First Look: Kona's 2016 Lineup

Jul 14, 2015
by Mike Kazimer  
Kona has lifted the lid on their upcoming bike lineup, letting out the details of a few key additions and revisions that are on the way for 2016, including a 27.5” Operator, an aluminum Honzo, and the Precept 150, a wallet-friendly version of the Process 153.


Kona Operator 27.5 2016

Operator 27.5

After a brief transition period, 27.5” wheels are now the norm for elite level downhill racers, and as strange as it sounds, it's highly likely that we won't ever see a 26” wheeled bike take a World Cup win again. Kona's now officially joining the fray, starting off by releasing a 27.5” aluminum version of their Operator DH bike. The new bike has a slack, 63° head angle and a longer reach than the previous version (460mm for a large), with a frame weight that's claimed to be on par with that of the carbon Operator. Switching to a 12x148 thru-axle in the back allowed for the frame's profile to be slimmed down, giving it more clearance for navigating through rocks and other frame-grabbing obstacles. As shown, the Operator 27.5 will retail for $3899 USD, equipped with a RockShox Boxxer RC, SRAM Guide R brakes, and Maxxis Minion DHF tires. The 26" carbon Operator will still be available, but it wouldn't be surprising if there was a 27.5" carbon option in the works.


Kona Honzo AL 2016

Honzo AL

Kona's chromoly Honzo hardtail gained a devout following thanks to its relaxed geometry and friendly trail manners, but there was no denying the fact that it was bit of a tank, which is why for 2016 there are two aluminum versions of the rugged 29er. The rear end now uses a 12x148 thru-axle, and the reach has been increased slightly for all sizes. The switch to aluminum sheds a claimed 40% off the frame weight, but for the purists there will still be a steel option available as a frame only, along with a titanium frame-only option as well.

The Honzo AL/DL shown above gets WTB's new STp i29 rims, which have a 29mm inner width, providing a nice wide perch for the set of Maxxis tires they're shod with. A FOX 34 Float delivers 120mm of travel, and drivetrain duties are taken care of by a Shimano 11-36 cassette paired with a single Race Face ring up front. MSRP: $2199 USD.
Kona Honzo 2016
There's even a ti version of the Honzo for 2016.


Kona Precept 150 2016

Precept 150

There's no denying the fact that mountain biking is an expensive sport, especially when the highest end bikes are being released with five figure price tags, but luckily the trickle down of technology has resulted in capable, well-specced bikes that are much more affordable. Kona's new Precept 150 is a prime example – it shares nearly identical geometry to the Process 153, but a slightly different frame layout and more wallet-friendly parts spec has it coming in at $2699 USD, a price that even includes a dropper post.


Kona Hei Hei 2016

Hei Hei DL Trail

The Hei Hei has received a makeover, emerging with a much cleaner looking suspension layout and more standover clearance than its predecessor. Kona is calling the new configuration their Fuse Independent Suspension, using a small link mounted on the seat tube to drive the rear shock, and forgoing any chainstay or seatstay pivot. The XC-oriented 29er has 100mm of rear travel, but a 68° head angle, 430mm chainstay length, and the 120mm FOX 34 fork up front should make it more than just a racing purebred. With the addition of a dropper post this would be well suited for long backcountry missions that cover a variety of terrain. MSRP: $3299 USD.


Kona Process 167 2016

Process 167

The four bike Process lineup (which consists of the 111, 134, 153 and 167) remains relatively unchanged, but the Process 167 ($4999) does get WTB's new 35mm internal width rims, a Rasta themed paint job, and a build kit that's similar to what's found on team rider Graham Agassiz's own bike. It's also one of the few remaining long travel 26" bikes on the market, and it even has a 20mm thru-axle fork for good measure.



Visit the feature gallery for more images of Kona's 2016 bikes.


