$3300
24.1 pounds
Hardtail
Jamis, (201) 768-9050
Maxi test: November 2005

Highlights: After the parade of oversized, ovalized, water-pulverized and taffy-stretched, aluminum-tubed frames that come through our test fleet, it is refreshing to look at the slim, simplistic profile of the Dragon's main triangle made from air-hardened Reynolds 853 steel (the seat and chain stays use a heavier, double-tapered steel). The outer diameter of the tubes betrays none of the intricate butting taking place inside. The 2005 Dragon is simple and sleek. It looks like what old timers call a mountain bike.

Best quote: "The Dragon came alive on the climbs while attacking out of the saddle. Lock out the fork, grab the bars tight, get out of the saddle and try to bend the cranks."

Bottom line: If your trails are well groomed and offer natural traction (like the high mountain trails around Crested Butte, Colorado), the Dragon is all the bike you need. If you long for a traditional-looking bike free of giant tubes and weird shapes, but loaded with performance and reliability, the Dragon is one of your few remaining options.