEN GREAT! THE BIKE HAS BEEN VERY RESPONSIVE TO MY HARD RIDING. I RECOMMEND THIS BIKE TO ANYONE WHO WANTS FULL SUSPENSION FOR AN AFFORDABLE PRICE. BIKE COMPONENTS: FULLY XT,SUN LT. RIMS,RINGLE HUBS,RINGLE STEM,CANE CREEK HEAD SET,RINGLE SET POST,WTB 1998 SADDLE,CLUB ROOST HANDLE BARS AND TIOGA 1.8 FACTORY MUD TIRES. I LOVE THIS BIKE..THANKS | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jere Keskiaho
a cross-country rider
from Finland
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had this bike only a week, but this is the bike of my dreams.This bike is very soft and smooth to drive, so only problem with this is that when you're trying to sprint standing, rear shok don't work at all. This is a real mountain bike, It's worth of the prize. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kat Kateris - Product Development / Jami Bicycles
a cross-country rider
from Northvale, N.J.
Date Reviewed: July 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is not a review of the Jamis Dakar, but a response to some negative comments made by Mr. Miguel Garcia, on June 19. Mr. Garcia, while very pleased with his Jamis Dakar, was apparently not pleased with the customer service that he received, concerning some technical aspects of his bike. I would like to respond to these comments, in an effort to clear the air.1. Torque Specs and General Tech Info - All of our sales reps and warranty/technical service reps, each have a packet of information pertaining to the Dakar Series Bicycles. this info contains torque specs for all of the bushings and shock mounts. It also covers assembly and disassembly of the frame, along with proper maintenance and service and also includes part numbers for all Dakar Series frames replacement parts; Bushing kits, stays, der. hangers. All Jamis dealers have been provided with this info as well, through our in-house Technical Update, which is sent out every so often to provide technical info to dealers so that they can service bikes, like the Dakar, properly. Mr. Garcia was asked to go to a Jamis dealer for service for a reason. Although it may not have been handled very tactfully, he was reffered to a dealer for the basic reason, that we hesitate to pass along technical info to any consumer who just calls up asking for it. In the day and age of the lawsuit (particularly in the bike industry) Handing out tech info to anyone who requests it can be hazordous in the hands of someone who does not know the correct end of a screwdriver. Dealers can provide this service, using their own knowlegdable staff and the proper tools the frame can be serviced properly. Sometimes a dealer may be willing to pass along this technical info to a concumer whom they may know well, and feel that this consumer has the mechanical know-how to service his/her bike properly and safely. If a dealer is to far away to get to, please call our techniacl line,800-222-0570. In addition to Jamis Bicycles, Joannou Cycles is a distributor for several other bike lines and we are a large supplier of aftermarket parts and accessories. This means that we have dealers throughout the country, and while they may not be Jamis dealers, we may be able to work something out where we would contact a dealer close to the consumer, and see if they might help in servicing that consumer.2. Free Parts - In some cases bushing kits and decals were sent to consumers who had legitamate warranty issues. The bushings on the Dakar series, as with most full suspension bikes, wears over time. Some frames may wear quicker than others, it all depends on the conditions, the maintenance, the riders style, and the frequency in which the bike is used. So if anyone received free parts it was under certain warranty procedures, and those people are commenting on the fair and understanding service that they were provided.Again I apologize to Mr. Garcia for the unfavorable treatment that he received, and I hope that this response helps to clear our position on this situation. You can't please everyone, but we sure as hell try our best!Best Regards
Kat Kateris
Product Development
Jamis Bicycles | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Al White
a cross-country rider
from Brookly, NY
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had a Dakar Team (97) since June 97 and it is DOPE!
I blew the AD-8 Once, had it fixed, and have yet to replace it.
However, I was warned that the 97s cracked at the BB pivot, and
that the shocks blow -- well I blew the shock and there is a crack in
the weld at the BB pivot as well as one on the seat stays. I a having
it warrantied, but I do't know how it will turn out.. I will post the results..
