This video helped me seal the deal and buy this bike in Nov 2018. I've taken it on some sandy terrain in Desert Hot Springs, tech terrain near Palm Springs, and gnarly descents in Cottonwood, AZ and Sedona, AZ. I'm looking forward to ripping in Bend and Boise later this year. Every time I ride this bike, I'm reminded how comfortable it is. I don't have any lower back pain and wrist pain anymore, and I can ride this bike everyday. It's extremely stable at any speed and climbs extremely well. I enjoy being able to have one bike that can pretty much do almost of everything that I want to do on a bike. However, I did have to add some components to make some things more enjoyable. I added a PNW Components Pine dropper (90mm and the Loam Lever), WTB Koda saddle, Deity T-Mac flats, and Ground Control tubeless tires. I would've picked Maxxis Chronicles, but the bike shop didn't have those. This is a great bike. Get it now! Russ, did you end up buying this bike?
Hey, I'm considering getting one of these and live in Boise. I often ride Shanes Loop and Fat Tire Traverse. What do you think of this bike for the Boise foothills?
Once again thanks for a great review. I have a custom Jones Plus 25...2017 build. Not sure if I can help with the weight...I let go worrying about it a long time ago. I ride mine with a frame bag all the time and always carry repair first aid and spare tube and a small ortleib handle bar bag. I never wear a pack...Id rather have the weight on the bike and not on my back. More stuff obviously on bikepacking trips. I ride this bike in all conditions, literally all surfaces and all year round. I have commuted and toured extensively with the maxxis chronicles tubeless for the last 3 years and never regretted it...sometimes its a bit heavy when hike a bike or bushwacking but it makes up for it while climbing techy trails and black diamond descents lots of very steep and rooty rocky trails here in the PNW. I gave away all my other bikes, road, hard tail, FS and Fat bike and now only ride this. I upgraded it to a Eagle nx 30/50...uber granny gear, Thompson dropper and Shimano xt brakes with 203 rotors front and back. I guess for me never having to choose a bike and yet being able to LITERALLY ride ANYTHING ANYWHERE is worth it. Everytime I get on it...I think...ahhhh...thanks Jones...
Just got my Jones Plus LWB in medium about 2 months ago. It has aluminum bars, Thomson dropper, carbon wheels, vee bulldozer tires (29x3.25 - tubeless), sram gx eagle. With frame bag, 2 feedbags, top tube bag, anything cage, and pedals it comes to 35 lbs. While stout, I’ve already lost about 3lbs because I enjoy riding it all the time. Love the videos! Keep up the good work!
@pathlesspedalled I have only just seen your review but really enjoyed it, and glad to hear you’re enjoying the bike. I love your reviews. I owned a steel Jones 29 SpaceFrame & steel Truss fork for five years and then replaced it with a steel Jones Plus LWB Large/25” & steel Truss fork. It is my best riding and most versatile bike in 30 years of riding (and about 20 bikes), and I will never be without one! My Jones is the Large size and my build is carbon Jones bar, Thomson stem & post, 2x9 drivetrain, Avid BB7 brakes with 203/180mm rotors, XTR levers & shifters, platform pedals, Easton ARC 40 rims, tubeless Chronicles. Weight is 34.2 lbs. It feels heavy to pick it up but the moment you start rolling any feeling of heavyness evaporates. It rides light. I only notice the weight when I lift it over my head to put it on the roof rack on the car, or when I am lifting it over fences or narrow bridges on rides. When I am riding it, it is the best riding bike ever, and always feels nimble and quick and smooth. I have used mine in many different ways: bikepacking the length of New Zealand (Tour Aotearoa), regular touring with panniers, mixed-surface local rides on and off road, and very technical rocky & rooty trails, as well as riding technical trails loaded with frame bags, feed bags and front roll (The Old Ghost Road). It is an amazing bike, capable of pretty much anything. The weight of the bike bothered me early on, but I have stopped thinking about it years ago. Even when climbing very steep inclines or trails, I very rarely think about the weight. HOWEVER.... there is one thing and only one thing that I wish was different about my Jones, and that is that I wish it was a little less stiff. This has nothing to do with comfort - it is an incredibly comfortable and smooth bike due to the way the Jones geometry places you between the wheels, and the rearward bias of your hands and the long chain stays and the 3 inch tires. I just wish it was a little more flexible side to side, because riding my Rawland rSogn- a very skinny tubed and flexible bike - I have discovered that it is an incredible climbing benefit to have some side-to-side flex in the frame - what Jan Heine calls “planing”. As someone said once, “it is like being pushed from behind by an unseen hand” and it really is an incredible feeling. It’s intoxicating! I get a little bit of that planing feeling from the 3 inch tires, especially when they’re pumped up quite firm (which seems counterintuitive to me, but anyway), but I wish the frame flexed laterally more. (The non-Plus SpaceFrame was even worse in this respect and made my thighs hurt when accelerating hard (doesn’t happen on my rSogn). I think the only words in response to this feeling that the steel Jones is too stiff, is “Titanium Jones”!! Sigh.
Hi Russ from Northern Ireland. I love your videos, particularly this one on the Jones. I fully get what you are saying about the weight, but speccing a bike to a price point has that disadvantage. I am a 52 yr old mountain biker who rode a Santa Cruz carbon 5010 for 5 years. I have had other bikes, but that was my main one. It was a £10k plus investment and a lovely bike but it began to give me backpain and all the rest. Also the full suspension even when locked out, felt like it was sucking all my energy. I sold it and ordered a Jones lwb with a truss fork, and my oh my what a difference. It is a custom build, that's my thing! And it is rolling on very supple 29x3.25 Duro Crux at 15psi. This monster truck rolls up and over anything. It also is extremely fast, I am doing my usual routes faster than on the previous bike. It has all the qualities I have been searching for and no pain anymore. My frame is large and the only carbon on it is my Enve stem off the old bike. It is not tubeless and it weighs just over 28lbs. I should also state I am not related to Jeff in any way or sponsored by him, his stuff is really that good. Thank you and keep up the good work.
I have a Specialized Rock Hopper (2014) and put an aluminum Jones Loop H-Bar on it and with 38 X 700 Specialized gravel tires (Trigger Pro tubeless compatible) to serve as an initial gravel bike, and I used a short stem like Jones suggests. I found it very nice! I've never liked the straight bars because they twist my arm and shoulders too much, and the 45 degree sweep of the Jones bar solved that immediately. It does put you up right a lot, but even on single track trails, and some rather technical parts, I had no problem at all with handling. I've switched back to 2.2 in MTB tires now, since I have a gravel bike. But my experiences with this sort of bar has been nothing but positive. Since it puts up upright a lot, wind is a factor. But other than that, I've never been sorry I got those bars and put them on this bike. PS. Thanks for doing all these reviews, Russ! Much appreciated, and I've used them on numerous occasions in selecting various pieces of gear!
Ed Catt , I put Jones bars on my 2012 Specialized Ro k Hopper too and I love the set up. I am currently trying to decided between the Jones SWB or LWB bike as I have new bike fever.
Hey man .. do you still have it ? Would you recommend it ? I’m looking into Jones LWB and surly ECR .. I have a karate monkey and I’m not crazy about it comfort wise .. it’s nice but Not great ... can you pls let me know how long you had it and what’s your opinion on it
@@deerhunterx1712 yeah, I've had it for several years now and love it. I'll never sell it. Actually those are the only 2 off road bikes I own, (ECR and Jones) The Jones handles like a dream, its super stable and smooth but yet handles really technical stuff pretty damn good considering the wheel base. It's just fun to ride. I'm a bikepacker mostly, I prefer to ride the Jones. However, I use the ECR when I do long international tours, it has better luggage carrying capabilities, the racks are very heavy duty, and there are barnicles all over the frame to mount cages. It handles pretty good too but If I were to do a 3 or 4ish day trip only I would definitely take the Jones.
Great review, and after owning a size large of one of these for a month I totally agree with your assessment. It's the most capable rigid bike I've ever ridden and incredibly confidence inspiring on technical terrain. Also, at 6'4" with a 37" inseam this is the first bike I've ever owned where I could easily get the bars level with saddle height. It is a bit porky, but it's a super fun and comfortable all-terrain bike. My only real rub is that the stock Chronicles aren't tubeless-ready. This is my fourth plus bike and tubeless is pretty much essential. I'd have gladly paid a little more for tubeless-ready tires to be included on the stock build. I hope Jeff takes that into consideration on the next production run. Otherwise it really is a superb bike.
