A journal foil bearing system includes a journal member with a bore and an internal groove. The system includes a shaft received within the bore and supported for rotation relative to the journal member about an axis. The groove extends substantially along the axis. The system also includes at least one biasing foil and a top foil member with at least one arch-bound top foil. The top foil member has a top foil first end and a top foil second end. Additionally, the system includes a foil support insert member that is received within the groove. The foil support insert member includes a spacer member that is disposed between the top foil first and second ends. The spacer member maintains the top foil first and second ends separated, at least, at a distance.