But considering that the peoblems I have had are consstent with what I was told
(and ignored) and that these are the areas that are changed in the 98,
I would assume they are aware of the pattern - improvements are:
a CNC'd Chai n stay assembly by the BB wit a larger pivot, the rear wheel pivot
has been moved from chan to seat stays, and the shock is now a Fox Vanila TCsoooooooo... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Miguel Garcia
a cross-country rider
from Farmington, MI
Date Reviewed: June 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I 've had my 97 Jamis dakar since July of 97 and Ihave to say that I absolutely love my ride. It's been a great buy at a great price with some trick after market parts spec'd on the bike from the factory (Syncros stem, Caramba crank, Titec post & bars). It has improved my times and the full-suspension has saved my back without sacrificing weight and pogo-ing that you find on many URT's. The thing that sold my was the stiff and light rear shock, the AD-8. The Cane Creek AD-8 has adjustable rebound and compression screws to to better set the shock according to your style of riding and weight. I like my rear shock set so that it feels like a hard tail on flat open trail riding while absorbing the medium to large hits. I was close to purchasing a suspended seatpost for my hardtail before I rode the Jamis. No question I bought the Jamis at a very good price considering the price of full-suspsions bikes and after market parts. I have recently traded my AD-8 for the new AD-10 because of the complaints that I had read about the AD-8, seals blowing out. I would have given the Jamis 5 peppers but because of the poor service that I have had from Jamis I have only given it 4. I called Jamis to ask them for the torque spec's on the rear triangle so that I could switch the rear-shock (a no brainer job). They wouldn't give them to me, they said that I had to take it in to my LBS and that they would have the spec's and they would put the shock on the proper way. I called my LBS and they didn't have the spec's on the bike infact they had never worked on the rear triangle of the full-suspension Dakar. I called Jamis and told them that I was an employee for an LBS in Michigan and that I needed the spec's on a 97 Jamis. The guy was 100% helpful when I mentioned that I worked at a authorized dealer for Jamis bikes. In the past I had called Jamis several times and everytime they gave the cold shoulder and told me to take it to the LBS. Scenario, what if I moved to North Dakota or something. I'm not going to drive my bike 200 miles to the nearest LBS to have them put on a rear shock that only takes two bolts. I have read others comments about Jamis I'll give the bike 5 peppers and Jamis service gets only 1 pepper. What I find to be strange is that their are a few people that have posted comments that they have received free pivot bushings and decals from Jamis but every sap that I have ever talked with has done one positive thing for me except tell me that if I adjust or replace a part without taking it to a dealer that my warranty will be void. Now come on, this isn't a $20,000 dollar car were talking about. It's not like I'm replacing heads or computer chips I'm replacing a rear shock that has only 2 freakin bolts. Anyway before I get out of hand and really get pissed off at the Jamis personnel, my overall rating is 4 peppers. Good luck to anyone who rides one. You'll love the bike but absolutely either hate or like the service, no where in between. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karkus
a weekend warrior
from Boulder CO
Date Reviewed: June 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had a 97 Dakar for about 7 months, and I must say - this bike kicks butt! I upgraded some parts, and my bike now weighs about 25-26 pounds, even with a Bomber Z2 BAM shock (which toally Rules and is worth the extra weight). The AD-4 rear shock works fine, except when you're standing up and trying to sprint on a flat road, but if you are worried about that you should be riding a road bike anyways. If you like technical trail riding and going downhill fast, get a Jamis Dakar. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyler
