Irish317

So I am looking to get into Mt Biking. I have a Jamis Ventura Race road bike and I am very pleased with Jamis. How would this bike be, for an all around bike??? I will be riding on Light trails, hard pack, and the occasional all out Mountain trails....
I also Ride a 56CM road bike, and was wondering if this 19" will fit me????
https://www.jensonusa.com/store/produ...r+Bike+05.aspx

Thanks,
Sean

ed 

Hey dude. You would really enjoy yourself much more on a Mountain Bike for trails.

You coming from a Roadie background...and pretty nice bikes too, I'd suggest this one:



Click here for the details: https://www.jensonusa.com/store/produ...l+Bike+05.aspx


The reason I recommend the hardtail is because it will be much more efficient and much more fun than a bare-butt bottom of the barrel Dakar dually.

I have a Dakar XLT and love it, but I'd rather ride a nice hardtail than the bike you suggest.

Irish317

chelboed ,
I should have made myself clearer! I have a Diamonback Rigid mountain bike. I am looking for a dual suspension bike. I figured that this Jamis is tons better than the Diamonback that I have.
Thanks for the link and info!
Sean

ed 

Well now ya tell me.

The Dakar design is very nice. If you already have a HT, go for the Dakar.

The rear end will be a little bobby due to the Vanilla with no platform. It's sorta heavy for a "cross country" bike, but if you're not racing I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

Irish317

Thanks again. Can you comment on the sizing? How can I compare a road bikes 56cm to a MTN bike?

Sean

mtnbiker66

You might find a 19" a little big on the trail. As a general rule most folks like a mtn bike to be a little smaller. It makes it a little easier to work around on the dirt.

Irish317

Thanks...That was what I was afraid of....Still searching for a great deal...

Sean

Irish317

I bought a Jamis Dakar XC locally today! They gave me a pretty good deal, and tossed in some cheap Shimano shoes. Free labor and tune ups for life ;-)
I was sized up for a 17" as well.
I will post pics later!
Out for a ride,
Sean

ed 

Woooooooooooooohaaaa! Another red-headed step-child hits the trail. (sorry, not as many Jamis riders out there as I'd like to see)

Please follow with a full comprehensive report including professional quality pictures and a dirty Dakar.

Lemme know how that standard Vanilla does on the climbs too.

Irish317

Biked 22 miles today...All on the Western Maryland Rail Trail(Asphalt Trail) . Bike is still clean. There was four adults, and eight little ones! A few of the little guys struggled, but we all finished as one :-) :-).
I love my new Jamis, and can't wait to get it on some real trails...
Thanks again,
Sean

sherpaPeak

Hi Sean,
Congratulations!!! Sounds like you are enjoying your bike.

I have recently purchased an XLT frame, but I will not be able to ride it untill the next season. Its my winter project.

Although, I set the frame up with some borrowed parts and rode it for a few times. it rides really well. I was really amazed by the riding quality of the bike and the quality of worksmanship. chelboed helped me with some important info as well.

happy riding......

Irish317

Well, I have had my bike out on th etrails now, and I thought I was in shape....WOW did I get worn out!
My road bike is Easy compared to the trails
But did i have FUN
Can you tell me the difference between my XC and the XLT.
Thanks,
Sean

Irish317

Not the greatest picture, but you get the idea!
Thanks,
Sean

ed 

XLT is more plush, rugged/durable, comfortable, superior on technical trail / descents...yada, yada, yada.
XLT is less efficient, heavier, more sketchy on the climbs.

That would be comparing an XLT and XC with the same "level" build. It wouldn't be too fair to compare my build to your build b/c trail riding is what I'm passionate about therefore that's where I have sunk all my $$$. I don't have a rocket road bike as well, so I can afford to make the XLT more efficient, lighter, yet still tough and plush.

Mine:

Irish317

chelboed,
That is one nice looking ride!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I do regret not kicking out the extra bucks for the XLT, but it is too late for that now! I am going to ride this XC until it dies and then move on. I am sure I will get quite a few good years out of my XC. After riding some of the local trails, it appears the the XLT would have been a better choice for my needs.
How much different are the XC and XLT frames.
I could always purchase an XLT frame when the money is right!
Thanks again for all of the info,
Sean

ed 

Thanks, man.

They're definately quite a bit different in construction, handling, and just the general feel of the cockpit.

I think you'll enjoy the XC just fine. Honestly, there are days when I kick myself for going with the XLT because it's not a freeride bike and it's not an XC bike. Then I just go out and spend some time on the trail with it and really appreciate the design.

It could have been built lighter with an air sprung shock and fork. I could have gone with lighter rims and narrower tires. I don't really NEED a 7" front rotor...but now I never have to check the pressure in the fork or shock...not to mention the super-liquid feel of the coils, can bomb through the rough stuff w/o worrying about dinking my wheels, I get great traction with the 2.35's climbing/descending/cornering, and the 7 inch'er stops on a dime.

Enjoy!

Irish317

Well,
I upgraded already. My LBS took great care of me, and I only lost a few bucks! I should have listened to chelboed from the beginning! The XLT has a much better ride. I love this! I know it is not a 2.0 or a 3.0, but it far exceeds the Dakar XC!
Enjoy,
Sean

blue_neon

Mmmm looks nice

mtnbiker66

Nice ride.

ed 

That guy is full'o'crap.


Nice ride BTW. Looks sooo much nicer than the straight-up Dakar.

Colonelmom

Well after listening "well reading" I ordered my "jamis" last night... since I live on the east coast I should have it by Wednesday of next week.... CAN't wait...

Soon to be new owner, JAMIS DAKOTA comp '06

sherpaPeak

Sweet bike. Good decision on the XLT. I am a proud owner of an 2006 XLT 3.0 frame. I am going to build it up over this winter. Can not wait. chelboad and dminor helped me make the decision. XLT is treuly a great bike. well done.