JULIA’SJULIANAJOPLIN CARBONCS£4,999 HIGHS LOWS

Our designer Julia heard the call of van life, for a few days at least

After weeks of chilly but sunny weather, I booked some time off to go on a little adventure. Of course, that’s when the forecast changed to rain. Close to resigning ourselves to a week of DIY, my partner and I decided to load the van with my Juliana and his Transition Patrol anyway, as well as every waterproof item we own.

I love my 29er on the trails, but I found myself wishing the wheels weren’t so bloody big as I tried to fit two bikes into the back of a van, underneath a bed! First stop was the Surrey Hills, where the ‘XC wild child’ – as Juliana call it – felt incredibly playful on the sandy trails. I’m still cautiously considering cutting the handlebar down by 10mm, but that’s an irreversible decision.

After enjoying the South East Coast, we travelled to Twisted Oaks Bike Park (a decision heavily inspired by Sam Pilgrim’s videos). There’s an XC line, but I went there mainly to practise for my goal for the year – to finally clear a decent tabletop. The Joplin is no dirt jump bike, but it’s versatile enough for me to learn on. I’ve made good progress, but lack consistency. After a good five hours of practice, a couple of people crashed on a line next to me, which knocked my confidence. Then, hail started to hammer down. We headed home, because there’s only so long I can survive on cans of beans and no proper shower! www.jungleproducts.co.uk

Drier conditions are a real confidence booster

Finally getting to ride new trails

The bar feels a little wide for me – but I’m scared I’ll cut too much o !