a cross-country rider
from Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Date Reviewed: May 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a '97 Jamis Dakar. I have modified it a bit.(Manitou FS-Ti, Race Face Cranks,Spin Rims,Kore Stem,Pro Taper Bars,Look Clipless,Cane Creek AD-10 rear shock, and XTR Components) It's probably the best bike I have riden. If you are looking to buy one, do it! Even out of the factory they're great. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig Johnson
a weekend warrior
from Houghton, MI
Date Reviewed: May 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Let me say first of all, KICK ASS! I built this bike from the frame up two wimters ago and it is the bomb. I have no trouble with the bike, including the service from Jamis itself. I broke the rear dropout, and had no problem sending me a new one along with some other cool stuff free of charge. This bike kicks on technical stuff like a dream, and people drule when i hit the trails. I'm going to buy another without a doubt... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
PAUL CADENA
a downhiller
from BRONX, NEW YORK
Date Reviewed: April 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I WORK AT A SHOP IN THE BRONX THAT RECENTLY OPENED...WE CARRY THE JAMIS LINE AND SEVERAL OTHERS.I ALREADYOWN A JAMIS DAKAR TEAM DECKED OUT WITH TOP OF THE LINE EVERYTHINGAND IT RULES,BUT WHEN WE RECIEVED THE NEW JAMIS DAKAR PRO I HAD TO TRY THIS BIKE OUT...I TOOK THE BIKE APART AND TRICKED IT OUT WITH SYNCROS KRANK,HERSHEY VEE'S, RACEFACE SEATPOST AND HEADSET,AZONIC STEM AND BARS,TO TOP IT...SHIMANO GUTS...LOOKING AT THIS MASTERPIECE I WAS STILL QUESTIONING IF THE BIKE COULD HANDLE TORTURE???ON APRIL 26,1998, I RODE THIS BIKE TO A VERY RESPECTABLE 11th PLACE FINISH OF 32 RACERS.ON THAT COLD,SNOWY,RAINY DAY...
IF YOU ASK ME THIS BIKE KICKS ALL THE ASS IN THE WORLD... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a weekend warrior
from Byron, Mi
Date Reviewed: April 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got a super sweet Labor Day deal on my Jamis Dakar. I love the looks and the components. People drool when I show up at trails. But there were only two dealers in my zone, and the one whoe gave me the deal knew nothing about assembling or adjusting the bike. So I've learned to do a lot on my own. I am disappointed by Jamis, though, because when my dealer failed to get me the pedal screws and braze-on screws that were missing on delivery, Jamis wouldn't even talk to me. As for the bike, my dealer didn't have any in stock, so he sized me for a 21 bike, which seems to be too large for my 6' 2 me. I have trouble keeping the front down on climbs and it takes man-handling when cutting through turns. My suspensionless Trek was much more fun on the technical courses. On dirt road rides, though, it can't be beat. And boy does it look sweet! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick McKeown
a cross-country rider
from Boise, Idaho
Date Reviewed: April 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I built out my Dakar Team in December 1997. I have now ridden it for 4 months and it is awesome. This weekend I DHed down some very technical singletrack. Full of ruts and washouts and this bike was a dream. The other guys I was with had major problems, but I just cruised through. The bike is very quick to responsed to subtle changes in direction. Also, I wish I could say this bike climbs like a dream, but I cannot because I have not be able to live up to its climbing ability.
One of the reasons I picked the Dakar Team frame is because Jamis has beefed up the new Dakar Pro frame (the old Dakar Team) to more of a freeride bike. They have a lot of Dakar Team frames and they are selling them cheap. I won't say what I paid, but it was less than half price. Call Moos Cycles 208-336-5229 and ask for Jake, he is the one that got me the frame and built out my bike. Building it in the winter saved me a ton of cash .
This is an awesome bike! I think I may get one for my wife.
