$429.99 (Frame)
26.8 pounds
Hardtail
Soma, (800) 858-4887
Maxi test: July 2006

Highlights: This Nor-Cal inspired, Reynolds 631 air-hardened steel frame offers a lot of build possibilities. You can make it a single-speed. You can hang a derailleur from the frame's permanent hanger and slide an eight- or nine-speed cassette on the rear hub. You can opt for a rigid chromoly fork. The Juices' dropouts will accommodate mountain bike or road hubs. That means it will accept mountain bike wheels, road wheels or cyclocross wheels. The frame allows the use of either disc or cantilever brakes. About the only choice you don't get is wheel size. The Juice's frame is designed for large, 29-inch hoops.

Best quote: "The Juice offers challenges that can only be overcome with a combination of fitness, bike handling skills and smarts. When all three click, clearing that climb is about the sweetest feeling in mountain biking."

Bottom line: It should come as no surprise that the Juice is not for everyone, and it wouldn't be our choice for riders who would use it as their one-and-only ride. It is, however, an affordable addition to your stable (between your four-inch-travel trailbike and cross-country race bike) that delivers a totally unique riding experience and will make you a better rider.