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Kona Big Unit 29er Hardtail

5/5 (2 Reviews)

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MSRP : $2799.00


Product Description

It's widely regarded as one of the best-riding 29er hardtail singlespeeds ever made. And we're not lying, just check out our Facebook page. It's a veritable Big-Unit lover's paradise. For 2012, we take the incredibly lightweight, strong and smooth riding characteristics of Kona Scandium 6069 Butted tubing, tweak the geometry by lowering the front and shortening the rear end, add a great component package and a look that's 500 per cent cool, and you've got one of the mountain bike world's most coveted singlespeed rides.

  • RockShox SID RLT 29er fork
  • Avid Elixir 7 brakes
  • Stans/NoTubes ZTR ArchSS wheelset
  • Maxxis Aspen 29x2.1 Kevlar tires


    • Review Options:  Sorted by Latest Review | Sort by Best Rating

    Reviews 1 - 2 (2 Reviews Total)

    User Reviews

    Overall Rating:5
    Value Rating:5
    Submitted by Entrenador

    Date Reviewed: November 4, 2012

    Strengths:    Scandium: Fairly light and overbuilt
    Fat sliders: Require a 6mm hex, so they stay put
    Drive train options: Has cable guides and included a spare derailleur-friendly drive side dropout
    Geometry: Nimble but not twitchy
    31.6 seat post: Dropper optional
    Lifetime warranty? Really?


    Weaknesses:    Tiny inconvenience with the non-drive side slider stop adjustment bolt

    Bottom Line:   
    This is a review for the frame only, size 19

    The frame is exactly what I wanted: An efficient, light, nimble and stable SS-able EBB-free platform. It is Scandium, which some people suggest is more forgiving than other aluminum alloys. Make no mistake, this is a stiff frame. But since I prefer a 2.2ish rear tire at low psi, the difference in comfort between this frame and my steel frame is negligible - just bend your knees like you're supposed to do anyway, right? Also regarding stiffness: Tapered head tube and nice fat down tube result in far better power transfer than on my steel frame, which means nice acceleration characteristics.

    Geometry: I can't imagine any better: Shortish stays, 70* HTA, and a very well-placed BB height (12.2"). The sliders allow for as short as 17.1" chain stays, but with my 32x20 gears and a half link, I managed to get ~17.3" - plenty nimble still.

    Drop outs: The drop outs are nice and beefy, and I don't expect I'll run into any issues down the line with these. The LH slider has post-type caliper mount, which is a bit disconcerting if you're heavy handed when tightening bolts. Side note: I'd like to see fork and frame mfgrs use steel thread inserts in the future, but I won't worry as long as I use proper torque numbers.
    Also, the RH slider adjuster is a bit funny, in that the stop nut that rests against the frame sits very close to the top of the dropout flange, which makes it a challenge to get a wrench on it. Careful work with an 8mm open end sufficed though, but it'd be nice to be able to fit a box end over the nut. But hey, I'm nutpicking here.

    My 19" frame with seat collar weighs 4lbs 6oz; It's no featherweight, but I don't feel like I must treat it like one. Such peace of mind doesn't get the airplay that it should.
    Overall Rating:5
    Value Rating:5
    Submitted by Jesus a Cross Country Rider from ireland

    Date Reviewed: October 12, 2010

    Strengths:    Light, Strudy, Chuckable, Very Loveable. Easily adaptable to geared if wished. Love the race face cranks, lockout is good on the fly. Every aspect is pretty, finishing kit is Tops.

    Weaknesses:    Too pretty.

    Bottom Line:   
    Early days yet for me with SS 29ers. 26ers were to harsh but this thing is inspiring. Had it now for 2 weeks and 40 k per day all weather. Super in the woods, geared nicely for moderate climbs but light enough to struggle up what you'd think impossible. Love the way the thing corners, much tighter and confident than what I'm used to. Will probably get a geared back wheel later to swap out when I like. Will drop down to a 16,15 or 14 rear cog for road trips as a SSer but the 18 it comes with is great for off road. Think its bye bye cross country 26er full sussers for me. This bike is a keeper.

    Expand full review >>

    Favorite Trail:   wexford

    Duration Product Used:   Less than 1 month

    Price Paid:    $1265.00

    Purchased At:   winstanleysbikes.co.

    Similar Products Used:   GT peace 26er SS, Marin Attack Trail with 700c 47mm Tyres Flat/Drops.

    Bike Setup:   Factory
    Reviews 1 - 2 (2 Reviews Total)

    Review Options:  Sorted by Latest Review | Sort by Best Rating

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