Radon Jab 10.0
Facts
Weight: 15.4 kg
Suspension travel: 160/150 mm
Wheel size: 29"
Price: 2,999 euros
Frame material: Carbon
Facilities
Front fork / shock absorber: Fox 38 Float Factory / Fox Float X2 Factory
Circuit / Bandwidth: Shimano XT / 510 %
Brakes: Shimano XT /203/203 mm
Wheels: DT-Swiss EX 1700
Tyres: Continental Kryptotal Front Enduro Soft 29 x 2.4 / Rear Enduro Soft 29 x 2.4
Seat post / travel: SDG / 170 mm
Max. system weight: 115 kg
Warranty: 5 years
From the test laboratory
Total weight: 15.41 kg without pedals
Weight of wheels: 5569 g
Impeller inertia: 4,597 kg x cm²
Stowaway: the Enduro Jab
Strictly speaking, the Radon Jab doesn’t really belong in this test line-up. It’s officially an enduro bike. However, as the Slide trail bike was no longer available, Radon sent the carbon enduro Jab into the fray instead – and it turned out to be a surprisingly good choice. Given its DNA, it fits into the all-mountain segment better than one might expect. It was only the frame size that threw a spanner in the works: Medium was a bit too small, Large a bit too big. As a result, the Jab really showed its strengths in smooth handling and high-speed performance, whilst its rivals in the test line-up – the Canyon and YT – scored points for greater agility and fun to ride. However, we know from previous tests that, with the right size, the Jab rides much more lively too. Our tip: try the Medium – or go straight for the MX version.
The Faustschlag (Jab) has been a top seller and evergreen at Radon for years. To be precise: since 2018. Back then, the direct-to-consumer retailer from the Rhine unveiled its carbon all-rounder for the first time – designed and ‘kinematised’ by suspension mastermind Bodo Probst. The carbon enduro bike was an instant hit, as it was super-light (under 13 kilos, in the 27.5-inch version at the time), playful and yet powerful enough to handle tough terrain. Over the years, the geometry has been modernised and, in line with the trend, upgraded to 29-inch wheels. The Jab’s strength lies in its wide range of applications. This lightweight enduro bike even makes inroads into the trail and all-mountain segments. Radon used to offer a full range of bikes, but the lack of demand for non-electric bikes has streamlined the range to such an extent that the Jab is now the only full-suspension bike left.
Carbon all round
Radon offers five models from its Jab platform – all featuring carbon frames. Three variants are available as MX versions with a small rear wheel and 160 millimetres of rear suspension travel. On the two pure 29ers, the travel is reduced to 150 millimetres. All five bikes are, as is typical of Radon, outrageously well-equipped, meticulously priced and currently available at a massive discount – up to 2,100 euros! How is that possible? We’ve no idea. Our test bike normally costs 4,199 euros, but is currently on offer for just 2,999 euros – and that’s despite top-of-the-range spec featuring Fox Factory suspension complete with Kashima coating. Or as we recently heard someone say: “Kashmir”. Because it’s so smooth and responsive. The rest of the Jab’s spec is flawless too.
The motocross bike in the test line-up
As soon as you hop on the Jab, you’ll want to hit the throttle and race downhill straight away. Compared to YT and Canyon, the bike feels like it’s in a class of its own – which, strictly speaking, it is: an enduro. On top of that, the Jab runs large in size. In size M, with a reach of 455 millimetres, it would have been a tad too small. Wider handlebars, more reach, longer wheelbase, more suspension travel – and the head tube also houses the massive Fox 38. That instils confidence when battling gravity. We’ve ridden the All-29 Jab in every conceivable scenario, from epic alpine rides to enduro races. The bike inspires a great deal of confidence on descents and, as expected, outperforms the competition when the terrain becomes particularly unpredictable and rough. In moderate cornering and on the trail, however, the tables turn: here, in a direct comparison with the other bikes in the test, the Jab feels overpowered. In quick succession of bends, it requires more effort than the Canyon and YT, which frolic through the trail like playful young puppies. However, you can’t really hold that against the Jab. In our view, it’s more a matter of character than a lack of performance. We almost forgot: uphill, the Jab barely bobs, climbs willingly and is up to almost any adventure. Very good!
What went well?
+ top-class suspension
+ downhill performance
+ wide range of uses
+ value for money
What not?
- less playful in the Large size
Conclusion by Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor
The Radon Slide would have been a better choice for this test. Unfortunately, however, it’s sold out. So the supplier sent us their all-rounder, the Jab – a lightweight enduro bike. It’s no surprise that the Jab leaves the competition in the dust when it comes to smoothness and downhill performance. But the Jab also performs well in classic trail and all-mountain riding. The price is sensational for a carbon bike with this specification!
Dimitri Lehner
Editor