Ask Us Anything With Kona Bicycles - Fit, Geometry, Kinematics

Feb 19, 2014
by Mike Kazimer  
Thanks to PB readers for a great question and answer session!

Kona AMA

Jack Russell, industrial designer; Chris Mandell, gravity/enduro product manager; Mitchell Scott, communications director.


For this edition of Ask Us Anything the team behind the latest designs from Kona Bicycles will be answering all of your questions. Kona's new Process line of bikes has pushed the envelope of traditional mountain bike geometry, taking the concept of long top tubes, short stems and short chain stays to a new level. For that reason, the theme of this chat is 'Fit, Geometry, and Kinematics.' Do you have specific questions about how frame geometry is determined? Curious about what exactly 'kinematics' refers to? Fire away in the comments section below.



The Carbon Operator and the revised Process lineup
have brought Kona back into the spotlight.

How ‘Ask Us Anything' Works:

Starting at 11:00 AM PST on February 19th you can type your questions into the comment box following this article and Kona's Jack Russell, Chris Mandell, and Mitchell Scott will take their best shot at it. Sometimes, your answer will pop up in a few seconds; others may take a while, as the guys from Kona will be busy responding to the flood of questions. Everyone who posts a question, large or small, will be taken seriously. To make the process as efficient as possible, try to follow these simple guidelines:


• Keep your questions relative. While this is an 'Ask Us Anything' session, the theme is 'Fit, Geometry and Kinematics'. Questions related to that topic are encouraged, but still feel free to ask whatever pressing queries you may have.

• Stay on topic. Try to keep your questions on one topic if possible. You can always ask about another item later.

• Try to keep your questions to about 100 words.

• Ask Us Anything is a service to PB readers who are seeking helpful information, not a forum to broadcast opinions or grievances. If you do have a negative issue that you want to ask about, no worries, just keep your complaints relevant and in the context of a question so that it can be addressed in a productive manner.

• Use propping to acknowledge good - or not so good - questions. Bump them up or down to where they belong.

Process Shoot

Chris Mandell putting the Process 153 through its paces in Pemberton, BC. Photo: Joe Sales.



Below you will find the geometry charts for the bikes that Jack Russell and Chris Mandell played a large part in designing. Compare the numbers, particularly the reach and top tube length of the bikes in the Process line to other bikes currently on the market and the differences become apparent. The Carbon Operator has been included in this discussion because of the suspension design that Kona ended up with despite the numerous other possible layouts they considered.



photo

photo

Thanks for all the questions - Chris Mandell, Jack Russell, and Mitchell Scott have gone back to working on the bikes of the future.

www.konaworld.com

Posted In:
Interviews Ask Us Anything Kona


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549 Comments
  • 109 18
 Where do babies come from?
  • 6 30
flag Real69erFan (Feb 17, 2014 at 18:49) (Below Threshold)
 a big +1 on this one!
  • 29 14
 Do you think your Carbon Operator really does "look like a (Trek) Session"??
  • 2 15
flag cikudh (Feb 18, 2014 at 2:54) (Below Threshold)
 Definitely want one!
  • 1 13
flag JohnnyGonePlaid (Feb 19, 2014 at 10:06) (Below Threshold)
 "How is BabBy fOrmed" would've been better
  • 5 16
flag moefosho (Feb 19, 2014 at 10:47) (Below Threshold)
 Everyone knows that! Well. I think a stork, he umm, he drops it down and then, and then, a hole goes in your body and there's blood everywhere, coming out of your head and then you push your belly button and then your butt falls off and then you hold your butt and you have to dig and you find the little baby.
  • 30 1
 Babies come from love.
  • 23 1
 regarding the "it looks like a trek session" thing: i think this is pretty funny. Honestly, i think if you are looking at a side view shot 600 pix big of both bikes on the internet, they do look kinda similar. However, if you see both bikes in person next too each other (as i have--and ridden back to back) they are very different looking and ride quite different too. i find this comment amusing though Wink
  • 9 1
 Backrubs... ask my wife
  • 66 0
 I did. She says hi.
  • 8 0
 make sure to tip, bike parts ain't cheap
  • 2 0
 Yo mama!
  • 9 2
 For those who think this question is totally out of context, you're wrong. Do you know that kona means vagina/pussy (slang) in portuguese????
  • 17 0
 So if Im in Portugal and ask a girl if I can ride her Kona, I might get slapped, I might get to ride her bike, or I might get laid? 2 outta 3, right on Smile
  • 14 0
 "Excuse me sir, where's your local Kona shop?".... gives a new meaning to the term your local Kona Dealer...
  • 1 0
 Actually it's spelled "Cona" despite sounding identical. Even if one tries to use it in context (like a sugar daddy), most (sober' ish) girls will get offended and instantly rejective. Bear in mind this is not the way to get you laid in Algarve...

...i guess...

PS: Use "pito" instead, it's much more lovable! (spelled: "p[ee]tu")
  • 71 1
 Thanks for making affordable bikes.
  • 57 2
 This ^ Take note Santa Cruz
  • 96 2
 We often say at our company that we create mountain bikes that help create mountain bikers
  • 14 0
 Well, keep up the good work. Many of us have a wife, kids, and a mortgage... but we still love to shred. Don't forget to keep a budget line of good bikes for those of us with other priorities in life to manage.
  • 24 0
 we get most of our bikes and parts for free, but we can barely afford the sport, so we hear you!
  • 12 40
flag petikalo (Feb 19, 2014 at 12:32) (Below Threshold)
 Well, I can say 3000 eur for a process is definitely less than 4800 eur for a heckler, but its still a ridiculously big amount of money for a bike. Okay, I cant compare mtb market to motorbike market, and enduro mtb-s are high end low weight stuff, but the "we create mountain bikes to help create mountain bikers" statement is a bit of an exaggeration. Only professional bikers or spoiled american children (sorry for such an expression but i can count hungarian guys who ride the latest stuff on my two hands) can afford, or want to buy such a bike, the rest will choose soccer... What we need is a simple bike without the need of the latest developements. For example why the hell is it so important to change the frame every single year? Of course it costs two times more... I cant believe that there wouldnt be thousends of costumers for a 1000 eur playbike (process was originally named as a playbike, but i think a playbike is something you are not afraid to use in mud and shit and you dont get angry as an expensive part needs to be changed). (Sorry for my english)
  • 22 2
 Take a look at our Precept. 1500US dual suspension mountain bike.

konaworld.com/precept.cfm
  • 20 2
 @petikalo's "question"... way to ignore everything in the guidelines for this Q & A. I thought this was about fit & geometry, not bitching about the mountain bike industry and the cost of this sport. At least they were nice enough to acknowledge that rant, but you are barking up the wrong tree if you are going to call out KONA (of all brands) for over-charging for their products. I guess us "spoiled American children" will keep scraping together $$ to keep riding, you have fun playing soccer... which leads me to this question: If this sport is for spoiled American children, what are you doing on here?
  • 3 0
 Another thank you. Very happy with my Entourage and Tanuki.
  • 4 11
flag petikalo (Feb 20, 2014 at 9:25) (Below Threshold)
 haha @scottrallye thats a smart reaction. As to mention the guidelines for Q & A, the "question" I replied to was also not a question, but idolizing the brand, what makes me always angry when reading pinkbike. Brands are for us, and not vice versa. I were not bitching the industry, I only wrote my opinion, and you can probably not read if you misunderstood so much my sentence about soccer... KONA is going to the direction of trek and specialized, if you wanna see some new pioneers who offer some bikes for a good price-to-value ratio take a look at propain bikes or carver bikes... I know that this comment will also be below treshold but at least this topic will be less monotone Big Grin .
  • 58 2
 How far along is the carbon Process?
  • 5 1
 That is the answer I think a lot of us want to know...
  • 2 1
 Very much this!! ^^^^ And if you do launch carbon versions, I'll have mine in the same colour as Carbon Operator please, the black and lime green looks sick!
  • 8 1
 theyve (134) been spotted in the wild (Seymour in Vancouver) apparently testing for 2015 release
  • 22 1
 Lets just say the Process has begun.
  • 3 2
 Its after 11:00 AM PST, Carbon Process release???
  • 2 0
 We still lack an answer.. @Kimbers I hope you are right!
  • 2 0
 Clearly the top question. Konaworld where you @? "***CRICKETS***"
  • 17 1
 Kimbers
  • 6 38
flag SoCalMX (Feb 19, 2014 at 12:25) (Below Threshold)
 Ok, thanks for the smart ass sweep the little guy under the rug non answer.
  • 24 2
 We thought you would prefer that response to a highly spun marketing non-answer! Kona is committed to progressing the Process line. As the Operator shows we are committed to carbon as a material. We cannot confirm anything more than that at this time.
  • 3 5
 Are you going to make the seat tube a more reasonable length on the XL frame? A bike with a super long Reach that fits tall riders does not go well with a super short seat tube of 18.3". This is a show stopper for anyone 6'3" and above.
  • 13 1
 The Process frames are designed to work with a dropper post only, and we spec different length posts across the sizes. The XL bicycles ship with the longest option from KS.

We found when we were developing this bike, that shorter riders riding bike with traditional sizing could not get there dropper posts low enough, or, their dropper posts are as low in the frame as they can get. We realized that this is a waste of metal (weight) and you could design a bike with a lower ST which would allow for much more standover (important on the larger sizes). So that is what we went with, and it allows the standover we get with our frames.

We have riders from 5'4" to 6'5" or more (chris mandell) riding process bikes and finding a size that works for them.
  • 2 0
 as long as the process has begun, that's good enough for me, hopefully I can hold out long enough to wait for it!
  • 1 6
flag corywilliam (Feb 19, 2014 at 19:04) (Below Threshold)
 what do you guys do with your tested or broken DH frames?
  • 1 0
 @konaworld: Your position here, (now many years later), speaks volumes about Kona's visionary, and inclusive approach to frame Geometry.

I had been shopping for a Santa Cruz, and found that basically to get a 'good fit' for my 6'4" from the waist up, and Shetland Pony from the waist down body... I could pay top dollar for the latest 2019+ from SC XL, and XXL's with low Standover and longer reach / ETT, or... I could buy anything from the Process line going several years back, and get the nice blue color I wanted. About to hammer down on a 2018 CR. Trying to decide between 134 and 153, but in a geometry race between Kona, Yeti, and Santa Cruz, the fact that you did it early, pretty damn well, and affordably... that earns my money. Thanks for realizing good geometry and efficient engineering could solve all the variables!
  • 53 12
 I'm a mechanical engineering student now, hoping to break my way into the mountain bike industry in a few years. Other than grades and completed engineering requirements, what sets engineers hired by bike companies like Kona apart? What can I do now to better prepare me to work in the industry?
  • 63 11
 Understanding that details matter and you aren't supposed to ask questions until Wednesday is a start Smile
  • 33 4
 Hey LavenderGrooms,
I am an engineering student as well aspiring to be in the bike industry. I have had the opportunity to talk with many engineers in the industry (big companies and not so big) and I have acquired mainly these three things. First is personality. Its important to be friendly, approachable, stoked, and want to get everyone riding bikes by making better designs. Second would be being apart of the community. Bike industry employers love to hire someone who races frequently, does group rides, does trail building days, ect. Lastly, I was also told that it doesn't hurt to have a small portfolio of bike parts made or designed by you. I have simple things like seatpost clamps, lock-on clamps, stems, ect.(it doesn't hurt to design a whole bike!) innovation and sick looks help. I hope this brief list helps and wish you luck in your future endeavors!

