2002 JAMIS DAKOTA XC
7 WORDS ABOUT THE BIKE
BUY IT IF
FORGET IT IF
Supreme value. Spot-on handling. Solid component spec. You want forgiving steel performance and outstanding value. You can't escape the hype of mid-priced aluminum bike makers.

Mid-Priced Steel Hardtail Packs Outstanding Performance and Parts

 THIS BIKE SAYS YOU'RE...
Independent enough not to follow the majority as they jump off the aluminum bridge. Most hardtail mountain bikes are aluminum - only a rebellious handful are steel. Steel might not sport the oversize swoopy tubesets aluminum permits, but it offers performance rarely matched by high-end aluminum, let alone affordable aluminum. And affordable steel frames like this ride much like pricey steel frames (made of Reynolds 853 or Columbus Ultra Foco chrome-moly) that cost twice as much. It's easy to make a steel frame ride well, but it's almost impossible to make affordable aluminum ride well. In fact, the only drawback to owning more-affordable steel is a slight tip of the scale; expensive steel's main advantage is lighter weight.

Despite a slight comeback in 2002, steel continues to take a backseat to increasingly popular aluminum hardtails and full suspension bikes. Marketing programs, the "oversize" aesthetics of aluminum and a relentless focus on weight motivate most to buy aluminum bikes, so steel remains the quiet underdog. Those who are dedicated to buying a hardtail and have been fortunate to try both materials almost always gravitate towards the steel option. There's nothing inherently wrong with aluminum; it's just that at affordable levels, it rarely beats out the suppleness of a steel frame. If you're among those catching on to the delights of steel - the original mountain bike frame material - this bike is your best opportunity to catch this wave.

BEST THING ABOUT THIS BIKE:
Amazing value with smart, quality componentry from hub to hub. Manitou Mars Elite fork (with improved tolerances and revamped internals), Mavic's CrossRoc UST Tubeless wheels and Hutchinson's workhorse Python tires comprise a component spec that would make most $2,000 bikes envious. Factor in the highly compliant ride of the Reynolds 631 chrome-moly frame - with a forgiving ride similar to many $1,400 frames - and you've got one of the best values for 2002.

WORST THING:
The difficulty in getting one. You'll need diligence, patience, maybe a road trip, but this bike is worth it. Call Jamis to find a dealer.

INSIGHT FROM THE TESTER:
"If you want a mid-priced hardtail, try steel. Over-looking this bike is a crime against your off-road enjoyment as well as your wallet."

VALUE LEADER:
Forget the amazing ride of the steel frame, and this bike's still a value leader. You'll find competing models spec'd mostly with Deore or Deore LX and only a smattering of Deore XT. Here's a healthy dose of Deore XT with quality parts everywhere else including bar, stem, seatpost, and tires. Any way you look at it, this bike's a winner.

LOOKS UP TO IT'S BIG BROTHER:
While this bike is an outstanding value, those interested in the highest level of steel performance should look at the $2,600 Jamis Dragon. Performance doesn't come cheap, but the Dragon packs a top-shelf level amount of performance (full XTR, Mavic CrossMax UST) for safely under $3,000. Either way you look at it, Jamis has mastered the steel hardtail.

SIZES: 13, 15, 17, 19, 21 in.(tested)
WEIGHT: 25.8 lbs. (21 in.)
FRAME: TIG-welded Reynolds 631 air-hardened steel with disc tab
FORK: Manitou Mars Elite w/80mm travel
COMPONENT HIGHLIGHTS: 27-speed Shimano Deore XT drivetrain, Shimano Deore LX crankset with 22/32/44 chainrings, 11-32 9-speed cassette, Avid Single-Digit 7 brakes with Avid Speed Dial 5 levers, Answer Taperlight handlebar and Ritchey Logic Pro stem, Thomson post, Koski saddle, Mavic CrossRoc UST tubeless wheels, Hutchinson Python 26x2.0 tires, Time Alium clipless pedals.

REVIEWED BY: Andrew Juskaitis

Jamis Bicycles: 800.222.0570; www.jamisbikes.com

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