We spotted Fuji's first ever gravel bike yesterday afternoon at Sea Otter. The new 2017 Fuji Jari comes in three models that share the same frameset, the Jari 1.1, 1.3 and 1.5. We took a look at the mid-range Jari 1.3, which has a retail price of $1,869 USD.
2017 Fuji Jari 1.3 gravel bike. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
The Jari is built around Fuji's A6-SL custtom-butted sub-1400 gram aluminum frame. Meant to be a performance gravel race and adventure bike, the geometry is different than a cyclocross bike and features a longer wheelbase and longer chainstays and slacker head tube and seat tube angles. The fork is a full carbon, tapered offering that features a 12mm thru axle design with a flat mount disc brake caliper mount. Those with multiple wheelsets should take note, the Jari's rear axle is convertible from 12mm thru axle to 135mm quick release.
The seat stays on the Fuji Jari are quite curved and are said to be designed for added compliance. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
The frame's shapes and features offer a measure of practicality for a bike designed to take on gravel and adventure races and rides. Things like the curved, thin chainstays are said to offer more compliance, the inclusion of threaded, stainless steel Bento Box mounts on the top tube adds convenience and there's a threaded bottom bracket for easier maintenance. There's also a silicone shoulder pad for long portaging, fender mounts, front and rear, as well as rack mounts and a third bottle cage mount under the down tube.
The 2017 Fuji Jari 1.3 gravel bike is outfitted with No Tubes Radler rims. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
The Jari 1.3 comes equipped with Shimano's new 105-level hydraulic brakes and 105 mechanical shifting. Aside from the Shimano components, FSA supplies the crankset and Fuji's house brand Oval provides the cockpit pieces. Eagle eyes will notice the new NoTubes Radler rim and Clement MSO 36c tubeless gravel tires. The Radler is described as a Grail rim designed to handle high and low pressure tubeless tires, but it is pinned, not welded like the Grail.
The top end Jari 1.1 is a SRAM Force-equipped version and should fit the bill nicely for those looking for a dedicated gravel racer.
The new 2017 Fuji Jari will be available in 6 months.
More info: fujibikes.com
See all our Sea Otter coverage here and stay tuned for more updates from the festival and expo.
The Fuji Jari 1.3 gravel bike sports smart features, like a mount for a top tube Bento Box for long days in the saddle. Sea Otter Classic 2016. © Cyclocross Magazine
