Head JRA 2 Hardtail Mountain Bike Review
The Head JRA 2 Hardtail Mountain Bike is a versatile, easy-to-use bike with many features. It’s ideal for leisure riders who want a comfortable ride that’s both fast and easy to maneuver. Its features include a Microshift 3×8 24-speed shifting system, suspension fork, disc brakes, and an upright geometry for easy tracking.
Features of a hardtail mountain bike
A hardtail mountain bike is ideal for riding in a wide variety of terrains. Novices and advanced riders alike can use it. Although it is capable of a decent level of intensity, it is important to remember that a hardtail bike is more susceptible to falls and injury when riding in rough terrain. Wear proper protective gear and clothing when riding a hardtail bike, and never ride without a helmet.
Hardtail mountain bikes come in various sizes, with entry-level models starting at around PS500. It is important to know that the bike will need regular maintenance. This includes checking the tire pressure and checking the brakes. If there is an issue with a component, you can always take it to a bike shop for repairs.
Hardtail mountain bikes can ride on most types of terrain, but they prefer smoother trails. They also usually have a lockout feature on the front fork, which prevents the front fork from moving and makes the bike rigid.
Hardtail mountain bikes are more affordable than full-suspension bikes. Their simpler design reduces the cost of manufacturing and allows manufacturers to include higher-end components. Full-suspension bikes are more expensive but better equipped to tackle steep terrain and obstacles. The added rear suspension helps a rider focus on the obstacles instead of the bike itself.
Compared to full-suspension mountain bikes, hardtails have smaller wheels and frames. Hardtail mountain bikes are also less suited to big downhills. However, they are an excellent choice for cross-country riding. You can even ride these bikes on city streets if you don’t have much experience.
- SPECIFICATION: The JRA 2 comes complete with 27.5 inch aluminum disc frame and 1 1/8″ SR Suntour XTC with 100mm of travel. Wheels are 27.5 inch aluminum double wall with 32H, 6-bolat both front and rear quick release.
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: These include Head compact tread 27.5 x 2.2 tires, 130mm rubber grips, 2-piece performance saddle, , sealed cartridge square tapered bottom bracket, aluminum 30.9mm seatpost with height measurement intervals, 680mm handlebar with 31.8 center diameter and 7° rise, 1 1/8 threadless headset and an 80mm stem.
- DRIVETRAIN: The JRA 2 comes equipped with a 3×8 Microshift M26 Groupset including 3×8 aluminum trigger shifter levers and an indicator window. The crankset is 42/34/24T 170mm aluminum with an 11-36T rear cassette and a KMC X8.93 chain.
- GEOMETRY: The JRA 2 comes in 4 sizes, Small (40cm), Medium (44cm), Large (48cm) and X-Large (53cm) and has an assembled weight of 34 lbs. Full geometry chart in the picture below.
- WARRANTY: Head bikes come with a lifetime frame warrant and 1 year on all parts. Also included is our BIKEAID Support Team available to answer your questions from assembly to technical and any other inquiry you can pose. For ages 12 and up.
Last update on 2025-01-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Aluminum alloy frame
The Aluminum alloy frame for the Head JRA 2 Hardtail Mountain Bike is a lightweight and sturdy option. This material has two advantages over steel: it’s inexpensive and stiff. But that stiffness can lead to stress fracturing, compromising the frame’s strength. On the other hand, carbon has a damping effect and can spring back into shape. Consequently, an aluminum alloy frame will feel softer than a carbon one.
The Aluminum alloy frame is crafted from oversized tubing. These oversized tubes are thicker than steel and usually have larger walls. The tubing diameter of an alloy frame is usually 20-30% larger than steel. Aluminum bikes have a history of being uncomfortably stiff, but recent frame-building techniques have improved ride quality.
The aluminum hardtail mountain bike has a 120mm suspension fork and a 12-speed drivetrain. It is also equipped with 29×2.6” tires. Its other features include SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes and a Niner Custom saddle. The frame geometry for this bike is also ideal for top-level riding.
The Aluminum alloy frame of the Head JRA 2 Hardtail Mountain Bike is lightweight and durable. The JRA 2 is well-suited for most terrains and can handle a range of gears. Its alloy rims add durability and stability. Its lock-out suspension fork helps handle bumps and obstacles. Its all-terrain tires are capable of conquering rocky roads and gravel paths.