www.konaworld.com

Posted In:
Reviews and Tech First Looks Kona


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310 Comments
  • 303 8
 The process 167 comes with a joint compartment and a detachable lighter
  • 36 3
 Hope I can fit a phat Kona in it...
  • 70 5
 And reverb convertible to a bong
  • 141 4
 kona means vagina in Portuguese... just sayin...
  • 8 35
flag hardyk FL (Jul 14, 2015 at 13:34) (Below Threshold)
 hopefully it will also comes with the new lyrik...
  • 23 3
 loving the colours Razz
  • 97 7
 Bikes and drugs are both measured in grams... Coincidence? I think not!
  • 39 66
flag src248 (Jul 14, 2015 at 13:38) (Below Threshold)
 Love the bike, but I'd never buy anything with a rasta theme.
  • 18 4
 @moefosho Bikes are more expensive than drugs
  • 32 0
 I didn't know kona sponsored el chapo?
  • 51 11
 After influx of hipsters, rasta is cool again. Sorry, I'd rather wear a hat with weed leaf motive on it than a T-shirt with beard wax logo or a jacket with some sort of vegan activist bullcrap
  • 23 5
 I think living and participating in the rasta phase has made me hate it forever. Give me a beard wax shirt anyday over weed leaf clothing
  • 5 2
 That process is DaKine!
  • 14 5
 It's Ethiopian. And if you were decended from the slave trade and would like to be repatriated, you might like to live under a unified Africa under Salassie..... Oh wait never mind let's just smoke some weed.
  • 3 0
 kon and agassiz keepin it alive and relevant as a choice. thank you
  • 16 1
 this bike was made for me and the best part is the 26-4-life theme.
  • 2 0
 Roger that!
  • 1 0
 Yup
  • 2 11
flag chyu (Jul 14, 2015 at 20:40) (Below Threshold)
 Aggy must be damn pissed the joeys out there can ride exactly what he's riding. C3 boys grinning at side.
  • 16 0
 I'm interested to know how many 26" wheeled bikes they sold last year. It must be enough because they have kept the model alive. Kona, chime in please!
  • 1 1
 Yeah man
  • 11 1
 I bet it has 420 mm chain stays...
  • 9 5
 yeah "sub 435mm chainstays" means Satan in Arameic. It's in the Bible check that sht out
  • 3 0
 Get off the bongs Waki
  • 22 9
 If you multiply 584mm times 1.14 you will get 666, and if you play 650B backwards you will hear "do it" in Satanic tongue, that will refer to suicide by hanging yourself on door handle using a tie, while masturbating to cock riding compilation on pornhub. I watched gay porn only during pride week
  • 8 0
 Rally round the Red, Gold, Black, and Green. - Steel Pulse.
  • 11 7
 Looks like a session
  • 2 0
 Hahaha...Reading comments was waiting 4 that oneWink
  • 2 1
 Me too, that's why I thought I'd slut it in there! Can't rely on the pinkbikers of old! Got negged too the miserable old f*ckers!!! :-D
  • 3 1
 An old pinkbiker would tell you that back in the pleistocene, when session came out, people were sceptical about it, saying "it looks like a Kona" followed by "probably cracks like a Kona". A lot has changed since then, Konas are super legit yet alloy Session swingarms still crack like 2005 Stinky
  • 3 3
 Bless... Sucks that everybody is associating Jah's colors with weed only weed, not with giving thanks and praise to HIM. Seen?
  • 3 2
 Give thanks and praise every day. Seen?
  • 117 1
 Shout out to Kona for making affordable bikes
  • 18 1
 And also still making a true free ride bike
  • 7 0
 Shout out for making fun, playful and durable bikes!
  • 111 5
 The 26 inch option is still there ...
  • 12 6
 It's too bad they're starting to use boost 148 though...
  • 6 52
flag paulclarke (Jul 14, 2015 at 19:59) (Below Threshold)
 Not for long. Bigger is faster. Use your brains.
  • 14 2
 26 for the win
  • 10 4
 @paulclarke then why no 29ers on the WC circuit?
  • 2 10
flag paulclarke (Jul 16, 2015 at 22:36) (Below Threshold)
 From what the bike companies are saying the reason is that they are not as strong. Also center of gravity. Thats why the 29ers have made it to xc. Not as much strentgh needed. It seems 27.5 is enough strentgh, thats why DH is to that point.
You guys know you cannot argue with science, right?!
It just blows me away that people still want the smaller wheel size. Why dont we just put 20" on mtb? That would be for the guys who REALLY hate change.
  • 3 4
 26 have always been there, they look better, ride better and are, all in all, better
  • 51 1
 Daaaaaaaang! I thought my 2015 Honzo was the sexiest 29er in all the land but that Titanium frame version is fucking gorgeous!
  • 7 0
 And the Ti still has sliding dropouts, which look they are missing from the Taro, er, Honzo Al
  • 5 0
 as much as I love my Honzo, not feeling the gusset on that Ti version. can't wait to see what the steel frame looks like.
  • 15 0
 @lirch1 - Here you go: www.pinkbike.com/photo/12452774
  • 1 0
 So has the Taro been replaced by the AL Honzo? Can the AL Honzo be purchased frame only, and if so, will it be comparatively cheaper? The Taro frame was cheaper than the Honzo in the past.
  • 4 23
flag fercho25 (Jul 14, 2015 at 15:51) (Below Threshold)
 im sorry how is that titanium frame gorgeous? the welds (in the picture) are a f*cking mess! I really like the honzo, but whoever weld that ti frame should put down the blow torch and consider a new career I see a bright future for him as a butcher.
  • 11 3
 You don't weld titanium with an oxy torch. The Titanium TIG process is an intricate process, and those welds don't look all that bad. I don't think you have any idea what a good titanium weld would even look like.
  • 3 0
 @mikekazimer, any 2016 Process 111 pics?
  • 14 23
flag fercho25 (Jul 14, 2015 at 16:23) (Below Threshold)
 @somismtb of course they dont look bad to you, you own a freakin orange. thats like f*cking an actual horse for several years and then dating sarah jessicah parker of course she is gonna look gorgeous.
  • 11 10
 @fercho25 dude you're a weirdo for taking the time to go to my profile. And that was my cousins bike I was selling for him. If you want to talk shit on welding, you better at least be able to throw down yourself. Looks are deceiving to the untrained eye.
  • 7 18
flag fercho25 (Jul 14, 2015 at 16:44) (Below Threshold)
 sooooo acussing you of f*cking a horse is okay yet browsing trough your PUBLIC profile is not? interesting.
  • 2 0
 @fercho25 you're not 27
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer - thanks mike! that 111 looks super sick too!
  • 5 1
 Honestly as long as the geo on the new alloy version of the honzo is the same as the chromoly the need for sliding dropouts isn't really necessary. I spent a lot if time riding mine at the farthest length and then the shortest.

