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Looking at a new bike later this year and one thats at the top of the list so far is the obligatory YT Jeffsy 29r. But in amongst the praise are a few voices complaining that it doesn't have modern long, low, slack geometry.
Is this really an improvement? In my tiny mind a low and slack bike would be pretty weak on technical climbs, with a wandering, lifting front wheel and pedal or chainring strikes galore.
Everything is a form of compromise but isn't the latest trend too far towards the downhill or walk up ride down enduro end of the spectrum? and thus not the best option for everyday riding in the peaks etc where the climbs count as much as the downs?
Jeffsy is about the same length as the Spesh Enduro of a couple of years ago, they are a bit short in relation to mainstream bikes now, let alone the progressive ones.
An extra 30mm or so in the top tube would probably improve climbing IMO, more stability.
Get yourself on a demo day and try a few different geometry bikes out, make your own mind up on what sizing you like.
I think wandering on climbs has more to do with seat angle. So as long as that is steep enough a slack head angle shouldn't cause too many problems on the climb. I'm with you on low BBs though. Great for railing smooth corners, but can be a pain if you like technical climbs.
I have a very long and low and slack bike. It is the most stable bike to climb on I've ever had. You can just keep your weight central and if you can keep the pedals turning, it'll keep going. It never feels like the front will lift.
I hope that helps
BMR - It does. Do you not find you get lots of pedal strikes though? What bike is it?