Recently the Pangalactic Test Hanger Bay at Fat-Bike dot com World HQ was informed of the incoming arrival of a steel 509 Cycles Jabit III clad in its 29+ configuration. As a lover of steel 29+ goodness (as covered here), I was excited to get the call to throw a leg over this bike and see what it was all about.
In case you missed it, Gomez gave you the rundown on 509 Cycles waaay back in August. In short, 509 Cycles is the brainchild of George Kapitz at Broken Spokes Bike Studio in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Jabit III is their steel fatbike offering capable of running 5” tires on 100mm rims, but as possible on many fat-bike frames these days, it can also be run as a 29+ bike. Two bikes for the price of one. Well, plus a new wheelset, tires, and possibly a fork . . . but you get the idea?!
Thru Axle Stoutness
The frame is built with double butted 4130 chromoly that is internaly ED coated to prevent corrosion (no messy frame saver!!). Out back, it utilizes a solid thru axel (177mm x 12mm) and is very stout. Upfront is a 44mm headtube to accept all your fork needs. Since the frame is built to run 100mm rims with 5″ tires, there’s plenty of room for the 29+ tires.
Plenty of room at the chain stays
Seat Stays – Clearance Clarence
Overall, the bike looks great. My first impressions after pulling it out of the box was “that’s a good looking bike.” Nice, even, clean welds, a smooth finish, and subdued graphics. The 509 even uses a dog tag as a head badge, a further nod to its namesake.
The Jabit III in the Test Hanger came set up with an a la cart build that features a Manitou Mattoc Pro fork, Shimano XT 1X11 speed drivetrain mated to RaceFace Æffect crankset and BB, SRAM Guide brakes, SunRingle Düroc 40 wheelset with WTB Ranger 29×3.0 tires, Thomson stem (I had to swap it out for a longer stem), and RaceFace bars and post. Total weight comes in at 28.8 lbs (without pedals). Not a shabby build by any means. 509 offers several build packages as well as custom spec bikes to tickle your fancy.
First ride impressions are very favorable. I’ve had it on a diverse smattering of local trails systems so far and its handled them all with ease. I’ll be checking back further on down the trail with more of a low down on the bike and longish term impressions. In the meantime, it will see more than its fair share of abuse.
Need more info? Head over to 509cycles.com
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