Another advantage of the aluminum alloy frame is that it is recyclable. Unlike carbon, aluminum can be recycled without damaging the frame. Carbon frames, however, are hard to recycle, and a single impact can cause them to break.
120 mm suspension fork
The 120 mm suspension fork on the Head JRA 2 Hardtail Mountain Bike is a great choice for riders who like to push their limits on their bike. Its longer wheelbase and slacker’s head tube will increase stability when riding downhill. However, it will also make the bike a bit slower to react to steering inputs. As a result, it is important to choose the right location for the suspension fork to get the most benefit.
The JRA 2 Hardtail Mountain Bike features a 120 mm suspension fork and a 12-speed drivetrain. It also comes with a set of tires that are 2.6 inches wide. The bike is suited for recreational riders as well as those who enjoy paved trails. Its suspension fork, Disc brakes, and aluminum frame make it an excellent choice for those who want a mountain bike for recreation or transportation.
The 120 mm suspension fork is composed of two springs that provide linear compression and smooth impact absorption over the length of the spring’s travel. The coil springs are adjustable and come in a variety of resistance levels. A bike shop should be able to help you choose the right springs for your needs.
Suspension forks are available in three types: short travel, mid-travel, and long travel. A short travel suspension fork is best for cross-country or trail riding. A long-travel suspension fork is better suited for enduro or freeriding. The company Rockshox offers a wide range of suspension forks.
- Enhance comfort and performance with the 18-inch aluminum suspension frame, while the 29-inch wheels fit riders 5’4″ to 6’2″ tall
- Element suspension fork smooths the bumps and increases control
- Effortlessly switch gears with the 21-speed rear derailleur equipped with SRAM twist shifters
- Alloy wheels with quick-release front, Superior braking performance of the alloy front and rear disc brakes, reliable stopping power for enhanced safety and control
- Assembly Tip: Ensure wheel is as centered between the fork legs, if quick-release lever closes easily, open and tighten the adjustment nut further, if difficult to close, open the quick-release lever, loosen the adjustment nut a little, and try again
Last update on 2025-01-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
12-speed drivetrain
A 12-speed drivetrain on a hardtail mountain bike offers an advantage over a standard nine or ten-speed model: the drivetrain has more range and better shifting. A 12-speed drivetrain is available for as little as $300 USD and can add significant performance and functionality to your bike.
Shimano’s Deore series components provide premium performance at an affordable price. They offer an extended 510% gear range and all of Shimano’s 12-speed innovations. Unlike older ten and 11-speed drivetrains, the M6100 features Shimano’s patented HYPERGLIDE+ technology and a long inner-link plate chain. Shimano’s DYNAMIC CHAIN ENGAGEMENT+ technology provides even greater chain retention and smoother shifting.
Several manufacturers offer frame-only options for their hardtails. A hardtail will make an excellent second or loaner bike if you don’t need a complete bike. A hardtail is a great bike for beginners but also a great option for intermediate riders.
Modern hardtail mountain bikes generally use four common wheel sizes. Each wheel size has its strengths and weaknesses. The 27.5-wheel size is ideal for quick rides. The 27.5-wheel size is the smallest widely available and can give you a ninja-like ride. However, this type of wheel isn’t right for every rider.
A 12-speed drivetrain can make it easier for you to move up the mountain. But before you purchase, you must know what you’re getting yourself into. And remember to choose a model with a durable and reliable 12-speed drivetrain.
A 12-speed drivetrain will ensure you get the most out of your bike’s potential. A 12-speed drivetrain offers an excellent range and can handle varying terrain. In addition, the bike has 29-inch wheels for great maneuverability on technical trails. It also features 2.6-inch tubeless-ready tires for added traction.
Electric hardtail mountain bikes
If you are looking for a hardtail bike that is light, durable, and capable, the Electric Head JRA 2 may be your next choice. Available in four sizes, the JRA 2 weighs just 34 pounds and comes with a full geometry chart. Designed with the needs of a beginner in mind, this bike has a lightweight aluminum frame and a 140mm fork. It is a good choice for new mountain bikers and features several reputable features, including a reliable 1×12 Deore drivetrain.
A hardtail is less expensive than a full-suspension bike and requires less maintenance. Their lower price point makes them an ideal choice for riders who are passionate about riding but are on a budget. Hardtails are often the best option for beginners, but experienced riders may prefer a full-suspension bike. These bikes can handle more challenging terrain and can be a great value for the money.