I ordered and received my Complete Jones SWB Plus in mid-August. My first ride was up near Dillon, Montana. I rode with friends from Twin Bridges to Melrose and back on Melrose-Twin Bridges Road. It was a great test for a maiden voyage - lots of gravel with a big variety of rough surfaces. The Jones Complete SWB Plus was a blast! Very comfortable as I rode the stock tires with tubes at 15 psi. I agree - climbing can be tougher due to the heavier weight of the entire bike but I felt the stability on long rough descents made up for any weight penalty. I have only replaced the saddle at this point and plan to convert to tubeless fairly soon. Thanks for your review - very informative.
I've had a Jones bar on my Karate Monkey and I really liked that set-up. I've ridden a Jones Steel 29'er spaceframe with regular MTB bars and really enjoyed that. I've never ridden a Jones bar on a Jones bike! I'm debating between the LWB and the SWB and in the SWB's case, the complete and the custom. First world problems, I know.
Russ, thanks for the review. I've been leaning towards a Jones swb and your review, which i respect, helped me move closer. I'm up in BC , in the Nelson area so a bit too far, at my age , too be driving down to try out. Will talk to Jeff, take guidance , and roll the dice. Great channel btw.
Its futile to think you can make another bike ride like a Jones. I did that for years before I finally bought a Jones 29er........its unlike anything else for sure. Sorry Russ not sure about weight but it has a full XT 1x11 kit, Thomson bits, and some Duallys. Not the lightest bike but it doesn't ride like a heavy bike at all. If I had to have one bike I'd keep it over just about anything.
I have an older 29er diamond frame with titanium truss fork. I love it! Handles great, all the mounts I'd need and works great as a tourer or unloaded for regular trail riding. I basically treat it like a hardtail since I have a fat tire in front to soak up the bumps. Only downside with my current frame is that it won't fit a 27.5+ tire in the rear, but that's because it was built before 27.5 wheels on MTB were even a thing, let alone 27.5+.
I think around 26lbs complete? The Ti fork makes a difference. I'm guessing the weight of a 26x3.8 front wheel is comparable to the 27.5+ wheel, and my 29er wheel is surely lighter. I have it built up with SLX 2x9, thomson seatpost, alloy jones bar, and avid BB5 mechanical brakes. Pics: instagram.com/p/BawYydVH8mC
Have been waiting for this review for awhile and really excited to hear it was a positive. I am so itching for a Jones, but think I've hit my n+1 limit with my Open U.P. frame that I need to build up. Thanks for doing this one, Russ. The one counter comment I'll offer is the notes about price- I agree that bikes are expensive and often prohibitively so for many people. That said, there is something to be said about what you choose to spend being worth it, right? A great frame like a custom Ti version of a Jones will most likely last you a lifetime and like his videos show can be a really versatile bike for many kinds of riding. Sometimes you do get what you pay for and that cost isn't a bad thing if all the positives add up for you. And this would be the case for any bike one would contemplate buying. Its of course always about what you can afford and the enjoyment you get out of riding what you have, but price in an of itself shouldn't be posed as a negative. It just is what it is. Whatever works for folks and gets them out on the bike. Last points regarding weight- I agree with other posters and it sort of goes to my price expenditure commentary above, but you can spend some bucks and make this one lighter: carbon seat post, stem, better rims/tires, higher end components, nice saddle. Anyway, if you keep it, enjoy! Awesome.
I own a Jones 29 steel space frame bike. It was right before the Plus came out, so I have a 29+ front wheel and a regular 29 in the rear (2.4 tire). I originally got it as a singlespeed, in that format it weighed 27.5 lb. I have since converted to 1x11 and added a dropper, so it’s weight is up to around 30 lb now. I primarily ride Singletrack and although it is fully rigid and the truss fork is even stiffer than the single crown fork, it’s actually great to ride in rocky and technical terrain. It tracks great and goes where it’s pointed. I have a Vee Rubber bulldozer up front (3.25) and it cushions the ride just right. The only drawback I find is really steep seated climbing. (I didn’t notice this till I changed to a geared drivetrain) The seat tube angle is a bit too relaxed for that in my opinion. However, this is the best bike for standing climbs. I don’t know if it’s the tires or the geometry, or both, but it’s the best standing climber on reasonably loose terrain.
As Jeff Jones demonstrates on his videos, the Jones bike is great on technical terrain too. It is not just a cruiser by any means. I enjoy taking it up and down some very steep and rocky terrain. Yes, you can drop about 5 pounds from the bike. And yes, it'll cost ya. If you want to invest that much in the bike I would go with his truss fork frame, which is lighter, awesome on technical terrain, and also incorporates another of his ingenious concepts.
@@PathLessPedaledTV its an old school 4x4 in world of trophy trucks, its just as capable as the full suspension bikes but won't be able to pound big stretches of rough terrain into submission like a full sus
Love Jones bars!!!! I have used them on commuters and my hardtail 29er, and am not inclined to go back to a regular bar with standard sweep. No more wrist pain / hand pain, and (for me) a greater sense of control
Great video. Bar setup - try a slight downward slope on the bar ~8-10 degrees. Really helps the ergonomics. Looks like they are closer to flat in the video.
Weight is more a psychological disadvantage than a physical one ( other than being personally overweight), look no further than those who ride the divide. BTW I swapped handlebars that came on a Marin San Quentin 1 bike I purchased a few months ago and installed the Jones H-Bar 2.5, it transformed the bike into a more comfortable, intuitive and stable ride, especially on aggressive terrain. It got me thinking of the Jones SWB+ frame with truss fork to be a do all bike. Thanks for your reviews.
Depends on the ride. In a touring/bikepacking situation, sure weight isn't a big deal. Climbing up a hill unloaded or doing a timed event with lots of climbing, I'd say it plays a more important role. I'm no super athlete, but I sure as heck can tell when I'm riding a light bike up steep hill. For the Jones, I've sort of just accepted its weight, but given unlimited funds you better believe I would put a carbon wheelset on it in a hot second.
I just got a Jones LWB diamond frame with the steel truss fork. Sram GX components, Thomson Dropper seat post and Thomson stem, Aluminum Jones bar. With the Maxxis Chronicle tires(tubeless) mine weighs 32 lbs.
I am really starting to want one of these. I don't mind the weight so much since I'm not a light fellow myself, but I really wish you could get the complete bike with a truss fork.
BTW, for some weight savings, try the following when the current bits need replacing (but not before, and only on sale). You already mentioned some of them. (1) Replace the cogstack with the upper-end cassette, which generally saves 90-100 grams. (2) Replace the cable/housing with Jagwire segmented housing and polished stainless cable. (3) If the rims ever give out (kinda unlikely), re-build with the Jones C(arbon) rims. That will save weight and those should last your lifetime. Use either triple-butted DT Swiss SuperCompetition spokes or Aerolite spokes (AeroComp on the drive side). CX-Ray/CX-Sprints are also fantastic. Alloy nipples save a bit of weight, though I still prefer brass. (4) Use a chain with cutout side plates to knock off an ounce or two. (5) The carbon Loop bar is really nice (calms road buzz a lot more than the aluminum as well as being lighter (275g vs 625g -- a 3/4 lb savings!). (6) Carbon or Thomson Aluminum seatpost. The carbon will damp road buzz more, and depending on if you go no-name, might be < $100. (7) Carbon or at least higher-end crank.
I've been riding mtb's (and other mainly steel bike's) for over thirty years, I've been looking at bikepacking specific mountain bikes fell in love with jones bike and the whole h-bar concept but cannot afford or justify that hefty price tag. In thee end i picked up a genesis longitude 2019 for £999 swapped out the silly massive 770 mil wide handlebar. For a British company, on-one mike handle bar very similar to a soma clarence or osprey bar and essentially it looks very much like a jones swb. And has an allmost identical spec. The ride is awesome and the longtitude has been around for a few years, so before the Jones swb came out. You need to check out the Genesis brand. Quite a few models i think you'd like. Love this channel by the way. Very inspiring.
I've set up a Trek pro caliber with Jones carbon bars and a Lauf fork just fitting Compass 55mm 700cc tyres supple to say the least, Jones bars on my fat bike as well hard to beat.
Hi, Nice review. I am building up a steel 25"Plus frame. Won't quote its weight yet, as not finished. However, a few weeks ago, I spotted a Titanium framed LWB (with truss forks) at our biggest Enduro race in the UK (check out the Ardrock Enduro- run in Yorkshire; fabulous event). Tracked down the owner after the race to check it out. 22 lbs all kitted out with 29+ rims, 3" tyres, and carbon jones bars.
