jk95

I’m a hefty (380+ lb) cyclist who bought a Jamis Coda S2 at the height of the pandemic/bike shortage. The bike has handled my weight well. BUT…. I’m starting to realize that the Coda I currently have is too big and not as pleasurable to ride long distances.

I’m getting ready to sell my Jamis Coda and now in the market for a steel gravel / commuter bike that feels like it can do everything (one bike to rule them all). I’ve reached out to my local bike shops to schedule test rides and get a better idea of current stock. As I’m narrowing things down a bit, I’m looking for additional insight.

Jamis Renegade S4 vs Surly Bridge Club? What are the pros and cons of each? I’d also be open to additional bike recommendations (steel or not).

Trav1s

These things stand out to me as I look at the two bikes -
Jamis v/s Surly
drop v/s flat
700c v/s 650b or 700C
GRX v/s Deore or Cues

Ride them both and decide. I'd love to try S2 set up as a flat bar but that's me. I'd suggest doing a geometry comp on this page of bikes in your size. https://bikeinsights.com/compare?geo...a299002037de94,

RH Clark

Get the one rated for the most weight. You aren't going to notice enough subtle differences at your current weight to matter. I went through several bikes and styles adjusting when I lost weight. 2 years from now when you are a person lighter bike fit will be completely different.

shelbyfv

Those two aren't comparable in price or specs. The Jamis is much nicer. I would rule out the Bridge Club because of QR with disc. I understand many people use older bikes with that config but there is little reason to buy a new bike with obsolete specs. Even one of the lesser Renegades would be a fine choice.

jk95

How would the Bridge Club compare to the Renegade S4?

shelbyfv

I'd take the Renegade, any level, for the aforementioned frame design. However- have you considered the Jamis Sequel? Has the flat bar that you might find more familiar and comfortable and has a modern frame. I'd choose the S2 for Deore components and better steel. Well worth the extra $200 IMO.

Fangowolf

I was in a similar situation, but I am down to 300. Smaller wheels are stronger. At 350 I went with a long Haul Trucker with 26" wheels. Learned how to true my wheels and watched them like a hawk the first year. This year I wanted a bike to hit mild dirt. I narrowed it down to Jamis steel renegade, Surly Troll, and Surly Karate Monkey. I got the Purple Monkey and put 2" tires on it. It 1/2 mph slower on the roads, but way easier in dirt.