Jamis RENEGADE S3 Review
- Price: $1899
- Frame: Steel
- Wheels: 700C aluminum
- Gear: 2×10
- What we like about it: Multi-scene, multi-terrain compatibility.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s probably not as fast as those regular road bikes.
Rating (4.6/5)
Jamis bicycles is a well-known brand in the cycling industry, recognized for its innovative designs and commitment to quality. Founded in 1979, the company has been dedicated to creating high-performance, comfortable, and durable bicycles. Over the years, Jamis has introduced a wide range of bikes to cater to different types of riders, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and city bikes.
One of the most popular series in their lineup is the Jamis RENEGADE, which was introduced in 2014. The RENEGADE series is designed for riders who enjoy exploring and riding on various terrains, from smooth roads to rough trails. With its all-terrain capability, the Jamis RENEGADE quickly became a favorite among gravel riders.
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 is designed not only for high performance but also to accommodate different riders. The bike features a unique geometry that allows riders of different body types and sizes to find a comfortable riding position. This adaptability makes the RENEGADE S3 the best choice for riders looking to use the bike for long-distance rides or commuting.
Riding Experience
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 is the latest addition to the RENEGADE series, designed for riders looking to push their limits and explore new routes. This bike can handle any terrain, from smooth sidewalks to rugged gravel roads. The RENEGADE S3 comes equipped with a lightweight carbon fiber frame, providing excellent stiffness and power transfer. The frame is also designed to provide a comfortable ride, even on bumpy roads, thanks to its shock-absorbing technology. The bike is also equipped with a full carbon fork, which further enhances its performance and comfort.
Riding the Jamis RENEGADE S3 on the road is a delightful experience. By the way, it’s essential to book accommodation in advance. And for this trip, I booked through Skyscanner again because I’m familiar with it and it gives me peace of mind. The sturdy and shock-absorbing steel frame and fork provide a smooth ride even on rough and bumpy roads. The geometry allows the rider to sit comfortably, with a slightly upright position to reduce pressure on the wrists and back. The Shimano GRX 400 10-speed drivetrain ensures smooth and precise shifting, while the hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent braking power in any condition.
When riding on the weekend LisiLu gravel road, the Jamis RENEGADE S3 shines. The LisiLu route takes riders on a scenic mountain tour, with stunning views of the valley and challenging terrain to conquer. The RENEGADE S3’s adaptability and versatility make it the perfect bike for this type of ride. The wide clearance of the max 700x37c tires makes for a comfortable and stable ride on rough gravel roads, while the sturdy and durable chromoly steel frame provides excellent stiffness and power transfer, allowing riders to easily climb hills and conquer challenging terrain.
Practical Experience
As the ride begins, the Jamis RENEGADE S3 smoothly glides on the paved road leading to the gravel path. Once on the gravel, the bike’s stability and balance immediately come into play. The Shimano GRX 400 10-speed drivetrain provides plenty of gears to choose from, allowing riders to find the perfect rhythm for the terrain. The hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent braking power, giving riders confidence to tackle challenging terrain even on steep descents.
As the ride continues through the mountains, the Jamis RENEGADE S3 proves to be a great companion. The bike’s shock-absorbing technology ensures a comfortable ride even on rough terrain, while the wide gear range allows riders to easily handle steep climbs and descents. The full carbon fork further enhances the bike’s performance, providing excellent control and stability on rocky terrain. The RENEGADE S3’s adaptability also shines when riders encounter various obstacles on the road, such as rocks, tree roots, and potholes. The bike’s wide tires and stable geometry allow riders to pass through these obstacles easily without sacrificing speed and stability.
In summary, the Jamis RENEGADE S3 is an excellent gravel bike, whether on the road or in the mountains. Its adaptability and versatility make it the best choice for riders of different body types and sizes. Its high-performance components ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. The bike’s lightweight carbon fiber frame, full carbon fiber fork, Shimano GRX 400 10-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes make it a reliable and capable partner for any adventure. The LisiLu gravel road is just one of the many challenging routes that the Jamis RENEGADE S3 can easily conquer, making it a must-have bike for any serious gravel rider.
