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Submitted by
LeonardoVZLA
a Cross Country Rider
from Caracas,Miranda,Venezuela
Date Reviewed: September 14, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Streets of Caracas | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | D' Bike | | Strengths: | Strong frame, comes with good tyres(ignitors), deore shift pods and front derraileur. | | Weaknesses: | the brakes simply suck(shimano 486) not reliable while going downhill,bad shifting,rear slx derraileur,the crankset is too heavy all this components make the byke be too heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | kona caldera 2007(stolen) | | Bike Setup: | kickass avid juicy 5 brakes, rockshox reba race fork,small shimano spd pedals and big heavy spd pedals(depends on the activity), 143 specialized phenom saddle(to protect the nutsack),front and rear xt derraileurs, xt shiftpods,xt crankset,mavic crosstrail disc wheels, kenda nevegal 2.35 f/r and sunline logo lock-on white grips. | | Bottom Line: | It's an amazing starter byke, i was between the caldera and this one but looking at the price i paid you can see i got ripped off,i'ts like everything in my country....too expensive. but when i realized that the caldera did not have lock on i decided to go for this one, maybe the stock brakes are ok and everything i saw as a weakness is ok knowing that i'm in no position to demand much from an entry level bicycle because i weight 229 pounds. i would recommend this product to anyone. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mario1973
a Weekend Warrior
from
Date Reviewed: August 7, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Swinley Forrest, Bracknell | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$765.00 | | Purchased At: | Pauls Cycles through | | Strengths: | Great frame geometry, handles very well, good value for spec. | | Weaknesses: | Pedals, noisy brakes | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500 2006 | | Bike Setup: | Kona Cinder Cone 08, Easton EA70 stem and handlebars.DMR V8 pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I got this as an 08 model at end of 09 model year hence heavily discounted at £450 from £600 rrp. Was to replace a stolen Trek 6500.
Find very quick and nimble through the trails, fork performs well for a budget fork (rockshox dart 3), seems very solid and handles my 215lb weight very well.
Main bad point is the pedals which look very cheap, and once replaced I was relieved to find that a loud creaking noise was coming from the cheap pedals rather than my bottom bracket as feared! Hayes stroker ride brakes squeal very loudly, have ordered different brand pads which will hopefully help. Overall very good for the price I paid!- even adding on about £100 of upgrades. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
cool breeze
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, Idaho, USA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Lower Hulls Gulch | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Idaho Mountain Touri | | Strengths: | Robust and unbreakable. Never flinches no matter the situation or terrain. A lot of bike for the money. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy-ish. Pedals. Cheaper fork shows its age before long. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for clipless pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I think I lucked out with the 2004 version of the Cinder Cone. In all subsequent years, they've downgraded some of the componentry to stay more in line with the prescribed price point. If you want a Kona as good as the '04 Cinder Cone right off the shelf, you're going to have to upgrade to the Caldera.
I cannot believe the abuse I've dished out to this thing, and it keeps coming back for more. There were times when I punished it even more than I had planned on and thought, "Oh man, the bike's not going to be the same after this." Wrong! This thing is a tank. Not even remotely sleek or sexy, it is instead strictly utilitarian and humorless. The Cinder Cone gets the job done, and never expects a "thank you." | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
johnyoics
a Weekend Warrior
from Cincinnati
Date Reviewed: March 19, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | East Fork State Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$599.00 | | Purchased At: | Smitty's | | Strengths: | Good solid Kona frame, Hayes Hydro brakes, and overall great component package for this price range. | | Weaknesses: | Early Rock Shock Dart's have a reputaion for failing but I have not had any problems | | Similar Products Used: | 1996 Miyata Elevation, STX/LX setup bike. Tested Fuji Tahoe Comp, Specialized Rockhopper disk, and Jamis bikes. | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock, swapped out seat with my old bike, will be adjusting riser/ handle bars for a more aggresive position. | | Bottom Line: | Only been on the trials one day since purchase but I am comfortable sayin this is a great bike in the mid-level range. All Deore with LX RD and Hayes brakes made it a better buy than any other $700-850 bike I tested. I prefer the flat style XC bars versus the risers that came on the 08's but that can be any easy fix. If there are any 08 left-overs I would look into it. I got a good deal on a great bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
lozen
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton,Alberta,Canada
Date Reviewed: August 17, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Local | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | River Valley Cycle | | Strengths: | Disc brakes | | Weaknesses: | Overall the whole bike is a hunk of junk. Nothing but repairs after repairs. I have an Old Trek that has been more reliable and is older and was cheaper | | Similar Products Used: | Trek | | Bottom Line: | Maybe I just got a Lemon But I just put in another $300 on this bike and it still rides like crap. Gears are clunky and dont change well as well as a noise from the bike I just cant find. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jaybo
a Weekend Warrior
from UK
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Sherwood Pines (UK) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | 860 | | Strengths: | Good solid frame, good all round MTB | | Weaknesses: | Price, it looks like you guys in the US get things alot cheaper. £450 ($860) was a good price over here in the UK | | Bike Setup: | 2007 stock apart from WTB all terrainasaurus tyres | | Bottom Line: | An great all round MTB for the beginner to mid range user. With a few minor upgrades, great for the more serious rider. A good solid bike | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Beikirch
a Weekend Warrior
from Beck Row UK
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$699.00 | | Purchased At: | Ramstein outdoor rec germany | | Strengths: | Almost everything, mine has the hyd. hayes sole brakes, and marzocchi mz fork with lockout the two things most people don't seem to have on theirs and they've worked great for me. | | Weaknesses: | Saddle wasn't my favorite although thats preference it was perfectly fine, pedals seem like they could be better, brake disks seem to rub quite easily but maybe thats just me, but i still like the brakes. SRAM chain with powerlink would be better than stupid shimano pins. | | Similar Products Used: | cheaper mtbikes | | Bike Setup: | Stock(Hayes Sole Hyd. Brakes, Marzocchi mz fork w/lockout) with Azonic Big Drop Saddle, Blackspire Bashguard | | Bottom Line: | Great buy for everything but phsyco DH or freeride, best bang for your buck in my opinion for everything else. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elliot
a Downhiller
from Franklin, TN USA
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | around my town | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Harpeth Bikes | | Strengths: | everything! even with the stock components, you can stil ride hard and not worry about the bike | | Weaknesses: | none at all | | Similar Products Used: | specialized hardrock sport
jamis komodo 1.0
| | Bike Setup: | not stock parts
fork-camo manitou nixon 145mm travel
wheels-white halo combat front and rear(hand built)
cranks-fsa gravity with fsa alloy bash guard
handlebars-truvativ hussefelt
stem-truvativ hussefelt
seatpost-fsa
grips-odi lock on
chain stay protector-lizard skins
bottom bracket-truvativ giga pipe team DH ISIS
pedals-diamondback bigfoot
rest is stock | | Bottom Line: | amazing bike. with upgrades could be the only bike you would ever need. frame is strong and could be built up for any type of riding. buy it, you wont be dissapointed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elliot
a Downhiller
from Franklin
Date Reviewed: October 27, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Harpeth Bikes | | Strengths: | It is a Kona!!!! Beefy frame. great parts for a 700 dollar bike. not too heavy. the do-it-all" hardtail. looks awesome | | Weaknesses: | none. well maybe one. it will break your heart to not be riding it. | | Similar Products Used: | specialized hardrock. trek zx 7000. | | Bike Setup: | upgraded to sun single track rims. dt stainless spokes. maxxis holy roller tires. truvativ hussefelt bar and stem. fsa seatpost. lizard skins chain stay protector. shadow conspiracy grips. everything else is stock... for now | | Bottom Line: | this is my 2nd review on this bike. and this IS the best $700 hardtail ever. it does anything u got the "balls" to do. buy this bike. its orange:) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Julius Charlie
a Cross Country Rider
from Gallup, NM
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | High Desert Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$699.00 | | Purchased At: | Two Wheel Drive | | Strengths: | Frame, drivetrain, Shifters | | Weaknesses: | Handle bars, seat, pedals, fork | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | Manitou R7 fork, Ritchey pro handle bar, WTB rocket V seat, Ritchey Comp clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | I just started riding, and picked the Kona CC based on Mountain Bike Rider magazine's review. I learned an incredibly amount on this bike. I highly recommend for an entry level rider.
