Those who are looking for a robust, solidly built and – in the best sense of the word – inconspicuous companion for epic trails and extended tours will find just the right bike in the STEVENS Jura, says Mountainbike’s report about touring fullies in the 2,300 Euros price range. And also: ”Stevens just knows how a good long-distance bike has to look like and doesn’t make any mistake in their choice of parts.”
Trail and lab tests of touring fullies with 120 to 130mm of travel are standard in mountain bike magazines throughout their testing season. These bikes are true all-rounders that ”do not shy away from challenging uphills or difficult downhills,” the editors say, or in other words: They turn any outing into a real delight.
The solid specs with Shimano SLX/ST parts, wide-rim wheels from DT-Swiss, Schwalbe Nobby Nic tires in the high-quality TLE version, powerful Shimano disc brakes ”and even Ergon grips” together with the sturdy aluminium frame add up to a weight of 13.6kg (30lbs.) – ”a very reasonable weight in this price category.”
With a bike this light and riding in a slightly stretched-out position – caused by a quite long top tube and the 80mm stem – touring is a joy. When hitting the trail the testers especially liked the rear suspension set-up. It ”stays neutral, doesn’t bobble when stomping the pedals out of the saddle and delivers good traction” – which is good for climbing. In the downhill the ”moderately flat steering angle offered directional stability without the Jura showing any sluggishness.” At the same time the rear triangle and the Rock Shox Reba suspension fork feature a tight set-up and gave ”exact feedback.”
Conclusion: With the Jura touring fans get an all-round solidly built faithful companion – including great handling and efficient chassis. Only in steep uphills it could perform a little better.
The STEVENS Jura in Lime Green is available with 29” wheels in sizes 18, 20 and 22in for 2,299 Euros. Set-up size appropriately with 27.5” wheels frame sizes 16 and 18in are also available.