-Stephan
  • 35 2
 @shredjekyll Child please! My career can't wait til Wednesday.
  • 5 0
 Showing initiative like this makes you already stand out. Power to ya.
  • 3 0
 LavenderGooms; Same boat as you man. When fox did their ask us anything I posed a very similar question and got a thorough answer from another big name in industry, if you're interested in reading what they had to say. I think my comment is really close to the top (excluding replies to comments haha).

www.pinkbike.com/u/richardcunningham/blog/Ask-Us-Anything-Fox-Factory.html
  • 1 0
 I have a similiar question, but planning further ahead as i am in my pre-freshman stages at this point
  • 9 0
 @at all posters

its a tough gig to break in the bike industry

in the early 90's I was studying a degree in Industrial Design, and needed 2 summer placements (for 2nd and 3rd year of my 4 year course) with employers. I got offered placements with Specialized USA and Cannondale USA but could not obtain clearance to work in the USA with such short notice

with this failure, I started my own company Bombproof Bikes Ltd. and purchased rear suspension technology for leading USA innovator Horst Leitner (Horst Pivot a.k.a Specialized FSR)

here is the result:

www.pinkbike.com/photo/9285933

ep1.pinkbike.org/p4pb5488175/p4pb5488175.jpg
  • 2 0
 reminds me of Hukk bikes
  • 3 1
 bombproof, lol. now i know where nukeproof came from Wink
  • 2 0
 major props @hampsteadbandit for starting bombproof and doing what you did. im sure that experience really made you much more awesome as a person. creating stories.
  • 37 0
 I think we could care less about your grades or if you have taken thermodynamics 2 or whatever ME class. If we were to hire a new engineer, the most important thing is that we could throw them on a project and expect them to figure it out themselves and make smart decisions.

in order to make sure we hired a guy who can do that, I would say it is pretty much a requirement that you do or have done Formula SAE. if you are going to a school without Formula SAE either transfer to a school that has it, or start it. We need to know you can build something that works. A lot of engineers have great grades and a great theoretical understanding, but if you tell them to design a pivot, they wont know where to start. Baja SAE is also cool...but not quite as cool Wink

The other thing that is important is you have to ride a lot and at least be a good enough at riding to be able to test a product. You don't have to be pro or anything, but not a total hack.

Also, last thing, dont be so focused on bike industry as your first job out of school. if you really want it, have some other jobs first, make mistakes there, and be ready and have the skills by the time you are applying to bike places. And hopefully by then you will have the portfolio we want to see.
  • 3 0
 Ha, this is the exact opposite of advice Joe Graney gave in an interview to engineering students. He said forget Formula SAE because every single person has it on their resume. He wanted to know if you could actually build anything, machining, etc. Portfolio of your own projects where you made bike related stuff....
  • 2 0
 el-train: not every employer wants the same thing.. although i think it would be better to have something like that in your portfolio AND examples of your work.. versus just having examples of your work.
  • 1 0
 el-train: i think the point kona was trying to make is you have to be able to build shit, and FSAE is a good place to learn how to do that.
  • 2 0
 Slightly OT, but last week I met a designer that just got hired to design products for LEGO, he tried for 15 years to get that job. Now he designs complete sets of LEGO - His dream job as he said. You could see in his enthusiasm as he spoke about his job that the 15 years were worth it.
  • 18 0
 Will you guys ever remake/re-release the Cowan DS/Bass or the Dudu/Howler? I feel that a company like Kona needs a slopestyle/4X bike to round out its bike lineup. Plus if Trek is doing it and you're not, you know something is wrong.
  • 6 0
 That is really interesteing question... Missing the Bass...
  • 3 0
 Exactly. I feel like Kona really needs a slopestyle bike right now.
  • 14 0
 Thanks for this question!!! Over the last few years we have worked on several different versions of a 'New Bass' and none of them have performed as we would have liked. We are still working on this project... the 'when' is impossible to say at this point.
  • 1 0
 Hmm, somewhat promising answer. However having had both a Dudu and a Cowan DS I can attest to the fact that they both performed quite well for what they were. Concentric BB suspension designs are never going to create amazing-feeling FS bikes but they will do the job of allowing a single speed full suspension, which is a desirable trait these days.
  • 2 0
 I'm fearing the day my Bass goes to bike heaven. My ankles are too old and worked for a hard-tail! Wink

I can only guess that you're trying to give it more of a dj-hardtail geometry - the one thing the Bass doesn't really have. Whatever the case, I'm confident the solution is within your grasp and will anxiously wait and see. *fingers crossed*
  • 22 5
 I had a 1996 Explosif steel hardtail that i cracked the dropout. I was resting easy because I knew you guys had lifetime warranty, but my shop told me no, what's the story there?
  • 5 2
 I hear ya, but you're missing a zillion details including the shop's explanation.

1. Just because the dropout cracked doesn't mean you get a new frame. If it was deemed to be a manufacturing issue: new frame. If was deemed to be rider abuse: no new frame.

2. Are you trying to do a warranty on a 18 year old frame? Or was this 10 years ago?
  • 1 0
 I think it's actually a 2004 or so, so "only" 10 years old.
  • 7 0
 So you guys know, we don't have our warranty guys on this forum to answer questions like this. We have a very solid warranty crew. If you'd like to pick it up with them please go to konaworld.com or you can reach out on our Facebook page.
  • 14 1
 Can you explain how the kinematic for a bike like the Operator differs from one for a bike like the 111. How is the setup different and what were you looking to achieve in terms of what the rider feels out on the trail?
  • 6 0
 well specifically with two bikes, one has 29 inch wheels and one has 26. also one has nearly twice as much travel as the other, so the design considerations and goals for each bike were quite different. This is due to the bikes being ridden in completely different zones and types of trails. with that said, both bikes follow our overall philosophy of short rear center, longer front center, low BB, a predictable shock curve, so the bike reacts similarly no matter where you are in the travel, etc.
  • 11 1
 Not going to lie here, previous to this year and sort of last year… kona wasn't exactly my favourite bike purely because of looks and every 12 year old had a stinky. But this year, you have completely turned around and produced some of the best looking and from what i have heard, great performing bikes. What caused the (major) turn around in brand image, product design etc?
  • 2 35
flag trauty (Feb 19, 2014 at 11:06) (Below Threshold)
 simple design copy from competition with slight hint of own approach to it.
  • 14 0
 We realized that no matter how popular a bike is, it has a product cycle. Much like most things in life. About five years ago there was a real desire company wide to develop bikes that were true to what we stand for at Kona, but were also unique and stood out in the marketplace. At that time our communications department and our product department started working very closely together. Bikes are stories essentially. And, well, a good story is a super powerful thing.
  • 2 0
 Every product has a life cycle. Smile
  • 9 0
 Big fan, and my apologies if this has been answered. For 2014, frankly speaking, Kona has some of the most modern geometried bikes on the market. It's absolutely fantastic. Now, a few of us are wondering. Now that Spec will be losing the FSR patent in the near future, will Kona be adopting the standard for their bikes, or will they remain as a single pivot linkage actuated suspension.
  • 16 0
 Thanks for the props! When we began the Process process, we knew that the FSR patent was expiring and that we could use it. We looked into it, built some stuff, analyzed some things, and found out that it didn't help what we were trying to do in any way, so there was no reason for it. That is not to say that FSR doesn't work, or doesn't do anything. Its just that for the goals we were trying to achieve with this bike, it didn't fit.
  • 7 0
 I know that the Kona Unit is not listed as one of the bikes as a topic of discussion, but I have to ask. How did the Unit become the benchmark bike for single speed riders when the company has such a focus on DH and AM bikes? By the way the new slacker HT and short CS on the 2014 Unit ride amazing. How did you get there when everyone else is 2 degrees steeper? If my question doesn't qualify due to model, thanks anyway. -Peper
  • 6 0
 at the Kona USA office we have a hardcore group of SS dudes. This gave us the insight and creativity we needed to build a killer SS hard tail that we wanted to ride ourselves.
  • 22 16
 Hey Kona peoples. New bikes are looking really nice. My question is:
Would you rather 1) spend a night in passionate spooning embrace with Justin Bieber with him softly whispering spoken word versions of his most popular songs in your ear and no one would ever find out or 2) Not sleep with Justin Bieber but everyone thinks you did...for your entire life?
  • 13 0
 I don't understand the question. Is it supposed the choice of two embarrassing situations? I mean, just because she's flat chested and wears a bit too much make-up, I'm sure she has her charms.

I've never heard any of Ms Beiber's songs, so perhaps that it.
  • 20 2
 Who is Justin Bieber?
  • 18 0
 we prefer Miley Cyrus.
  • 3 1
 isn't that Miley Cyrus' sister?
  • 56 1
 you can wreck my ball anytime
  • 3 0
 lol
  • 7 0
 I am a big fan of Kona and I am wondering about your grassroots program and what is the best approach to get a grassroots level sponsorship with Kona. Cheers!
  • 7 0
 Best way to go is to approach your local Kona Dealer
  • 5 0
 Can you guys talk about the software tools/packages that you use to design the bikes? How do you study the kinematics of the bikes and how the computer data translate to the real world? Have you find some solutions that work great in the numbers but not so good in the dirt?
  • 8 1
 We use Solidworks. most of the bike industry uses Solidworks or Pro-E. Tools like CATIA and Unigraphics are too expensive and too overkill for our industry. Kinematics are done in Solidworks, Excel and in a few other programs. It seems they all give slightly different answers, so it is best to use them all and make your own decisions about what is really going on, and correlate that to ride testing. Yes! figuring out numbers that look cool on paper but don't work in life is easy to do which I don't think many people realize. Also it's easy to design a bike on paper but it turns out the main pivot is in the middle of the FD or the CS will hit the RD or something like that. To get a bike right you have to find the best compromise between all these things and then test ride the crap out of it.
  • 6 0
 Hey Kona
Just resently bought your 2014 carbon operator and nothing but positive on the bike absolutely love it thx for a killer weapon!, now what's your thought on putting a 180mm fork on it? Thx appreacite it
  • 2 0
 The axle to crown measurement difference between a 203mm travel Fox 40 and a 180mm travel Fox 36 is 5.9mm. The geometry change is very minor. When I inquired about installing a single crown fork, the only concern from Kona was if the crown would clear the downtube since they didn't test that during product development. A Fox 36 crown clears the downtube without issue.
  • 3 0
 Awesome! Thank you very much for the reply cheers!
  • 5 0
 Will buying a Kona make me as steezy as Aggy?

But in all seriousness - keep up the good work! I've been a kona supporter for a long time and you guys are doing great things! I plan on adding a third kona (a process) to my collection this summer!
  • 10 0
 Aggy plays a huge role in the development and testing of our Gravity bikes.
  • 2 0
 The kid does a great job at representing your brand. He was the main reason I bought my first kona back in the day!
  • 7 2
 You guys pretty much already nailed the explanation of short chain stays, low bb, long tt, standover, short stem, and ha in www.bikemag.com/gear/bike-exclusive-konas-2014-process-line

After scanning through the comments, I feel like your time is wasted here considering the audience.
  • 5 0
 Same question as others above: When can I expect the large Process 153 I ordered in November? All of the bike's features are a non-issue if I can never get my hands on the thing!