The bike handles so much better with the wheel sucked in as tight as possible. From the looks of it Kona just went ahead and and used the shortest chainstay length they could on the alloy version. 90% of consumers will be very happy with that setting.

I'm just glad they are offering the chromoly and Ti version for 2016... More options makes people more happy.
  • 2 0
 The sliding dropouts are for singlespeeders rather than geometry adjustment, brockfisher05.
  • 1 1
 Then just get the Kona Unit frame. Smile
  • 2 0
 Totally different geometry
  • 2 0
 So youre telling him to get a full on XC frame instead? That's a totally different category.

Those paragon sliding drop outs are purely for the people who want to ride ss on their Honzos.
  • 41 0
 Kona Process 167 is the future.
  • 9 1
 If I lived in bigger mountains, I'd buy it right away and put 36 Float 180 on it.
  • 8 0
 I know it's wrong but I want it as a dh bike with the new 180mm Lyrik's.
  • 3 1
 Yea but pike is half of the price of 36 so if Lyrik will be similarly priced, then there's nothing wrong there. 36 180 at 1200 quid GFY Fox, I would never buy a bew one, only used.
  • 3 1
 It doesn't help that I'm a Rock Shox fanboi
  • 10 2
 The future is all mountain bikes with 8 inch travel that can pedal well. Canfield is the most notable of this already
  • 2 1
 @deli-hustler

Nothin wrong with that. I have the same vision. Apparently it flies and it's nice and long.
  • 4 0
 36 up front with a DBair at back.
  • 5 2
 ibisshreddin - at waki-leaks we are currently testing Enduro conversion kits for DH bikes. it consists of unique dropper post, CcDBair with climb switch and cartridges for boxxer and 40, including damping unit with lockout and travel adjustable air spring assembly.
  • 2 0
 That sounds swell af @waki
  • 26 3
 Kona have came a long way since their 05 Stinky days. Reduced the size of that awful linkage and produced a... Session? Just kidding, that Operator looks a beaut! Never thought i'd see the day where I say a Kona may just be in the shortlist for my next build.
  • 12 2
 That rasta process! If only it came with the new lyrik. Fully stealth mode.
  • 33 2
 New Lyrik doesn't have an 26" option, because RS are full of jokes these days.
  • 16 0
 Yeh, like moving from a 20mm bolt through to a 15mm. I will curse the individuals within the industry who instigated this forever. Mother fuckers.
  • 6 1
 Kona have always been mint.
  • 6 1
 People will be buying 180 Lyrik like they do with Pike, in thousands: one reason: it is half of the price of 36 180. At least in Europe
  • 3 0
 Do they still make a lyrik that winds/drops down to like 135mm with the turn of a knob? Sorry for being a bit out of touch.
  • 2 0
 @tobius no, but they have a 2 position travel adjust via a lever (Dual Position Air Spring). Less adjustment, but much quicker to switch between modes than the u-turn. The travel is internally adjustable if you want to set it at "just the right spot".
  • 3 0
 Yeah sorry that's what I meant by drop. I prefer two positions anyway. All the dial down u turn stuff is great but if it's pitched right I like an easy to use two settings, up... or down. One setting in the middle is good too but not an issue if it's not there. I'd love a fork that went from 135 to 180 with the turn of a lever/knob.
  • 4 0
 The issue is that U-Turn air and coil were bloody simple and super reliable, up to this day nothing else is
  • 1 0
 Agreed. I'm keeping my 2010 u-turn coil for as many years as possible. Loving the new Kona frames. Glad to see them properly back in the game.
  • 1 0
 @WAKI, the dual position air is also "bloody simple", and I haven't heard anyone complain about reliability. I think there is one additional o-ring that could potentially fail vs the solo air.
  • 2 0
 But they say that you should not use it for riding, just for climbs otherwise you'll destroy it. There were no limitations with both U-Turns
  • 2 0
 You won't "destroy it", it's just that the spring rate remains the same in both settings, so if it's setup to bottom at 160mm, then it will bottom on a smaller hit in the 140mm mode. I generally reserve the last 20mm of travel on my enduro bike for big, high-speed hits, so I'm totally find running in the 140mm mode on an XC trail that has no big, high-speed hits.