Specification
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 is a versatile gravel bike that can handle any terrain with ease. It features high-quality components, such as the Shimano GRX 400 10-speed drivetrain, which provides smooth and reliable shifting even under load. The chromoly steel frame provides a comfortable ride, thanks to its unique comfortable geometry that reduces pressure on the back and wrists.
In addition, the wide 700CX37C tires provide stable and smooth riding on rough and uneven terrain, providing good traction and stability. These components combine to make the Jamis RENEGADE S3 a capable and reliable bike. It can handle anything from long rides to gravel races and offers comfort and versatility, making it an excellent choice for riders looking for a high performance bike.
Other versions of the Jamis RENEGADE S3
We tested the ultimate gravel bike for riders who demand the highest level of performance and versatility, the Jamis RENEGADE S3. Its dedicated Shimano GRX 400 kit, 10-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes provide a smooth and reliable ride. Meanwhile, the lightweight carbon fiber frame and unique comfortable geometry provide maximum comfort and efficiency. For riders looking for a high-performance bike, the RENEGADE S2 is a great choice. It can handle anything from long-distance rides to challenging gravel races.
As such, we also found its similar version, the Jamis RENEGADE S2, an upgraded version of the popular RENEGADE S3, designed for riders who demand the highest performance and versatility in a gravel bike. The RENEGADE S2 has a range of upgrades that set it apart from its predecessor, including a higher price tag, an upgraded Shimano GRX 800 kit, and a 10-speed to 11-speed drivetrain upgrade.
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What do we like about it?
- Versatility: The Jamis RENEGADE S3 is a versatile bike that can handle any terrain, from smooth sidewalks to rough gravel roads.
- Chromoly Steel Frame: The bike’s carbon fiber frame provides good stiffness and power transfer, making it efficient on every pedal stroke.
- Comfortable Geometry: The unique comfort geometry of the bike’s chromoly steel frame reduces stress on the back and wrists, providing a comfortable ride even on long rides.
- Shimano GRX 400 10-speed drivetrain: The Shimano GRX 400 10-speed drivetrain provides reliable and smooth shifting even under load.
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent braking ability in all situations, making bicycles safe and reliable.
- Wide Tires: The 700CX37C’s wide tires provide excellent traction and stability on rough terrain, allowing riders to tackle any gravel road with confidence.
- Adaptable: The bike’s unique geometry allows riders of all shapes and sizes to find a comfortable riding position, making it the best choice for all levels of riders.
- Cost-effective: The Jamis RENEGADE S3 offers a good balance between performance, comfort, and economy, making it an excellent value for money.
- Great for commuting: The bike’s adaptability and versatility make it a great choice for commuting, allowing riders to tackle any terrain with ease, while still providing a comfortable and efficient ride.
What don’t we like about it?
- Speed: Wider outer tires have more friction and can’t get as fast as those thin-tire road bikes.
FAQs
- What is the frame material of the Jamis RENEGADE S3?
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 features a chromoly steel frame with a unique comfort geometry that reduces stress on the back and wrists, providing a comfortable ride even on long rides.
- What is the maximum tire size that can be used on the Jamis RENEGADE S3?
With a maximum tire clearance of 700 x 42c, the Jamis RENEGADE S3 offers the rider the flexibility to customize the setup to suit his or her needs.
- What heights does Jamis RENEGADE S3 fit?
The size chart for Jamis RENEGADE S3 is as follows.