I have the original Jones Plus (long wheel base) with the truss fork. Love the bike, but it is heavy on long climbs. The bike weighs 31 lbs. It is a blast to ride on singletrack. As far as super technical stuff, that depends mainly on personal skill. Jeff Jones himself could probably ride one of his bikes anywhere! Watch some of his videos, The guy is a great bike handler, as well as a great builder. I love my Jones.
Hi Russ. Great review. I love the look of the Jones Bike. I recently bought a 2019 Marin Pine Mountain that was on closeout partly due to this video review. The Pine Mountain and the Jones seem to be very similar. Price was a big factor but I have had extremely good luck with Marin bikes so that was ultimately the clincher for me. I know that you have a good relationship with Marin so hopefully one day you can do a review of the new Pine Mountain as they have been re-designed for 2020. Merry Christmas to you and Laura!
I have a set of Jones loop bars on my 2014 Specialized AWOL Transcontinental with a Rohloff hub. It works great on the AWOL with the low trail and tall stack height. Keep up the Party Pace, love the channel
Remember the days, early 90s when steel frame bikes were actually light? Check out the weight weenies site and you will see plenty of older steel frames under 2kg, nowadays they are considered "light" if its under 6lbs. A Niner SIR9 with Reynalds 853 weighs 5.5lb and this is a high end frame.
I have a custom LWB steel with truss fork and custom wheels. I’d weigh it but don’t have a scale. Is there a digital scale you recommend for weighing bike stuff? The LWB is a blast to ride. Really hard to get into any trouble on it because of the stability. It’s probably more challenging to hop, wheelie, manual, etc but I’m kind of terrible at that sort of stuff, so I’m probably not a good judge. I’d love to try out a SWB. Also, on his site, Jeff lists weights of all his frames and forks.
I think you can knock off some more weight with Terrene McFly tires, but they are 2.7" wide on 45mm rims and the lightest ones (760g) emphasize suppleness over sidewall protection. So, they may be limited to road touring and nicely maintained rails-to-trails paths. There is also the Maxxis Ikon+ 27.5x2.8" that comes in between 710g and 770g.
Hey Russ! I have been a watcher for years. I really love the perspective and growth of the channel. You have even inspired me to create my own channel that merges biking and history. But that is not what brings me to make this post. I am looking for a mountain bike that could also be a good commuter/ touring bike when I need it to be. Jones SWB is on the list along with Surly Troll. However, I haven't come across more. Do you know of other bikes that fit this niche of fully rigid mtb and have the ability to attach racks and panniers?
One way to shed a ton of weight is going to 26+ wheel set/tires. I have the Jamis Dragonslayer in 26+ and it it a rocket! I know people love to hate 26, but they are a lot lighter than 27+
Weight savings between wheel sizes is not that much a tire swap has as much or more potential weight savins at a fraction the cost. My Mavic 26" wheel set, their cheaper Crossried offering weighs about 1700g and I have 29er set of Stans Crest that weigh closer to 1600g. Bottom line is sure, everything being equal a smaller wheel will weigh less but the savings just arent that much when going tubeless and lighter tires can easily make that difference for far less money.
If one is considering this bike, I'd also check out the Kona Unit X. Cool bike. Also, the bend in the seat tube on this bike will an issue if you want a decent sized dropper post.
I think in Europe we miss custom made bike shops. Now if Jones could open a shop in London, I am convinced many customers would be prepared to pay more than 1700 USD for such a bike. Jones bike quality is superior,anyone can see that. So we note down: custom made bikes is a near future market in Europe.
I never complain about the weight. I drive a Surly Pugsley w/ a front rack and whatever I'm carrying on it, a backpack, water, etc.; 8 spd. Shimano Alpine hub; Jones bars; fat, knobby tires. Wouldn't give up my steel frames for the world. You can have those light bikes. Too flimsy. Break too easily. Tough bikes are best. I'm getting a Jones LWB ASAP. If I can't find one soon enough, I will buy a Surly Troll.
cool video - have been interested in Jones bikes but as you imagined, have never got close to one - nice to see you so stoked on it - did you get input from Jones on how to set up ride position? Would be good to see you on it from 3rd person view to see your fit / position as you say it feels so comfortable and confident to ride.
I would like to hear your thoughts on the Jones Plus LWB Titanium Spaceframe with truss fork. I'm wondering how it would compare to the SWB steel diamond frame with unicrown fork which you reviewed here.
A bit late, but thanks Russ for doing this review! We just clicked the "Buy" button for two Jones SWB Complete bikes for my wife and I. Planning to take this in our camper van and explore a bit more on bikes. We think this bike will allow that flexibility. Are there any other "enhancements" that you have done on your SWB setup besides the tires and the togs? Happy with the Terravails? If you had to take this bike on a longer tour (mainly road), what tires would you pick? Thanks so much Russ!
I am seriously considering buying this bike after I visit his shop to see it. Do you know if 29er wheels/tires will fit? I debating between this bike and the Blackborow Eagle, which can take a few different wheel sizes.
still waiting to see the video of the Mariachi with the Jones bar. I have a Mariachi also....I have the bar but not have put it on yet. Curious to see what you think...
Very well said 👍 I have had 3 Jones bike's. 1st was a Jones LWB 24" Sold because it was just to big. 2nd was a Jones 29 (old model of the SWB) diamond 23" top tube was just too high (I have short legs) Sold 3rd bike is a Jones LWB Spaceframe 23 and it's just right for me. Love my 29+ tyres. Keep up the great work 🙂
Hi Peter, I'm very interested in an LWB Spaceframe as well and being a small rider 170cm (around 5'6) my only Jones option in 29+ is that frame. Do you happen to have the weight and your current build at hand ? i would love to get that bike as do it all bike. My aim is to get into bikepacking and touring with it.
@@MrPascalux Sorry I don't know the weight. My LWB Spaceframe 23 up for sale in New Zealand. Sorry I'm not interested in exporting her, but anyone is welcome to come to NZ and buy her.
Can someone give me an apples to apples comparison on weight savings between this SWB Complete and a Custom Jones SWB...since one is heat-treated and the other is not? I'm trying to determine how much more the SWB Complete frame and fork would weigh compared to a custom SWB frame with truss fork. Thanks!
@@PathLessPedaledTV In the 710mm width, Jonesbikes.com lists the butted aluminum H Bars at 525 grams, and the titanium H Bars at 570 grams. However, if you are comparing the SG Loop H-Bar, which comes on the Jones Complete bikes, at 625 grams, is heavier than the titanium bars.
Hi Russ. Love your videos! Not sure if you still read these comments but I’m looking for a Jones bike and was wondering about the sizing. Can I ask what is your height and inseam? I’m trying to figure out whether to go with a small or medium frame.
Try the Jeff Jones Bikes Owners Page on Facebook -- lots of bikepacking experience in that group. There are also (some) reports from owners in the blog page on Jones's website.
I have a Surly Wednesday (and also a Troll). Any comments on how the Jones SWB compares to the Wed? Would love to get one as wife usually rides the Wed and make me take the Troll.
@pathlesspedaled Any updates now that you hand the bike for season? Have you gone down the weight reduction rabbit hole. Contemplating this as my next bike. Thanks!
2lbs of the weight is in the disc brakes alone you could go to lighter pedals seat with ti or carbon rails smaller cassette 11x 34 smaller tires from 3.0 to 2.25 see what that does to the weight again with all the changes a big investment. It would be worth it if you had the parts already
I’m looking for some advice. Should I choose the Jones bike over the Surly Wednesday? I need a bike for four season riding in the Midwest, not too technical single track, and for fitness (neighborhood) riding. It seems like both are very versatile, but which one to choose? Any help is appreciated.
I think that the Jones offers enough comfort for not too technical singletrack and will give you a more playful, agile handling. Due to the smaller tires it will also accelerate better and be the faster bike. Riding position is more relaxed on the Jones, especially for taller riders. You will have less weight on your hands and get less tired in longer descents.
Thank you for this vid. I have been trying to contemplate for a long time between buying this bike or a gravel bike of the same price. It seems I'll be saving up for this one because of this vid. Except for racing I would guess this would be a really good all around bike. I am just curious if anyone has tried installing the SWB truss fork from Jones Bike on this particular production model and how it would affect the riding and performance of the bike.
@@PathLessPedaledTV That makes sense. I guess the natural flex from the unicrown stock fork would have more give and a more comfortable ride. I guess if you run an even larger tire size in front and lower air pressure just like his other more expensive models you can get the benefit of a plush ride with the stiffness and durability of the truss fork, then on one hand I can be wrong HAHAHA. Thanks for the reply!!!