That's part of the reason why it's simpler and more reliable than TALAS, because TALAS tries to be all fancy and increase the spring rate as the travel decreases. I usually find the front end is too stiff on climbs anyway, because your weight shifts backwards, so I prefer the spring rate remaining the same.
  • 1 0
 As far as I am concerned the main problem with Talas is servicing. Many people just do outer leg service and don't want to pay for Talas unit service which requires a relatively expensive tool. The result is, half of the people don't service it
  • 1 0
 Does anyone know why kona operator 27,5 is not available in the kona website anymore? Or whether it will be out or not?
Cheers
  • 28 1
 "WTF, no 27.5+?," said no one ever.
  • 8 3
 However, I spy some Boost 148. C'mon, Kona. I thought you were better than that.
  • 2 0
 They claim the 148 makes the rear end narrower. Hopefully that means it'll be easier to fit into a bike box.
  • 25 2
 I rode all bikes from Kona process line up on demo in Gothenburg and they are all great. I was having big expectations on 111 after Mike Levys review and it didn't appeal to me completely, I see no point in having so slack geo with so little travel. 153 is really cool, but 167 is one of the best bikes I have ever ridden, that is one amazing bike that feels super modern, is big and stable when you need it but is willing to change the line when needed. That is a rare treat. I also thought it was a 650B bike until today. Wheel size is overrated.
  • 2 0
 @mikekazimer Does anyone know if the Process 153/DL will come in a frame only option for 2016? I tested a 153DL in the parking lot while on vacation and was immediately smitten. However, a frame-only option might be better for me. I suppose if it's aluminum (as opposed to carbon) my guess is they will only be offered complete.
  • 20 0
 Steel and Aluminum Honzo. Shout out to Kona man.For reals...there has been alot of hate towards Kona, but i used to ride a 2008 Coiler and that bike was pretty sick! Honestly, the freeride scene wouldnt be what it is today if it was for Kona! Sick company!
  • 9 0
 I love my SB66, but my kona stinky 6 still was one of the funnest and toughest bikes! Im always a Kona loyal in some way
  • 3 0
 It's gotta be all about that slightly longer honzo in alu with a much lighter frame, for me. Wonder what it's specs and price will be like over here. Was ummin about a honzo for ages, now it's lighter. Win.
  • 21 2
 " The 26" version of the Operator will still be available " THANKS KONA !
  • 9 3
 Please Kona...don't ruin the Precept 200 as well. Keep it 26 at least!
  • 2 1
 *spoiler alert* Precept 200 is not ruined, still uses the exact same framset with 26" wheels, plus it will have a slightly better spec than the 2015.
  • 19 1
 Did the Kona "look like a Session" before Sessions existed?
  • 3 18
flag FaastEddie (Jul 14, 2015 at 19:38) (Below Threshold)
 Nope! Konas always looked like shit bikes from some bizzaro world where physics were different. Like that ORANGE DH bike. Yuck!
  • 3 1
 Nope. They just give Rocky Mountain a hard time to "announce" their "new" DH bike.
  • 1 2
 For all the down votes I got!

Tell me this bike doesn't look like a a piece of sh!t?!?!

2003 Kona Stinky
www.retrobike.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=174728

You know it does! Just cuz yall rode konas doesn't mean they weren't sh!t!!! And the yes I am a fan of Aggy who rides Kona!
  • 19 5
 Dear Kona,
I've been waiting on a warranty replacement for my Entourage since March, promised a Process 167 frame. Your warranty department are not answering any emails from my bike shop. I am utterly disgusted and had to turn away several coaching courses because of this. Please contact me as soon as possible. I am hugely out of pocket, and your warranty guy hasn't sent an email in over 4 weeks to even update me/the bike shop on what is happening.
I have no option but to get legal advice if I don't hear back very soon.
Yours Sincerely,
Tristan
  • 11 5
 Hey Tristan, they did the exact same thing to me. Took em 6 month to get me a new Operator. Then they forgot to send the spacer for the main pivot and the down tube protection guard. Also they had changed the frame and glued in the headset cups which made my Chris King headset useless. I had to get friends who work in a bike shops to eventually get me the guards because Dan the warranty guy stopped talking to me. It took over 8 months till I had a complete warranty. No apology at any time... On a site note, I live an hour away from one of there main offices.
  • 4 5
 It could be so simple and done within a matter of hours but instead 4 months. I've even offered alternative solutions but I've received nothing. I guess at least with the email trail I have it will be a no brainer in court, just wish for the sake of sending an email I didn't have to go down that route. Kona need to seriously review the reputation damage being dealt by their warranty man. Richard of Kona World Europe.
  • 17 1
 Time for all those complaining about the lack of new 26" wheeled bikes and 20mm front axles to ante up!
  • 8 0
 the funny thing is i have a buddy that bought one for that exact reason.
  • 3 2
 Or you can just buy an x fusion vengeance for $500, maybe less. It's pretty f*ckin amazing for the price
  • 14 1
 Kona I raise my beer to you continuing with fun size wheels!
  • 11 0
 Honzo, I shall have you one day
  • 4 0
 Lol.. pretty much my exact thought pattern.
  • 2 0
 @tobiusmaximum I've Been Lusting since 2012! I'm like....a Lust OG.
  • 2 0
 For me it's that my only experience of 29s is an aluminium Cannondale rigid single speeder (two sizes too small and with a 40mm stem and 750-780mm bars on) and it's wicked, but I yearn for the right size and some front end travel. I'm six foot four and I dare say what I want is something that feels like a massive, scaled-up, 'jump/4x/hardcore-hardtail' bike, to some degree. I suspect I will end up on long travel 29s one day, but I'm quite liking doing it the old fashioned way.. Rigid > front travel > short travel full suss > longer travel full suss. There is still that little bit of me though that wonders if I'd get the largest honzo to make it super stable and roomy or the one smaller in the size chart to keep it a bit chucky and playful. Hmmm...
  • 1 1
 @tobiusmaximum TOO MUCH THINKING!!!! JUST DO IT! DON'T LET YOUR DREAMS BE DREAMS!!!!!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZLeTkdlvzs
  • 1 0
 Hi,
I also had to choose between the large and medium gonzo (albeit 2013). Went for the M to have a more playful ride and haven't regretted it. Still climbs very well, just did a three day tour across Slovenia and had no qualms with the climbs.
  • 1 0
 @rynee Awesome! that sounds awesome
  • 12 1
 Kona Process for president!!! 26 never dies 20mm rules
  • 9 1
 26" wheels
20mm thru axle
35mm rims
Rasta Paint Job......... hello.
www.2wheels1loveJamaica.com
  • 3 0
 Great link, hahaha
  • 4 0
 Big well done to kona for 4 things, 1 not being totally obsessed with carbon fibre, 2 bringing out a titanium frame, 3 bringing out a cheaper version of one of their bikes and 4 for sticking with a 26inch bike .It's a breath of fresh air!
  • 6 0
 Been riding a 2014 Process 134 for the past 2 seasons. By far the most fun trail bike I've ever ridden. Yay KONA!
  • 7 0
 Minion on the front of the Honzo? Hell yeah Kona, that's a rad combo.
  • 2 0
 DHF front, crossmark rear, that has to be the largest disparity in front/rear tire tread i've ever seen on a factory bike!
  • 1 0
 It's giant dual slalom style, diggin with the front and rollin with the rear.
  • 6 0
 that process 167 is looking good, not a fan of the rasta paint scheme but other than that id love to own one.
  • 6 0
 You know, all the time I see Kona's new bikes I say to myself: this is a pretty neat and honest company. Respect.
  • 3 0
 I would just like to point out that the AL honzo has No ISCG tabs, a pressfit BB, and an odd shaped seat tube, meaning there is NO way to run a chainguide, which for a bike like the Honzo, is unacceptable to me. Kona is doing a lot of goos stuff for 2016, but they really dropped the ball on the Honzo IMO.
  • 4 2
 If they don't change the rear end on the 27.5 carbon operator like the ones the WC riders are riding, you can just buy lower chain stays since it's a single pivot bike. It wont change the geometry. If you look at Kona's WC team bikes that all its is, they moved the wheel back and up a little bit just extending the chain stay. The pivot is in the same location.
  • 2 0
 The new paint jobs are lame. I love Kona, and own a 2014 Cinder Cone, and loved the 2015s. I wanted a Process, but looking at the new shiney (not matte), Trek looking paint jobs, they don't look special anymore. It's like Kona decided to copy Trek, instead of letting companies like Giant copy Kona. PS..what happend to Scandium..no Scandium this year?
  • 4 1
 AL honzo kinda defeats the point, no? But that TI looks super sexy, as well as the process 167s rasta paint job.