These sizes are only a general guide, the true fit may vary from person to person, and the easiest way to find your size is the best way to go for a test ride.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5′ – 5’3″ | 48CM |
| 5’3″ – 5’5″ | 51CM |
| 5’5″ – 5’9″ | 54CM |
| 5’9″ – 5’11” | 56CM |
| 5’11” – 6’1″ | 58CM |
| 6’1″ – 6’4″ | 61CM |
Jamis RENEGADE S3 Specs
Build
| Frame | UPDATED Jamis Size Specific Design frame geometry, SST Reynolds 520 double-butted chromoly main tubes, tapered head tube for tapered fork, threaded BB shell, 12mm Thru- axle, flat mount chain stay disc brake mounts, down tube mounted full cable housing, internal dropper post ready, 3 waterbottle mounts, TT mounts, rack and fender eyelets. BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded |
| Fork | UPDATED Jamis Adventure ECO monocoque carbon composite, 12mm Jamis MTS (Modular Thru-axle System) with stainless interface and carbon dropouts, tapered steerer with 1.5″ hollow formed crown, flat mount disc brakes with internal cable routing, exposed fender, lowrider and 3 water bottle eyelets |
| Bottom Bracket | FSA BB-4000 MegaExo |
| Headset | FSA OrbitC-40B Internal, 1.5 – 1 1/8″ |
| Stem | Ritchey 4-Axis 3D forged 6061 alloy, 6 ̊ x 60mm (44), 70mm (48/51), 80mm (54/56), 100mm (58/61) |
| Handlebar | Ritchey Baquiano Comp, 6061 aluminum, 73 reach, 118 ergonomic drop with 12ç flare, 31.8 x 400 (44) 420 (48-51) 440mm (54-56), 460mm (56-61) |
| Saddle | Selle Royal Asphalt with integrated clip system |
| Seatpost | Ritchey Road, 27.2 x 300mm with cromo seat pin |
| Pedals | N/A |
| Grips | Jamis suede tape with gel inserts |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano GRX RD-RX400 Shadow Plus |
| Front Derailleur | GRX FD- RX400 |
| Crank | FSA OMEGA Modular DM MegaExo, 46/30T, 165mm (44/48), 170mm (51) 172.5mm (54/56) 175mm (58/61) |
| Shifters | Shimano GRX ST-RX400 Dual Control STI, 10-speed |
| Cassette | Shimano 10-speed, 11-36T |
| Chain | KMC 10-speed X10 |
| Brakes | Shimano GRX BR-RX400 flat mount hydraulic disc brakes with resin pads, Shimano 160mm rotors with GRX ST- RX400 Dual Control STI levers |
Wheels
| Rims | WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0 (UST Tubeless Compliant System) disc rims, 32H, Joytec alloy 6-bolt hubs, 14g stainless steel spokes and front 12mm/rear 12×142 thru- axle axle with Switch Lever |
| Tires | WTB Riddler Comp 700CX37C, 30tpi Casing, Wire Bead (48-61) WTB BYWAY 650CX40C, 30tpi Casing, Wire Bead (44) |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Frame material | Components | Click view |
| Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 | $2499 | 2 × 11 | Aluminum | GRX 800, GRX 600 | Click View |
| Marin Gestalt 2.5 | $1679 | 2 × 10 | Aluminum | Tiagra, FSA | Click View |
| BMC URS AL THREE | $2299 | 2 × 10 | Aluminum | GRX 400, GRX 600 | Click View |
| Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed | $1899 | Single-speed | Aluminum | Race Face | Click View |
Jamis RENEGADE S3 vs. Trek Checkpoint ALR 5
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both great gravel bikes, but they differ in several aspects. Firstly, Jamis RENEGADE S3 is more affordable, using a chromoly frame and Shimano GRX 400 components. On the other hand, Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is more expensive, using an aluminum frame and higher-end Shimano GRX 800 components.
Another difference between the two bikes is the tires. Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 has wider tires, providing more traction and stability on rough terrain. This makes it the best choice for riders who enjoy more technical riding or tackling challenging trails.
Both bikes have excellent comfort and versatility, with unique geometry that allows riders of different sizes and shapes to find a comfortable riding position. Jamis RENEGADE S3 has a unique comfort geometry that reduces pressure on the back and wrists, while Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 has an endurance geometry that provides a more upright riding position, making it ideal for long rides.
In conclusion, Jamis RENEGADE S3 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both excellent gravel bikes with unique features. Jamis RENEGADE S3 is more affordable, using a chromoly frame and Shimano GRX 400 components, while Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is more expensive, using an aluminum frame, wider tires, and higher-end Shimano GRX 800 components. Both bikes are the best choice for gravel riders, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
Jamis RENEGADE S3 vs. Marin Gestalt 2.5
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 and Marin Gestalt 2.5 are both popular gravel bikes, but there are some key differences. Jamis RENEGADE S3 features a durable and shock-absorbing chromoly steel frame, providing great comfort and stability on rough terrain. On the other hand, Marin Gestalt 2.5 uses a lighter but less cushioning aluminum frame, more suited for riders who prioritize speed and efficiency over comfort.