I've turned down smoking deals on other bikes over the last few months, but if I can't get my Process by March, I may be forced to give up the dream and ask my dealer for my money back. (Half the reason I bought it was to race it at Sea Otter.) I would hate to have to switch at this point though.
  • 1 0
 Same thing here. Ordered the Large 153 DL, last November. No problem waiting till jan/feb. But March or longer may have me looking at other options.
  • 3 2
 Hey guys, Process 153s should be delivered to shops in the next 6-10 weeks. They're coming!
  • 1 0
 I guess you have your answer. If 6 week delivery really does happen then you might have one week to ride it before sea otter.
  • 2 0
 That's definitely not the answer I was hoping for. If it turns out to be 10 weeks, I will have waited roughly six months for my bike. Worse yet, I sold my old trail bike last month when I received word that the Process would arrive by the end of January. It may be time to look into other options. Thanks for the response though.
  • 3 0
 we got 153's at our store.
  • 2 0
 Check your PMs, please.
  • 2 0
 53's in larges and extra larges in stock today at our shop.
  • 1 0
 Connecticut? That's a long way from my place, I'm afraid. This is killing me.
  • 2 0
 We are more than willing to ship if you cannot find anything. @rb716
  • 1 0
 Just got word that my Process 153 frame is in the shop and ready for pick up. Sweet! (Ordered in November, aware of wait time, glad to see it was no longer than expected.)
  • 9 5
 Why or why did you make the process with such a ridiculously short seat tube. The reach measurements on those XL sized bikes are for people 6'4" and over. Yet the seat tubes are for people under 6'. That could've been an awesome bike for tall people. 18" ST on an XL makes absolutely no sense on any planet.
  • 3 0
 Related question: on the entire process line, why do the S bikes have the same seat-tube length as the M bikes? At 177cm tall, I would have liked the option of the size M, but am forced onto the size L as I could not get the seatpost high enough. Seatposts are not that long!
  • 2 0
 Ditto :-( .....but sick bike!
  • 4 0
 I'm 6'3", and ride a Process 111 DL quite comfortably.
  • 5 0
 I'm in the same boat, but I have more trouble with DH bikes. Why do so few companies make XL DH bikes? Tall people are real people too.
  • 9 1
 OK so with the Process bikes, and their unique geometry, you cant really look at sizing the bike for you with the seat tube length. That is one of the reasons the bikes have letter sizing like S M LL not 16 17 18....

We found when we were developing this bike, that shorter riders riding bike with traditional sizing could not get there dropper posts low enough, or, their dropper posts are as low in the frame as they can get. We realized that this is a waste of metal (weight) and you could design a bike with a lower ST which would allow for much more standover. So that is what we went with, and it allows the standover we get with our frames.

With that said, our frames will work best with a dropper post only, as they were not designed for a fixed post. Also, if you are sizing down a frame size, they ST might be too short, but we dont think people should be doing that anyway. If you size down a frame, you just threw away the whole longer reach thing we are trying to achieve.

we have people from 5'4" to 6'5" or more (chris mandell) riding process bikes and finding a size that works for them.
  • 3 3
 Looks like you guys didn't check with enough tall riders. I'm 6'5" and just can't ride a bike with a 18" seat tube without too much post showing (beyond the max limit). Maybe with a 420mm Reverb but then it just looks ridiculous. I can easily run a 6" dropper with 21" seat tube. 20.5" would be ideal for the XL IMO.
  • 2 0
 true ! i'm in the same boat...6'6 and even on the xl it's too short.....you tend to run a std seatpost at the same height as a dropper post so the argument is invalid as the length between seat and bottom bracket remains is the same for both....it's just too much post to have sticking out , and i've had to use a titec scoper ...
  • 2 0
 Yeah I'm 6'7" and need a 22-23" seattube to get full extension. Everyone I know about the 6'4" range needs at least a 20" as well. Oh well. Too bad. I was really interested in that bike.
  • 6 1
 Have you chaps at Kona, done any time trials, comparing the difference between the wheel sizes, on a variety of terrains, but specifically interested in the more technical downhill stuff?
  • 3 2
 We have done extensive wheel size testing and most of it on the technical terrain found in Cascadia!
  • 4 0
 I'm a Graphic Designer, hoping to break my way into the mountain bike industry. Apart from a University degree in design with top grades and a portfolio with cool work, what would be a key factor for a company looking for graphic designers? and any tips you would like to throw my way?

Also I ride a 2011 Kona Stinky TL Awsome bike Big Grin
  • 7 1
 We dont care if you have a university degree, nor do we care if you even went to one. what you need is: a killer portfolio that will blow us away with bike specific projects.

also you need a good knowledge of the process used in production for bike graphics. speaking Chinese would also be a plus Wink
  • 4 0
 Looking at the leverage ratio and anti squat of Process line - the things that some people find most important when judging the bike - the leverage looks rather flat and anti squat very low, but despite this numbers the testers find the bikes very good at descending and good climbers, how do you explain this, some voodoo going on? lol
  • 4 0
 yes, its all voodoo.....with a little kinematics thrown in.

We designed these bikes (and the operator) with a flattish leverage rate curve, as we believe it is important for the rider to know how the bike will respond to his or her input no matter where he or she is in the travel. Having a more predictable bike, will allow for the rider to be faster.

As for why the bikes climb or descend well: there is a lot more to making a bike that climbs well than what this or that curve is doing. I think if you just focus on those curves and ignore everything else, you won't end up with a good bike. We try to make sure we balance the kinematics with everything else that makes a bike great.
  • 1 0
 I guess lots to do with geo, ergonomy and stiffness... low BB's, short rear ends, steep seat tubes and long top tubes do climb and ride better in general than the more older/classic designs. Glad to see you are pursuing this and are having a great success so far, i wish you all the best and can't wait to see and try the future models. Smile
  • 4 0
 You guys have clearly adopted the short chainstay long reach philosophy over the long chainstay short reach design. I am certain that this helps you put more weight on the front wheel when you want to get forward and creates a snappier handling bike.
I would love to hear your take on: front center vs rear center vs reach and how they tie into the horizontal center of gravity of the rider. (I know stack will have some influence on this but figure there is already enough variables for discussion)
Thanks!

Dan
  • 3 0
 The relationship between the front center, rear center and wheelbase is really important. We think of front center as the 'Leveraged' portion of the wheelbase and the rear center as the 'Un-Leaverage' portion of the wheelbase. We would have a hard time detailing how the FC-RC-WB relationship impacts the horizontal center of gravity. Certainly it has an impact as speed increases, how much is hard to say. A geometry measurement which would have a more significant influence on the height of the horizontal center of gravity would be Bottom Bracket Drop.
  • 2 0
 Thanks for the reply, that is a cool way of looking at the RC vs FC. Regarding the stack, I was actually thinking the stack would have a large effect on the "horizontal" center of gravity in that it forces your weight more onto or less onto the front wheel depending on how low it is.
  • 1 0
 Love short chainstays!
  • 2 6
flag jclnv (Feb 19, 2014 at 14:14) (Below Threshold)
 Hate short chainstays, love optimum size specific rear centres. 440mm medium and +/- 10mm on other sizes.
  • 14 7
 do you design bikes so the 14 year olds on pinkbike will like them?
  • 3 0
 We're a bike dealer that really emphasizes fit. We offer a lifetime, relationship-based fitting to every person that buys a bike from us. As a Kona dealer is there anything particular or unique that we should know about fitting bikes with this new geometry? I understand the handling differences, but is the body position uniquely different. If so, in what way? Thanks, folks.

Tell Angi she owes me one for that 5 a.m. icy drive to the aiport yesterday.
  • 2 0
 Our advice would be to look at Reach + Stem on customer's former bikes, use that as a baseline for finding fit on the Process line.
  • 5 0
 Also, Angi owes you big time!
  • 1 0
 Good advice. Thanks for supplying stack and reach dimensions on all of your geometries. It really makes our lives a lot easier.
  • 9 2
 Do you have a remote lever that can launch a dump 360 like Aggy?
  • 8 0
 No, just a bike: 2014 Kona Entourage
  • 5 1
 Head angles seem to slacken year by year. In 2009 67 degrees was considered slack... Is it in your plans to slacken more the enduro bikes' ha, (say 65degrees)?
I think it is the thing to come in a few years.
  • 2 0
 The current thinking is 'Slacker the better' has it's merits: modern Trail / DH bikes are going faster and riding steeper trails.

But the selection of every angle on a bike is a balancing act. HeadAngle is a particularly tricky one. Going slack slows the steering input, takes weight off the front wheel and increases the wheelbase.

So... Will bikes get slacker? Hard to say. We feel that we have struck a good balance between HA, WB, FC, stem length...
  • 3 0
 Had an old stab, was a sick bike.
Have the new operator, it is an unreal even sicker bike!!
Have got a Canecreek DB on it now and was wondering if you have a tune up for it?? Have 300lbs spring and weigh about 70kg, and many thanks for my sick ride!!
  • 8 0
 Jack here: I ran a DB air on my proto operator for a while. great shock for that bike. I would say start with all the C R settings right in the middle and tweak from there, i was usually just a few clicks away from the middle on all my adjustments.

Also play around with a volume spacer or two. With our flattish leverage rate curves, you might find yourself bottoming out without tweaking the air can volume.
  • 3 0
 www.canecreek.com/products/suspension/double-barrel/base-tunes
  • 3 0
 First off, thanks for taking the time to do this! I've got a couple questions:

Fit and geometry are very dependant on proper suspension set up. Is there an ideal sag percentage for the process series? Specifically the 153?

I've noticed that the Monarch Plus on my 153 DL sags to 30%, when seated, between 180 and 220 psi. A forty psi difference seems pretty wide to sag to the same percentage. Should I have my shock looked at?
  • 2 0
 We suggest using 30% as a baseline for setting up suspension. From there you should fine tune the air pressure based on travel useage: riding too deep in the travel or bottoming out harshly? Add air pressure.

It does take a bit of air pressure to move the sag point. This is why it should be considered a starting point.
  • 1 0
 Thanks!
  • 3 0
 I have purchased a Process111 and am anxiously awaiting its arrival. I purchased a large but am 6'3" with 34 inch inseem. My test ride went well but should I have purchased the XL? I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to reduce the stem length if the fit was too big. Is this thinking flawed? Please provide sizing guidance
  • 1 0
 Fit guidance over the internet is a difficult one. Given that you test rode the bike and worked through a bike shop you should feel confident that you selected the size that will fit the best. I would note that we feel that riders have the most to gain with the shortest possible stem and shortest possible ST. Because of this we advise against sizing down.
  • 4 0
 Will Kona be dropping the Entourage for 2015? If so....Is there any chance for a new generation "freeride" bike?
Thanks Much!!!
Love your Entourage..Most FUN bike I've owned..by FAR!!!
  • 3 1
 We can't answer that question, but don't worry the fun will continue!
  • 5 1
 What percentage of anti-squat do you aim to achieve for downhill bikes vs. enduro. Are there differences? And how much is too much in your opinion for their respective categories?
  • 5 3
 We try not to look at any one attribute of the suspension like anti squat, axle path, or whatever and focus just on that. Instead, we ask ourselves "what do we want this bike to do and how do we want it to ride?". from there, we try to balance all those 100's of little things to meet our overall goal.
  • 7 15
flag jclnv (Feb 19, 2014 at 14:17) (Below Threshold)
 Great question. Crap answer.
  • 3 0
 Before the carbon operator was released you said it would be available as a frame kit (with an RC4)
Is this going to come in the future or have you decided not to make it a production product?
  • 2 0
 Frame only is and still will be an option for the Operator, they are just back ordered currently.
  • 2 0
 Hi Guys,

Thanks for doing this. Huge benefit to the community here.

My question is this - on the new process line of bikes, why are the seat tube lengths so short? I don't know about other people, but at 6'4" with about a 36 inch inseam, a 20 inch seat tube is about the MINIMUM i can get by with coupled with a 410-420mm seat post.