What happened to that proto DH bike that had the same style rear suspension as the Precept?
  • 3 0
 Yep, I think the steel is still available, they're just adding Al versions.
  • 6 0
 Because some people want cheap, light bikes. Aluminium is the ticket
  • 3 0
 The prototype Precept 200 with 27.5 wheels you are referring to was only given to Connor for him to get used to a DH bike with bigger wheels.

The 27.5 carbon operator he's been on for all the world cup races wasn't ready yet at that point but he needed to put in training hours on something.

This isn't to say that when Kona releases the other new bikes for 2016 at the beginning of next week you wont see something similar but good chance they just keep with the affordable 26" version.
  • 7 1
 I thought an AL Honzo was called 'Taro'..
  • 1 1
 no the Taro essentially was the older model honzo turned aluminum and then given an ultra pricepoint build.
  • 2 0
 But the ride quality is worse. Not a good trade off for the type of people that are in the market for a Honzo.
  • 2 1
 the aluminum is causing a worse ride quality or the bike is?
  • 5 0
 My Taro is rad. Great bang for the buck.
  • 1 0
 @knarrr

I'm not saying you're incorrect about target market, I'm partial to the odd fringe bike here and there. But I would be well up for a light aluminium one. And what I think @brockfisher05 is driving at is surely alu is just 'different' ride qualitIES... no?. It has many applications in mtb frames.
  • 1 1
 Having rode a fair share of hardtails, a blanket statement is that aluminum simply makes for a harsher ride, as it is inherently more stiff. I'll take the weight penalty for a steel frame any day.
  • 3 0
 @knarr - I, too, have ridden quite a few newer HTs including the Honzo and I currently ride a Nimble9. With all due respect, the compliance argument for steel is less robust when talking about these AM steel HTs. They are built burly and as a result, are less compliant than most are accustomed to with respect to steel. Not a bad thing, just a reality. The good news is we have choices. I've decided I want to go lighter so I'm going with a new Yelli or EPO. The Honzo, in any flavor, didn't pass the test with the 148 rear. Not ready to drink that Kool-Aid.
  • 2 0
 That's true... It is a blanket statement. Every action has an equal and opposite reaction. So what you call harsh, I might call responsive. I guess we are just each end of the stick, personally I'd deal with the harsh to take the weight drop etc. that's why they make two. But I do think a less controversial option would have been to offer the new one as frame only, not the other way round.
  • 1 0
 Anyone know about the weight of the Ti? Also seeing the 148 got me a lot less excited
  • 1 1
 I was just asking him if he meant the bike didn't have a good ride quality or if we was more referring to the aluminium itslef not lending a hand to the ride quality. I think he was more getting at the fact alluminum has a much more ridgid feel to it
  • 2 0
 The titanium version of that bike with a good 1x build and a Pike would be a Durable, timeless AM bike
  • 1 1
 ^Timeless isn't in the corporate dictionary. I get your drift though, sounds amazing
  • 6 0
 I luv my Honzo but that Ti version looks amazing.
  • 4 0
 Hey PB, does that Operator come in an XL? Is Kona still using press fit BBs? I'll take Boost, 29+, whatever, as long as the industry gets rid of press fit! Damn creak!
  • 3 0
 Yes, it will come in M, L, and XL sizes.
  • 1 6
flag tobiasbethge (Jul 14, 2015 at 16:45) (Below Threshold)
 Also it will probably come with cheap glued in headset cups. Finding fitting bearings for that is a real challenge even if you have Headset sizing gauge because non of the sizes on that fits in there cups. Thanks for that Kona!
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer you don't mean it doesn't come in S, do you?
  • 1 0
 Actually @tobiberlin, the Operator 27.5 will be coming with a standard zero stack tapered headset.
  • 1 1
 Oh great tho they only srewed over everyone who got a crash replacement/warranty within the last year. DO you have some insides and you're sure about it? Because they don't mention anything about the current headset mess....
  • 5 0
 I wonder if there will be other models of the Hei Hei? I have a '15 Hei Hei Supreme on my short list for a new ride.
  • 6 0
 After watching aggys trailer I will buy the complete lineup!!!
  • 6 2
 Wow the Hei Hei looks like a great trail bike. Looks like better geo than the Fuel for comparison.
  • 6 11
flag MX298 (Jul 14, 2015 at 13:00) (Below Threshold)
 As long as the rear triangle's don't break.
  • 6 5
 Great looking bikes, but still no Carbon Process?

