Defcon 2026

The 2026 Defcon marks Jamis turning its long-running Defcon enduro nameplate into a full-power eMTB. Both builds share one chassis: a triple-butted 6061 alloy frame with 150mm of rear travel on the MPX Horst-link platform, a 160mm fork, a 64.5-degree head angle and a 76-degree effective seat angle across all four sizes (S to XL). Reach runs 431mm to 506mm with consistent 455mm chainstays, so it is a stable, modern enduro geometry rather than a short-travel trail bike.

The E1 at $7,499 is the one to stretch for if the budget allows. It pairs the stronger Shimano EP801 drive unit (600W peak) with a Fox 36 fork and Float X shock, a Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrain and TRP DH-R EVO four-piston brakes on 203mm rotors. The $5,999 E2 keeps the same frame, the same 630Wh Shimano battery and the same Vittoria Mazza tyres and Stan's Flow D wheels, but steps down to the EP600 motor (500W peak), an SR Suntour TriAir/Aion 36 suspension package, Deore shifting and TRP Slate EVO brakes on smaller 180mm rotors.

Both trims run the removable 630Wh Shimano BT-EN806 pack with a downtube door and seat-tube charge port, plus a KS Vantage dropper and the future-proof UDH hanger. The shared frame and contact points mean the E2 gives up little in geometry or capability, with the gap concentrated in motor output, suspension damping and braking. Riders chasing the most assured descending hardware will prefer the E1; the E2 is the value pick for the same ride position and battery range.