Thanks,
S
  • 3 1
 The Process frames are designed around having a dropper post spec. Because most dropper posts come with a fairly long, what is essentially, seat tube, our designers figured doubling up on the metal was pointless. The dropper post itself counts for a good portion of what would normally be seat tube. Really, what's the point of having a dropper post dropped all the way into the bike? This allowed for the Process standover to be incredibly low. Our product manager is 6'5" and rides a XL no problem.
  • 5 3
 The internal routing through the frame is s#*t, (dirt ingress and drag at the ferules and internal liner) Can I drill the entry and exit holes in the frame so I can run a single outer without losing my warranty please. Ie please change this.
carbon 153? When please?
Absolutely love my 153, Thank you
  • 1 0
 Sorry to hear that you are having issues. We have tested this system extensively in the Pacific North West... normally as wet and muddy as the UK and not had issues. One 'trick' for cleaning the lines is to blast air from an air compressor through the lines. Glad to hear you like the bike!
  • 1 0
 must admit been getting drag in my rear mech too on my 153!, more so than with my old dawg, definately dirt ingress other than that bike is amazing, this winter in the uk has been wet
  • 6 0
 Will Kona be releasing a Slopestyle bike again sometime in the future?
  • 2 1
 It's definitely a possibility, but we can't give you a definite yes.
  • 1 0
 Make it so! My '09 Bass is living on borrowed time. Wink
  • 3 0
 Hey guys, I am curious about frame only options on the Operator and 153dl, no shock, are those even options? also, what drove you to choose press fit bb's instead of threaded external that are so prevalent in the industry?
  • 3 0
 The Supreme Operator Frame only has a Fox RC4. The Process 153 DL frame only has a RS Monarch Plus RC3. We use 73mm threaded BBs when we can. We switch to PF92 BBs when we have space constraints which necessitate the wider BB. For instance, on a full suspension frame a wider main pivot will greatly increase the stiffness of the rear triangle and we can make the pivot considerably wider with a PF92 BB shell.
  • 1 0
 whats the cost on a frame only? i havent been able to find the option anywhere=( also, i see one woman on your roster for 2014 and she a cyclocross rider. Are there any ladies repping Kona on the Enduro/DH freeride scene? I know a worthy candidate one if you guys are shopping....Wink
  • 2 0
 Its not on the website, but talk to your local Kona dealer and they will get you sorted out. Thanks! For factory riders, you are correct, but we have a lot of Grass Roots and Super Grass Roots riders of both genders and many disciplines of riding getting after it.
  • 2 0
 Can the 134 Process handle a 160mm Pike like the 153? Are the framesets essentially the same wall thickness? I’m enjoying the blend of pedaling efficiency of the 134 and the slacker head angle achieved with the longer fork. Just want to make sure I’m not damaging anything.

I know it’s not uncommon in pro races to run longer forks, ie. Jared Graves in the World Championships with his Enduro bike and Brendan Fairclough in the upcoming World Cup DH as well as a few other Enduro riders.

Thanks
  • 2 0
 We designed the geometry on the 134 to use a 140mm fork. If you are looking for slacker / longer travel we would suggest you to look at the 153.
  • 2 0
 This. The 153 is too much bike for what I'm looking for. My ideal bike is a very burly trail bike and the 134 fits the bill except for that Revelation fork. This was a common criticism (for not just kona) in bike mags bible of bikes testing.

@HonzoRider - how's the ride with the pike? Notice any flex? Any washing out on climbs? I'm guess Kona warranty guys will say no way to a pike to cover their asses but I'd like to know, if we assumed the risk, what the likelihood of damage would be.
  • 1 0
 @rmd99 the Pike is travel adjustable. For MY14 we felt the Revelation fork had the best balance of weight and performance for the Process 134.
  • 1 0
 rmd99, I really like it with a Pike at 160mm. It has now drawbacks and slackens the head angle a bit. I stand 90 percent of the time, so weighting the front end is not a problem. Also, I built from the frame up so I have no experience with the revelation. It feels natural to me and not at all unbalanced. I have a 150mm air spring to swap to but haven't found a reason yet.

Konaworld didn't really answer my question. All I want to know is if the head tube/frame is significantly different from a wall thickness perspective. I had a 153, but it wasn't what I wanted from a pedaling perspective. A Piked out 134 is the shizz! I transferred my 153dl build to my 134dl frame.
  • 1 1
 @konaworld thanks for the reply! The Pike adjusts down to 150mm not 140mm. I get that it might void warranty for legal reasons, but if I were to assume risk, do you think that a 150mm pike would negatively affect performance or cause problems? It is only an extra 10mm.
  • 2 0
 rmd99, you can get it to 140mm with a 26" 150mm air spring. Lot's of people are doing it to the Santacruz solo/5010. They're calling the Frankenstein bike a "Brolo."
  • 3 0
 HonzoRider,

Thanks for this info man! Really good to know you can get it down to 140mm. It sounds like you're after the same kind of ride as me; I wouldn't mind a touch slacker head angle on the 134 but think the 153 is too much bike.

The other bikes on my radar are the Bronson, Pivot Mach 6, Transition Bandit, and Norco Sight. But maybe I'll just bite the bullet and give a Process 134 with a 160mm PIke a go.

Glad you're loving your bike!
  • 1 0
 We want a 143 w/150 pike! Haha
  • 6 4
 Why doesn't Kona support its local scene here in Cascadia more? As a Bellingham resident I feel Kona is nearly non-existent in terms of supporting it's local scene. I'd love to buy a Process but I'm getting a Covert because Transition is more involved in the community and helping local riders get on their bikes.
  • 6 1
 Seriously D? Is this because you cant get a bro deal and or a Process because they are sold out? I happen to know several Kona employees who are engaged with the community to build trails and or secure access to land in the area. Kona has also donated thousands of dollars to trail organizations over the years and countless volunteer hours.
  • 5 0
 kona is grassroots sponsoring my buddy's enduro team out of portland.
  • 2 1
 Sorry Trevor my mistake, this has nothing to do with how much Kona gives to us locally. I know that a lot of Kona employees are extremely involved in the trails around here but my question is more about how many riders do you see around here on a Kona? It's a question about how sales are handled locally. I personally like the way Transition does it and I would like to see Kona doing something similar. I think it would be benefit Kona too, more local riders would jump at the chance to get a Process, Operator, Jake, Shred, ect.
  • 2 2
 The local Bellingham shop where you can buy a Kona is Jack's Bikes.
  • 2 0
 I agree with highstreet's clarification and it's inline with the question I asked here. For being 10-15 minutes up the road, you just don't see a lot of guys and gals on Kona's around town, especially the gravity line.
  • 2 0
 Dear all,
I plan to build my own Downhill Bikeframe. Do you have any suggestions on
how I can learn more about how my suspensiondesign and the choice of the
linkage affects handling? I'd like do learn more about the single options
(single pivot, vpp etc. chainstay, mass-center) affect the suspension and
handling? Is it just experience and learning by doing or is there the
possibility to predict the handling "whit science"? If you have any
suggestions how I can learn more about it (literature or pc-programs)
without studying mechanics I'd be thankful!!
  • 3 0
 I would suggest going to bike shops and just chatting with the guys there. they can be pretty knowledgeable about this kind of stuff and some are trained by companies whose bikes they sell. Just make sure you talk to a lot of people so you get a broad understanding.
  • 2 0
 Also, there is a program, called optimum K that is used exlcusively for suspension system design. I am a student currently studying mechanical engineering, and work with the program to help design suspension points for a formula SAE racecar. Only downside: it ain't cheap.
  • 2 0
 How does the pedaling efficiency on the process 153 compare to that of similar bikes such as the bronson or mach 6? Also, do you guys have plans to create a carbon process platform withing the near future (next couple of years)? Im very curious! Thanks for your time!
  • 6 1
 Things like comparing pedaling efficiency between bikes can be done all day with graphs, data, etc. the thing is, looking at one variable or another, you lose the whole picture. Also, what good pedaling efficiency" means to one person could be different to someone else. Our advice, go ride all these bikes and decide for yourself.
  • 2 0
 Hi i have a very good question .that includes everything this form is about today. i think kona bikes are some of the best bikes out there with models line that let you grow . my question is this i am a 43yr old male freerider dh guy.but does some xc rideing and planning to do enduro. i am 6" 1 with a very long middle.but with only a 28"inseam . i weigh about 280. i ride a meduim frame bike. but not all meduims arethe same. i cant ride any 29ers i try this at my buddies shop. with your new system would this help me and would a 27.5 tire be worth my time
  • 1 0
 your best bet is to head to a Kona dealer and sit on a bike at the shop, you will get a much better fit there than you will on the internet.
  • 2 0
 Friends from south america call me asking me to find them 2013 small process frames cause the new ones run the bigger wheelset and are harder to ride for them (average rider is about 5 and 5" ) any chance of producing 26" for that market ?
  • 3 0
 Stay tuned to what we have in store for 2015
  • 9 0
 ^i like what you've said here, i think. 26 live @ kona?!
  • 2 0
 Hey! i bought a supreme operator 2012 1.5 year ago! I spent near 4000euros. The frame cracked and instead of a new Supreme operator i got the park. The retail price of the bike is less than the half of the supremes retail one. You think this is fair? How all the same situations with me are gonna get solved? Cheers! Mario from greece
  • 2 1
 Dude, U recieved the exactly same frame as U've sent to Kona...
Same materials, same everything, so why are U complaining?
There was a lot of guys who recieved the Supereme operator frame after braking the standard one.
  • 2 1
 Hi Mario, please get in touch with our warranty guys through your shop or online, they will get you sorted. Thanks!
  • 2 0
 Thanks a lot! keep up the good work!! P.S. I will miss the Cowan ds.. Hope for a dynamic return of it!
  • 2 0
 Why was Magic Link V3 abandoned after just one year? It seemed to be an effective platform, and the Abra Cadabra seemed like a good balance of weight/travel/pedalability for an Enduro racer. What did your athletes think of the Magic Link V3?
  • 2 0
 Our athletes liked it, but to be honest, it was a somewhat finicky system. In the end, it might have been too complicated for most mountain bikers. When we realized how great the Process platform was going to be, we felt it would be confusing to the consumer and redundant to have two different all-mountain/enduro platforms.
  • 2 0
 You guys said you explored all suspension platforms when it came to designing the new bikes. What lead you guys away from a dw link like design and towards the split pivot. In your minds what are the advantages and disadvantages of both and why did you guys choose the split pivot?
  • 2 1
 Ok well to answer this question thoroughly would be a couple pages long, so here is the short version: It is true we have explored just about every poplar system out there and they weren't for us. Now, that doesn't mean we think DW, FSR, VPP, CVA, whatever are bad, its just that for our goals, they didn't give us what we need. And again, we aren't just looking for just the best axle path, leverage rate, anti squat in any specific suspension system. What we want is the best compromise between all of those that fits our goal, and a linkage that can still be built stiff, durable, simple and light in both carbon and aluminum, etc.
  • 5 0
 What are your thoughts on running a 150mm travel fork on a 134 Process? The Pike is just too good not to ride.
  • 6 2
 Thanks for pushing "Magic - Link" and then abandoning after a "complete redesign"
  • 2 0
 Can you (kona) comment on why the design wasn't usrd ? Do you feel the new process frames make the magic link redundant and costs don't justify the overlapping designs, or was it a lack of sales?
  • 1 0
 I really thought the new Abra Cadabras looked like sick bikes. Especially if they released a carbon version (or stuck with the scandium) that was lighter. Would be a great enduro race bike. (Didn't slaven love it?)