According to my local Kona dealer, they were planning one for 2015, but when they got back the prototypes, the manufacturing was severely F'ed and they had to start over with another supplier. He's hoping to see one for 2016, but so far anyway, he's still hoping.
  • 3 3
 Lmao how I keep hearing the carbon process is coming but nvr does. Too bad, another year I'm not on a carbon 153.
  • 3 3
 The carbon 111 is coming. I ran into and rode with one of their reps who had on. Black with Orange and Blue color scheme. Killer looking bike
  • 2 1
 Well, there's also been at least one proto c 134 out there for a while too...2 years maybe?
  • 1 1
 The official response from my Kona rep is "there is a carbon shortage"

not sure if he was joking or not.
  • 2 1
 carbon is slowly being introduced to the Process line up my 167 has carbon seat stays , and the rep told me they are still working on the frame and it would be a while and the 134 will be up 1st .
  • 7 2
 that extra 2mm clearance is what i need.
  • 3 0
 " It's also one of the few remaining long travel 26" bikes on the market, and it even has a 20mm thru-axle fork for good measure."

It's Kona time!
  • 1 0
 Process 167 large frame, a RS Vivid air shock, Fox 36 170mm 20mm axis fork, XX1 drivetrain with Race Face 170mm cranks, XTR Trail brakes 200mm rotors, Mavic Crossmax Enduro wheelset, Maxxis High Roller II tyres, Reverb drooper post, 800mm handlebars, 35mm stem.... aaaahhh... what...? Oh, nooo, I was only dreaming!! Seriously, that Kona Process 167 is the best all mountain bike now in the market, not just because of its 26´ wheel size, but because of it too!!!
  • 1 1
 yeah it,s a fun bike the BB height is a little low for trail riding , i bash pedals at times and smash the sprocket more then i did with my 2013 Process , i swapped to a lighter Spank OOZY/HOPE PRO EVO wheelset , swapped to a Cromag saddle and will soon be swapping to the new BOX carbon bars and a 35mm stem .
  • 2 0
 The 167 seems to be much like the freeride bikes of a few years ago. I'd love to ride it if I only had trails that would warrant a park type bike.
  • 1 0
 It actually pedals very well for what it is. I got to ride one a few months ago and was very happy with its ability to climb. I mean don't get off the seat and go charging up some ultra techy climb or anything but yeah much better than what people assume.
  • 4 0
 167 is a huge bike but it pedals and handles uphills well enough to question the necessity for having 153 if you live in big mountains or just do lots of shuttling/ lifts. When I sat on it, I felt like I rode it all my life.
  • 3 0
 Yeah my 167 pedals way better then I expected, even after riding hard tail all winter. I run about 20% sag and if you stay decently smooth it climbs techy stuff pretty dam well. Tons of traction. And it RIPS downhill.
  • 4 0
 26 ain't dead! Probably will be soon though Frown
  • 2 0
 @mikekazimer Do you have any more details on the Honzo Ti? I see that the aluminum version has Boost, I am wondering about that and the bottom bracket on the Ti version.
  • 1 0
 Looks like PF to me if you zoom in
  • 1 0
 I hope you're wrong. My wallet hopes you're right.
  • 1 0
 Re: alu versions boost? What is boost? Is it a good or bad thing? It's often used as a joke you see.
  • 5 0
 The ti Honzo uses 12x142 spacing.
  • 4 2
 Wasn't the whole point of the Honzo that it was made of steel? I know it's still an option, but it's hardly the same bike in Aluminum.
  • 2 2
 The steel dampens vibrations and is an overall smoother ride because of it, but not light.
  • 2 0
 Exactly. Whilst I totally dig the new alu one, I cannot dispute that tinfoil is right, it was born into being all about steel. The big steel war-pig now has a space-age sibling. So kinda cheeky that the steel one is now frame only.
  • 4 0
 WTB 35mm internal width rims??? Damn...
  • 2 0
 I saw the 167, saw that it was 26" with a 20mm front axle and thought "wow, old school".
That says a lot. Cool looking lineup, love it.
  • 1 1
 I'm pretty much an XC guy at heart who will ride any trail. Since I rode the Process 111, I've found myself wishing for that exact geometry applied to a lightweight XC race bike with 120mm fork, and I think it's something that would sell like crazy. The Hei Hei has the 430mm stays and 68 deg head tube of the Process, here's to hoping they have one in the lineup at a competitive race weight!
  • 2 0
 I'd also like to note that a brand that specs Minions on the front of their trail bikes knows how and where mtb's are supposed to be ridden.
  • 2 0
 People say this a lot, but the kona operator actually does look like a session. Stoked they decided to be a reasonably priced competitive DH bike!
  • 1 1
 Hi PB, I have been staying up since this article surfaces,