As I progressed, I noticed the Rock Shox Dart 2 (w lockout) was not stiff, and too plush for aggressive XC riding. It was not responsive in fast winding & rocky sections. This caused me to lose control, and wreck (frame is super tough!) The lock out was a plus, but the fork made the bike too heavy & after time, felt very sluggish. The R7 made this bike ride like a completely different bike!
The seat also was designed for a nice cozy ride in the park, and didn't allow you to shift around the bike in every changing trails. The handle bars were too high, putting you in too upright of a position. Great for a daily cruise, but made it difficult for steep climbs & fast downhill sections.
after the above component changes, the bike was converted into a great XC trail bike suitable for racing & long epic rides. I rode 2 races, and the bike more than handled. Fork & drivetrain (very stiff bb/cranks for power, and outstanding shifting) are the highlights of this setup. The wheelset are durable, but not light at all. The brakes are fair. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mat
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Fe, NM, USA
Date Reviewed: September 17, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$699.00 | | Purchased At: | Santa Fe Mountain Sports | | Strengths: | Frame is rock solid and definitely stands out, as it is bright orange. Deore LX rear deraileur provides great, reliable shifting. Solid construction. The saddle is actually quite nice for stock. | | Weaknesses: | Hayes Mx-4 disc brakes. They are constantly rubbing and nearly impossible to correctly adjust. Rock Shox Dart 2 fork is another weak point. Kona should have stuck with the Marzochhi MZ3 for this line of bikes. Both the brakes and the fork get the job done, but they will be the first two things on the bike I upgrade. | | Similar Products Used: | 2006 Specialized HardRock Pro | | Bike Setup: | Completely stock 2007 with Kona Bashguard. | | Bottom Line: | This is probably the best bike you will find for this price. A much better value than the comparably-equipped specialized rockhopper comp. The Cinder Cone is solid enough to easily take the toughest and fastest trails that I can dish out. I love this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Sailas
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampere, Finland
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Jura, and Alps in switzerland | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | Looks, price, weight | | Weaknesses: | wheels, rims, brakes, gears. | | Similar Products Used: | GT avalanche 2.0, Specialized rockhopper, trek 4300 | | Bike Setup: | tioga Terrafirma wheels, normal rubber breaks, Shimano LX deraileur english? mavic x130. | | Bottom Line: | I thought kona cinder cones came with disc brakes? Somwhow i must have gotten myself a really cheap version. Had rock shox Judy TTs on it aswell. For the whole 4 years i rode it, the gears never worked properly, which was odd. The bike weighed a little which is good. The tioga wheels were nothing amazing, very hard to go on asphalt or conrete roads, and on dry days it was very good at XC. When it rained, it lost its grip. Also cornering wasnt as precise as it should have been. The judy TTs were a bit too soft... like very mushy, so they werent always optimal.
My kona was just stolen and im looking for a new bike, so im thinking now of getting a Kona caldera or Kula premo.
I guess for some one less enthusiastic about offrad and biking this bike would suit perfectly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremiah stowe
a Cross Country Rider
from Greenfield
Date Reviewed: August 2, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Wendall State Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle world | | Strengths: | Well the 2007 frame is a little heavier than the 06 verison but it is wicked tough. I bought this bike for all mountain. So far every thing has held up. Also the whole bike stock can take a big beating. | | Weaknesses: | The rims that come with the bike, which i think a black eye sunrims are not beffy enough for all mountain but proably perfect for Cross Country. The tires, maxxis ignitors are not the best. The are mostly made for loose dirt. But they are perfect in the rain. The tires are not maid for roots or rocks they dont lock up at all. the seatpost is very weak. | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4300, marin hawkhil se | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Minute, titec hell bent handel bars,thomson elite seatpost,shimano XT shifters pods, ESI grips, hayes MX-4 mechanical brakes, bontrager XC seatpost,blackeye sunrims, konathumb stem, specialized pro resalusion all mountain. tires | | Bottom Line: | this bike is a perfect bike for all mountain ( if you put the right ups on it) or a crazy good XC bike. Also the price of the bike is perfect for the perfomance you get out if it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
timmy
a Weekend Warrior
from n.van b.c
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | my uncles | | Strengths: | strong frame, 30lbs | | Weaknesses: | FORK!!!!! less travel than advertised horriffic rebound no adjustability | | Similar Products Used: | ive rode my buddies bikes scrap stuff hardrock | | Bike Setup: | all custom minute 3s rf prodigy stem kona dh bar xtr cassette ect. | | Bottom Line: | tough hard tail ready for drops jumps and shore trails if your looking to buy one you should definently change the fork also up grades are well worth it | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
taylor ramey
a Weekend Warrior
from little rock, ar, usa
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | womble | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | chainwheel | | Strengths: | the bike so far has done great. i have abused so hard and nothing has broken. i got it tuned up after 100 & 200 miles with no repairs. The Hayes 9 brakes are awesome - never had to adjust them and i can still stop with 1 finger. | | Weaknesses: | the pedals suck- i folded one of them on a rock during my first ride...you will defiantly need to get new ones.
the Marzocchi MZ Race 100mm fork is good, but i wish it had a lock out and was easier to adjust.
sadle- i broke it after i flipped my bike... i never really liked it, so i was happy to get a new one | | Similar Products Used: | specialized rockhopper pro & comp disc- the kona cinder cone is way better.
