With the Jealous AL 8.0 HD, Radon demonstrates the right sense of proportion: the geometry is moderate but harmonious. The equipment is very good compared to the competition and matches the bike's orientation. And the weight is in the midfield and is completely ok. This makes the mail-order hardtail a convincing all-rounder in our test field of seven mountain bike hardtails around 1500 euros. Compared to the Test winner Jealous from 2019 the Radon hardtail performs much more confidently, especially on trails and descents, which also benefits MTB beginners.
The lightweight, extremely rigid aluminium frame weighs 1792 grams and has a unique design language thanks to its filigree rear triangle. According to our laboratory measurements, the comfort when seated is also very good. The dropper seat post and the well-profiled Nobby Nic tyres from Schwalbe increase the fun factor on single trails - but without completely disregarding the weight of the complete bike. With a total ready-to-ride weight of less than 13 kilos, long tours are no problem.
In addition, Radon has opted for a rather moderate geometry on the Jealous AL. Radon is not yet following the trend towards ever slacker head angles with this bike. However, the pleasantly agile handling on the trail shows that this is not absolutely necessary to build a successful bike. The riding position is also very balanced and comfortable.
Radon makes no compromises when it comes to equipment: The Sram GX Eagle drivetrain with 520 per cent range and a small climbing gear is the benchmark in this price segment. The Rockshox 35 fork with 104 millimetres of travel also works very well. The Magura brakes with 180 mm discs are powerful.
Test summary of the Radon Jealous AL 8.0 HD (model year 2021)
Radon thus succeeds with the Jealous AL A very versatile bike for 1399 euros. Whether technical descents and small jumps or long tours through the terrain: the Radon can do it all with its wide range of uses.
All results of the comparative test
Which manufacturer offers the best spec for the money in 2021? Which bike shines on downhill singletrack descents and which bike is the most efficient and sporty for longer tours? We tested the seven mountain bike hardtails in direct comparison on varied off-road test laps.
In addition, each candidate has undergone an elaborate laboratory procedure. In the BIKE laboratory, we disassemble each test bike into its individual parts and test the frame, wheels and forks in particular according to standardised procedures. The elaborate measurements enable a differentiated assessment. The Comparison test of seven MTB hardtails from 1300 euros with all the results, data and details in BIKE 5/21. Keen for more? Order now your BIKE issue, printed or digital, individually or as a low-cost subscription.
You can download the complete test with all riding impressions and laboratory values from BIKE 5/2021 as a PDF below the article.
The test costs 1.99 euros. Why not free of charge? Because quality journalism has a price. In return, we guarantee independence and objectivity. This applies in particular to the tests in BIKE. We don't pay for them, but the opposite is the case: we charge for them, hundreds of thousands of euros every year.