In terms of drivetrain, Jamis RENEGADE S3 comes equipped with the Shimano GRX 400 kit, specifically designed for gravel bikes, providing reliable and smooth shifting even under load. On the other hand, Marin Gestalt 2.5 uses a road bike hybrid Tiagra kit, which may require some compromise on kit compatibility. Another difference between these two bikes is the tires. Jamis RENEGADE S3 features wider 700CX37C tires, providing good traction and stability on rough and uneven terrain. Meanwhile, Marin Gestalt 2.5 comes with narrower 700CX30C tires, which are more suitable for smoother roads.
Overall, Jamis RENEGADE S3 and Marin Gestalt 2.5 are both great gravel bikes, but with some key differences. Jamis RENEGADE S3 offers a durable and shock-absorbing chromoly steel frame, Shimano GRX 400 kit, and wider tires, making it the best choice for riders who prioritize comfort and stability on rough terrain. Marin Gestalt 2.5 offers a lighter aluminum frame, road bike hybrid Tiagra kit, and narrower tires, making it the best choice for riders who prioritize speed and efficiency on flatter roads. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the rider’s specific needs and preferences.
Learn more : Is Marin Gestalt 1 A Perfect Selection? – [Marin Gestalt 1 Review]
Jamis RENEGADE S3 vs. BMC URS AL THREE
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 and BMC URS AL THREE are both designed for gravel riding, but there are some key differences between these two bikes.
Jamis RENEGADE S3 is more affordable and features a chromoly steel frame. It also comes with narrower wheels that are suitable for gravel riding, but not as wide as the wheels on BMC URS AL THREE. This bike is equipped with Shimano GRX 400 groupset, which is a reliable and solid choice for most riders. On the other hand, BMC URS AL THREE is more expensive and features wider tires that provide better traction and stability on rough terrain. The bike has a lightweight aluminum frame and is equipped with the same GRX 400 groupset, offering a wide range of gears to tackle steep climbs and rough terrain.
Overall, the main differences between these two bikes are in their frames, wheelsets, and components. Jamis RENEGADE S3 is the best choice for those looking for an affordable gravel bike with reliable components. BMC URS AL THREE is the more expensive option, with wider tires and a lighter frame. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and riding style.
Jamis RENEGADE S3 vs. Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 is equipped with high-quality GRX gravel-specific gears, designed to provide reliable shifting and a wide range of gears to tackle steep hills and rough terrain. The bike also features a steel frame, which can offer a more comfortable riding experience than an aluminum frame. And the narrow tires that are suitable for gravel riding.
On the other hand, the Salsa Stormchaser single speed has only one speed. It is an easy and low-maintenance option for those who prefer a minimalist riding style. The bike also features an aluminum frame that is lightweight and durable. There are also extra wide tires that provide good traction and stability on rough terrain.
Overall, the main differences between these two bikes are their gears, frames, and tires. Jamis RENEGADE S3 is the best choice for those who want a versatile bike with reliable components. The Salsa Stormchaser single-speed bike is a simple and low-maintenance choice that is perfect for those who prefer minimalist riding. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and riding style.
Learn More: Is Salsa Stormchaser GRX 810 1x SUS Worth Buying? [Salsa Stormchaser GRX 810 1x SUS Review]
Summary
The Jamis RENEGADE S3 is a gravel bike designed to be versatile on both paved and unpaved surfaces. It features a high-quality chromoly steel frame that provides durability and comfort and is equipped with Shimano GRX 400 groupset that offers reliable and smooth shifting.
The RENEGADE S3 has wide tires suitable for gravel riding and comes with hydraulic disc brakes that offer efficient stopping power. It also features a carbon fiber fork that provides suspension, making the ride smoother. Overall, Jamis RENEGADE S3 is a solid and reliable choice for those who want a versatile and capable gravel bike.
Based on our testing, Jamis RENEGADE S3 offers great value for its balanced configuration, and it does not require too many upgrades. It is suitable for riders who need to ride in different conditions.
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Learn more : Top 10 Best Road Bikes Under $1000 – Great Value For Money