giant yukon & rincon- i also liked the kona better | | Bottom Line: | worth the money if you come across one | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elliot
a Downhiller
from Franklin
Date Reviewed: June 10, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | just ridin is fun/my backyard | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Harpeth Bicycles | | Strengths: | everything. this bike could be raced xc, then a jump session, and all mountain, and then when your getting tired, some downhill. everything works. crank feels heavy but that is good for abuse. the sun ringle black eye wheels are skinnie but take the abuse i dish out. the rockshox dart fork is going to the the next thing i upgrade. but it performs well. | | Weaknesses: | none. | | Similar Products Used: | brothers specialized hardrock sport | | Bike Setup: | just upgraded to truvativ hussefelt bar and stem. new avid fr-5 levers, white primo bmx grips, lizard skins chainstay protector. everything else is stock. | | Bottom Line: | kona is a small northshore big hit brand. but they nailed the all mountain hardtail on the head. this bike is amazing. for 700 dollars you won't find a better bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik
a Downhiller
from Calgary
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | Bowcycle | | Strengths: | I thought the bike was great in itself. Depending on what you do contributes to how this bike handles. For DH its alright, but best at trails. Its very light and the forks have a quick rebound for semi-bumpy terrain. | | Weaknesses: | The derailer and chain suck. The chain is fairley loose and the derailer was way to slow for me. I would recommending upgrading these along with the fork. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona sticky, Specialized p3, Norco six two | | Bike Setup: | All stock except the derailer. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike for trails, and slight bit of downhill. It climbs well due to the great gears it has. Like i said the shocks rebound way to quickly for jumps over 5 feet and dont have much travel unless adjusted. Other than that great all around bike for streets, mountain, and trail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Simon
a Weekend Warrior
from London England
Date Reviewed: May 5, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | The Wall, Afan Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | eBayer selling it after 1 ride | | Strengths: | All round great bike for the money - cost me GBP£350 off eBay brand new, great all round package, brakes are superb, geometry is perfect for me out of the box, saddle is great and rarely gets a mention, rides well without any major tweaking. Paint job is striking too - camo green. | | Weaknesses: | Tioga tyres not up for the job, not 100% on the fork but can't complain for the money. Bars are not great. But nothing major. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Big Sur, some Daewoo piece of tat | | Bike Setup: | Stock apart from tyres (Panaracer FireXCPro) and about to change the wheels to Mavic CrossRide and will ditch the bars too. | | Bottom Line: | I go to South Wales for the greatest test of this bike about 3-4 times a year - only at the end of a long day long ride do I wish I had a full squidger which is more down to my fitness than the bike itself. It's quite fast uphill and very nimble. The model below this in the range just got top marks in the sub £600 bracket in Mountain Bike Rider so if you are after a budget hardtail that punches above its weight, go for it. Still hankering after a Commencal Meta 5.5 or a Stumpie FSR expert though... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jasiek
a Cross Country Rider
from Warsaw, Poland
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | you wouldn't know it anyway | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | ski team pro shop | | Strengths: | Hayes MX4 brakes - the best disc brakes I've ever tried. RockShox Dart2 fork also does the job (and you can swich it off). Wide | | Weaknesses: | Pedals - toeclips and straps sucks! I removed them and it's better, but still wellgo pedals don't fit to the rest of this marvelous bike. But this is the only weakness I found after two rather busy days of ridding (80 miles in 2 days). | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Lava DOme (stop laughing, I know it's a girlbike), Kona Bomber 2006, Specialized Rockhopper, Gary Fisher Bitter | | Bike Setup: | stock Cinder Cone 2007 | | Bottom Line: | I think it's the best ride I've ever had. The frame shape is different than in other XC bikes, so your riding position is different, too. You need a while of calm, easy trail (somethin' like 15 miles of dirt and mud) to get used to it but after that you'll fall in love with this pretty little girl. When you fill this bike, you can do anything on it - jump, XC, urban freeride... masterpiece of multi-task machine for beginers and pros with tight budget. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Larry Jarrell II
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooks, KY
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Cherokee Park Louisville | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycler's Cafe Louisville, KY | | Strengths: | Solid frame I weigh 250 + and the frame seems to handle my weight really well. I have crashed a few imes and it has held up well. | | Weaknesses: | Pedals would be the weakest but I put new pedals on. Shock is springy but that has to do with 250+ pounds pounding on it. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Rincon. | | Bike Setup: | Stock other than pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a great entry level bike and will last if well maintained. I plan on passing it down to my 2 sons.
GEAUX TIGERS!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elliot
a
from Franklin, TN United States
Date Reviewed: February 28, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | Great paint job, strong welds, pretty good fork/dart 2 w/ lockout, great wheels, great component group, comfy seat, great looking crank, brakes are probably the best mechanical brakes ever, brake levers | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | other test bikes, this bike is better than all other sub $800 hardtails | | Bike Setup: | rock shox dart 2, fsa crank deora front and lx back, deora shifters, hayes mx-4 brakes, wtb seat | | Bottom Line: | great bike, great bike, great bike... i use it mainly for jumping and it isn't even a jumper and performes well for a cross-country bike. not a single weakness. I SWEAR YOU NEED TO BUY THIS BIKE!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh
a Racer
from Saratoga, New York, USA
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Mount Snow | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Inside Edge | | Strengths: | The weld on the frame is really strong and can take alot of beating, 9 rings on the cassette also helps speed, It stops on a dime | | Weaknesses: | non ajustable suspention, and thats an expensive upgrade | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Cinder Cone (previous year) GT avalanche 3.0 Kona stinky. Specialized Stumpjumper FSR | | Bike Setup: | Stock with SMBA sticker on seatpost | | Bottom Line: | This is a gourgous bike,
I've been riding for 5 years now and Kona has seemed to be the best priced company out there for the performance. Their team isn't half bad aswell. This is a great bike for people who have been riding for awhile and for people who want to get into racing. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stuart Brown
a Cross Country Rider
from England
Date Reviewed: December 9, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle World | | Strengths: | Strong Frame | | Weaknesses: | Fork, Chainset, Bottom bracket, Brakes, Pedals | | Similar Products Used: | Tried, orange 5, Specialized Rockhopper, Orange evo6 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | The fork is unadjustable and rebounds like a pogo stick.
Recently through normal XC riding bent the chainset. The brakes work very well as long as you dont mind adjusting them after every ride, The front brake is iso mount so will only fit stock fork. Bent the pedal cages on Second ride.
Bottom bracket seized after 5 months though ment to be sealed.
Wait and buy something better as this bike has now cost me another $800 in repairs and Upgrades. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Al
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, ON, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 17, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$760.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | The frame seems very durable for cross country purposes. The bike seems to climb well and is, generally, responsive. | | Weaknesses: | This is my first mountain bike and the first day I used it I knew the pedals sucked. They work, but they feel cheap and the bolts on the toe cages seem to bend easily. I suppose it's also slightly on the heavy side: 29.8 pds. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | This seems like a good entry level cross country bike; then again, I don't have anything to compare it with. Thusfar I don't have any complaints with it other than the pedals. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jama Bradfield
a Cross Country Rider
from Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Brown County State Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | Nebo Ridge Bicycles | | Strengths: | The fork is great....I weigh 125 lbs and had to take a spring out in oder to get any movement; however, it works just fine with one!
Smooth transition between gears.
Not too heavy.
The disc breaks are very nice. Have ridden in wet and sandy conditions and was very pleased with the performance. | | Weaknesses: | The seat post clamp allows too much movement. The saddle moves too easily while the clamp is tight. Had to adjust it several times while riding. Recommend switching out for a different one.
Peddles are worth trading in for something else. | | Bottom Line: | great bike!
great components!
All around great bike...especially for beginner suspention riders!
Great bike for beginner riders,too.