I might be biased; I own a coilair.
  • 3 0
 While we like the Magic Link a lot, we felt it had run its product cycle. With the new Process line we wanted to have one, simple, straightforward story when it came to Enduro/All-mountain bikes. Having two different suspension platforms would have confused the consumer. We also feel that the new Process can do everything the Cadabras could, so yes having the two models would have been somewhat redundant.
  • 1 0
 Why did you spec the King Kahuna without a clutch style rear derailleur?
It's literally a MANDATORY upgrade. I bought a brand new one a had to upgrade immediately. What's the reason for such a thoughtless spec. It's a great bike and the stock derailleur makes it a non-dependable chunky trail descender. I'm sure the answer is cost but I think of Kona as a thrashers brand and should deliver a thrashers build.
  • 3 0
 Why didn't you produce more bikes with the instant popularity of the new Process? My LBS can't get any and don't have an answer as to when they will be able to.......
  • 3 0
 That's a tough one. It's risky to order huge when you launch a new bike, and we absolutely did not want to have unsold 2014 Process bikes. Gauging market demand is a super complicated endeavor. Do we wish we ordered more bikes? Yes. Are we glad we're sold out? Absolutely. Are more Process bikes coming...yes.
  • 1 0
 Can you recommend a good cheap sorftware to design bikes and parts, cause i have a bunch of drawings but i can´t find a good software that cann simulate a full suspension, or just a normal CAD where i can draw stems and stuff like that Big Grin
  • 1 0
 Check out www.123dapp.com, Blender, or Google Sketchup. For simulating very basic suspension, a fun app is Autodesk ForceEffect Motion.
  • 1 0
 Hey man. My name is Kevint. I love Konas. My first free ride bike was a Kona Stinky TL. Now I'm looking forward to upgrading real soon. And I'm very indecisive on what I should get. Just to help you guys out this is my info and what I like to ride.

I'm 6'2 200lb

I love riding a lot of urban spots. (Stairs, gaps, construction areas)

I also love to hit Moutain Creek and hot the trails hard.

I'm not sure which gravity set up would best suit my Riding style. Hopefully you guys can help me and let me know why
  • 2 0
 You will probably fall in love with a Process 153DL size L. Have you tried an Entourage?
  • 1 0
 No but that was what I was looking at previously. Maybe the entourage would be suit me for a bike.
  • 1 0
 i wonder about the strenghts of entry level sport hrad tails, how much abuse they can handle as a 'stock' ride. the certain abilities they can and can't handle. i am a weekend warrior that after an motor vehical accident, pledged to ride every day for 1 year.
  • 1 0
 Our entry level hard tails are super tough and can handle most applications. I wouldn't take it to the bike park, and I wouldn't huck it off a flight of stairs. Trails of types it can handle with grace.
  • 1 0
 True story, my 09 kona blast as taken a real beating and is still going strong... should probably give it more love than i do, but dang super fun fast bike to ride up and down.
  • 1 0
 Hey Kona, I REALLY want to get a new Process, preferably a 134dl. The problem is that my local dealer says none can be gotten. Period. I'm really happy for your success and all that, but if I can't get a bike from you guys then I'm going to have to look elsewhere and that'd be a drag as I really want to ride one of your bikes. When can we expect some inventory to arrive in local bike shops? I hope its soon. Thanks.
  • 1 0
 A new shipment of 134s arrived this week. Go back to your shop and have them phone their rep.
  • 1 0
 FWIW - I went to my LBS today and they called Kona to see if they could get me a 134DL. Nope. No such luck. Kona may have had an shippment arrive, but they are all allocated, so no 134DL for me. Bummer.
  • 1 0
 I just ordered a 2013 X-Fusion Vengeance for my 2009 KONA CoilAir, its 160mm. It has a bit longer axle - crown length. Will I be ok with the fork otherwise? Are there any rules on cutting the steerer tube length, because i want it to be slightly longer than the stock marz 55 i got?
  • 1 0
 My shop is a kona dealer and we have assembled quite a few of the processes and we love them. My question is in regards to the internal routing for the seatpost. I have found that the sharp bend of the housing at the bottom of the seat tube causes issues with the KS posts. It seems that the sharp bend prevents the housing from moving freely enough to consistently activate the post ( more an issue with KS designing their post to actuate with the housing instead of the cable). Will there be a change in cable routing? Or maybe a different OEM post in the future (reverb Smile ) thanks
  • 1 0
 I recently bought a second hand kona kula but to be sure it is a kona frame I would like to know if there are any tell tale signs to prove this on the frame....the frame no is HD41969 as well if this helps?....I checked police data base they said it was not reported as a stolen bike but I just wanna be sure as it says ultra lite 6102 tubing....thanks in advance Robbie????
  • 6 5
 I actually just received my 2014 Kona operator today! Super stoked on getting one and in person it is by far the best looking bike I've ever seen. I was curious about setting up the suspension. What's a good base setting to start with on the fork and rear shock? It's a medium and I'm 5' 10 172 lbs. can't wait to get this bike out once it warms up!
  • 2 0
 Hey glad you like it! They recommended sag is written on the "info box" on the back of the seat tube, that is a good place to start, but don't be afraid to experiment a bit. Enjoy the ride!
  • 6 5
 Hello guys at HQ! Greetings from China! Here's a question regarding geometry: Do you think "long reach short stem" is a trend, or, will be the trend in mountain biking, especially AM-Enduro area? We can see that concept come with the new Process platform as well as some other brands like Mondraker. Thank you!
  • 5 0
 Nice one. While my name isn't 'Kona' I'd say it's here to stay, just like dropper posts and 1.5 ply tyres are. This sort of geometry is essential to enduro riding and I think that's the future of MTB.

My question to Kona would be why they don't apply this to their XC range? Is this a pragmatic decision (i.e. old fashioned XC riders aren't up for it yet and with sales in mind it's better to stay with the long stems) or is it based on performance?
  • 3 0
 KonaChina: We can't speak for other brands, and if it will become a trend, but for us, it works awesome and we are committed to it. Mondraker, Orbea and also Yeti have longer reach/shorter stems from what we have found.

bonkywonky: we also believe dropper posts are essential and you will notice that not only are the Process bikes designed around them, but every one is spec'ed with a dropper.

As for applying this to XC? our XC bikes already have longer reach than average, and we will continue to innovate there. With that said, the goals of that style of riding and fit are different than Enduro/DH.
  • 1 0
 Thanks for the answer! We welcome you guys at the HQ come to China any time you like! Last time when Dan was here we had a great chat and meals. We really look forward to embracing the whole team here in Beijing!Wink
  • 3 1
 Why don't XL bikes have longer head tubes? It's not like XL people are struggling to get their bars low enough, even with 650b or 29" wheels.

That being said I love the idea of the Process 111. Can't wait to try one.
  • 1 0
 I like the idea of the Process 111 as well, it kind of reminds me of the GT Distortion but with a much better suspension design and bigger wheels.
  • 2 0
 While putting a longer headtube on an XL frame seems simple enough, in reality it affects all the other geometry of the bike a little bit. What we came up with is what we figured is the best compromise between ALL the geometry.
  • 5 0
 Can we expect an XL Operator? How about a 650b version?
  • 3 2
 Yes, suspiciously steer us toward the trendy new catch phrase kinematics, which I'm sure your people are well-prepared to get us all kinds of excited about.

All criticism aside, your bikes are awesome & I have been the proud owner of more than one. Keep up the good work but don't stoop to the level of inventing quasi-words to describe what sets you apart from your competition. Let the big companies do that.
  • 4 0
 Umm, last time I checked kinematics wasn't a catch-phrase. It's the study of physics that relates to motion of points and systems. AKA defining how a suspension system works.
  • 3 0
 EightValveGrowl has it right! Ironically we prefer this term to making up some fancy marketing acronym that basically means "kinematics"
  • 1 0
 Hey guys!
Does the length on adjustalbe dropouts really factor that much into the ride of a bike?
Can the difference between slammed (Morpheus vimana) or slacked (norco magnum) really mean that much?
Thanks!
Btw Your bikes are amazing... The operator 24 and fr operator were some of the best bikes i've ridden.
  • 3 0
 We can't speak for Morpheus, but we try to put the shortest CS we can on bikes because we find that the rider can feel just a few mm of difference.
  • 1 0
 Alright thanks guys!
  • 4 0
 Where do you see DH bike design going in the next 5 years? e.g. geometry, suspension type and design, materials, etc.
  • 14 0
 electric gearbox fat 29er....you heard it here first.

I think if you look at the last five years, compared to the five years before that, you will see more refinement than all out innovation. We think this refinement trend will continue, but that is not to say we don't have big ideas planned Wink
  • 1 0
 I want this electric gearbox fat 29er....genius thanks for the response. I'm looking forward to seeing what can be done with carbon to shed weight, and to hopefully seeing some even more advanced frame designs
  • 2 1
 dear kona, I ordered a process 153, apparently it was back ordered..... when are you guys going to making the next batch?? I really don't want to pull out my order and settle for another ride, unfortunately if I end up having to wait until june thats whats gonna have to happen. thanks
  • 2 1
 Hey there, 153s are starting to arrive from our factory this month. We will see a bunch more later this month. Hopefully most orders will be filled by April.
  • 2 1
 Bikes are arriving in the next 6-10 weeks
  • 2 0
 thanks for the update i can't wait to ride this thing.
  • 1 0
 In regards of Head angle on downhill bikes, the past few years have seen a trend of increasingly slackened head angles, Have we hit a point as an industry where we have reached a limit? Most new bikes are right around the 64 or 63 degree level (including your new Operator frame, which is at 64 degrees). Is this as low as it will go, or is there a potential benefit of going even slacker than this which hasn't been exploited yet?
  • 1 0
 The current thinking is 'Slacker the better' has it's merits: modern Trail / DH bikes are going faster and riding steeper trails.

But the selection of every angle on a bike is a balancing act. HeadAngle is a particularly tricky one. Going slack slows the steeing input, takes weight off the front wheel and increases the wheelbase.

So... Will bikes get slacker? Hard to say. We feel that we have struck a good balance between HA, WB, FC, stem length...
  • 1 0
 I see that you are able to get a longer reach and shorter top tube that some other companies bikes by using a steeper seat angle (74 on the process 153, 71 on the devinci dixon) why would someone prefer a steeper seat angle. Also why use a steeper seat angle (76) for the downhill bike?
  • 2 0
 The steeper seat angle on any 27.5 or 29 or longer travel bikes theses days is more of a function of keeping the rear tire from literally hitting the seat tube than any kind of specific fit. We find the best balance between the geometry we want in terms of a BB drop and CS length that will keep the ST angle reasonable, while keeping the tire from hitting the seat or ST....its a bit of a mix of a lot of things that all need to be considered together.
  • 2 0
 I understand.
  • 1 0
 My favorite bike ever was a circa 1994 Kona Hot. Flat black with the external ribbed down tube, Tange Ultralight tubing. Rock Shox Mag 21 SL and full on Ringle/XTR parts. Got stolen from my living room as I was passed out in the bedroom post 4th of July festivities.

Can you please help me find my lost bike? OK thanks.
  • 2 0
 Really sorry to hear about your loss! Keep your eyes and ears open! With the help of some good friends Chris Mandell's wife just recovered here Satori a year and a half after it was stolen!
  • 1 0
 Ah yeah thanks but no chance. This was like 20 years ago. It resurfaced briefly when my friends saw the local pizza shop guy riding it. Said he bought it off the street for $200. Asked them "is this a good bike"?