I've been Jones-curious for a long time and when I saw the Jones SWB complete, I thought "there's my next mountain bike!" Honestly though, I'm having second thoughts about it after learning that it doesn't have the eccentric BB. I switch between geared and singlespeed often on my current bike and I'd have to give that up. Russ, I am curious about what you think of the TOGS and how you've got them placed on the Jones bar.
I like the TOGS. They are stupid simple and you don't think they would do that much, but they do keep me from sliding off the front. I have them on the top part of the loop and are spaced to about where I would have the hoods of a drop bar. It gives a better flat road position IMO.
If you are going to the lengths of upgrading to save weight, the normal SWB frame might make more sense, and do a self build that fits your weight criteria. At the same time you could get a truss fork which would make it a true Jones!?
It's stiff in all directions, the idea being to prevent shuddering under heavy braking. It makes the steering more precise, but it really depends on the tires for any sense of compliance.
I have used the regular H Bars for years; I tried the 2.5 H Bars on a Ritchey P-29er that has a really short head tube. I didn't like them, as you lose one of the best hand positions- being able to put your palms flat on the joint of the bars.
Matt Quinn How as it changed the handling of the Stache? What is the make and model of the stem? What kind of riding do you do? have a 17.5” 2018 Stache 5 and am riding mainly from paved to dirt roads and some 4wd forest roads in the desert. Thanks for sharing your experience with the Jones 2.5 bars!
Billy Balukos it created a much more comfortable upright seating position, eliminating neck strain and hand numbness. Better in all conditions but especially beneficial for Epic-length rides. Control is better, both on the ground and when “flying” the bike. The 45* sweep allows me to get waaay back on the bike with the seat dropped for super steep technical descent sections. I have ridden all types of trail on this setup from gravel grinding to XC to DH, and it is a tremendous all-rounder. Stem is a Hussefelt 35mm stem.
Hey Russ. How does this small fit with you? I’m 5’9 with proportionate figure and ride mediums on nearly every bike I ride. Seems like I could probably do small or medium, which each leaning smaller or larger than I’d really like. I guess I lean towards the medium for the larger triangle, but don’t want to sacrifice fit for that. Any input is greatly appreciated.
I’m on the cusp as well. Small is upright but pretty playful and agile. Might go larger if doing mostly roads but I like the maneuverability of the smaller frame.
@@PathLessPedaledTV Hey Russ, thanks for the great content. I'm 5' 8" and am considering a small for the SWB. Is this your height as well? I have ridden both mediums and smalls in many bikes, but as I've gotten older, I like to be more upright. It's tough being in between sizes and I prefer to test ride bikes before buying, so any input you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
I was looking seriously at getting one of these. Then REI (where I've been employed for 10 years) came out with the Co-Op Cycles ADV 4.2. Very similar to the Jones SWB with steeper geometry, a little longer wheelbase and a frame and fork of 6061 aluminum, which is the 4130 chromly of aluminum. Mine is an XL and (once the racks were removed) weights about 5+ lbs less than the biggest Jones SWB (and that's with a heavy Cane Creek Thudbuster Short Travel Seatpost). It also comes with better components. SLX heavy and with Deore hydraulic disc brakes. SLX 2x 34 x 24 crank for a super big (and loooow) gear range with the 11-42 rear cluster. I installed a lighter custom butted Jones bar, shorter Paul Boxcar stem and Paul Klamper mechanical disc brakes along with an XT rear derailleur. REI smartly speced the bike with Micoshift 11 speed thumb shifters, WTB Deore hubs and Scraper i40 Rims with WTB Ranger Fast Rolling Tough Casing 2.8" tires. All ready to go tubeless. I've been immensely happy with this ride and after riding a friend's similar sized Jones SWB, I'm very glad I went with the home teams ride. Just as nimble but you can sure feel the lighter weight. Giant makes the frames for REI. Sadly, we don't make this model anymore. I think there's only one left in all of REI, a medium frame at the store where I work in Short Pump, Virginia. Glad to hear another take on the Jones SWB, Russ! And it was great to meet you and Laura on the waterfront of the Elizabeth River in Norfolk and see you again at Cary Town Bikes popup.
As you have a chance to test this bike over time, I'd love to know how it performs with a back rack like www.jonesbikes.com/rack-tubus-logo-2cm-29er. It would be nice to have the rack for adding a pannier or small bag to carry things when doing errands or on a leisurely ride. But I'm wondering if a back rack would rattle when doing mountain bike trails (rack unloaded.) Framebags are great for bike packing, but I'd prefer a rack, if it doesn't interfere with mountain biking days.
This video helped me seal the deal and buy this bike in Nov 2018. I've taken it on some sandy terrain in Desert Hot Springs, tech terrain near Palm Springs, and gnarly descents in Cottonwood, AZ and Sedona, AZ. I'm looking forward to ripping in Bend and Boise later this year. Every time I ride this bike, I'm reminded how comfortable it is. I don't have any lower back pain and wrist pain anymore, and I can ride this bike everyday. It's extremely stable at any speed and climbs extremely well. I enjoy being able to have one bike that can pretty much do almost of everything that I want to do on a bike. However, I did have to add some components to make some things more enjoyable. I added a PNW Components Pine dropper (90mm and the Loam Lever), WTB Koda saddle, Deity T-Mac flats, and Ground Control tubeless tires. I would've picked Maxxis Chronicles, but the bike shop didn't have those. This is a great bike. Get it now!
Russ, did you end up buying this bike?
Hey, I'm considering getting one of these and live in Boise. I often ride Shanes Loop and Fat Tire Traverse. What do you think of this bike for the Boise foothills?
Once again thanks for a great review. I have a custom Jones Plus 25...2017 build. Not sure if I can help with the weight...I let go worrying about it a long time ago. I ride mine with a frame bag all the time and always carry repair first aid and spare tube and a small ortleib handle bar bag. I never wear a pack...Id rather have the weight on the bike and not on my back. More stuff obviously on bikepacking trips. I ride this bike in all conditions, literally all surfaces and all year round. I have commuted and toured extensively with the maxxis chronicles tubeless for the last 3 years and never regretted it...sometimes its a bit heavy when hike a bike or bushwacking but it makes up for it while climbing techy trails and black diamond descents lots of very steep and rooty rocky trails here in the PNW. I gave away all my other bikes, road, hard tail, FS and Fat bike and now only ride this. I upgraded it to a Eagle nx 30/50...uber granny gear, Thompson dropper and Shimano xt brakes with 203 rotors front and back. I guess for me never having to choose a bike and yet being able to LITERALLY ride ANYTHING ANYWHERE is worth it. Everytime I get on it...I think...ahhhh...thanks Jones...
I think you just sold me on it as a get of town bike living in tacoma, ill have the fixie for the city and the Jones for woods
Just got my Jones Plus LWB in medium about 2 months ago. It has aluminum bars, Thomson dropper, carbon wheels, vee bulldozer tires (29x3.25 - tubeless), sram gx eagle. With frame bag, 2 feedbags, top tube bag, anything cage, and pedals it comes to 35 lbs. While stout, I’ve already lost about 3lbs because I enjoy riding it all the time. Love the videos! Keep up the good work!
I can't believe this was two years ago. I remember when it came out and I keep watching it because I think I'm going to get one some day.
