Jamis Xenith Comp

Price Paid:  $1600.00 at Bike Werx Mililani

Favorite Ride:
Kolekole Pass

Bike Setup:
Stock. Jamis, Speedplay, Garmin.

Summary:
I have been pleased with my purchase. The FSA compact 50/34 is perfect for climbing. Lots of climbing here on Oahu, with many grades of 18-19% and I had no problem going from the triple on my OCR1 to the double on the Jamis. However, the bike is not a fast descending machine, likely due to the low-quality wheels.

Strengths:
Smooth, stable ride. Quality components. Value.

Weaknesses:
A little heavy for a carbon bike.

Similar Products Used:
Giant OCR1

Price Paid:  $1750.00 at LBS

Favorite Ride:
Tiburon Loop w/Marin Headlands

Bike Setup:
Stock w/Shimano 105 front, Ultegra rear

Summary:
2008 Xenith Comp

Good overall bike. Very stable on descents, good power transfer, and relatively light. Slightly sluggish when accelerating very hard. Bought based on Bicycling magazine recommendation.

Tested
Specialized Tarmac Elite - solid carbon build, rides a bit firm on uneven pavement but very stable on hills, slightly lacking in feel, horribly uncomfortable stock saddle
Specialized Allez Elite - aluminum is tad rigid, squeaking noises, and not as stable on descents
Giant TCR C1 - very quick and responsive, lightweight carbon build, but a bit twitchy on steep descents
Fuji Team - carbon build, same comments as the TCR C1

For the average enthusiast/recreational rider living in the Bay area the double compact chainring on the Xenith may be somewhat limiting especially if you are tackling some of the steeper terrain. In general, satisfied with my purchase but would purchase a bike with a triple chainring next time. Didn't test the Fuji CCR line but wished I had as it has the similar geometry, carbon build, and componentry but at much lower cost during y/e closeouts.

Strengths:
Good power transfer, very stable and smooth ride. Decent components for price.

Weaknesses:
If you live in hilly areas and are in average to above average shape then the double chainring may be challenging on some slopes.

Similar Products Used:
Giant TCR C1
Specialized Tarmac Elite
Specialized Allez Elite
Fuji Team
Scattante

Price Paid:  $2500.00 at Bicyclinique Gatinea

Model Year:
2007

Favorite Ride:
Jamis Xenith Comp (2007)

Summary:
Was mostly mountain biking then decided I wanted to ride road again so talked to my LBS and ended up taking it home. Upgraded the bars to FSA K-Force Carbon, saddle to an SMP Glider, pedals are Look and got a bike fitting. This bike seems to like climbing and road vibration is virtually non-existant. Sweet ride.

Strengths:
Looks, price and it is a comfy bike.

Weaknesses:
The Shimano wheelset seems a bit heavy and doesn't seem to roll as quickly as my friends Kona and she has XeroLites. Stock seat is a bag-ripper - beware - couldn't ride for a week after using it.

Similar Products Used:
Quintana Roo Trueno