Keep riding!!!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Cole
a weekend warrior
from Bridgewater NJ
Date Reviewed: April 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got a left over 96 Dakar Team frame ( REAL CHEEP) and swapped the parts from my AL. Northern NJ is VERY rocky and has some of the best technical riding around. I am new to this sport and love the performance I am getting from my Team. My brother owns a bike shop and all of his friends and mechanics ride JAMIS. Think that says alot when they can have any bike they want. Great ride for a great value!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joey Frederickson
a cross-country rider
from Pensacola, Fl
Date Reviewed: April 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Dakar Sport for a year now. I have added a Z1 Bomber, cause the rockshock indy sucked. I still have not seen the full ability of the bomber, but it is 1000x better than the indy. I also added an LX rear der., gore cables, giro saddle, and plans are for some new rims. This bike is really fast on the climbs, and straight away downhills, but in the tight corners it is sometimes a handfull. I still wouldnt trade it for anything else though. No problems as of yet, and I hope never. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a weekend warrior
from Sparks, MD
Date Reviewed: April 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
1997 Dakar upgraded with full XTR, Syncros, Bomber Z2, etc... This bike does it all: climbs, downhill, jumps and flat out hauls as a XC. Jamis not only builds a great looking bike - it performs and is reliable. No problem with the Cane Creek AD-8. Thanks to Dennis at Lutherville Bike Shop - great recommendation! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Colorado Springs
Date Reviewed: March 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding a 96 Dakar since I bought it new in Dec of 95. I cannot find anything to complain about, including the service from Jamis. I needed a pivot bushing replaced under warranty, no problem, heck I stripped the frame over the winter to have it powder-coated and they sent me new frame decals. As for the bike, I just wish I didn't like it so much, cuz I keep spending money on it! ( kooka cranks, xtr bb and cass, esp 9.0 setup, RST mozo pro xl 4.5, next stop? shopping for rims and hubs! )
Honestly, the Dakar is one kicker of a ride and I reccomend it to anyone. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave McCatty
a cross-country rider
from Royal Oak, MI
Date Reviewed: March 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Jamis Dakar Team, 97: After one outing on snow, when brand new, and six weeks on paved trails( too warm and wet), I finally rode dirt last night. Cold and dry, the 14 miles of trails were fast and relatively smooth. The bike is magic...! It's accelerates quickly, cruises through the ruts and bumps without pause, and climbs like a goat. It's supposed to weigh 24.5 lb., but I haven't confirmed it. It feels very light and turns like it's on a teather. I can't wait to go again!!!
It's polished aluminum frame is trick looking, and the XTR trans works well. Manitou FS Ti front forks have 3 of predicable and usable travel, and the Cane Creek Air shock, is infinately tunable, and seems to smooth out the biggest bump or log you might ride over. The system seems balanced, you can charge the rough stuff with out thinking about it, and downhills are riden much faster. It SCREAMS...!!!
Syncros chi-chi finishes the package, and supposedly work as good as they look. A great cross country ride..., that will make anybody's outlook a lot brighter. Dave McCatty. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
my Hart
a cross-country rider
from Chico,Ca.,Butte
Date Reviewed: February 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I realy don't have a review. I have a question for anyone who Knows
anything about a web sight or prices for Jamis bikes. I can't
seem to find out to much info about the Dragon or the Dakota
's. Please help out a fellow Mt. Bike FREAK!!!! Thanx, Thank You
,and every kind of way to get some attention out of this page. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis
a cross-country rider
from Baltimore, Maryland
Date Reviewed: February 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Have 96 model. Love it very much. Have bomber, syncros, XTR, Race Face equipped. Climbs extremely well. Sprints better than hardtail. Bomb downhill
I have the Dakar (in rare blue) and have no intentions of giving it up. If anyone is interested in purchasing a Dakar Team Frame, I have an extra for sale.