1. will new 12x148 or Boost for that matter becomes THE universal standard for all mtb incl downhill bikes with the 2016 Operator leading the way?
2. with a brace at the head tube of the ti honzo, does it shows that titanium is inferior to steel?
  • 4 0
 kona's frames are bad ass. I'll take any one.
  • 1 0
 The Kona Bronson 153. Got one last year. It's siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiick. Stable, due to being crazy long & low. Hard to manual.
  • 1 0
 ti honzo!!!! Might have to sell my 2015 frame. Also I'm glad I held off on some wtb i25kom's for my process, sounds like some wider awesomeness is coming our way!!
  • 3 0
 gotta love Kona for making affordable Bikes and Titanium frames!
  • 3 0
 Ti honzo.... Drool mode on and Im not even a 29er hardtail kind of guy
  • 4 5
 So the rear hub width is down by 2mm to slim down the frames lines?
Thats pathetic, i'm sorry but thats the most ridiculous thing. 150mm is fine, if 2 mm makes that much difference on a frame i think you have bigger issues. Especially when it comes to borrowing a mates spare wheel. We do not need any more hub sizes. I'm all for progression thats too far
  • 2 1
 the "150" actually measures to be something like 157.
  • 2 0
 Really? Pretty sure the 150mm rear hub i measured the other day was, well, 150mm
  • 2 1
 Most 150 hubs were dumped in favor of 157- unless your frame doesn't have notches in it to center the wheel. The extension was to compensate for the notch most manufacturers made.
  • 2 1
 Any sign of a carbon process in the lineup...? I am curious more than anything as it seems the alu framed bikes are doing just fine so maybe Kona are in no rush.
  • 4 4
 Anyone that talks bad about 27.5" wheels on a DH bike has not ridden a 27.5" DH rig!! Period! after riding one, there is simply nothing bad to say about them. Unless, of course, you do not like speed
  • 3 0
 So Trek was sold to Kona?
  • 2 0
 So the Taro is now the Honzo AL. Wonder what changes were made to the Big Unit?
  • 3 1
 They should do a 26" version of the Honzo (in steel of course). I would buy that immediatly!!
  • 3 0
 They did. Steely: www.pinkbike.com/news/Kona-Steps-It-Up-For-2012-First-Look-at-the-New-Gravity-Lineup.html
  • 1 0
 Thanks for sharing KobaltBlau!! For some reason I totally missed out on the excistance of this machine. Just too bad it doesn't have the paragon slider drop outs. Still a super sick machine though!
  • 1 0
 if you can get your hands on an old-model (2011 an prior) Explosif, that had 26" and sliding dropouts.
2010 and 2011 were available as frame afaik:
www.konaworld.co/bike.cfm?content=explosif
loving mine!
  • 1 0
 Yeah true, I'm currently building a Kona Unit, the 2006 frame with paragon slider drop outs and 26" aswell. But it is a full xc machine, wouldn't take it to a bikepark or hit drops on it. Also different geo.

But a Steely with the paragon would be THE perfect frame for me.
  • 1 1
 aye, you're right. the explosif of yore is more an xc rig...supports forks up to 120mm max.

but maybe this one does the trick for you?

www.2soulscycles.com/index.php/products/funtail-415

www.2soulscycles.com/index.php/store/product/55-41-5evo
  • 1 0
 That looks really good! Thanks for sharing, I didn't know this one yet Smile
  • 1 0
 Always glad to help!
  • 1 0
 Beer
  • 3 0
 When are the new Kona's available to buy?
  • 1 0
 Where is the News on WTB new Rims?!? I've noticed them in different posts but not in a dedicated article about WTB's new rims! i29, new 35mm i wannaaa knowwwww
  • 3 0
 So aluminum Honzo, is this the end of the Taro?
  • 1 0
 27.5 Operator and yet there were no 27.5 wheel spares or tyres available in any of the shops in Morzine / Les Gets this year. Oops.
  • 2 0
 what about an affordable hardtail, the new shred? how will that look
  • 3 2
 Could you please say more on the Process 153 ?
I was hoping for a carbon/aluminum combination or something like that.
  • 3 0
 Those bikes are so rad to ride that there is no need for plastic poop. Those geos are sweet and carbon takes more cash and convenience than gives in return
  • 1 1
 Since the prototype carbon 153 popped up on PB i've been hanging to get my hands on one. Its the only bike i can see myself replacing my 153dl with. I am at a loss as to what else you could possibly upgrade to; without paying 10 gorillas for an overpriced Yeti SB, Spesh Enduro or Santa Nomad/Bronson.I think Kona have found the only way I can think of upgrading the 153 with a weight saving and stiffness upgrade. Especially if the rumors are true that they are taking their time finding the right carbon layup and proper construction process, pun intended Smile
  • 1 1
 Forget yeti, santa, spesh - the only upgrade is Knolly.
  • 2 0
 The operator is so fat that it makes the boxxers look like toothpicks
  • 3 2
 Because Boxxers are toothpicks. Go 40,WIN
  • 1 1
 The more I look at the new aluminium honzo the more I can't help thinking stick a 140mm fork on it and that is an absolute chunderGun.
  • 2 0
 Shoutout to my process 111 most fun bike I've had in years......
  • 3 1
 Alu Honzo looks great! Love what they've done with the Hei-Hei!
  • 1 0
 "...It's also one of the few remaining long travel 26" bikes on the market, "....... Bleak !!
  • 1 0
 With the exception of that dirty lookin' Process, nice clean lineup there Kona. GJ. Smile
  • 2 0
 Anybody know how and when I'll be able to get my hands on a process 153 ??
  • 4 4
 I want to ride a 27.5 process 167. You know, for funzies- it'd be a good mate for the new Lyrik.
  • 4 1
 Nevermind, I'll just get a Operator.
  • 1 0
 How the? What the? Eh? What did you do? I've ridden bikes almost as long as I can remember and I've no clue what you've done.
  • 2 2
 What fork is the process 167 going to run now that the lyirk isn't avalble in 26"?
  • 3 0
 It will be running the Lyrik 26 as pictured.