@pathlesspedalled I have only just seen your review but really enjoyed it, and glad to hear you’re enjoying the bike. I love your reviews. I owned a steel Jones 29 SpaceFrame & steel Truss fork for five years and then replaced it with a steel Jones Plus LWB Large/25” & steel Truss fork. It is my best riding and most versatile bike in 30 years of riding (and about 20 bikes), and I will never be without one! My Jones is the Large size and my build is carbon Jones bar, Thomson stem & post, 2x9 drivetrain, Avid BB7 brakes with 203/180mm rotors, XTR levers & shifters, platform pedals, Easton ARC 40 rims, tubeless Chronicles. Weight is 34.2 lbs. It feels heavy to pick it up but the moment you start rolling any feeling of heavyness evaporates. It rides light. I only notice the weight when I lift it over my head to put it on the roof rack on the car, or when I am lifting it over fences or narrow bridges on rides. When I am riding it, it is the best riding bike ever, and always feels nimble and quick and smooth. I have used mine in many different ways: bikepacking the length of New Zealand (Tour Aotearoa), regular touring with panniers, mixed-surface local rides on and off road, and very technical rocky & rooty trails, as well as riding technical trails loaded with frame bags, feed bags and front roll (The Old Ghost Road). It is an amazing bike, capable of pretty much anything. The weight of the bike bothered me early on, but I have stopped thinking about it years ago. Even when climbing very steep inclines or trails, I very rarely think about the weight. HOWEVER.... there is one thing and only one thing that I wish was different about my Jones, and that is that I wish it was a little less stiff. This has nothing to do with comfort - it is an incredibly comfortable and smooth bike due to the way the Jones geometry places you between the wheels, and the rearward bias of your hands and the long chain stays and the 3 inch tires. I just wish it was a little more flexible side to side, because riding my Rawland rSogn- a very skinny tubed and flexible bike - I have discovered that it is an incredible climbing benefit to have some side-to-side flex in the frame - what Jan Heine calls “planing”. As someone said once, “it is like being pushed from behind by an unseen hand” and it really is an incredible feeling. It’s intoxicating! I get a little bit of that planing feeling from the 3 inch tires, especially when they’re pumped up quite firm (which seems counterintuitive to me, but anyway), but I wish the frame flexed laterally more. (The non-Plus SpaceFrame was even worse in this respect and made my thighs hurt when accelerating hard (doesn’t happen on my rSogn). I think the only words in response to this feeling that the steel Jones is too stiff, is “Titanium Jones”!! Sigh.
I got my first Jones Plus LWB just two weeks ago! Big rollin' thunder 29er w/ 3" tires. Best bike I've ever owned. I can't get off it!
Hi Russ from Northern Ireland. I love your videos, particularly this one on the Jones. I fully get what you are saying about the weight, but speccing a bike to a price point has that disadvantage.
I am a 52 yr old mountain biker who rode a Santa Cruz carbon 5010 for 5 years. I have had other bikes, but that was my main one. It was a £10k plus investment and a lovely bike but it began to give me backpain and all the rest. Also the full suspension even when locked out, felt like it was sucking all my energy.
I sold it and ordered a Jones lwb with a truss fork, and my oh my what a difference. It is a custom build, that's my thing! And it is rolling on very supple 29x3.25 Duro Crux at 15psi. This monster truck rolls up and over anything. It also is extremely fast, I am doing my usual routes faster than on the previous bike.
It has all the qualities I have been searching for and no pain anymore. My frame is large and the only carbon on it is my Enve stem off the old bike. It is not tubeless and it weighs just over 28lbs. I should also state I am not related to Jeff in any way or sponsored by him, his stuff is really that good.
Thank you and keep up the good work.
I have a Specialized Rock Hopper (2014) and put an aluminum Jones Loop H-Bar on it and with 38 X 700 Specialized gravel tires (Trigger Pro tubeless compatible) to serve as an initial gravel bike, and I used a short stem like Jones suggests. I found it very nice! I've never liked the straight bars because they twist my arm and shoulders too much, and the 45 degree sweep of the Jones bar solved that immediately. It does put you up right a lot, but even on single track trails, and some rather technical parts, I had no problem at all with handling. I've switched back to 2.2 in MTB tires now, since I have a gravel bike. But my experiences with this sort of bar has been nothing but positive. Since it puts up upright a lot, wind is a factor. But other than that, I've never been sorry I got those bars and put them on this bike. PS. Thanks for doing all these reviews, Russ! Much appreciated, and I've used them on numerous occasions in selecting various pieces of gear!
Ed Catt , I put Jones bars on my 2012 Specialized Ro k Hopper too and I love the set up. I am currently trying to decided between the Jones SWB or LWB bike as I have new bike fever.
I did the same on my Kona hei hei & its now a brilliant touring bike.
jones Long wheel base owner here...best bike i've ever owned!
Hey man .. do you still have it ? Would you recommend it ? I’m looking into Jones LWB and surly ECR .. I have a karate monkey and I’m not crazy about it comfort wise .. it’s nice but Not great ... can you pls let me know how long you had it and what’s your opinion on it
@@deerhunterx1712 yeah, I've had it for several years now and love it. I'll never sell it. Actually those are the only 2 off road bikes I own, (ECR and Jones) The Jones handles like a dream, its super stable and smooth but yet handles really technical stuff pretty damn good considering the wheel base. It's just fun to ride. I'm a bikepacker mostly, I prefer to ride the Jones. However, I use the ECR when I do long international tours, it has better luggage carrying capabilities, the racks are very heavy duty, and there are barnicles all over the frame to mount cages. It handles pretty good too but If I were to do a 3 or 4ish day trip only I would definitely take the Jones.
James Bacon
Thank you for your response ..
I really appreciate it
Great review, and after owning a size large of one of these for a month I totally agree with your assessment. It's the most capable rigid bike I've ever ridden and incredibly confidence inspiring on technical terrain. Also, at 6'4" with a 37" inseam this is the first bike I've ever owned where I could easily get the bars level with saddle height. It is a bit porky, but it's a super fun and comfortable all-terrain bike. My only real rub is that the stock Chronicles aren't tubeless-ready. This is my fourth plus bike and tubeless is pretty much essential. I'd have gladly paid a little more for tubeless-ready tires to be included on the stock build. I hope Jeff takes that into consideration on the next production run. Otherwise it really is a superb bike.
I ordered and received my Complete Jones SWB Plus in mid-August. My first ride was up near Dillon, Montana. I rode with friends from Twin Bridges to Melrose and back on Melrose-Twin Bridges Road. It was a great test for a maiden voyage - lots of gravel with a big variety of rough surfaces. The Jones Complete SWB Plus was a blast! Very comfortable as I rode the stock tires with tubes at 15 psi. I agree - climbing can be tougher due to the heavier weight of the entire bike but I felt the stability on long rough descents made up for any weight penalty. I have only replaced the saddle at this point and plan to convert to tubeless fairly soon. Thanks for your review - very informative.
Gravel around Dillon would be great riding for the Jones!
Jeff Lingo which saddle do you go with and tires? Any updates on the swb?
I've had a Jones bar on my Karate Monkey and I really liked that set-up. I've ridden a Jones Steel 29'er spaceframe with regular MTB bars and really enjoyed that. I've never ridden a Jones bar on a Jones bike! I'm debating between the LWB and the SWB and in the SWB's case, the complete and the custom. First world problems, I know.
Russ, thanks for the review. I've been leaning towards a Jones swb and your review, which i respect, helped me move closer. I'm up in BC , in the Nelson area so a bit too far, at my age , too be driving down to try out. Will talk to Jeff, take guidance , and roll the dice. Great channel btw.
It's a fun bike. It's like an adult cruiser in the best possible way.
I adore the paradigm shifting approach to geometry this guy came up with. Itsa Suzuki Samurai in a world of Ford raptors
Its futile to think you can make another bike ride like a Jones. I did that for years before I finally bought a Jones 29er........its unlike anything else for sure. Sorry Russ not sure about weight but it has a full XT 1x11 kit, Thomson bits, and some Duallys. Not the lightest bike but it doesn't ride like a heavy bike at all. If I had to have one bike I'd keep it over just about anything.
I have an older 29er diamond frame with titanium truss fork. I love it! Handles great, all the mounts I'd need and works great as a tourer or unloaded for regular trail riding. I basically treat it like a hardtail since I have a fat tire in front to soak up the bumps.
Only downside with my current frame is that it won't fit a 27.5+ tire in the rear, but that's because it was built before 27.5 wheels on MTB were even a thing, let alone 27.5+.
What’s the weight on your Jones?
I think around 26lbs complete? The Ti fork makes a difference. I'm guessing the weight of a 26x3.8 front wheel is comparable to the 27.5+ wheel, and my 29er wheel is surely lighter.
I have it built up with SLX 2x9, thomson seatpost, alloy jones bar, and avid BB5 mechanical brakes.
Pics: instagram.com/p/BawYydVH8mC
Have been waiting for this review for awhile and really excited to hear it was a positive. I am so itching for a Jones, but think I've hit my n+1 limit with my Open U.P. frame that I need to build up. Thanks for doing this one, Russ. The one counter comment I'll offer is the notes about price- I agree that bikes are expensive and often prohibitively so for many people. That said, there is something to be said about what you choose to spend being worth it, right? A great frame like a custom Ti version of a Jones will most likely last you a lifetime and like his videos show can be a really versatile bike for many kinds of riding. Sometimes you do get what you pay for and that cost isn't a bad thing if all the positives add up for you. And this would be the case for any bike one would contemplate buying. Its of course always about what you can afford and the enjoyment you get out of riding what you have, but price in an of itself shouldn't be posed as a negative. It just is what it is. Whatever works for folks and gets them out on the bike. Last points regarding weight- I agree with other posters and it sort of goes to my price expenditure commentary above, but you can spend some bucks and make this one lighter: carbon seat post, stem, better rims/tires, higher end components, nice saddle. Anyway, if you keep it, enjoy! Awesome.
