Jamis: Ventura Comp
The road is your oyster.
The Ventura Comp is one of the best-looking entry-level bikes around, from the glossy white-and-silver frame to the matching saddle and bar tape. Jamis deserves credit for trying to bring pro flash to the masses, even if I'm not sure it is a good idea to extend the color scheme to the tires--mine were dingy by the time I left the parking lot on the bike's maiden voyage.
Fortunately, the Ventura's performance lives up to its otherwise shiny good looks. It's a perennial Editors' Choice finalist, winning the award for best entry-level bike in 2007. The frame has been redesigned for 2011, with an oval-shaped top tube that closely emulates the company's Xenith carbon-fiber road bikes. The shape helps to resist twisting from side to side, says Greg Webber, Jamis's vice president of product development. The aluminum frame and carbon fork did a surprisingly good job of absorbing vibrations from the road.
The Ventura has a slightly taller head tube than you'd find on a traditional road bike and puts the rider in a more upright position. Thanks to this geometry, the bike is comfortable to ride on flats and climbs. Handling was remarkably stable on descents, even in the face of high winds--a welcome attribute considering that the Tektro brakes proved not to be as powerful as the brakes I'm used to (although they are on par with calipers typically found on bikes in this price range). Before you worry about spending money on improved stoppers, I'd recommend upgrading to clipless pedals, which would help you get more out of your ride--especially if you plan to ride long distances or with a group, both of which the bike can capably handle. In addition to lowering efficiency, the plastic cages on the platform pedals tended to collapse, making entry difficult.
The Ventura Race, the next bike in Jamis's line, gives you a carbon-fiber rear triangle, likely resulting in a more refined ride, for $1,350. The bike is also available in a Femme model, with women-specific geometry, handlebar and saddle.If you're currently riding a mountain bike or hybrid on the road or bike path, stepping up to the Ventura Comp will inspire you to go farther and faster--and maybe even sign up for that century you've been thinking about. Don't let the low price of entry fool you: This is a bike you'll ride happily for a very long time.
--E.F.Five things to expect from a bike like this:
An aluminum frame and carbon-bladed fork
A mix of entry-level Shimano (Tiagra and Sora), FSA and generic components
Low-end brakes--allow yourself plenty of stopping timeA nine-speed cassette
Pedals with toeclipsThree things to look for in a bike like this:Crankset options: You may be able to choose between a compact or triple
An adjustable stem, which will let you transition to a more aggressive position as you gain confidence
Taller head tubes for comfort
Buy it if: You're an aspiring century rider
Forget it if: You're an aspiring racer--you'll want something with a little more punch