Highly recommend switching out the peddles and the seat post clamp. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian H
a Weekend Warrior
from Bangor, ME
Date Reviewed: August 5, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | anything fast and flowie | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bath Cycle and Ski (BikeMan) | | Strengths: | Frame, Paint, brakes, haven't had too many issues yet... | | Weaknesses: | wore out free hub and bottom bracket. Seems like the drivetrain could use some improvement, may be do to my 200+ wgt. fork is a little plunkie in the rebound but still handles my weight. | | Similar Products Used: | tried Specialized rockhopper, very simaler bike. | | Bike Setup: | all stock accept free hub, Davis Carver hooked me up with more substantial hub. | | Bottom Line: | knowing what I know now I probably would have saved my $$ a little longer and gotten something with a better componant group. Love the paint job (candy apple red w/metalic flake looks sooo sweet). This is my first MTB in about 10 years and I'm fairly pleased with it though I think I'll be upgrading to a full squish soon. I want to get rid of the big chain ring and put a bash guard on it, also want to go clipless. I'm learning so much about bikes since I started riding this spring and I'm finding that I will need to work alot of OT to get the things I want, (bikes, tools, more down hills) anyway, this is a fun bike for me but I am looking foward to something a little a bit more substantial for my big azz. Great bike to get started out on for the price. My friend has a SC Nomad that I rode for a weekend and it was sooooo sweet and plush, I had so much fun floating over rocks and roots that getting back on my HT was kind of ruff. He knew he was spoiling me by letting me ride it (then I killed his free hub, ouch!!! sorry Matt) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
luke oomen
a Cross Country Rider
from kingston ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | sidewinder (Hard Wood Hills) | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1049.00 | | Purchased At: | Mc Cranks | | Strengths: | strong frame good for all types of riding/ brakes/ drive train/ | | Weaknesses: | FORK!!!!!!! 30 lbs kona does not stand behind there prudcut
BB was instold wrong paint is weak. | | Similar Products Used: | norco charger | | Bike Setup: | 7005 butted/ Mz race fork/ for Hayes 9 xc/ LX rear Deore frount/ sun black eye rims/ | | Bottom Line: | I really like the bike have done about six races on it and it has performed well it is my first bike and I think it have been great to lurn how to ride bike. Kona does not stand behind there product. BB seeded and had a tuff time with the warranty person at kona. What I love about this is its durability and versatility and handling it fly through single track lie open fields the geometry tickles free ride with a wide riser and angled top tube. The rims are heavy but durable have done four foot drops and they are still as state as the day I bought the bike. Really good entry level xc/am bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott
a Cross Country Rider
from battle creek, MI USA
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$699.00 | | Purchased At: | custer cyclery | | Strengths: | frame | | Weaknesses: | fork is very low end, BRAKES SUCK
Konas not willing to stand by their product | | Similar Products Used: | Kona caldera | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I had brake issues with this bike from day one. I had them adjusted 5 times and still squeeked even when not braking. Konas answer to my problem was that I should buy new brake pads, for my brand new $700 bike. Thank god my local dealer was cool and let me exchange my bike for another. I ended up spending 200 more for the Kona Caldera. Well worth the extra 200! Love the bike other then the fact I dont think Kona stands by thier product as they should. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
william
a
from Austin Texas USA
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Brakes. Quick and nimble. This hardtail can really climb. | | Weaknesses: | Overall the components are very strong, which makes the sluggish derailers stand out. I upgraded the front sprokets and chain which helped. | | Similar Products Used: | Rockhopper. | | Bottom Line: | I have ridden this bike all over central Texas and could not be more pleased. I researched and tried out many bikes...for the price this was and for me is still the bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
M
a Cross Country Rider
from Orono, Maine, USA
Date Reviewed: March 15, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Orono land trust, Orono, ME | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Ski Rack Sports | | Strengths: | Good price for components. Nice brakes, squealy but nice, no complaints with the fork. | | Weaknesses: | I broke the seat post within weeks of owning this 2004. The bike shop replaced it for me but I almost lost the family jewels in the process. The deraillers are a little sluggish. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fishers and an old Schwinn | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for pedals. I put clipless Shimanos on but I'm using the stock pedals with success on a commuting bike. | | Bottom Line: | I like the bike. I killed a Gary Fisher on the Maine trails within a year of owning it. I bought this one because I needed something more substantial. Good price and good quality. I don't ride like crazy so I don't think I'll ever have to buy another trail bike. Anyone who likes to ride but isn't a crazy fanatic would love this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cory Yalowicki
a Weekend Warrior
from Bothell, Wa, USA
Date Reviewed: October 31, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Singletrack Cycles in North Bend | | Strengths: | Great components for the price i paid. Brakes are phenomenal. Nice light, strong frame. So far NO problems at all. Its a KONA! | | Weaknesses: | Tires really suck and i will change them out for Kenda Nevagals when they wear out. Soft paint, ive got several places where the paint is rubbing. In addition the chain is constantly hitting the top of the rear frame and deeply chiping the paint due to poor placement of the chain guard sticker. The fork is pretty bad i hear but ive never owned another suspension bike so i cant compare but it seems like its doing its job to me altough it is quite stiff and i dont think im getting its full travel even though im 185. | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing only a 10 year old Redline BMX bike. Tried out Specialized Rockhopper Pro Disk, Trek 6700, Gary Fisher tassahara (didnt like the feel at all contrary to the reviews on here) and some other less expensive bikes. | | Bike Setup: | All stock except changed out the pedals for platforms. | | Bottom Line: | I researched a TON about mountain bikes and rode alot in parking lots and this seemed the best for the price. Great entry to mid level mountain bike for the price. I have no major complaints and would buy this bike again in a second. When i was researching bikes i said to my self, "under 500 bucks". As i researched more and more my budget just kept going up until i decided on this one. If you have a hard time keeping a budget buy your bike quickly because your price range WILL increase as you see whats out there. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johnny Burrell
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, Oregon
Date Reviewed: September 26, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Brown's camp | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$749.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike n Hike | | Strengths: | An overall nice package. Great brakes, but they need a lot of adjustments to keep from being squeaky. Strong frame and comfortable seating position. Comfortable saddle, grips, peddles. | | Weaknesses: | Front forks have a very tight stock spring (for 200-220# riders and I'm 170#). The shocks are weak all around. If you're a trail rider you will need to replace these pretty quickly. The Tioga tires are not very good, but that's an easy fix. Paint also seems a bit thin. | | Similar Products Used: | Test rode a number of different bikes in this price range: Kona Caldera, GF Tass, Cannondale, Specialized, Norco | | Bike Setup: | Stock '05 setup with Hayes discs, Deore front & LX rear dr, Deore shifters, Marzocchi MZ Race forks. | | Bottom Line: | This is the bike I bought to get into the sport. I've used it for about 2 months as a commuter and on 5-6 hard single-track rides. It's been a great bike so-far... well worth what I paid for it. If I had to do it over again I'd buy it again, but in hindsight I wish I had spent more money on a higher end component set... especially the fork. It's a pogo-stick. I can't get more than 2-3" of useable travel out of it. When I bought the bike I didn't know if I'd really like riding a bike back & forth to work every-day so I didn't want to invest a whole lot of money. This is a fun bike to ride and will make me a better rider.
My first upgrades will be a new fork and a new set of wheels (stock wheels are quite heavy.
5 chili's for value. It's a great value for sure.
3 chili's for overall. It's a good bike. I don't think any bike with a low end fork or Deore/LX component set makes an "Outstanding" bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Priat
a Cross Country Rider
from ohio
Date Reviewed: September 6, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | outdoor sports | | Strengths: | Great overall bike. the hayes disks are unbelivable. and the marzocchi fork works great! definetely worth the money!!! | | Weaknesses: | Paint chips way too easily. (Kona supplies touch up paint though) | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized hardrock comp disk 05 | | Bike Setup: | stock, Pedros ice wax lube (not very good) | | Bottom Line: | Great value dont hesitate to buy this awsome machine!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon Vaillancourt
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, Qc, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Tobo Ski, QC | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$830.00 | | Purchased At: | Le Yéti, Montréal, QC | | Strengths: | Hayes HFX 9 XC brakes. Deore / LX Drivetain. Not too flashy paint scheme. | | Weaknesses: | Paint chips much too easily. However, Kona ships the bike with a small bottle of paint for touch ups.
The bike is a bit on the heavy side, but for the price it's ok. | | Similar Products Used: | None. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. | | Bottom Line: | It is my first 'real' mountain bike. It's a very nice hardtail for a beginner. Got the complete package at an affordable price. Possible winter upgrade would be the wheelset, the saddle and the fork for lighter ones.