I own a Jones 29 steel space frame bike. It was right before the Plus came out, so I have a 29+ front wheel and a regular 29 in the rear (2.4 tire). I originally got it as a singlespeed, in that format it weighed 27.5 lb. I have since converted to 1x11 and added a dropper, so it’s weight is up to around 30 lb now.
I primarily ride Singletrack and although it is fully rigid and the truss fork is even stiffer than the single crown fork, it’s actually great to ride in rocky and technical terrain. It tracks great and goes where it’s pointed. I have a Vee Rubber bulldozer up front (3.25) and it cushions the ride just right. The only drawback I find is really steep seated climbing. (I didn’t notice this till I changed to a geared drivetrain) The seat tube angle is a bit too relaxed for that in my opinion. However, this is the best bike for standing climbs. I don’t know if it’s the tires or the geometry, or both, but it’s the best standing climber on reasonably loose terrain.
I’ve noticed that too. It climbs better standing than seated. Seated, I feel like I’m not on top of the pedals enough.
As Jeff Jones demonstrates on his videos, the Jones bike is great on technical terrain too. It is not just a cruiser by any means. I enjoy taking it up and down some very steep and rocky terrain. Yes, you can drop about 5 pounds from the bike. And yes, it'll cost ya. If you want to invest that much in the bike I would go with his truss fork frame, which is lighter, awesome on technical terrain, and also incorporates another of his ingenious concepts.
When I called it a cruiser I was referring to the fairly upright position compared to XC bikes, and not implying that it was just meant for cruising.
@@PathLessPedaledTV its an old school 4x4 in world of trophy trucks, its just as capable as the full suspension bikes but won't be able to pound big stretches of rough terrain into submission like a full sus
Love Jones bars!!!! I have used them on commuters and my hardtail 29er, and am not inclined to go back to a regular bar with standard sweep. No more wrist pain / hand pain, and (for me) a greater sense of control
“A cruiser for the apocalypse” 😆
Great video. Bar setup - try a slight downward slope on the bar ~8-10 degrees. Really helps the ergonomics. Looks like they are closer to flat in the video.
Weight is more a psychological disadvantage than a physical one ( other than being personally overweight), look no further than those who ride the divide. BTW I swapped handlebars that came on a Marin San Quentin 1 bike I purchased a few months ago and installed the Jones H-Bar 2.5, it transformed the bike into a more comfortable, intuitive and stable ride, especially on aggressive terrain. It got me thinking of the Jones SWB+ frame with truss fork to be a do all bike. Thanks for your reviews.
Depends on the ride. In a touring/bikepacking situation, sure weight isn't a big deal. Climbing up a hill unloaded or doing a timed event with lots of climbing, I'd say it plays a more important role. I'm no super athlete, but I sure as heck can tell when I'm riding a light bike up steep hill. For the Jones, I've sort of just accepted its weight, but given unlimited funds you better believe I would put a carbon wheelset on it in a hot second.
I just got a Jones LWB diamond frame with the steel truss fork. Sram GX components, Thomson Dropper seat post and Thomson stem, Aluminum Jones bar. With the Maxxis Chronicle tires(tubeless) mine weighs 32 lbs.
Thanks for the info.
What frame material? For those that don't know his frames are available in CroMoly and Ti.
steel
"5 supple stars" lol. Awesome, love it Russ! Nice job on the review.
I am really starting to want one of these. I don't mind the weight so much since I'm not a light fellow myself, but I really wish you could get the complete bike with a truss fork.
So glad to see this! I drank the online Jones KoolAid and ordered a LWB spaceframe model. Here's hoping... :)
BTW, for some weight savings, try the following when the current bits need replacing (but not before, and only on sale). You already mentioned some of them.
(1) Replace the cogstack with the upper-end cassette, which generally saves 90-100 grams.
(2) Replace the cable/housing with Jagwire segmented housing and polished stainless cable.
(3) If the rims ever give out (kinda unlikely), re-build with the Jones C(arbon) rims. That will save weight and those should last your lifetime. Use either triple-butted DT Swiss SuperCompetition spokes or Aerolite spokes (AeroComp on the drive side). CX-Ray/CX-Sprints are also fantastic. Alloy nipples save a bit of weight, though I still prefer brass.
(4) Use a chain with cutout side plates to knock off an ounce or two.
(5) The carbon Loop bar is really nice (calms road buzz a lot more than the aluminum as well as being lighter (275g vs 625g -- a 3/4 lb savings!).
(6) Carbon or Thomson Aluminum seatpost. The carbon will damp road buzz more, and depending on if you go no-name, might be < $100.
(7) Carbon or at least higher-end crank.
Jones bikes are Swedish commuters with an edge. That's a good thing.
I've been riding mtb's (and other mainly steel bike's) for over thirty years, I've been looking at bikepacking specific mountain bikes fell in love with jones bike and the whole h-bar concept but cannot afford or justify that hefty price tag. In thee end i picked up a genesis longitude 2019 for £999 swapped out the silly massive 770 mil wide handlebar. For a British company, on-one mike handle bar very similar to a soma clarence or osprey bar and essentially it looks very much like a jones swb. And has an allmost identical spec. The ride is awesome and the longtitude has been around for a few years, so before the Jones swb came out.
You need to check out the Genesis brand. Quite a few models i think you'd like.
Love this channel by the way. Very inspiring.
thanks for the excellent content and all around bike nerdiness! - cheers!
I've set up a Trek pro caliber with Jones carbon bars and a Lauf fork just fitting Compass 55mm 700cc tyres supple to say the least, Jones bars on my fat bike as well hard to beat.
How 'bout the LWB?????? Man.. I'd love to ear from you, specially now that you have tested the SHB...
Hi,
Nice review. I am building up a steel 25"Plus frame. Won't quote its weight yet, as not finished. However, a few weeks ago, I spotted a Titanium framed LWB (with truss forks) at our biggest Enduro race in the UK (check out the Ardrock Enduro- run in Yorkshire; fabulous event). Tracked down the owner after the race to check it out. 22 lbs all kitted out with 29+ rims, 3" tyres, and carbon jones bars.
I have the original Jones Plus (long wheel base) with the truss fork. Love the bike, but it is heavy on long climbs. The bike weighs 31 lbs. It is a blast to ride on singletrack. As far as super technical stuff, that depends mainly on personal skill. Jeff Jones himself could probably ride one of his bikes anywhere! Watch some of his videos, The guy is a great bike handler, as well as a great builder. I love my Jones.
What is the difference between the "original" Jones Plus LWB and the one being sold today?
@@RKDTOOeccentric BB and heat treating I think
Hi Russ. Great review. I love the look of the Jones Bike. I recently bought a 2019 Marin Pine Mountain that was on closeout partly due to this video review. The Pine Mountain and the Jones seem to be very similar. Price was a big factor but I have had extremely good luck with Marin bikes so that was ultimately the clincher for me. I know that you have a good relationship with Marin so hopefully one day you can do a review of the new Pine Mountain as they have been re-designed for 2020. Merry Christmas to you and Laura!
I’m loving the Jones loop bar 2.5
Thanks for the awesome review.
I have a set of Jones loop bars on my 2014 Specialized AWOL Transcontinental with a Rohloff hub. It works great on the AWOL with the low trail and tall stack height. Keep up the Party Pace, love the channel
I have a Jones Ti spaceframe. It weighs in around 27ish with a big 3.8 Surly tire up front. Upgraded to carbon H-bars. Incredible bike!
Good to know. Jones Ti sounds dreamy.
Axess Denyd Umm, what?
I put the Jones bars on my 2019 Kona Rove ST. I really like the ride! I’m thinking now, though, about getting this bike.
thanks! wonder if this bike could replace my Trek 520 for long trip. Mostley road. Thinner tire ofc...M
I have a new Pugsley 2.0. Love the handlebars. Great video.
Now I'm jonesing to go ride my bike
I've wondered if you've ever taken a turn on something like the Surly Krampus or the ECR and how that compares to something like this.
Remember the days, early 90s when steel frame bikes were actually light?