A photocopy of my driver's license is rolled up inside the titanium Syncros handlebar. Sad sad sad.
  • 1 0
 I love my honzo, I have a hard time imagining a more capable hardtail. But it's HEAVY, not that it bothers me while riding...dialed geo makes up for a couple extra pounds easily. . Thoughts? Any possibility of a taro dl frame with nicer spec?
  • 2 0
 We feel strongly that 'steel is real' and enjoy the ride it affords! This is especially true on a bike like the Honzo. Unfortunately that does come at a cost: a steel frame will be heavier than a Alloy or Ti frame. Thanks for the feedback we will discuss internally!
  • 3 0
 Hello! Can you show me a leverage ratio graph for either the carbon operator and process 153? I'm just curious, if you can't find one don't bother Smile thanks
  • 4 3
 there is a lot more to the bikes than the leverage ratio graphs, if you look at that you are missing everything else Wink
  • 5 9
flag jclnv (Feb 19, 2014 at 14:23) (Below Threshold)
 Great question, crap answer.
  • 1 0
 Back in 2006 I bought a Kona Coiler. Loved it soo much because I was looking for a "do everything" bike that could also climb uphill. I preferred the bike with a shorter stem and wider bars. Unfortunately my bike was stolen last week..The new Process line seems to really capture the spirit of what I was going for with my Coiler. My first question relating to the new style of geometry with the longer top tubes and larger wheels on the Process line is how do they handle an occasional trip to the dirt jump park or the lift-accessed trail? Second Q is would I be better off trying to find a used Coiler if I do plan on hitting the jumps occasionally?
  • 1 0
 First up, congrats on some inspiring designs... loving the geometry, I've been a strong believer in short chainstays for a long while:

am I right in thinking, that by having shorter chainstays, you effectively gain more ground clearance for a given BB height

and

how significantly does having the additional BB drop below the axles (as has become possible with the recent hoop hopping hassle (bigger wheels)) affect stability, both in cornering and descending
  • 2 0
 You guys where is my bike I ordered seriously I see multiple others that have asked about the process 153. R u guys not making another batch ? That's what I was told from lbs.
  • 2 0
 Hey there, 153s are starting to arrive from our factory this month. We will see a bunch more later this month. Hopefully most orders will be filled by April.
  • 1 0
 Hey kona, as a tall rider, (6'6") im always pretty annoyed that most companys xl bikes are designed for rider 6 foot and up as thats just barely above average (which should surely be a medium but what ever)
but your new processes look pretty spot on with the massive top tube lengths, (was close to buying a 153 but it was just out of my price range unfortunately)
How do you decide on the sizing for bikes at the extreme ends of the scale as it must be hard to get the bike still feeling good when you have to alter it so much from the size frame that you designed it around?
Also I'm working on my dissertation using solidworks at the moment, (composite engineering if you wanna know) how do you find the simulationexpress package in it for calculating stresses in bike applications?
  • 1 0
 Our product manager Chris is about 6'5" and he comfortably fits our XL, so luckily we have him around to make sure out "basketball sized" bikes fit. We also have some very short people in the office, and everyone in between to test product.

Calculating stresses? Sorry no easy answer on that one, you have to go out and get that data yourself! Wink
  • 1 0
 Haha, fair enough, I guess that the best way, Probably phrased that wrong, I meant do you find that solidworks handles FEA simulations on a bike frame ok. Or does it throw up any weird data as there are a bunch of forces to simulate.
  • 4 1
 FEA is ok for general ideas, but we do a lot of physical testing in a lab and ride testing, you can't put all your eggs into the FEA basket, it is just one of many tools.
  • 1 0
 Hi, long time Kona fan. Love the new bikes, planning on picking up a 134 next week. Is it a bike that can still handle occasional bike park days? Most of the trails I ride involve pedaling but I enjoy the odd lift or shuttle day. thanks
  • 1 0
 I'm looking at buying a Kona Operator from someone local. It is a size large, so would a rider like me (being 5'10") fit on this bike? And he also said there is a dent on the down tube. I haven't gotten to see pictures yet but is there anything structural I should worry about? I have heard some things about Kona's cracking and I just want to make sure I am not gonna get screwed over on this.
  • 1 0
 Hey guys, rode an entourage at whistler and loved it! Please tell me you plan on continuing to make it. Also, why do you think a lot of companies are dropping their 7" freeride bikes? They are way more fun on most terrain than full blown dh bikes.

I have also heard rumors of a carbon entourage?
  • 1 0
 Hey Kona, hope I'm not too late on this being from Ozzy, first off, I've loved every Kona I've ever ridden, they are great bikes! I am looking to get a new steed around the $3300AUD mark for trail riding, so basically I have the Giant Trance 1, Speshy Stumpjumper comp evo or the Kona Process 134... I've ridden a few Giants and they all have a dull lifeless feel over bumps but pedal well, I guess due to the in-built pedal platform, Speshys have always seemed pretty standard rides to me in terms of geometry and suspension but I haven't ridden a Process, I like a bike that is 'poppy' and fun but ploughs the rough stuff too - can you give me some words & info to convince me why I should get a Process over the other two and help make my mind up!?
  • 1 0
 On Topic of Geo:

I bought a Honzo and quickly decided to sell it, for one reason: Why does it seem like most of the Kona hardtail line up don't offer much in the way of stand over clearance? The Small has 31" stand over, wtf mate?

Also A week ago I was looking at your site as I do almost daily, and there was a 4x ht listed under "Gravity" since that day it has been removed. What was I seeing?

Thanks, and like others have said, you guys sell the best bang-for-your-buck bikes of anyone out there. Thanks for that.
  • 1 0
 I still own my 2006 Stinky Primo. It is such a great freeride bike. The thing i do not like about it is the logo. I loved the old logo, the one with the K and leaves and the old kona logo flinstone style!! It would be great to see some bikes with the old graphics. Just a thought....
  • 1 0
 Is there an Operator 27.5 Carbon in the works? Also, generally on the Operator 27.5 (irrespective of alu or carbon), will one come out with more high end specs (Boxxer Worldcup & Vivid)? Thanks!

Further love the fact that the Operator 27.5 Large is massive (looooong reach), even larger than most XL sized DH bikes, so seriously considering one (I am 6'5").
  • 1 0
 Do you plan on selling a "Dream Bike" build as OEM, like an Sworks type version of the Process? Ie. XX1, Carbon & titanium bits everywhere that's under 27 lbs. Priced under 9K USD?
  • 4 1
 You might be on to something, but you'll have to wait until we launch 2015.
  • 3 0
 If I can do more push ups than Dale Plant would you guys slap my name on the top tube of my incoming 111?
  • 4 0
 No one cares how many pushups Dale Plant can do. Haha.
  • 1 0
 Do you plan on selling a "Dream Bike" build as OEM, like an Sworks type version of the Process? Ie. XX1, Carbon & titanium bits everywhere that's under 27 lbs. Priced under 9K USD?
  • 1 0
 Where do you see the next big innovation come from in cycling. We have seen wheel size and geo change a ton in the last few years, What's next (non-fatbike)?

PS SAE Baja is totally rad too.
  • 2 0
 Fat bike penny farthing
  • 1 0
 I'm going to market with that idea thanks!
  • 1 0
 So no chance of a Operator in Scandium? Carbon has come a long way but once you've burned there is really no desire to go back to it. I know the Big Unit still comes in it but nothing for the gravity inclined?
  • 1 0
 Hello,
I'm a proud owner of a suprême operator and I Just Want say "whaouuuuu what a bike !"

He is a real natural bike that's true, but why you don't provide natively an angle headset ajustment ?
  • 1 0
 Hi, wondered if you could Help me out, I've got a dent in my process 153dl non drive side seatstay and want to replace it, can anyone point me in the right direction please. Cheers Jay
  • 6 4
 How can I get an Explosif frame only in a size 17? Everywhere I ask they're sold out "for the season." The season hasn't even started yet!! Help!!!
  • 1 0
 Well, f-it. I was really hoping you guys might help me get onto a Kona. Going to buy an On-one directly.
  • 1 0
 The 2013 Process looked I thought like a beefed up Dawg, was that bike always intended to be a gap filler while you got the new process models worked out and ease the closure of magic link ? I still love my Dawg.
  • 1 0
 Miss my dawg, sitting in the attic waiting for a new chainstay but I don't have any money for one. Might build it up again in a few years...
  • 1 0
 crc had some cheap dawg chainstays going!
  • 1 0
 Yeah I've been looking at them, £70 though...
  • 1 1
 You guys are almost becoming an exception with the 64° head angle on gravity bikes,
is it to maximize pedal efficency?
When I see a bike with a 62 or 61° headangle and I'm told it that because of [insert 3 letter acronym of a "revolutionary system"],
it pedals just like any other bike, I get a bit sceptical.
btw, love your bikes.
  • 1 0
 Im loving my Process 153, was wondering what the rear suspension tune was and why you went more linear than my 08 dawg ( I prefer the fell of the proces by the way) but just want the thought 'process' behind it!
  • 3 0
 Hi lads, proud owner of the 153. My question is: can I use 26 inch wheels on it?
  • 1 0
 this question already got answered above.. cliff notes: you could, but they didnt recommend it cause of the BB drop.
  • 1 0
 Cheers
  • 2 0
 How come Kona dropped sponsorship of Al Stock after winning the UKGE series last year and appearing in the promo vids for the Process range?
  • 1 0
 The 1993 Kona colour schemes have never been surpassed, will you ever reprise them??? fwiw I've had a couple of cindercones, lava domes and an explosif from 93, awesome bikes still today.
  • 3 1
 You're talking splatter paint?
  • 1 0
 No bud, I'm talking 2 tone titanium/another colour blended in. Dig out your archives. B-)
  • 1 0
 I own a "first generation" Process DL and it rides awesome! But I must ask, why did you guys decide to change the frame design so drastically? They both look amazing!
Thanks for your time
  • 1 1
 While the 2013 Process looks a lot different than the 2014, the 2013 is still a bike designed with the same philosophy and ideas in mind and an awesome bike. Enjoy!
  • 1 0
 eagle, i am so jelly of you. i like those processes the best! i need to get one.
  • 3 0
 When can we expect a Honzo Titanium frameset? Any wild colors planned for the 2015 Honzo? Any changes?
  • 8 0
 You will want to be there when we drop 2015
  • 3 2
 Why do you make the expensive versions of your bikes in unpopular colour schemes / graphics ? And why do you make so many versions of each bike even though most of them will never be ridden or bought ?
  • 2 0
 what does KONA mean ?? in my town it's store that sales egg's Big Grin i am serious about it! does it mean that you guys sell bikes to pps with huge eggs ? Big Grin
  • 3 0
 Kona refers to the island of Kona in Hawaii. Kona, in Hawaii, refers to the Kona winds, which are strong, blustery, get you flying across the land type winds:

Kona winds is a Hawaiian term for the stormy, rain-bearing winds that blow over the islands from the SW or SSW in the opposite direction of trade winds. The western, or leeward sides of the islands, then become windward in this case, as the predominant wind pattern is reversed.

