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Can’t find many reviews of the Speedball (with either fork), what to they actually ride like? For general XC trail riding, would the MK4 or the Speedball be more suitable?
Any info useful as are a bit confused with the 2 models
I only had one ride on my Speedball (with biplane) so far. I've bought it for long rides and bikepacking and I think it will excel at this. I had a Mk1 for years which I did all my riding on - racing/trail rides/bikepacking/trail centres. Speedball feels very planted climbing (no weight shifts required, just sit and spin) and great comfy position (I'm running Jones loops). I've also ordered a Mk4 to run with a dropper for day-to-day riding. You won't go wrong with either.
Speedball has a lower BB (~10mm), longer CS's, shorter reach and a high front (certainly with the truss fork)
This translates to a more planted, stable feel, less twitchy, strong and stable (sorry) at higher speeds, more upright, central, comfortable riding position
With 29+ tyres it wants to roll fast, and whips up quick
A well sorted riding bike, and quite different to the Mk1 & 2 which I have spent time on
I haven't had all that much time on the Speedball, but plan to have an extended ride the weekend
Thanks Bonesetter, thought it might be. I like to wrap the chainstays with old inner tube for protection which reduces clearance too, so a slightly narrower rim for the back it is then.
Rocking the Bullnose Bars
MUCH better than the Moto bars
These synergise well on the bike, making for a comfortable, well rounded feel. Recommended
bloody things are well common now, seeing as there was only ever meant to be 2 titanium bikes (Mine and Andy's) 🙂
Interested in comparisons from anyone who's rode a Speedball and a Jones Diamond?