If I change bike it will only because I want to go full-suspension. I have no regret at all after almost one season with my 2005 Cinder Cone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from London
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | Frame. Not the lightest, but it can take abuse. A great ride too, very easy to control.
Rear/Front mechs.
The complete package of the bike, you get everything you should for the price. | | Weaknesses: | Disc brakes. It's great that the bike comes with disc brakes, but to be more competitive you may want to upgrade.
Front Forks. Again 100mm travel so I can't complain and they soak up everything I throw at them, but they are a tad heavy, and quite heavily sprung. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Avalanche, Marin Palisades Trail | | Bike Setup: | Stock setup so far. Upgrading to Avid Mechanical disc brakes. | | Bottom Line: | A great, complete bike. It has everything you need to get started. I rides and controls very well due to the frame geometry and setup. Some of the components aren't the best but can be upgraded should you wish to be more competitive. For a first time bike for someone looking to get into cross country (and some light downhill) this bike is very good value. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cookie Monster
a Cross Country Rider
from MB, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$870.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Hayes Hydraulic HFX-9 XC brakes (2nd generation), drivetrain (Deore/Deore LX), PRICE | | Weaknesses: | pedals (Shimano M505), paint (chips way too easily)
tires could be a little grippier
have to like army radar green (IMHO) | | Similar Products Used: | Tested: 2005 Kona Blast, 2005 Rocky Mountain Trailhead
Replaces 1993 CroMoly unsuspended Nishiki | | Bike Setup: | Stock so far | | Bottom Line: | Daily commuters/trail riders who want best bang for your mountain bike $$$$ in the US$800-$900 range should seriously test this bike. Brakes are strong (even in rain), take skill to modulate, but are easy to learn to service. Hydraulic brakes makes up for loss of XT rear of 2004 model to LX for 2005.
Wanted to go true Canadian with a Rocky Mountain, but this Kona beats them all for the price. A great quality entry bike into trailriding/urban commuting mayhem (just don't forget your brain bucket!). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Weekend Warrior
from Lutz
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Oliver's | | Strengths: | Hydraulic disc brakes. Marzocchi front suspension. Cool drab green paint with all-black wheels, hubs and tires. | | Weaknesses: | 28.1 pounds. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper. Schwinn Homegrown. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except upgraded to lighter WTB seat. | | Bottom Line: | I took this bike out for its first ride at Alafia State Park, one of the most challenging trails in Florida. It performed very well, better than its rider! The brakes were extremely effective over the V-brakes I had on my previous bike. The suspension was plush. It was surprisingly nimble. I didn't notice extra poundage over my previous 24 pound bike on the climbs. The 2005 model drop the rear derailer to an LX from an XT to make way for the Hayes hydraulic brakes and the plusher fork. These upgrades are more noticeable than the drivetrain upgrades. I bought this bike for mostly flat trail riding, but it performed admirably on ups and downs normally handled by dual suspension bikes. It seemed to me to be a better value than the Specialized Rockhopper equivalent. Value conscious riders who can still handle a hardtail should get this bike just for the brakes. What a difference! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joel
a
from Steinbach Mb. Canada
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | somewhere in Ontario | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Woodcock ($950 Canadain) | | Strengths: | Comfy Grips, Disks, Deore XT's, pretty light | | Weaknesses: | The pedals wrecked my shoes, so I'm getting new ones | | Similar Products Used: | A ten year old Trek and a whole bunch of "Super"cycles | | Bike Setup: | Alexrims in the rear (bent the mavics) getting new pedals and grips(worn out) | | Bottom Line: | Tested The Cinder Cone and Rocky Mountain Fusion side by side.
Night and day difference between shocks, shifters and brakes. 100 dollars more is easily worth it. Awesome first REAL bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J
a Weekend Warrior
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Pedal Pushers MD | | Strengths: | Disc Brakes, 24 speeds, front travel | | Weaknesses: | clunky shifting (might just need tune up), finicky in granny gear | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Hahana | | Bike Setup: | STOCK-don't need anything else | | Bottom Line: | I didn't need this much of a bike, but I'm glad I put out the extra bucks. The disk brakes and paint are head turning and the bike is VERY CAPABLE. If you're not sure whether to shell out a few more dollars for this bike, Just go for it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erling Ballestad
a Weekend Warrior
from Oslo, Norway
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Super-G | | Strengths: | Nice frame, disc brakes, XT/Deore. | | Weaknesses: | Fork, brakes, soft crank, wheels. | | Similar Products Used: | Old mtb from 94. | | Bike Setup: | Magura Phaon fork, Magura LouiseFR brakes, Scwhalbe King Jim light tires, Syncros DS28 on Hope Bulb frontwheel, Alex TD17 on Formula rear. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike on sale, so i can't complain about the price.
The frame feels good, but the rear triangle is a bit too soft. And the for is a little to high so it's not a good climber.
The head tube is very long, so it's difficult to buy used forks who will fit. It's shortened on the '05 model.
After a month i had worn out the disc brake pads.
They work well in dry weather, but when they get wet and muddy, the old v-brakes stops faster.
I've bought LouiseFR 210/190mm, and they are worth the price.
I feels like the fork don't have rebound damping at all,
and the springs are too hard.
It's terrible to climb with because every bump lifts the front up.
I never got 100mm travel out of it, I opened it and found a rubber stick inside each spring. I cut 2cm of each and got 2cm more travel.
My new Magura Phaon has 125mm travel, but is much better to climb whith because it has slower rebound. And it's adjustable down to 90mm.
The wheels didn't work well either.
They feel wery soft, and the axle om the hub's is too short so it might break. I have only bent it. But i've bought a new front wheel, and got a new rear on guaratee.
The original setup is ok if you ride easy in dry weather,
but it don't like drops and mud.
