STIFF. I just relocated to Australia until June, and this is the bike to get me through that time away from my beloved Fuji Newest 1.0 2007. For my money, it doesn't get any better than my Fuji (and I've ridden some rad stuff), but the Jamis Ventura Sport 2010 compares pretty effectively. The bike is used, so I think that explains a little creaking and squeaking that the warranty should take care of. Apart from the squeaking, the breaks are quite unresponsive. The derailleurs are clunky; not nearly as quick-witted as my old Fuji. One thing I will say is even without a carbon fork, the Jamis seems lighter, but it's stiff as anything I've ever ridden.
After riding my Jamis for close to a year, I feel that I have gotten to know it pretty well.
On the plus side, I find my bike to be very comfortable, even on 60 mile+ rides. In fact, compared to my other bike it feels somewhat like a Cadillac (slow and sedate). I found this to be an enormous plus in helping me put more miles in. The fastest bike in the world wont make you faster if its too uncomfortable to train on.
Also, $600 (what I paid) is about the least you can spend and still get an actual road bike, so value is a definite plus.
Things to be aware of: I hate my drivetrain. The Shimano 2200 shifters (the lowest quality they make) have eaten 3 shifter cables, leaving me stranded on the road twice. Also, shifting is often clunky and not responsive. This is my only serious complaint with the Jamis.
Overall, I really like the frame and comfort of the Jamis, but wish I could have invested in better shifters and derailleurs (I may still) to improve its reliability.
Strengths: Solid, well built frame.
Decent components.
Seems like it will last a long time.
Weaknesses: Not aggressive geometry.
Horrible stock wheelset.
Lousy stock handelbars.
Bottom Line:
I bought the Jamis Ventura Sport as my first road bike in spring of 08. After putting over 5,000 miles on this bike I can say I am fairly pleased with it. The stock sora/2200 drivetrain has held up surprisingly well despite the lousy reputation of those components.
The aluminum frame and fork feel solid and well built, but the geometry of this bike is on the relaxed side-a very tall headtube compared to other racier bikes makes it difficult to get into a really aero position if that's your thing. The ride style is more of a classic 1980's positioning where you spend a lot of time in the drops.
I did eventually replace the saddle with a nashbar gr2 which has been a big improvement and the red/black striping matches the frame perfectly.
I also replaced the handelbars with some 3t ergonova pro's as I did not like the sharp, angular bends in the drops of the stock bars-the 3t is more of a smooth curved bend.
However, the stock wheelset on mine was an alex dc19 rim/formula hub combo that was complete garbage. Spokes breaking constantly, wheels out of true, on the heavy side. I eventually had enough of the wheels and had a custom set of dtswiss rr1.1 rims/ultegra hubs built up that has been very nice, and matches the bikes aesthetics nicely as well if that matters to you.
Strengths: Good selection of gears, I never had a chance to wish for more. Vittoria Zaffiro tires work great for me - no flats in over 1200 miles.
Weaknesses: For this price - none.
Bottom Line:
My bike is 2008. It is a great entry level bike. Not lightning fast, but very well put together. I have done rides of up to 50 miles on it so far, and no problems experienced. I did replace the stock saddle and pedals, plus added two water bottle cages. Otherwise everything is perfect for me.
Strengths: Love the double crankset! Ergonomic dropbars are awesome too.
Weaknesses: Stock tires had to go!
Bottom Line:
I am an avid maountain biker, but I wanted a road bike to train with as well. In the sub-$1000 price range, I felt this bike got me the best value for the dollar. I have changed out the stock tires and put on some Maxxis Detonators. Overall, I love this bike. It's light enough to ride all day, and comfortable too.
Taking price out of the equation (or at least putting it veeeerry low on the list), which one would be better for an entry level bike? There are elements of both I like and can't Read More »
Not sure if this the right Forum so mods please move if its not right.
But, a buddy of mine has an 07 Jamis Ventura Sport with hardly any miles at all. And my dad is looking for Read More »
08' Raleigh Grand Sport $599.99 or 08' Jamis Ventura Comp $649.99
I am new to road cycling and wanting to purchase my first road bike. These 2 road bikes seem to be good beginne Read More »
I have ridden both bikes and like both. Maybe someone can at least make a suggestion why one over the other. I would be riding to work, not worried about rack at this pt..
I hav Read More »