let me know! For only $700! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DAKAR
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: February 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
A very nice bike 4 XC
i teamed it wif 97 Maguras and carbon booster plates
amazing frame, dun flex @ the pressure of the maguras
wif a decent pair of brakes , it's a nice bike wif ultimate control
And climbing izz of no trouble @ all, since the bike dun bob at all
but downhill izz very plush
u can see the bike @ http://sunflower.singnet.com.sg/~ek2749t/SGbikers.htm | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ron
a cross-country rider
from Southern Cal
Date Reviewed: January 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i got the dakar sport, 96 model. i'm not sure about weight, but at 950, it is lighter than a lot of hardtails close to that price range. i think it is a good deal and is lighter than almost all dualies in that price range. the rear suspension is limited though. this is a great bike, maybe even for some racing. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
concerned In mid-flight
a cross-country rider
from U.S.A
Date Reviewed: January 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Hello felllow mountaineers, I,ve had my dakar team for about two years and have no complaints considering what I paid for it.the only thing that concerns me is the lack of customer support I keep hearing about , Just thinking about flying through the trees as my dakar does and wondering hell if i should even be riding such rough terrain . I mean it's only a mountain bike!!!!!!!!!!!! Where does jamis stand on stress fractures.and why should I worry ? Do consumers have to really think twice before buying from smaller companies | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim Bridwell
a cross-country rider
from Houston, Tx
Date Reviewed: December 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned a Jamis Dakar for about 2 yrs. now. The frame itself has held up to a hard and battered schedule, but I do have one quam. The rear replaceable dropout is easily bent and hard to replace; not in technical terms, but just the battle to find one is a pain. I've replace my rear shock(AD) with a Noleen coil over shock and noticed a remarkable difference in plushness on hard hits and adjustability. Overall, I am very pleased with the bike itself, but service and ease of parts ordering is definately lacking from Jamis. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chua MingHong
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: December 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The 97 Dakar is powerful
I teamed it with 97 magura raceline D
and 97 spinergy rev x roks
this made it a very nice bicycle to sprint
but a major problem is the cane creek AD8 which i have burst twice
if any one has any tips on making the bike look as nice as it sounds pls email me at gtrider@mbox3.singnet.com.sg
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J. Alioto
a racer
from St.Louis,Mo.
Date Reviewed: December 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
In a ride to break 32 mile race Dakar Team faired better than my friends five month old Trek. My friend crashed and burned on a rock, almost lost his hand and bent the front rim of his trek toan almost perfect 90 degree angle due to the stiff suspension of the Trek. After running the jamis over the same rock at the same speed 4 times the Dakar was still up and running ready to finish the rest of the trip. Glenn has now sold his Trek and bought a new Dakar
Way to go Jamis I am a buyer for life!!!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Howard
a weekend warrior
from England
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride a Jamis Dakar Team, goldy colored special edition. Full Xt/XTR. It rides
amazing, if anybody could write to me with any info. on dealers, because
they have stopped importing them here. Cheers. I live in Dorset, in England.
I love big air, and just spend all my time doing 360`s and stuff. Great Fun.
CHEERS. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Inscoe
a cross-country rider
from West, By God, Virginia
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a review of a Jamis Dakota Al , not a Dakar, but since it mainly concerns Jamis as a company, I thought it should go here.I got my Jamis bike and immediately came to love it. It handles great, is light, and climbs like a goat.After about a week, I needed to give it a good cleaning. When I did, I found a spot of rust under the clear coat -- on an Aluminum bike!I took the bike to a local dealer, who contacted Jamis for me. Their response, after telling the dealer that he was nuts, Aluminum doesn't rust was it should've been noticed before the purchase, and the price negotiated accordingly!This equals horrible customer support. I didn't expect them to give me a new bike or anything, but then I didn't expect them to place the blame on me either! Offer me a token discount on a new bike, a sticker pack, anything, but don't be rude and stupid! I don't know why should the dealer be forced to take a profit cut because they were provided with a defective, or imperfect, product to sell, so I didn't even begin to ask for help there.No matter how much I like my bike, I will never again do business with Jamis, because I feel that to do would be like buying a product with no warranty at all.Think about this before you buy a Jamis: great bikes, horrible service.Rating: Bike: 5 starts, Service: 0 stars. Since I can't choose that in your system, I give it one.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Myke
