We took what we learned from the World Championship winning Stab and the freeride revolutionary Stinky, and integrated into new design that is lighter, stiffer, more durable and easier to work on. Oh yeah, it's way sexier too. With a slacker 64-degree head tube angle, new 1.5 zero stack, tapered, internal head tube, mega-sized main pivots, and an axle that slides in from the drive side of the bike so you can adjust/tighten the main pivot, this bike is moon rock needle sweet. The all-new Operator DH features a mix of parts that gives the privateer the ability to race year-in, year-out thanks to Avid Code R brakes and a Boxxer Race fork.
Strengths: First of all I would like to give Kona two thumbs up for finally designing a lighter DH Sled. Light weight 37lbs. Sails in the air, corners great, and just rails DH. It's every thing the Stinky/Stab wished it could of been.
Weaknesses: Headset bolt head sticks out a 1/4", I'm scared I might stab my self with it. So I replaced it with the Azonic Headlock. The Boxxer's rebound knob fell out first ride.
Bottom Line:
What a great DH bike setup.
If your are looking to trade in your old 48lb DH Sled.
The 2011 Kona Operator DH is the best bang for the buck.
