The German brand Raaw is associated with indestructible aluminium frames that are designed for high functionality. The second release of the Raaw Jibb does not want to shake this image and impress with its long-lasting riding fun. At 15.6 kilos without pedals, the all-mountain bike may not break any weight records, but it is packed full of solid details. All bearing points on the rear triangle are particularly large and also double-sealed. In favour of easier servicing, Raaw has also deliberately dispensed with internal cable routing and clamped everything easily accessible on the down tube. A solid down tube protector and chainstay protector round off the carefree package. Even though the Raaw Jibb is only available as a frame kit for € 2790, our € 6500 test bike was designed with functionality beyond bling-bling in mind. The Jibb V2 shifts and brakes with a Shimano XT and rolls on Newmen aluminium wheels.
In terms of geometry, the Raaw Jibb V2 is free from extremes and relies on proven dimensions. A reach of 465 millimetres in size L tends to be on the short side and ensures a comfortable, upright riding position, which reinforces the high front end. At a measured 65 degrees, the head angle is also not too slack and keeps the front centre (distance from the centre of the bottom bracket to the front wheel hub) short. Only the chainstays are very long in comparison at 450 millimetres.
The practical test of the Raaw Jibb V2
We were curious to see whether the small Jack Russell terrier that adorns the top tube would be reflected in the handling despite the long chainstays. And lo and behold, the logo was chosen for a reason. The Raaw Jibb V2 delivers what its name promises and has a lively character, even if it is difficult to get onto the rear wheel. The moderate steering angle and compact reach dominate the riding experience. The Jibb is effortless to steer over the trails, but still offers very balanced and secure handling.
Even on steep downhills, you are safely behind the high front end and can leave the brakes open with confidence. In terms of support, the suspension does a great job, responding super sensitively and offering a decent absorption capacity in relation to the suspension travel with sufficient progression towards the end. On smaller bumps and in berms, the rear also offers enough counter-pressure and plenty of pop to actively use every root or rock to pull away.
Only in really fast and rough sections does the Jibb reveal its more compact suspension travel compared to an enduro bike. Nevertheless, the consistently solid handling encourages you to keep going. Thanks to the solid bearings and the oversized rocker link, the rear end has very high lateral stiffness. Even heavy riders will find little flex in the rear end, which does not lead to any loss of comfort thanks to the sensitive rear suspension function. The Jibb takes it easy on the climbs. Due to the compact riding position and the high front end, the front wheel climbs quickly and the high weight costs extra energy.
Equipment of the Raaw All Mountain Bike Jibb
- Fork: Fox 36 Float Factory
- Shock: Fox Float X Factory
- Gear system: Shimano XT, 1x12
- Gear ratio / bandwidth: 32; 10-51 / 510 %
- Brakes: Shimano XT 203/203 mm
- Telescopic support/stroke: One V3 / 210 mm
- Wheels: Newmen Evolution A.30
- Tyres: Maxxis Assegai/Minion DHR II Exo+ Maxxgrip/-terra 29 x 2.5/2.4
Measured values
- Total weight: 15.56 kg (without pedals)
- Weight of wheels: 5157 g
- Acceleration of running wheels: 4287 kg x cm²
RATING: The BIKE judgement is made up of the subjective impressions of the test riders and our laboratory measurements. The judgement is independent of price. Range of grades: very good (0.5-1.5), good (1.6-2.5), satisfactory (2.6-3.5), sufficient (3.6-4.5), poor (4.6-5.5).
Conclusion Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager
The Raaw Jibb V2 lives up to the promise of the model name and delivers not only riding fun, but also confidence in demanding terrain and a consistently solid overall package.