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: December 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought one from on here used And it's awesome It dosn't bob hardly at all | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rocco
a racer
from Philly, PA , USA
Date Reviewed: November 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike rocks, I've ridden it several times and it is great soft tail, it was stiff on the climbs and it handled rocky technical descents well, I usually prefer a hard tail and have leaned more toward smaller companies, like ibis, ted wojcik, Independent fabrications, and the such but I gotta five to the boys at jamis, this bike rides well and thier new dragon kicks ass, that was one of the top three bikes I rode at the pedros new england mtb festival, the two better were the yo eddy, and the Ind. fab. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a weekend warrior
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: November 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride a '96 Jamis Dakar Team. This bike is incredible! I have ridden it hard for two years without any major problems. It handles the local rocky cross country terrain like a champ, and on a summer trip to a ski resort it went downhill like no tomorrow! I strongly recommend this bike. When this one dies I can't wait to purchase a new Dakar Team. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a cross-country rider
from New York
Date Reviewed: November 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got a great deal on the '97 Dakar Team. I took Manitou off it and put on a '97 Z2 Bomber from my old bike (Trek 970). The bike is fantastic. I can't wait to ride every day. The way it'sset up, it's about 3lbs. lighter than my Trek was. The bike climbs a thousand times better than I thought it would and goes downhill like crazy. No problems yet with the Cane Creek shock. The only thing the bike doesn't do well is accelerate but once you get it going, it's fast. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a racer
from Greensboro, NC
Date Reviewed: November 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 96' Dakar with XT/XTR, Judy SL, Syncros stem & seatpost, & Race Face cranks. (sub 25 lb.) I have ridden it hard for the past two years. The only problem I have had with the frame is the rear pivots. In the past several monthes I have noticed alot of side to side play in the rear end. Maybe new bushings will restore that plush but tight feel of the bike I bought. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin Walford
a racer
from Knoxville, Tennessee
Date Reviewed: November 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
97 Dakar Team with Judy DH and mostly XTR -this bike is not light- with mostly XTR it weighs over 27 pounds. however it rides like a dream! I have been riding it for four months and have won several races on it. After riding a stiff hard tail for years it was a breath of fresh air. It climbs better than any bike I have ever ridden, and I work in a shop and ride a lot of bikes. Downhill is good too. crashed this weekend and still placed 6th. I will ride this one for a long time! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Baltimore, MD
Date Reviewed: October 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought my Dakar Team last year and couldnt be happier!!!! This is one sweet piece of aluminum. Rigged it with XT stuff, Syncros bars - seatpost & hinged stem, race face cranks, mavics, and more. It sucks up all of the rocky-rooty trails around Maryland and has also proven to be a very malleable cornering bike on the single-trak. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a weekend warrior
from Boston MA
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
JAMIS DAKAR TEAMRecently got a '97 Team frame for $575 and stripped my Jamis Aurora for parts. The first time out the AD-8 shock blew a seal. Cane Creek replaced this with an AD-10. With no problems now , this bike has greatly improved my climbing and downhilling. It loves to go fast if you have enough balls. The only negative is the decals which rub of too easily. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Minneapolis, MN
Date Reviewed: October 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Dakar Sport is a great trail bike. It LOOKS like a bike; triangles
are good things, strong and proven. Space for two bottles, too.
The aluminum Jamis is lighter than the chromoly-framed Trek 930 I used
to ride so I have no weight complaints. The frame pivots are smooth
and quiet, and the rear suspension is more active than I expected,
especially since it is a Cane Creek air shock which most magazines
have labelled 'sticky'.My butt likes it just fine. The front is sprung
by an Indy Long-Travel, and is super smooth. It could stand something
resembling rebound damping, but other than that, good fork. The group
is straight STX, and I never bitch about parts that work when covered
with mud. AND...
picked up mine at a post-season sale for $900! Life IS good! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andi
a weekend warrior
from NELSON..New Zealand
Date Reviewed: September 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Jamis Dakar Team...Good looking..good ride...the frame dimensions seem
perfect for my build 6ft..long body..which is probably why I bought it.
The bike itself is light enough to throw onto your back for those....how
am I supposed to get up that! hills..but heavy enough so that you feel you have somthing between your legs on the down hills..its not going to be everyones cup of tea but..hell ..were all different..but if you have a chance to ride one ..ride it..it may be just what your after..it works for me. | | Overall Rating: |
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