Buy this bike on sale, sell the fork, wheels and brakes and get something better. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from gibsonia, pa
Date Reviewed: March 19, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$720.00 | | Purchased At: | dirty harrys | | Strengths: | very strong frame, excellant rear derailur, disc brakes, and nice fork. | | Weaknesses: | rims bend easily, front derailur often needs adjusted. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike got me into mountain biking. It is very reliable and durable. the cinder cone is the perfect bike for a person who is interested in mt. biking. my bike has taken a beating, first I started riding in pennsylvania then i moved out to colorado for school. the bike performed well in both forms of terrain. This bike is in my opinion the best bike a beginer can buy for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mark
a Racer
from canada
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | bowcycle | | Strengths: | derailluer, frame, value for price, avid levers and disk brake quality | | Weaknesses: | pedals,grips, easy and cheap upgrades not to much of a problem | | Similar Products Used: | stinky, atomik, a line, big hit | | Bike Setup: | new rims, wellgo pedals, psylo fork, the rest stock | | Bottom Line: | unbelievable bike for the money, get it, not the best for dh or freeriding but its not a free ride or a dh bike, cross country pedaling efficiency is amazing,pedals uphills great and goes down them great, for 800 it was a steal of a deal, great value kona, loved the bike until...FreeRide and DownHill.....free riding and downhilling is wwaaaaaayyyyyy beter!! ;) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Nevada
Date Reviewed: November 27, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Authority | | Strengths: | frame (strength and geometry), rear derailleur, fork, brake levers, price, looks sweet. | | Weaknesses: | saddle, pedals, crankset/bottom bracket, etc. | | Similar Products Used: | this is my first mtn. bike | | Bike Setup: | Stock (soon to be replacing several components, however) | | Bottom Line: | The 04 Cinder Cone is a great bike. Kona is a great company. I have used this bike for a little over two months on some very rough, technical single track. It has performed very well. It handles well on the downhills, and has a good geometry for uphill climbs. The stock componentry set-up is very solid, so most of my upgrades will be based on personal preferance rather than need. I look forward to using it for a long time. Bottom line, if you want a good, solid bike that is upgradable; get a Cinder Cone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Togno
a Weekend Warrior
from Mandurang, Victoria, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | The front shocks, disc brakes and the XT deuralier. Nice frame | | Weaknesses: | Saddle uncomfortable and stock pedals very ordinary | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Caldera (test ride) | | Bike Setup: | Added Mallet C pedals and a gel saddle, otherwise stock | | Bottom Line: | I spent some time looking for a new MTB, and as someone who is in my early 50's I wanted something to get back on the road with, and this was easily the best bike out there. This bike is great value for money. It is also very comfortable to ride and the front shocks are awesome, the brakes very good and it shifts very well. In short, I believe you cannot do better if you are a rider looking for a bike for commuting and straightforward trail work. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tabatha Capelli
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR, USA
Date Reviewed: October 13, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Tarbell Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike N' Hike | | Strengths: | Components are a great for the price! | | Weaknesses: | Tires are a too small and bike is a bit on the heavy side. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Caldera, Diamondback Response | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | The bike was a great deal and a huge upgrade in components from previously owning a Diamondback. It handles great and is pretty smooth when shifting gears. However, I think the tires are too small and after going out on a couple of rides I noticed that they are not providing very good traction on the uphills. I will probably switch out the tires, but am extremely happy otherwise. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MrF1 MrF1
a Weekend Warrior
from Hampshire(UK)
Date Reviewed: October 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | N/A | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$599.00 | | Purchased At: | Halfords(£599) | | Strengths: | Forks, Frame, XT rear mech etc | | Weaknesses: | Rims, not sure if my rim was like this when I purchased the bike but the rear rim has a flat spot which I noticed yesterday. Not a massive problem but none the less pretty worrying as I've only taken the bike on a short XC trip. The Kona Riser bar that comes with the bike is way too high and wide(Feels like riding a Harley).....first thing I replaced! | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Hoss, Specialised Rock Hopper | | Bike Setup: | Stock at the mo apart from a new straight bar, bar ends and pedals will be replaced shortly too. | | Bottom Line: | Excellent bike for the Money, managed to get the 04 spec with £100 off so pretty pleased. Was riding a Specialized Hard Rock FS(02 Model) up until I bought the Kona and now the bikes set up for me I haven't looked back.
It's my first Kona as I bought on recommendation and I'm glad I took the advice :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a
from Beaverton,or
Date Reviewed: October 3, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | bike n hike | | Strengths: | sturdy, easy to ride, feels gears shift very smoothly, resposive | | Weaknesses: | with being my first bike in 10 years its hard to compare it with any thing else. i think tat having it stock it is a very good bike. | | Similar Products Used: | giant iguana bought new in 92
| | Bike Setup: | stock except contenental town and country road tires. cateye 8
and nmh light. | | Bottom Line: | again i like this bike. rode a giant fs a hoss and the caldera
this bike just felt right for my weight and heighth in the price range i was looking for.seems to be very stable on the dirt as it is on the road. this will be a great bike to get back into riding | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Burnaby,BC,Canada
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Jubilee Cycle | | Strengths: | Great components for the $,rides nicely,looks real good as well,brakes stop on a dime,shock is fairly good for my needs | | Weaknesses: | grips are crap,pedals arent too good,seat is a pain in my ass,and its a slight bit heavy | | Similar Products Used: | Norco sasquatch,marin palisades trail,haro escape various GT and Giants | | Bike Setup: | stock,except for new Yeti hardcore grips,new serfas rx seat,new wellgo platform pedals | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a good commuter bike,and for some mild off road trails,fronts a bit heavy for jumping,good all around bike for any application.Exactly right for me because I spend about 60% of my time on asphalt,the rest in trails.I always get complimented on a cool looking bike where ever I ride it.Probably not to good if you only do trails,unless you get a smaller frame.(mines a 19")Good product for its price,about900 CDN I paid.I love this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Oakville, ON. Canada.
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Still looking..... | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction, Toronto, ON. | | Strengths: | Great components for the money. Very smooth shifting thanks to the XT rear. Disc brakes work very well. Excellent hill climbing capability. | | Weaknesses: | As others have mentioned the crank flexes a little under load but that's a fairly minor gripe. A little heavier than some of the other hardtail bikes I rode. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain Elevation + Trailhead, Giant Ranier + XTC2 + NRS3, Norco Charger + Fluid 3, Specialized Rockhopper Pro Disc, Kona Caldera | | Bike Setup: | Stock for now. | | Bottom Line: | Coming from a bike that was over 10 years old, heavy, had no suspension and horrible brakes, the Cinder Cone rides like a dream. Working with a budget of around $1,000 CAD I did a lot of research on the internet and test rode a bunch of of bikes in a variety of different price ranges. There's certainly a lot of choices out there but in the end it came down to what felt the most comfortable and provided the best value. It would appear that a lot of other people think the same thing, one bike shop I called said the Cinder Cone had been sold out in the Greater Toronto Area for the last three months. Luckily I managed to track one down. If you're looking for an excellent cross-country rig with a nice frame, good component set and that's worthy of upgrades in the future, give the Cone a test ride.....you won't be disappointed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bruno
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$660.00 | | Purchased At: | Cove Bikes | | Strengths: | Excellent component/value balance (paid $850+tax CAD) | | Weaknesses: | Minor: cranks seem soft when pushed | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain (various but a decade ago...) | | Bike Setup: | Stock + Shimano M424 pedals (next to replace: cranks, seat, seat post) | | Bottom Line: | After much comparisons and tests, this bike hands down has the best balance of value and components - if anyone is undecided, hurry and find a 2004 model before it's gone. (year-end clearance is hard to beat and makes the 05's less appealing - XT derailleur not available on 05's and what's with the new color? 04's grey is much better) If you are a heavier rider, and like what you are reading about the Cinder Cone, you can't go wrong with the Kona Hoss - I was leaning towards that but the Cinder Cone was a much better fit.
I'm a rider from waaaay back and am now a 'newbie' to the scene of disc brakes etc. - so lot's of catching up - after the homework this bike has, hands-down, an excellent package - if it was around a decade ago it would have blown away (almost) anything around - I know this doesn't say much for riders now, but anyone out there like me - you can't go wrong with this bike. Well done Kona.
