Juliana Joplin gets geometry updates, custom shock tune
With a bump in travel, updated geometry, and a new frame, the Joplin is more capable than ever (click to enlarge).
The new Juliana Joplin is an 110mm travel frame that is convertible between 27.5+ and 29er wheels via a flip chip. (Of course you’ll also need a spare set of wheels and a different fork.) Like the outgoing model, the new Joplin features XC oriented efficiency, but the geometry has been updated to be more versatile. The headtube is slacker for improved stability, the reach is longer, standover is better, and chainstays have been shortened for snappier handling.
Adjusting the flip chip gives the ideal geometry for either 27.5+ or 29” wheels (click to enlarge).
To convert between the two sets of wheels you’ll need the aforementioned spare set of wheels, a 130mm fork, and to adjust the flip chip on the shock mount. The 27.5+ version is best in places where standard tires might struggle with traction due to loose or chunky terrain, while the 29” is all about speed.
For the full run down of geometry and frame changes, check out our coverage of the new Santa Cruz Tallboy 3. Both the Tallboy and Joplin share the same basic genetic code, with only minor differences in part spec and color.
Click here to view the embedded video.
Indeed, the primary difference is what Juliana is calling proportional part spec. According to their research, women are on average 30 pounds lighter and five inches shorter than their male counterparts, so the spec and shock tune reflect that. For instance, the stock Tallboy 3 has a medium tune for compression and rebound, while the Joplin uses a light tune, which they have tested with women from 100-165 pounds.
The Joplin will not be available in an XS, but their 27.5” equivalent is (click to enlarge)
One of the other areas where the Joplin differentiates itself from the regular Santa Cruz line is size range. The Tallboy comes in five sizes (S-XXL), but the Joplin is only available in small, medium, and large. This range will accommodate riders from 5’0“ to 6’1”. Shorter riders will be directed to the Juliana Furtado, which is essentially the 27.5” equivalent, and is available in an XS size that’s suited for riders under 5’0”.
Somehow the plus model is slightly lighter than the 29er version (click to enlarge).
The bikes are shipping now, but due to issues with part supply, Juliana is only offering the bike in three trim kits to start. The 27.5+ version has an SRAM X01 drivetrain, RockShox Reverb dropper post, Fox Performance suspension (with the new black stanchions), and Easton ARC 40 rims on DT 350 hubs. Weight for this bike is a claimed 26.3 pounds and will sell for $6499.
Unlike other women’s brands, Juliana doesn’t mess around with non-performance oriented components (click to enlarge).
Juliana is offering a similar build with 29er wheels, with narrower Easton Arc 24 rims. Weight for that build is 26.4 pounds, although if you go for the optional $2000 upgrade to ENVE M60 HV rims, that number drops to 26.2 pounds. A no holds barred build is also available for $7799 that has a SRAM XX1 drivetrain, I9 Hubs, SRAM Level Ultimate brakes, and carbon Next cranks.
For more info visit www.julianabicycles.com.
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