Last week, Santa Cruz Bicycles took the unprecedented step of slashing prices on some of their carbon frames to nearly entry level aluminum levels. They were able to achieve this by getting creative with their carbon fiber layup and build spec. Now, sister brand Juliana has just announced they will be adding price point carbon to their line up as well.
For those wondering, the only difference between the two frames is weight. Visually, and in testing, the frames retain the same strength, stiffness, and ride quality, but will cost considerably less.
In addition to complete carbon builds starting at $3,399, Juliana Bikes has also launched a slew of new colors, and builds options. The 2015 Furtado now comes in Hella Yella and is available for the first time with either an X01 or XX1 1×11 drivetrain. The entry level carbon build retails for $3,599 and features a smart mix of Shimano XT and Deore level parts, and SRAM components.
You can also pick up a frame only for $2,899, if you prefer to build bikes from the ground up.
The Siren Red Joplin is also available as a frame only for $2,899, with the entry level carbon model retailing for $3,399. Like the Roubion and Furtado, the lighter carbon frame can be dressed up with either X01 or XX1, and an optional Enve Carbon wheel upgrade. Just south of the carbon pricing, there are several different aluminum single pivot offerings, which help make shredding available to the masses. Featuring a mix of SLX and SRAM components, the 130mm travel Apple Green Juno is available starting at $2,599.
If you prefer to swap parts over from another build, you can even pick up a frame only option for $1,299.
With just 4″ of travel, the Royal Purple Origin is the gateway full suspension model. Starting at just $2,099, this is essentially the original Juliana model adapted for 27.5″ wheels.
What sets these two single pivot models apart from their carbon VPP sisters, is that they will be soon offered in an extra small. The exceptionally low stand over and smaller top tube, will make it possible for riders 4’10 and up to enjoy the trails in comfort.
Last, but certainly not least, is the updated Nevis. Previously only a 26″ model, this versatile little hardtail now sports 27.5″ wheels. By a different name, it would be a Chameleon (which was my very first mountain bike.)
Designed exclusively for the Juliana brand, this brand new hardtail is designed to fit riders 4’8″ and up, and features a XC/Trail oriented geometry that’s been designed around 27.5″ wheels. It utilizes a smaller diameter 27.2mm seatpost for more compliance, and is available in three sizes: XS, S, M. Completes start at only $1,699.
The last big announcement is new carbon and aluminum handlebars, that are produced in the same factory as their carbon frames. Offered in a 720mm width, with a 7mm rise, the carbon bars will be spec’d as standard equipment on the Roubion, Furtardo, and Joplin builds from XT/X01 up.
An aluminum bar with similar dimensions will be spec’d on all other models, except for the XS Nevis and Origin. These bikes will continue to utilize the compact bar and grip system debuted last year.
The new 150mm travel Roubion was announced earlier this year and did not receive any major changes. Only Santa Cruz is offering an entry level carbon version at the moment, so builds for this premium steed start at $6,599.
For more info, head over to the newly redesigned Juliana Website