Jamis Durango SX
Entry-Level Aggro

The Jamis Durango SX takes its name from one of the early meccas of mountain biking. And while it's towards the low-end of Jamis' full range of models, it's quite a respectable ride.

With a value-packed spec, a tough lightweight frame and good handling characteristics, the Durango SX is a good option for the entry level mountain biker who will be doing light off road riding. While it probably couldn't handle some of the more challenging trails Durango has to offer, the Durango SX is more than enough bike for the weekend woodsman (or woman) seeking a taste of what mountain biking is all about.

The Frame
Aluminum has virtually taken over as the frame material of choice for entry level bikes because it yields a strong , light weight bike. The Durango SX is another example of this intelligent trend. It sports a 7005 aluminum frame. Weld quality is average and a bit chunky. Special features include S-bend seatstays for increased braking power and lateral stiffness and a replaceable derailleur hanger so that your whole frame won't be thrashed when you have (an inevitable) hard spill that tweaks your rear derailleur. The downtube is gussetted where it meets the head tube for increased strength and stiffness in the front end. Our 17" test model had a nice sloping top tube for increased standover clearance. Another nice touch is the presence of an international disc brake mount and cable mounts along the left seatstay if you decide to add a rear disc brake in the future. The finish, true to Jamis form, is a classy, understated black with red details. Overall, a solid, good-looking frame that's more than enough of a mount for a beginning rider.

The Parts
A well thought out spec nicely complements the Durango frame. The 9-speed drivetrain features Shimano's precise Deore derailleurs front and rear matched with SRAM Attack twist shifters, a Sun Tour four-bolt crankset and alloy pedals with clips and straps. A plush Jamis saddle with an ergonomic center section should keep things from going numb. A Kalloy rise bar and Jamis 10-degree rise stem keep the riding position upright and comfortable. The quick-release seat clamp is a nice touch that any rider, beginner or expert, will appreciate as it allows the seat to be dropped for descents and makes it easy to dial in your riding position. Up front, a coil and elastometer sprung RST 381 TL provides 90 mm of travel. A Formula mechanical disc brake handles stopping chores in front while a Tektro vee-style brake slows you down in the rear. Avid 1.0 levers with adjustable reach and smooth modulation are a nice find at this price point as are Hutchinson Chameleon tires, which have aggressive knobs for off road riding, but a relatively low profile for low rolling resistance on streets and bike paths.

The Ride
With a 71-degree headtube and a 73.5-degree seat tube, handling on the Durango SX is predictable, but quick. The Durango SX is stable on descents, but agile enough to whip around swithbacks, if the need arises. On the trail, all of the components worked adequately, with the drivetrain standing out for its precision. The Shimano Deore group is a truly stellar offering, and we like the feel of the SRAM Attack shifters with their light action and short throw. The upright riding position is probably just what most recreational riders are looking for. The bonus of a disc brake is that it performs in all conditions, and the front brake provides most of the stopping power. The Formula disc and Tektro V on our Jamis had comparable modulation when coupled with the Avid levers, and it's nice to have the option to upgrade to a rear disc (since the frame has mounts.) The 90mm travel RST 381 lacks the sophistication and adjustability of higher priced forks, but it does a decent job of soaking up bumps along the trail or sidewalk. While it's not really suited to hardcore trail riding, it's adequate for most of the riding that this bike will probably be used for.

Final Thoughts
The Durango SX is a fine entry-level bike. The drivetrain and frame are both exceptional, the geometry provides for predictable handling, and the overall setup of the bike makes it comfortable for the beginner.

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