Kona winds occur when a low-pressure center is within 500 miles Northwest of the Islands. Although strong Kona winds usually don’t last for more than a day or so.*
  • 1 0
 I heard some funny stories about some of the older logos... there was one that looked a bit like a tea towel holder or something: what was that about Wink
  • 3 0
 Might have been a plunger. Basically we like to have fun. We're a bike company. Can't take ourselves too seriously can we?
  • 1 0
 Hells no... nothing like clean pipes for a good ride Wink
  • 1 1
 I love the look of the process except one thing. Like the new Specialized bikes the shock is non standard mounting this will mean loading on the seals and, down the track means difficult to find or expensive replacement. Do you think this could be a problem in the future, I intend to keep my bikes for a long time and this has really turned me off of the current Konas. ( I ride an 05 Kula and love it so I am not a Kona hater)
  • 1 0
 All the Kona Process bikes use a standard shock, there is nothing special about it. Put any shock you want on there, as long as its the correct length.
  • 1 0
 what about the mounting that is not standard, there is no eye. This means that you have to buy one to replace it with one the same and they are not common.
  • 1 0
 moofish: its the same shock like kona said, the bushing is just removed and you turn the shaft 90°
  • 1 0
 Thanks para that clears it up I thought they were the same as the spesh ones. Not using a bush would have to increase the side loading on the seals. This is already becoming a problem with the new Spesh's will this be a problem with this setup?
  • 1 0
 @moofish, I won't buy a Spesh with that propitiatory shock, but yeah kona works on a standard shock, You're right that it slightly side loads the shock if the system is poorly maintained, look after the bearings, torque the bolts correctly and you'll see no long term issues Konas tend to use real sized bearings that need less love than the smaller ones used in other brands. It will be a reliable set up. I would still look at replacing the shock seals at a yearly basis just to stay safe, otherwise be confident theres no issue, At least it won't be going through shock bushings regularly.
  • 2 0
 What's the future for Titanium for frames? I know you have resurrected the Hei Hei with the Rajiin. Is this something Kona is going to continue?
  • 2 0
 We love Ti. We just launched a new Ti road bike, the Esatto, and a Rove Ti gravel grinder frame. You will see some more Ti frame only mountain bikes in 2015.
  • 2 0
 BrantHavro (3 hours ago)

plan on bringing back any dirtjump bikes in the future?


whoadragon (same question here..............

[
  • 2 0
 any plans for a short travel full suspension 26er? im also stoked to hear your working on a "new bass" hopefully ill be relativity cheap. ill for sure buy one if it is.
  • 1 1
 I have the chance to sat on a demo Kona process 153. And I was impress. I Love how it feels. The engineering is amazing. The little adjustment on the geometry makes more sense especially on my style of riding and on how mountain has evolve. I was sold. Done! I love mountain biking its my little get away, my mini vacation every time Im on my bike. Anyways, I was so impress of the Kona that I sold my old bike so I can but the Process 153 Last month. So I went to One of you distributor here at Corona Ca. And paid and ordered one.

Now my question is WHERE IS MY FREAKING BIKE!?!?!? Nobody in Knows when it is coming out again! Called kona headquarters at WA. They said they don't know when it is going to be available again. I emailed Joe and he responded that kona just finished a new production. Where is mine. I have not been riding for more than a month. Most Frustrating part is still nobody can give me an answer.
  • 2 0
 Thanks everyone for your questions - Kona have now left the building for a lunch date with Miley Cyrus (or likely they've just gone to ride their bikes.)
  • 1 0
 is there any remedy to prevent the bearings in the bottom bracket of the 2012 jake the snakes from creaking very loud? I work at a shop and i have seen to many of them come in with that issue.
  • 1 0
 Comparing XC (Raijin,Unit,BU) to AM (Honzo) geometry, would you want the same amount of reach between the two? Or would a little bit shorter reach on the AM setup be more desirable? I'm talking saddle nose to center of HB.
  • 1 1
 Kona I've got an important one!!!! I'm looking to buy a new bike and the only thing keeping me from getting a process 153 right now is no X01. So I'm either going to get a different bike or wait for 2015's. So here's the question... Will your 2015 process 153 dl have x01??? Thanks,
Matt
  • 1 0
 What is the benefit of having the rear shock horizontal like they are on the processes, or vertical like your downhill bikes??
  • 1 0
 What bike on your new line is the best cross between a bike that can climb and descend well, but also take for a ride on a jump line if needed and get the air I want?
  • 3 0
 Absolutely one of the Process bikes. You can go massive on a 153.
  • 1 0
 Dear Kona, when will you bring back the blue colour from the 2005 coiler to the process line??? This is what would make me say:"Please shut up and take my money!"
  • 1 2
 So i have a couple of questions. How would putting 26" wheels on the process 153 affect it and its geometry? Also, do you guys know when your shipment of process 153's should be coming in? I ordered one that was supposed to be here in january. Thanks!
  • 3 0
 We would not recommend putting 26" wheels on the Process 153. With 27.5" wheels the BBH is just right... with 26" wheels the BBH would be quite low.

153s are starting to arrive from our factory this month. We will see a bunch more later this month. Hopefully most orders will be filled by April.
  • 4 3
 Dude…really?
  • 1 3
 Dude really? I have an ass load of new 26" tires and wheels. That i was just WONDERING if i could actually use.
  • 1 0
 What bikes out of the process range do you all currently ride most? And any funky setups, for example running a longer travel pike on the 111?
  • 1 0
 We all ride pretty much all the bikes....its our job Wink
  • 2 0
 Since your new bikes are so dang sexy, you need to create a new warranty plan that covers theft! Smile
  • 1 0
 I have and love a 2012 Satori. Why did you see the need for the 111 Process and what would you say are the main differences between the two?
  • 1 0
 Why on the Process 111 29er did you choose 111mm of travel? Because it seems to be awkwardly close to an xc machine but also a trail bike.
  • 1 0
 Just purchased a 2014 Supreme Operator. Awesome bike!!! I want to use it for downhill, XC & trail. Will a FOX DOSS dropper seapost fit in the seat tube frame?
  • 3 0
 Not even a question but Thanks for stepping up ur shit this year
  • 2 1
 It's seems most manufactures these days are building 27.5 and 29ers...will they fit a person that's 4feet tall? Are you building a bike to address this issue?
  • 6 0
 It's nice that someone out there is still thinking about me.
  • 1 0
 I agree, the market for quality capable kids mountain bikes is very limited. The ingredients for a *good* kids bike don't necessarily translate directly from adult bikes. Parents are willing to spend the money to have that connection with their kids either at bike parks or on beginner-ish single track trails. Look at skiing for example, no problems finding equipment for that sport. So seems like a opportunity.
  • 2 0
 What do these short stems short chain stays and long top tubes change to the ride of the bike ?
  • 2 0
 I bought a 2nd hand Kona Stab Primo frame a few months ago,
how can I get to know when it was produced?
  • 1 0
 Www.klassickona.com should help
  • 1 0
 Is 153 on the way to Slovenia yet? End of December is long gone. Pinkbike, i still waiting on proper 153 review. Prototype review doesn't count.
  • 1 0
 Why is it that sealed drive bikes do not exist?
It is not that weighs too much or anything like that vimeo.com/82097773
  • 2 0
 Could we expect the carbon operator frameset to be available in the near future?
  • 2 0
 They're available now!
  • 1 0
 just an FYI, ive had two people who work at shops tell me that you cannot buy certain kona frames only (that i know you can buy).. not sure where this info is getting mis-translated (maybe at the rep and distro level), but just a heads up!
  • 3 0
 is aggy kona for life? do you guys want my lava dome for a museum?
  • 1 0
 ..for the communications director..what or who inspired the name "stinky"?
  • 5 0
 He's been riding a Kona since he was a tyke, our dream is to keep him for as long as humanly possible
  • 4 0
 Hey there, Mitch here, the name Stinky came from our veteran staff, who like to talk about poo a lot. They actually have pictures of their favorite movements in the office. A certain Dr Dew comes to mind.
  • 1 0
 that's classic! dr.dew is the guy in the kona commercials i'd see on nwd vids, right? we had a similar thing at a shop. hidden pics behind spare parts room door. we called it wall of shame refunds.
thnx for the replies to my off topic questions, konaworld!
  • 4 0
 Carbon operator 650b?
  • 2 0
 ^^ this one
  • 2 1
 Are you guys looking into grassroots programs or privateer programs for not just racers? I would be blessed to ride a kona again
  • 1 0
 hey im interested in an operator frame, but havent been able to find out how much it would cost for the frame only. what is the msrp?
  • 2 0
 $2699 for the Supreme Operator with rear shock
  • 1 0
 What is planned in regards to the 2015 entourage? Carbon version, any frame changes to 650b or will it even die? I love this bike so much!!
  • 1 0
 what would you say the best shock for the 2012 Kona Entourage is? I currently has a monarch RC3 +, but would like a coil shock.
  • 1 0
 The rp2 on my 2011 Coilair is due for a big rebuild. I am thinking of just putting the money towards a new shock. Any recommendations?
  • 1 0
 a seal kit for an rp23 ( i assume is the same for the rp2) is about $15 and it took me 30 min to do change in the first time i ever did it, probably will take less round 2.
  • 1 0
 Air can service is indeed quick and painless. But my actual damper needs attention. I wish it was user serviceable as well.
  • 1 0
 ahh thats a bummer
  • 2 0
 does a sram xo 83mm will fit the kona operator and do you have reducer that will bring the rear wheel down to 150mm
  • 2 0
 does a 83mm sram xo crank fit the operator carbon and do you have reducer for the rear wheel to bring it down to 150mm
  • 1 0
 Can you publish the weight of the process frames (with) shock. I'm looking at a Process 111 and would like to build it out as a trail bike in the sub 26Lbs range.
  • 1 0
 Not a question, just a thank you. Seriously, a huge thank you for creating mountain bikes that have proper geometry. Way to go, and take the lead, Kona!
  • 1 0
 This is out there to everyone but would you recommend selling my current 2008 bike and buying a more recent bike eg. 2013+ so I wouldn't lose money in future Smile
Thanks
  • 1 0
 What new design are u guys gonna use to replace the entourage and operator Fr? Something more along the lines of the process but with longer travel?
  • 1 0
 Will removing the head tube spacers and shortening the steer tube on my Process 134 negatively impact the geometry? How so?
  • 3 0
 Do you mean steerer-tube/headset spacers? If so, I'd just swap the position of the spacers/stem for a ride or two to see how it rides before you cut something you can't replace.
  • 1 0
 That's definitely what I meant. I'm giving that a try as soon as the weather smarten up again.
  • 1 0
 Right on. I'd consider some form on stem-pad for at least the 1st ride - especially if it's a tower of spacers. #scarredforlife Wink
  • 2 0
 When will the process be available again in the states?
  • 1 0
 An order of 134s is arriving this week
  • 1 0
 I've heard from a lot of people 'everyone has or will own a kona' what do you think about your brand makes people say this?
  • 4 0
 Interesting question. It really comes down to our hardtails. Most people who get into mountain biking start with $1,000-$2,000 hardtail mountain bike. We've put a ton of energy into our hard tail mountain bikes since we started making them in 1988, so you could say we've gotten pretty good at it. For us it's all about making super fun bikes at a great price. These are the bikes that create the cyclists, and we take great pride in being a significant player in that demographic.
  • 2 0
 any summer internship positions?
  • 1 0
 What exact rear shock does the process 153 use?? I wanna make an upgrade recommendations??
  • 1 0
 Is it possible to switch the process 153 color withe the Process 153dl color? Basically having the 153 in green.
  • 2 0
 Why for 2014, is the entourage only available in such a basic spec?
  • 2 0
 heey, love ur products, is there any hope for a alu dj hardtail ?
  • 1 0
 Is there any way to buy a Process or operator frame only? Would be great if this could happen
  • 2 0
 Guys already answered this question more than one time - just hit your local dealer of Kona. Smile
  • 1 0
 Is there any way to buy a Process or operator frame only? Would be great if this could happen
  • 1 0
 Why did you guys discontinue the Tanuki? Also I love my Operator park, great bike.
  • 1 0
 Can you please recommend a tune for the Cane Creek DBair for a process 153 2014?
  • 1 0
 do something like this again but next time on a weekend, i was in school and missed it Frown
  • 1 0
 Why are kona replacement parts so much? I can't afford to buy one so I can fix my bike.
  • 1 0
 Hey kona the new line up looks so good, I was wondering what bikes do you find the most fun to swing a leg over.
  • 3 0
 The Process 153DL is a game changer.
  • 3 1
 Why isn't there a stronger presence in Bellingham?
  • 1 0
 Not from Kona buuut:

The presence in a city is solely dependent on the shops in the area. The shop I worked at a few years ago was a Kona dealer. At the time kona was not big in the city because no one pushed it. Kona hooked me up and i was flashing a Hei Hei and an operator around giving people test rides and suddenly Kona blew up again. If there isnt a dealer or a dealr pushing the line in your area its most likely why
  • 1 0
 Kona's office is literally a 10-15 minute drive from Bellingham. The local guys are getting their gravity bikes elsewhere. My Operator had to be ordered in, there wasn't a single one on the floor.