(btw, what's with riders against bar-ends these days? Out of fashion? Since when has mountain bike riders been sensitive about 'fashion' on the trail? Bar-ends being added as soon as I can find a decent set) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carlos
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa, Florida, USA
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Oliver's Cycles @ Tampa Palms | | Strengths: | Great Disk Breaks, XT Rear Derailer, Plush Fork, Comfy Grips. | | Weaknesses: | Cranks flex a little when pushed hard. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized, Schwinn, Giant & GT Mountain Bikes. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. | | Bottom Line: | This is a wonderful bike. I love the breaks. I prefer the mechanical disks as they are easier to adjust. The rear derailer is a Shimano Deore XT model, and it shifts beautifully. The fork is very plush Marzocchi MZ-Race. It isn't a very adjustable fork, but it works very well. Also, I really like the break levers and the super comfy grips. The bike feels very solid, and looks great, which is a plus as I'll probrobly use it for many years. The only small weekness, and it's not that much of a weekness, are the cranks. They are a lesser model, and tend to flex under hard acceleration. Overall, I'm completely happy with this bike and am very happy that I bought it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron
a Weekend Warrior
from Albuquerque
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Rio Grande Bosque | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$720.00 | | Purchased At: | Two-Wheel Drive | | Strengths: | Top notch 100mm front suspension, good overall drive train components, awesome disk brakes, gray paint is way cool. This is a lot of bike for the money. | | Weaknesses: | Stock pedals had to go. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, Specialized, GT, Gary Fisher | | Bike Setup: | All stock, except I replaced the pedals with Mallet-C egg-beaters. | | Bottom Line: | Just got the Cindercone yesterday and headed out first thing this morning to the trails along the Rio Grande Bosque. My opinion: This is an excellent bike for the price! I'm really happy with the geometry; eats up inclines and handles nicely on decent. Tioga tires grip the trail just right on varied surfaces and particularly negotiated the sandy patches very well. I felt confident on this bike right from the start. I've read some very positive feedback regarding this bike, and now that I have one, I can tell you that it has actually exceeded some of my expectations. I'm 41 years old and I feel like a kid again! ...couldn’t help but stare at it for about 30min last night before bed, and then all I could see or think about is this bike when I closed my eyes. The Cindercone is by far the best bike under $1k on the market today. Kona rules! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 9, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | Fork (Marzocchi MZ-Race 100mm), Rear derailleur (Shimano Deore XT), Grips (Kona Jacksh*t), Brakes (Shimano Mechanical Disc), Brake levers (Avid FR-1 Disc lever), Price! | | Weaknesses: | Saddle (Kona Comfort Comp), Pedals (Wellgo A9 with clips & straps). | | Similar Products Used: | Marin Alpine Trail | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for saddle. | | Bottom Line: | This is an awesome XC bike for the price. Strong frame and good quality of components. The fork is excellent, it absorbs obstacles very nicely. The brakes stop on a dime. Saddle is quite uncomfortable and pedals need to be upgrated to clipless. All in all, it's a great bang for the buck. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Julian Owen
a Weekend Warrior
from AKL,New Zealand
Date Reviewed: September 9, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Woodhill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | Frame, Shocks, entire component set. | | Weaknesses: | Nasty Chainset and pedals.A bit on the heavy side.The rims are not keen on jumps. | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 Kona Nunu | | Bike Setup: | Standard apart front sps pedals and a "softcock" seat | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. Well balanced in all areas and in reality the weight of the bike probably makes it so stable on those screaming DH. No complains at all for the money paid. I will however replace the chainset (to a shimano XT) and get stronger rims as Ive already put a slight buckle in the front wheel. It was a close call between the cinder cone and the caldera but I chose the cinder cone cause I didnt like the MZ Pro forks. If you are thinking about getting this bike (2004 model)and you are into trail riding you cant go wrong. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andreas
a Racer
from Saarbrücken, Saarland, Germany
Date Reviewed: September 7, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | France, Alsace and Vosges | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | Hibike.de | | Strengths: | Frame, Price | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Fully by Decathlon (French Manufacturer, very cheap) | | Bike Setup: | Cinder Cone 20" Frame, RS Duke XC U-Turn, Magura Julie Disc-Brakes, complete LX-drivetrain, Ritchey WCS handlebar, stem, seatpost, headset, Selle Italia SLR XP saddle, Eggbeater pedals | | Bottom Line: | I bought this frame as a "blow-off" at an internet-shop. for $150 it's unbelievable... the most parts of my old bike did fit the new frame so i think it's quite well built. the bike is used most for uphill and with about 11kg weight light enough to go mostly everywhere. down is fun with the xc u-turn. All in all the bike cost me about $1000 and feels much more expensive. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremy
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Island ridge loop | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | River Valley Cycle | | Strengths: | Components | | Weaknesses: | A tad heavy, but not very noticable | | Similar Products Used: | Rockey Mountain Hammer | | Bike Setup: | Stock for now | | Bottom Line: | Amazing components and frame for the price, really worthwhile to look into, I love my Cinder Cone and have no regrets. I'll never go back to v or linear pull after having disc brakes, the fork is nice, even after jumping it for a while it seems like new... I'm very impressed.
Good for first timers as well as intermediate riders. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Keith
a Cross Country Rider
from Waterford, MI
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Pontiac Lake | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycletherapy | | Strengths: | Frame, cable routing (cables to the rear all route along the top tube instead of going under the bottom bracket... helps keep things clean), components | | Weaknesses: | Pedals, tires (big knobs not too grippy on the trails around here which are generally pretty hard), weight, brakes (they work fine but I don't like how the rotor flexes) | | Similar Products Used: | C'dale F400 (demo), Specialized Hardrock Comp (demo), Specialized Rockhopper Comp (demo), Trek 4500 (demo), Schwinn Mirada (previous bike, rigid frame) | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Shimano SPD-M520 pedals and will be replacing tires shortly. | | Bottom Line: | I think this is a great bike for the money. It's a bit heavy compared to some of the other bikes in this price range (my buddy's F400 is noticably lighter), but it's not too bad. I still haven't decided what I think about the brakes, they definately work well now, but I've ridden with some other people who have them and say that eventually the rotor gets warped from flexing. I haven't had any trouble with the bottom bracket or chain yet, but I'm also a freak about bike cleanliness and maintenance, so maybe that helps. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karl Thomas
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Alamos, NM USA
Date Reviewed: July 21, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Land of Oz | | Strengths: | Frame, Components, I like the Handle Bars, Front Fork, Brakes | | Weaknesses: | Seat doesn't fit me very well, pedals are horrrible | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, test rode Specialized in same price range | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I am a big guy. It was hard to find a bike in this price range that could stand up to the abuse. In the past couple of months I have riden some pretty rough stuff and had 0 problems, except with the pedals. The strap won't stay adjusted and without noticing, my foot slipped through the side of the pedal. I got to a place where I needed to bail and ended up taking a fall atached to the bike into a tree, got some nice cuts from that. New pedals and shoes are in my future. Overall great bike. Front fork is really nice. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from P.A.