www.sram.com/rockshox/family/lyrik-26
  • 1 0
 Yeah for now but that fork is going to be discontinued next year and replaced by the new lyrik which isn't avalible in 26"
  • 1 0
 The orders have all been done and the bikes are coming off the production line with the Lyrik pictured. I'm not sure what the 2017 model may have, but for the model year 2016 Process 167, it will be the current (not new) Lyrik 26, as pictured above.
  • 1 1
 haha.just what i heard..who really knows?kona employees feel free to chime in
  • 3 4
 Bummed..I've had an Entourage for 2 seasons and love it..and was excited for some fresh or funky new colors or carbon Process..Neither for 2016
  • 2 1
 Rasta isn't funky enough for you?
  • 1 0
 ok i need to put the bag of dollar store pretzels down and go for a ride
  • 2 1
 Wow,regarding the Operator,I can't believe no one has said it yet.......
  • 1 0
 For the uninitiated, what prey tell is boost?
  • 4 0
 It depends on who you ask - it's either the best thing since sliced bread, or an evil plot dreamed up by the bike industry to take all of your hard earned money and render your bike obsolete. In either case, here's a primer with some more details: www.pinkbike.com/news/sram-announces-new-hub-standards-boost-148-and-110-2015.html.
  • 1 0
 Mike, can you confirm what the rear spacing is on the Steel Honzo? If it is boost, are the older dropouts able to bring it back to 142?
  • 2 0
 Hey @sacrilege, Steel Honzo comes stock with 142x12 sliding dropouts. The same pictured with the Honzo Ti above. Currently Kona offer 142x12 or 135x9 (QR) dropouts in geared or single speed options. I'm sure more options will be available as well.
  • 1 0
 New standards you say?... *burns bike*
  • 3 2
 Once again Kona wtf, press fit BB no sale!
  • 2 1
 What about a 26' trail bike, Kona?
  • 3 1
 Oh don't worry bro. When new bike/component sales slow again everybody will go back to 26" wheels,20mm front axle,135/150 spacing as the newest best thing!!!
Remember the newbs who don't know any better drive new trends. Same ol same.
  • 1 0
 THere will be a resurgence of 26" wheeled bikes. The "fun size".
  • 2 2
 Kona warranty, no thanks!
  • 1 0
 34 on the honzo :/
  • 2 0
 Is it the travel? Or you wanted a pike or maybe a 36?
  • 1 0
 Threaded or pressed bb?
  • 2 1
 I Like rastaaaaa
  • 2 1
 No precept 200?
  • 3 0
 This is not the full lineup, and I can confirm the Precept 200 will still be available.
  • 2 1
 I need that Aly Honzo
  • 2 5
 I don't know much about suspension design, but doesnt that link that holds the shock look a bit weak on the process? The bike looks awesome otherwise.
  • 6 1
 It's just the angle - it's a thick piece of aluminum: www.pinkbike.com/photo/9818236
  • 2 0
 I was wondering if it was just the picture, yeah that looks much better.
  • 3 5
 12×148? As soon as I read that, no thanks. You can keep your new standards and shove it up the rectum
  • 1 1
 LLAK
  • 2 1
 What does that mean?
  • 1 1
 Actually don't know what it means, and Google is no help. But I figured out LLAS is.. looks like a session!
  • 1 3
 You think kona would pick up the horst link now that the patent has expired
  • 1 2
 Isn`t the shox mount on Process`s frame looked too weak?
  • 2 0
 nope. Look at it from any angle besides from the side, it's plenty burly. Havent seen one broken yet.
  • 7 10
 I remember commenting last year on their line up and thanking them for still having a 26" option. This makes me sad.
  • 26 0
 If I had just scrolled down I would've seen the 26" bike. Nice. I'll see myself out, mods please delete my account.
  • 3 5
 Love the glued in head set cups on the Operator. Good job Kona.
  • 4 0
 Sarcasm peeps. It's called sarcasm.
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