I don't have the answer, that's why I asked the question Smile
  • 1 0
 Why is is it so impossible for me to find a replacement rear dropout/mech hanger for my 07 Stinky?? I NEED ONE!!!
  • 3 0
 Hanger #25 on here might help you, says it fits 1998-2011 Stinkys. derailleurhanger.com/kona.htm

If that doesn't help, try here: northshorebillet.com
  • 1 0
 Just go to your local kona dealer and they can order you one up. Dope 12 hanger.
  • 1 0
 Cheers lads.

Hanger #25 looks eff all like mine though. Mine is like this: www.pinkbike.com/photo/2341571

And I did ring my local dealer and they said they wouldn't be able to get hold of one... Might try again and be a bit more pushy about it.

Ebay doesn't seem to have any hits ever either.
  • 1 0
 Maybe the frame year info on derailleurhanger is wrong then, scrolling down there is another hanger for 2009-10 Stinkys that looks the same as yours so maybe your frame is newer than you thought? See here: derailleurhanger.com/dh252.php

It is from the US though and at $87 without postage (damn!) you may want to see if you can locate one more locally, hopefully this info will help you find one cheaper but if not I suppose being able to ride again will help you forget the cost.
  • 2 0
 So it turns out we should have just listened to scottiemac and looked for a Kona DOPE hanger haha... 5 mins later: www.jejamescycles.co.uk/kona-dope-qr-right-mech-hanger-id69667.html

Turns out you only need to spend £19... sorted.
  • 1 0
 AWESOME! nice one!! You guys win 100 internets.
  • 4 1
 XL OPERATOR...?
  • 1 0
 Why didn't you build the process 153 like the prototype? cane creek shock, fox fork flow wheelset etc.
  • 2 0
 Which KONA hardtail is the best for DH use?
  • 2 0
 Honzo (and I assume taro, at a more affordable pricepoint) is very capable. Thats what it's designed for.
  • 4 0
 Correct, the Honzo
  • 2 1
 I'm pretty sure that's not the point of bobby182.
I think that he's question was meant to sound like this:
is there a HT frame in your line up which can be easily fit with the Large 160mm+ fork and used as a typical downhill machine.
  • 2 0
 Can you make a 4X specific frame?
  • 1 0
 Why are the shocks on the process line horizontal and the operator vertical?
  • 2 0
 Are you guys considering an official demo tour?
  • 1 0
 Check out this list for places you can test-ride 2014 Konas and what models (includes USA, Canada, Europe, UK): www.konaworld.com/demobikes_usa.cfm
  • 1 0
 Have any plans for a full on slope bike? None of that 6,7,8 inch slope/fr bikes?
  • 1 0
 Will you be doing a frame only option on the process bikes or can you already get it as frame only?
  • 1 0
 talk to your shop, the will get you what you need Wink
  • 2 0
 When are you going to change the entourage's name to the aggynator?
  • 1 0
 What is the reasoning behind staying with the linkage-driven single pivot instead of using another design?
  • 1 0
 Hey everyone we have the Kona team online for about ten more minutes - get your final questions in now!
  • 1 3
 Just curious if there's a way to get an Explosif frame at all... This is at the top of my list for my next build, and I'm ready to buy one right now. If I can't get a Kona until the '15 models are released though, I'll just have to go a different route...
  • 1 3
 Well, f-it. I was really hoping you guys might help me get onto a Kona. Going to buy an On-one directly.
  • 1 0
 How do you consider the w.w.w
As an advantage to reach riders, or as a misguide of info, for the untrained eye?
  • 1 0
 Are any of the process frames available as frame only? Can the 111 take a 130 fork and the 134 a 150?
  • 1 0
 How would a large precept dl with a 40mm stem compare (in respect to control/handling) to a medium process 134?
  • 1 0
 What happened to the good old days? The days when Kona had funny bike names like the "coiler" and "stinky'...
  • 1 0
 can anybody answer where i can buy a frame only carbon operator in the uk? trying to upgrade just the frame from my 2012 op
  • 1 0
 I'm not hating or anything, because I love the names but why are they like: jackshit?
  • 3 4
 Why are there still bottle mounts on the Process' downtube?

I thought the whole world rides with a camelbak system nowadays...
  • 6 3
 No, they don't. Bottle cage mounts are a must. Camelbak systems are not very good to ride with. Only on very long rides would anyone I know, carry a pack with them.
  • 4 3
 Bottle mounts will be handy to screw on a battery if you're rich enough to get a Di2 XTR next year (and if you actually want it)
  • 3 2
 Camelbacks are awesome, I usually only go out on 1-2hr rides and I barely notice mine, I do use one of the smallest packs though, just about big enough for 1 tube, patch kit, mini pump and multi tool along with the water pouch. Beats holding loads of junk in your pockets.
  • 3 0
 That's a good one. Camelbacks aren't terrible but being able to do a quick ride without a sweaty restricting man purse is also great. Seriously, give it a try.
  • 2 0
 Because you can't drink out of your hip pack..
  • 3 0
 I am with dualsuspensiondave on this one...Under 3 hr rides all you need is a pump, tube, a few PRs, and a WATER BOTTLE.
  • 3 1
 Message to the guy that neg propped me: whether you want it or not, that'll be true as soon as june.
  • 1 0
 I tried the bottlecage out...great on the climb. Once you're into the descents (especially up here in Cascadia), mud cakes all over the bottle. So, it's good for the uphills, at least...when you REALLY need it.

AlexRob nailed the hammer on the head with the waterbottle full of tools, etc. The added bonus of doing that is it will lower your center of gravity that much more!
  • 1 0
 I would never buy a bike without a bottle cage.. having one under the downtube would suck but at least its there...hate riding with a camelbak
  • 1 0
 Not a fan of camelbak'esque systems, either. I have an average sized suspended backpack I just cram select beverages into. I stop enough to keep topped off.

Totally going to set up a spare-tube/levers/etc bottle for the cage, though. 27.5 tubes are bulky as *$&^!!!
  • 3 3
 Where is my process 153 that was supposed to come in to the back country in january?
  • 2 0
 I'm in the same boat as you and have commented 3 times on this board already. I would really like an answer too
  • 1 0
 Look for bikes to be delivered to shops over the next 6-10 weeks. Sorry for the delay, but we can only deliver bikes as fast as our factory can make them.
  • 1 0
 My local bike shop told me end of this month. Is that possibly true?
  • 1 0
 We hope so!
  • 1 0
 Can I use a fox floatX ctd on my kona process 153 size S frame??
  • 1 0
 Would a bike like the process 134 handle well at places like whistler?
  • 2 0
 Check this out: vimeo.com/81418393
That's Whistler.
  • 1 0
 how hard is it to get a job at kona ???
  • 4 0
 You can always try!
  • 1 0
 +1 for me (joking) but if you can, than I'm not joking at all!
  • 1 0
 How much better is a rear bolt though axle than a STD 135 QR? Cheers.
  • 1 0
 When is the MAGIC LINK coming back????!!!
  • 5 6
 How did you guys step your game up so much? Kona used be mediocre, but now you're one of the best bike companies on the market. What's the story here?
  • 3 0
 Hey, thanks a lot. Well, it's really a combination of 25 years of experience with owners and staff who have been at Kona since the beginning, with a group of newer staff who have been at the company for 5-ish years. We incorporated a system whereby communications, product and sales try to work harmoniously across all of our markets. Basically we have the knowledge and experience coupled with new, fresh ideas and were able to leverage both. Not necessarily the easiest thing to do. That and our owners are awesome.
  • 2 4
 How does geometry allow for long bodies, short legs and vice versa Are we meant to buy according to the length of upper body and arm length??? Short stems wide bars are for spasmos.
  • 1 0
 Yes, size the bike based on reach, not ST length.
  • 2 1
 Yeah they will really want to keep doing this with questions like these
  • 3 2
 plan on bringing back any dirtjump bikes in the future?
  • 2 0
 Well we have the downside frame, and our athletes ride the Shonky
  • 2 1
 Same question here..............
  • 2 1
 But any complete builds?
  • 2 3
 I named my dog Kona, and she's the best trail dog ever! Soooooooooooooo how about a free operator for all the free promotion im giving you guys? (;
  • 1 0
 when is the next batch of process 153 s going to be finished?
  • 1 0
 You should see them delivered to shops over the next 6-10 weeks.
  • 1 0
 What was the main reasoning behind changing the suspension design? Cheers
  • 2 1
 when will you guys put a slope/dirtjump complete bike back on the market?
  • 1 0
 Any plans on making a new slope bike in the future Smile
  • 1 0
 Would you recommend the operator for tall riders? (6,7ft)
  • 1 0
 Where did the online kona store go? I want to get me some kona swag!
  • 1 0
 So when is Kona 153 be available in southern California?
  • 1 0
 Our first batch of Process will be arriving in two weeks. Maybe yours will be even faster than here in China. Hold on dude~!
  • 1 0
 Any new dirt jump/slopestyle bikes in the near future?
  • 1 0
 Will there be a pink Jake the Snake? Aka, Jackie the Snake Wink
  • 1 1
 Will you ever build a bike like the Hanzo but with 26 or 650b wheels?
  • 3 0
 The Kona Steely (26") was once a thing.
  • 2 0
 The Explosif is exactly that for the most part, 27.6, Kona Cromoly frame...rad trail geo
  • 1 1
 How do u guys calculate the geometry of a fullsuspensionbike (the rear)
  • 1 1
 what fork and shock setup would you suggest for a 2012 entourage?
  • 1 0
 Loving the new bikes!!
  • 2 1
 Love your bikes.
  • 1 0
 Do you even drag bar?
  • 1 0
 and 2013 models
  • 1 0
 Dost thou even hoist?
  • 1 0
 Dost thou even hoist?
  • 1 1
 26, 27.5 or 29?
  • 6 0
 16
  • 1 1
 16 is clearly not enough. Or at least it's what that girl said the other night...
  • 2 2
 What is Enduro?
  • 1 2
 Kona, What does the fox say?
  • 1 4
 That's it! Still no answer I guess Nukeproof Mega AM will be it screw Kona Process 153. All i need is a simple answer is to when you be availabe here in southern California.
  • 1 2
 Shock size*
  • 7 9
 Whats up with the handlebars on the WO?
  • 4 0
 Chris Mandell was the Product Manager for the WO in 2014. He test rode the bike with standard MTB HBs and the HandPlant bar. He found the HandPlant worked better on the WO as you more often turn the bars to corner the WO rather than lean the bike as with a traditional MTB. Chris Mandell has been replaced by Ian Schmitt as Product Manager for the WO.
  • 3 0
 hahahahaha lulz
  • 9 12
 That carbon operator looks so sexy!
  • 2 5
 "Themes: Fit, geometry, kinematics." Not longevity of frames xD
  • 1 4
 Can I get one?
Please ...please ...please Smile Smile Smile
  • 4 1
 Just head to your local friendly Kona dealer!
  • 1 4
 do your bikes snap?
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