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Little Red | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | Doug's Spoke and Sport | | Strengths: | Frame, Fork, Brakes, XT rear derailleur, seat, Price | | Weaknesses: | Pedals, A little heavy | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, Specialized, Gaint | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for new pedals | | Bottom Line: | For under 1000 bucks can you find a better hardtail?? I think not. Even though it is a bit heavy compared to the Trek 6700 or Specialized Rockhopper, I can't really tell the diference in 3 to 4 pounds when riding. This bike offers better components than the Trek or Specialized for less money. I love the mechanical disc brakes and recommend them over hydralics as they are easier to adjust. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Henon
a
from Bay Area
Date Reviewed: May 13, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$430.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Shifting is smooth, XT R/D and LX F/D, Shimano Disc Brakes. Fork is MZ racing mazzorochhi 100mm travel | | Weaknesses: | A bit too heavy, pedals | | Similar Products Used: | Tassajara Gary Fisher, Caldera Kona, Trek 6500 | | Bike Setup: | Everything is stock except for pedals. Replaced with Time ATAC Alium | | Bottom Line: | I took this bike a few times; and it's been great. The fork is very effective when it comes to down hill. Easy to ride, good for rookies. If I have to choose between Caldera and Cinder Cone; Cinder Cone is a better choise since the components are very similar to Caldera. You pay $200 less for it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jing
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: April 13, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Jubilee Cycles | | Strengths: | fork 100mm, disc breaks 9sp drive train, jacksh*t grips.... | | Weaknesses: | none realy yet.. but it does wiegh about 29lbs but i guess it all depends what youre planning to do with it | | Similar Products Used: | U'i, 04Caldera, 04enduro | | Bottom Line: | Pretty durable.. i went straight to some trails. fell off about 6 times and smashed the bike but only a couple minor scratches. i got the worst of it. fork aint to shabby with 100mm travel. well worth the price paid. was only 960cdn after tax. right in the budget. The pedals were switched to the jacksh*t pedals cuz toeclips are dangerous down rough trails at least for me.. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
LORDHUMUNGUS
a Weekend Warrior
from HAMILTON
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Pieriks cycle | | Strengths: | Sweet ride! No complaints as of yet. Marzzochi MZ race fork is not too shabby. They soak it up. Stock shimano discs are pretty excellent. Deore up front, XT on the back no complaints for the money spent. A good all round setup. Excellent geometry! | | Weaknesses: | Avid fr-1 brake levers could be a bit better in the their quality. Bottom bracket seems a bit dodgey and the pedals suck ass (soon to be replaced)! | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Lava Dome Cro-Mo Frame still in use and still a great ride. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. But pedals, chain, and B.B need a fixin' | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price component wise. Looked at a Specialized Hardrock Comp Disc which is similar but decided with the Kona. I got the gray smoke version and man it's sexy! Can't go wrong with the Kona. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick
a Cross Country Rider
from Cabin John, MD
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Cabin John Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | Big Wheel Bikes | | Strengths: | Rear Derailleur, overall smooth ride through the woods, lightweight, disc brakes, Marzocchi MZ Race fork | | Weaknesses: | Defective Front Brake, front chainset pops off time to time | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Scrap, Specialized P1, Kona Caldera | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for new front disc brake because it came completely defective, which I realized about an hour after I bought it. Went and got it replaced the next day. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for anyone getting started in singletrack. Although it isn't meant for urban or dirt jumping it will hold up to it (if your not jumping off 10 foot loading docks). Very smooth ride through the woods. Also, it has a nice landing if you're trying to jump through the woods. Overall, a GREAT bike for any cross country/singletrack rider. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gautam Bose
a Weekend Warrior
from Charlotte, NC
Date Reviewed: April 7, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Anne Springs, SC | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | This is a great bike. I only rode it for a short time, on a test ride -- but I remember it vividly, over a number of less memorable bikes.
It was SMOOTH, compact, effortless to ride. The disc brakes were impressive. Somehow, it just seemed to 'fit' very well.
I wish I could buy this one!! | | Weaknesses: | Didn't see any. Admittedly, only rode for a little while, so take my impressions with a pinch of salt...but I liked this one!! | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500, Specialized Rockhopper, Specialized HardRock. Test/Demoed Kona Blast and Gary Fisher Marlin and Tassajara (another great bike). | | Bottom Line: | A great value for cross-country riders. Not sure how it'd handle jumps etc (remember, this is a hardtail), but I don't do that kind of thing.
Disc brakes a definite plus for the more agressive rider. You can ride hard, knowing you can stop if you need to. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ossi Hanhinen
a Cross Country Rider
from Espoo, Finland
Date Reviewed: April 6, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Kauppa-Veljet | | Strengths: | Everything from the frame to the tires. Brakes deserve to be mentioned also. | | Weaknesses: | Not product specific, but taxes and therefore the prices in Finland. | | Bottom Line: | My bike isn't really '04, but it's specced like one. The frame is '03 but the components are similar to those in the 2004 model. It's a great bike for it's price range. I haven't noticed any flaws or such and all the components are of good quality. Ofcourse the fork isn't ETA and the brake levers are not the best, but nothing really bad can be said about the bike. I personally love the driving position and the overall feel of the bike. Bottom line is that this is a great bike for the price - for anyone interested in cross country cycling. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from Berkshire UK
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Berkshire M.O.D | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Halfords?!? | | Strengths: | The frame is sweet as... did have a cro-mo frame before this one and this is a definite upgrade... gears are sweet brakes are nearly as sweet... just generally a blinding ride.. :O) | | Weaknesses: | My only concerns lay with a) the forks seem to bottom out too easily and b) errr the chainset.. whats the deal with the chainset its soooooo BUDGET.. but hey these are minor gripes. | | Similar Products Used: | Voodoo Bantu with Bomber Z1's | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | You want a blinding ride with a great stock setup for those blistering trails then this is without a doubt the best bike for the money!! oh yes!! believe me...
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hrvoje Grgic
a Cross Country Rider
from Zagreb, Croatia
Date Reviewed: March 16, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$860.00 | | Purchased At: | Ciklo Centar Zagreb | | Strengths: | Kona frame (outsdanding balance), Kona jackshift grips and handlebar, Marzocchi fork, XT rear and Deore front shifters, Tioga TerraFirma tires, Mavic rims and Avid brake Levers. And small but important - Kona seat clamp. | | Weaknesses: | 1. Potentially, Kona seat tube. All weight of the rider and bumps are transmitted via one screw which holds the seat in place. Nunu `03 had the same type and I saw a few cases where the screw simply broke. Very nasty failiure because you can`t ride no more, and it is very unlikely you will have something to replace it with.
2. Shimano Alivio crankset. It can be found on bikes twice cheeper. I would expect something like Shimano Deore or Truvativ, but I guess that`s the small victim for the overall great price.
3. Front brake pads are probably not setup correctly, so they have very weak stopping power. | | Bike Setup: | Default setup. Soon I will replace Kona seat tube with Ritchey WCS. | | Bottom Line: | Excellent bike for XC, for more than fair price. And very pleasant to drive.
Buy it and you won`t regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Skylar Hopper
a Cross Country Rider
from Lexington, KY, USA
Date Reviewed: March 6, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Coffey's Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Fork, Disc brakes, Rims, Derailleurs, Frame | | Weaknesses: | None yet | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Iguana Disc | | Bike Setup: | Stock except clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | The Marzocchi fork is great! It soaks up everything you'd expect it to. The Shimano mech. discs are superb. They stop on a dime and are very reliable. Mine came with Mavic rims which are nice. The XT rear and LX front 'railleurs are smooth as glass. The frame is 7005 butted aluminum, so it's pretty strong. The geometry also fits me great. I haven't been able to hurt it yet. It just keeps asking for more. All-in-all, it's great bike for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Virgin
a Weekend Warrior
from Gainesville, FL
Date Reviewed: March 1, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Little Ade's (Pekiin, IL) | | Strengths: | Solid bike, great components. | | Weaknesses: | Seems a little heavy, but I think thats just me (time to hit the weight room) | | Similar Products Used: | 2001 Specialized Hard Rock Sport. Weak, cheap POS | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Great bike! I haven't had any problems with it since I bought it in early Nov '03. It was a showroom bike that was released at the start of the model year and sat at the dealer for awhile, so I got a good trade-in for my POS hardrock sport. I ride it to class 3 days a week (1.5 miles each way) and I've been trail riding 5 times or so on it. (day trips)
Good bike if you're looking for a solid mid-level XC bike, and those $1000 & /\ bikes seem too expensive. Good for "regular" build riders too. I'm 5'9", 185 lbs and I haven't hurt the bike yet. I thought I could hear my hardrock complain every time I got on it, hehe | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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