Check out the weight weenies site and you will see plenty of older steel frames under 2kg, nowadays they are considered "light" if its under 6lbs. A Niner SIR9 with Reynalds 853 weighs 5.5lb and this is a high end frame.
You can get a steel Jones that's lighter, but it costs quite a bit more.
I have a custom LWB steel with truss fork and custom wheels. I’d weigh it but don’t have a scale. Is there a digital scale you recommend for weighing bike stuff? The LWB is a blast to ride. Really hard to get into any trouble on it because of the stability. It’s probably more challenging to hop, wheelie, manual, etc but I’m kind of terrible at that sort of stuff, so I’m probably not a good judge. I’d love to try out a SWB. Also, on his site, Jeff lists weights of all his frames and forks.
I think you can knock off some more weight with Terrene McFly tires, but they are 2.7" wide on 45mm rims and the lightest ones (760g) emphasize suppleness over sidewall protection. So, they may be limited to road touring and nicely maintained rails-to-trails paths. There is also the Maxxis Ikon+ 27.5x2.8" that comes in between 710g and 770g.
Hey Russ!
I have been a watcher for years. I really love the perspective and growth of the channel. You have even inspired me to create my own channel that merges biking and history. But that is not what brings me to make this post. I am looking for a mountain bike that could also be a good commuter/ touring bike when I need it to be. Jones SWB is on the list along with Surly Troll. However, I haven't come across more. Do you know of other bikes that fit this niche of fully rigid mtb and have the ability to attach racks and panniers?
Surly Bridge Club is another good option.
All your stuff is good but this was really thoughtful and helpful.
I want to get one of these and switch it up with a fat front wheel/tire. I bet this thing would just be a monster on my local trails!
One way to shed a ton of weight is going to 26+ wheel set/tires. I have the Jamis Dragonslayer in 26+ and it it a rocket! I know people love to hate 26, but they are a lot lighter than 27+
While the difference in diameter is not much, better ride the wheels the thing was designed for. Maybe 26 fat? Looks like room in the fork for it.
Weight savings between wheel sizes is not that much a tire swap has as much or more potential weight savins at a fraction the cost. My Mavic 26" wheel set, their cheaper Crossried offering weighs about 1700g and I have 29er set of Stans Crest that weigh closer to 1600g.
Bottom line is sure, everything being equal a smaller wheel will weigh less but the savings just arent that much when going tubeless and lighter tires can easily make that difference for far less money.
Great video. It would be awesome to see Jeff Jones on your podcast!
If one is considering this bike, I'd also check out the Kona Unit X. Cool bike. Also, the bend in the seat tube on this bike will an issue if you want a decent sized dropper post.
Great review, wish Kona would send you a bike, be interested to see what you thought of the Kona Unit X, seems similar to the Jones
I think in Europe we miss custom made bike shops. Now if Jones could open a shop in London, I am convinced many customers would be prepared to pay more than 1700 USD for such a bike. Jones bike quality is superior,anyone can see that. So we note down: custom made bikes is a near future market in Europe.
I never complain about the weight. I drive a Surly Pugsley w/ a front rack and whatever I'm carrying on it, a backpack, water, etc.; 8 spd. Shimano Alpine hub; Jones bars; fat, knobby tires. Wouldn't give up my steel frames for the world. You can have those light bikes. Too flimsy. Break too easily. Tough bikes are best. I'm getting a Jones LWB ASAP. If I can't find one soon enough, I will buy a Surly Troll.
cool video - have been interested in Jones bikes but as you imagined, have never got close to one - nice to see you so stoked on it - did you get input from Jones on how to set up ride position? Would be good to see you on it from 3rd person view to see your fit / position as you say it feels so comfortable and confident to ride.
Yes. Had lots of phone calls with Jeff to understand his fit philosophy.
Great insights -- thanks for doing this review. Also what are those cool blue pedals?
Issi pedals. Word great!
I could not find a geometry chart for this bike. Could you measure the bike and post the specs: reach, TT, ST, CT?
I would like to hear your thoughts on the Jones Plus LWB Titanium Spaceframe with truss fork. I'm wondering how it would compare to the SWB steel diamond frame with unicrown fork which you reviewed here.
A bit late, but thanks Russ for doing this review! We just clicked the "Buy" button for two Jones SWB Complete bikes for my wife and I. Planning to take this in our camper van and explore a bit more on bikes. We think this bike will allow that flexibility. Are there any other "enhancements" that you have done on your SWB setup besides the tires and the togs? Happy with the Terravails? If you had to take this bike on a longer tour (mainly road), what tires would you pick? Thanks so much Russ!
Terravails are great for rocky conditions. For a long tour would swap to G-ones in 2.8. Prob swap for a lighter seatpost as well.
Great review ! Make a supple star animation for your reviews Russ
Next one :)
I am seriously considering buying this bike after I visit his shop to see it. Do you know if 29er wheels/tires will fit? I debating between this bike and the Blackborow Eagle, which can take a few different wheel sizes.
Yes. Suppose to take 29ers as well. Haven’t ridden it in that config though.
still waiting to see the video of the Mariachi with the Jones bar. I have a Mariachi also....I have the bar but not have put it on yet. Curious to see what you think...
ua-cam.com/video/88pTHaYQ0_k/v-deo.html
LOVE JONES
Such a beautiful bike 😻
i just bought a rigid plus mtn bike, wish i waited a year for this
Very well said 👍
I have had 3 Jones bike's.
1st was a Jones LWB 24"
Sold because it was just to big.
2nd was a Jones 29 (old model of the SWB) diamond 23" top tube was just too high (I have short legs) Sold
3rd bike is a Jones LWB Spaceframe 23 and it's just right for me.
Love my 29+ tyres.
Keep up the great work 🙂
Hi Peter, I'm very interested in an LWB Spaceframe as well and being a small rider 170cm (around 5'6) my only Jones option in 29+ is that frame. Do you happen to have the weight and your current build at hand ? i would love to get that bike as do it all bike. My aim is to get into bikepacking and touring with it.
@@MrPascalux Sorry I don't know the weight. My LWB Spaceframe 23 up for sale in New Zealand. Sorry I'm not interested in exporting her, but anyone is welcome to come to NZ and buy her.
Can someone give me an apples to apples comparison on weight savings between this SWB Complete and a Custom Jones SWB...since one is heat-treated and the other is not? I'm trying to determine how much more the SWB Complete frame and fork would weigh compared to a custom SWB frame with truss fork. Thanks!
I asked that same question on twitter and the weight was fairly close. Maybe save a 1-2 lbs at most.
I didn't go through all of the comments, but in case it wasn't mentioned, the butted aluminum H Bars are lighter than the titanium H Bars.
How so?
@@PathLessPedaledTV In the 710mm width, Jonesbikes.com lists the butted aluminum H Bars at 525 grams, and the titanium H Bars at 570 grams. However, if you are comparing the SG Loop H-Bar, which comes on the Jones Complete bikes, at 625 grams, is heavier than the titanium bars.
Great video looks like a lovely bike
it needs the truss fork! it's about 300 bucks more, but it's a signature look!
Truss fork is also stiffer tho.
@@PathLessPedaledTV stiffer? It's not a suppension fork. It's for more precise steering! 3" tires is about as supple as it gets!
wmlarch The truss fork itself is stiffer than the unicrown fork (that’s the whole point of the triangulation) and does provide precise steering.
Jeff said no swap out. If one wants the truss fork add $600. and plug it in your self
Hey! Did you ever buy this bike? Why haven't you made more videos on it?
Yes. It’s my fishing bike!
Hi Russ. Love your videos! Not sure if you still read these comments but I’m looking for a Jones bike and was wondering about the sizing. Can I ask what is your height and inseam? I’m trying to figure out whether to go with a small or medium frame.
5’8 29 inch.
Thanks!
Russ, does this bike have clearance for even bigger tires? Like 3.8-4? Wondering about going fatter for winter snow.
You could run a true fat tire in the front but not the rear. Mullet style.
I would love to hear from someone who bought a complete SWB and has used it for extended bikepacking duties.
Try the Jeff Jones Bikes Owners Page on Facebook -- lots of bikepacking experience in that group. There are also (some) reports from owners in the blog page on Jones's website.
I have a Surly Wednesday (and also a Troll). Any comments on how the Jones SWB compares to the Wed? Would love to get one as wife usually rides the Wed and make me take the Troll.
The only Wednesday I rode was too big for me so hard to say how they handle apples to apples. However, I do think the Jones is the nimbler of the two.
@pathlesspedaled
Any updates now that you hand the bike for season? Have you gone down the weight reduction rabbit hole.
Contemplating this as my next bike.
Thanks!
Still love it. Still heavy.
What's that orange thing on the handlebar? Thanks.
Bike togs.
2lbs of the weight is in the disc brakes alone you could go to lighter pedals seat with ti or carbon rails smaller cassette 11x 34 smaller tires from 3.0 to 2.25 see what that does to the weight again with all the changes a big investment. It would be worth it if you had the parts already
The whole point of the bike is the 3.0 tire tho.
@@PathLessPedaledTV oh well that's the supple life steady like a flowing river and quick like a raging storm
The other changes are great, but the 3.0s are the special sauce that make the fun to ride!
Now that you've had it awhile...how do you like the Jones bike . Love you your input..
Still dig it! Super fun. Have come to accept the weight of the bike. Planning to put lower gearing. Rolls better with Coronado tires.
@@PathLessPedaledTV Can you do an update video on which bikes you bought/own currently?
Have you reviewed the Jones Space frame?
Haven't had the chance.
I’m looking for some advice. Should I choose the Jones bike over the Surly Wednesday? I need a bike for four season riding in the Midwest, not too technical single track, and for fitness (neighborhood) riding. It seems like both are very versatile, but which one to choose? Any help is appreciated.
I think that the Jones offers enough comfort for not too technical singletrack and will give you a more playful, agile handling. Due to the smaller tires it will also accelerate better and be the faster bike. Riding position is more relaxed on the Jones, especially for taller riders. You will have less weight on your hands and get less tired in longer descents.
Thank you for this vid. I have been trying to contemplate for a long time between buying this bike or a gravel bike of the same price. It seems I'll be saving up for this one because of this vid. Except for racing I would guess this would be a really good all around bike. I am just curious if anyone has tried installing the SWB truss fork from Jones Bike on this particular production model and how it would affect the riding and performance of the bike.
Haven’t installed the truss. From talking to Jeff it would stiffen the front. I actually like the compliance from the stock fork.
@@PathLessPedaledTV That makes sense. I guess the natural flex from the unicrown stock fork would have more give and a more comfortable ride. I guess if you run an even larger tire size in front and lower air pressure just like his other more expensive models you can get the benefit of a plush ride with the stiffness and durability of the truss fork, then on one hand I can be wrong HAHAHA. Thanks for the reply!!!
This is my current dream bike!
Is it possible to get it stock with the Loop 2.5 H-bar?
Any ideas / suggestions for slicks that would work on this without dragging cranks?
G-Ones in 2.8
I've been Jones-curious for a long time and when I saw the Jones SWB complete, I thought "there's my next mountain bike!" Honestly though, I'm having second thoughts about it after learning that it doesn't have the eccentric BB. I switch between geared and singlespeed often on my current bike and I'd have to give that up.
Russ, I am curious about what you think of the TOGS and how you've got them placed on the Jones bar.
I like the TOGS. They are stupid simple and you don't think they would do that much, but they do keep me from sliding off the front. I have them on the top part of the loop and are spaced to about where I would have the hoods of a drop bar. It gives a better flat road position IMO.
If you are going to the lengths of upgrading to save weight, the normal SWB frame might make more sense, and do a self build that fits your weight criteria. At the same time you could get a truss fork which would make it a true Jones!?
I would actually lean towards this fork. It’s more compliant than the truss which is designed to be super stiff.
I’m curious to know how much weight the wheels add over a higher quality build.
Michael Cinibulk I weighed the stock front wheel/tube/tire combo and it was 6lbs! So definitely room to save weight on the wheels.
I was under the impression that the truss was solid side to side but more compliant vertically.
It's stiff in all directions, the idea being to prevent shuddering under heavy braking. It makes the steering more precise, but it really depends on the tires for any sense of compliance.
What is the bike size of the Jones in this video. Thanks..
S
Anyone put the 2.5 Hbar on a Trek Stache 5? If so, what’s your opinion?
I have used the regular H Bars for years; I tried the 2.5 H Bars on a Ritchey P-29er that has a really short head tube. I didn't like them, as you lose one of the best hand positions- being able to put your palms flat on the joint of the bars.
Watertank Sounds like I’m probably going to be better off going with the original Hbar. Cheers!
I ride a 2017 Large (19.5”) Stache 5 with a 35mm stem and a Jones 2.5 H Bar. It is an amazing combination.
Matt Quinn How as it changed the handling of the Stache? What is the make and model of the stem? What kind of riding do you do? have a 17.5” 2018 Stache 5 and am riding mainly from paved to dirt roads and some 4wd forest roads in the desert. Thanks for sharing your experience with the Jones 2.5 bars!
Billy Balukos it created a much more comfortable upright seating position, eliminating neck strain and hand numbness. Better in all conditions but especially beneficial for Epic-length rides. Control is better, both on the ground and when “flying” the bike. The 45* sweep allows me to get waaay back on the bike with the seat dropped for super steep technical descent sections. I have ridden all types of trail on this setup from gravel grinding to XC to DH, and it is a tremendous all-rounder.
Stem is a Hussefelt 35mm stem.
Hey Russ. How does this small fit with you? I’m 5’9 with proportionate figure and ride mediums on nearly every bike I ride. Seems like I could probably do small or medium, which each leaning smaller or larger than I’d really like. I guess I lean towards the medium for the larger triangle, but don’t want to sacrifice fit for that. Any input is greatly appreciated.
I’m on the cusp as well. Small is upright but pretty playful and agile. Might go larger if doing mostly roads but I like the maneuverability of the smaller frame.
@@PathLessPedaledTV Hey Russ, thanks for the great content. I'm 5' 8" and am considering a small for the SWB. Is this your height as well? I have ridden both mediums and smalls in many bikes, but as I've gotten older, I like to be more upright. It's tough being in between sizes and I prefer to test ride bikes before buying, so any input you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Is there a return policy?
I was looking seriously at getting one of these.
Then REI (where I've been employed for 10 years) came out with the Co-Op Cycles ADV 4.2. Very similar to the Jones SWB with steeper geometry, a little longer wheelbase and a frame and fork of 6061 aluminum, which is the 4130 chromly of aluminum.
Mine is an XL and (once the racks were removed) weights about 5+ lbs less than the biggest Jones SWB (and that's with a heavy Cane Creek Thudbuster Short Travel Seatpost). It also comes with better components. SLX heavy and with Deore hydraulic disc brakes. SLX 2x 34 x 24 crank for a super big (and loooow) gear range with the 11-42 rear cluster.
I installed a lighter custom butted Jones bar, shorter Paul Boxcar stem and Paul Klamper mechanical disc brakes along with an XT rear derailleur. REI smartly speced the bike with Micoshift 11 speed thumb shifters, WTB Deore hubs and Scraper i40 Rims with WTB Ranger Fast Rolling Tough Casing 2.8" tires.
All ready to go tubeless.
I've been immensely happy with this ride and after riding a friend's similar sized Jones SWB, I'm very glad I went with the home teams ride. Just as nimble but you can sure feel the lighter weight. Giant makes the frames for REI. Sadly, we don't make this model anymore. I think there's only one left in all of REI, a medium frame at the store where I work in Short Pump, Virginia.
Glad to hear another take on the Jones SWB, Russ! And it was great to meet you and Laura on the waterfront of the Elizabeth River in Norfolk and see you again at Cary Town Bikes popup.
where did you get those gadgets on the bars that can put you in a On The Hoods posture...those orange clips....?
Togs. togs.com/
As you have a chance to test this bike over time, I'd love to know how it performs with a back rack like www.jonesbikes.com/rack-tubus-logo-2cm-29er. It would be nice to have the rack for adding a pannier or small bag to carry things when doing errands or on a leisurely ride. But I'm wondering if a back rack would rattle when doing mountain bike trails (rack unloaded.) Framebags are great for bike packing, but I'd prefer a rack, if it doesn't interfere with mountain biking days.
Nice review.
I'm Jonesing for some Jones Bars on my fatbike.
Going to swap it over to the Muk once it starts snowing.
Really thinking about some Jones loops on my fat bike and also on my Long Haul Trucker... thought I might not care for them on either in the long run
Path Less Pedaled - keep us updated.
Forgot to say- it cost c. £4.5-5K too!!!
how tall are you to fit the Smal SWB?
5’8
I’ve been looking at the Jones bike for a couple of months. I’m interested to know what the “average” weight of a steel frame bike is.
Varies so much. Average Surly is bw 25 - 28lbs depending on the bike.
I own a Ti Space and it heavy but who cares when it is sooooo comfy...