Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from London, England Date Reviewed: April 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Chicksands, Woburn Sands
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Second Hand - eBay
Strengths:
Frame - tough as Kona Stem and bars - surprised at how good they fit my shape!
Weaknesses:
Kinked downtube limits options on seatpost length Suspension design showing its age, but simple is good for me!
Similar Products Used:
Orange Patriot, SCruz S8, Muddy fox rock n roll pro
Bike Setup:
Upgraded brakes from hope C2s to M4s, upgrade trans to full XT, front Fork ovehaul by Chain Reaction ( great service !)
Bottom Line:
Bought this second havd at the end of 2003 - my riding is semi aggresive - 5 foot dropoffs, small doubles. Bought this because I couldnt afford a new bike, and needed a nwe rig as my old Muddy Fox was holding me back. Turned out to be a GREAT choice.
Frame is still solid - bearing / bushes no signs of wear. Single pivot design = easy to setup / maintain. Bike was standard when I got it - C2 brakes, mix of LX / Deore. Upgraded to XT shifters, front, rear deraileurs, and hope M4s. Rear shock is now an RC.
Bike has eaten everything I have thrown at it, and since I have owned it has given me the confidence to ride bigger, harder, faster than before. Which I think is as good as you can ask. I see this bike lasting me another year, then maybe a VP free! Only 4 chillis as it is an older frame, and the shocks aren't a fancy platform so uphill is hard work.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from Hampshire UK Date Reviewed: November 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
rogate
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
GA cycles
Strengths:
good spec, i upgraded to hope discs and it is great for street dirt dh freeride.. whatever
Weaknesses:
i snapped it
Similar Products Used:
marin b-17, alpine trail, muddy fox freeride drift,
Bike Setup:
stock, exept for the hopes
Bottom Line:
it is a fantastic bike, it took it all in its stride, it snapped doing a twelve foot to flat landing drop bu that isn't really kona's fault (don't do big drops to flat landing) this could of affected the rating but i sent the bike back to kona who repleced the frame with a 2001 stinky dee lux frame for nothing!!! therefore 5 chillis for an awsome bike with a great warranty KONA ROCK!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Downhiller
from Norwich, ENGLAND Date Reviewed: May 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Urban Freeriding
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
second hand
Strengths:
The Frame! Suspension's super plush
Weaknesses:
The guy i bought it off had upgraded most stuff, might upgrade to bigger discs
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
2000 17 inch frame, stock suspension, XT crankset, LX shifters and mechs, XT hydro discs, nokian freeride tires, DDG platfrom pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks ass! i've had it a few months and been hammering it without any problems. i'm 6'2" and 220 pounds so it has to handle a bit of extra strain on the drops and jumps but the frame and components handle it all.
the guy i bought it off had it in his basement for a year so after a good service its near new. the setup i'm running is multi-purpose cos i ride it to work every day on dirt track and tarmac but go downhillin and freeriding at the weekends so its a really versatile bike.
But i'm starting to push it now and i'm thinking of some jr T's and BETD plates to hit 6-7 inch front and rear to soak up the impact of my fat ass, and some bigger brakes for downhilling after a few too many near misses.
My review takes into account the bargin price of £500 (approx$750) but this bike is worth so much more! if you're looking for a bargin secondhand hardcore bike then this is for you. but you gotta watch out for crappy components!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trunks
a Downhiller
from Canyon Country Date Reviewed: September 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Pinos (Fraizer Park)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop (from owner)
Strengths:
This bike is awesome super plush. It still has stock suspension and its killer. I dont think I could ever break this frame. I bought it used from a bike shop owner and now I ride it nearly everyday, and it puts up with a lot of abuse.
Weaknesses:
Its a little heavier than I would like it to be, but it comes with the durability. Oh and the seat post that I broke and replaced.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, GT LTS1, Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
Like I said orginal suspension, all XT components, Hayes 6" Disks front and rear, Titec stem and seatpost, Ditch witch double walls, Panaracer XC front and rear, shimano DX platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
To the point this bike is bad ass! Every aspect of the design is on the money. I do plan on going with a six maybe seven inch front fork (cause everytime I go out on this bike I get braver and braver, and go bigger and bigger). But it rocks I dont even think that 5 chillis are enough to give it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RoRy
a Downhiller
from upper B.c. Date Reviewed: January 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
enythin steep fast an full of jump/drops
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
McBike, Terrace B.C.
Strengths:
has built alot of confidence, has showed me what parts to never buy again, it does have the best feelin ride to it tho when its not busted, sits high up front an low in back, rather comfy. has stood up pretty well for what i have put it thru tho
Weaknesses:
cracked two frames, exact same spot, waited forever to get it replaced, busted original cranks first ride, replaced chain at leat 5 times, and bb in the first two months, busted a few shock mount bolts, orignal components are no good, busted z5s within 2 er 3 months, this bike has been a pain from day one, conciderin how many times ive had it outta buisness beucase of busted parts
Similar Products Used:
first fully
Bike Setup:
2001 Jr T's, Magura Discs, Maxxis Mobster up front an Tioga on rear on rhyno rims, race face cranks, shimano xt rear mech truvativ chain guide
Bottom Line:
i want a better bike, it is a good confidence builder btu onyl can hold its group up to a point, i think im pushin it now
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Reid
a Downhiller
from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
stairs outside skydome
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
BS xc shop(sport swap)
Strengths:
frame, colour, price
Weaknesses:
everything but the frame and the paint. kona and there tru-value cranks and a damn tx or some bs bb
Similar Products Used:
schwinn, norco, yeti
Bike Setup:
hayes 6" all around, race face bb and north shore xs cranks, Mavic d521 with xt hubs and a load of other stuff
Bottom Line:
the frame is solid and built to take alot of punishment, everytthing else is crap. my ratings are based on the frame and the crappy canadian dollar. If youre a rider who wants a good frame but cant afford to build a bike from frame up this is a good choice. Make sure you know good components from flashy components or you well get stuck on a trail with a stock stinky. So i well close with three simple words RACE FACE CRANKS!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mister Maniac
a Racer
from Brooklyn, NY, USA Date Reviewed: October 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
everything steep
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Won a contest (frame only)
Strengths:
The frame!!!
Weaknesses:
everything but handle bar, step
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2000 Stinky (Fox RC Vanilla Shock), Manitou super nova, Rhynolite rims on CKing hub (front). Rholof Speedhub (14 speed internal). Maxis High Roller tires. XTR cranks with DH spider. MRP System 1 Slalom. Shimano 646 Clipless.
Bottom Line:
If you haven't figured it out yet, I'm a DS racer. 15th Place in Platekill. I can't believe how tough the frame is. It got so plush and perfect when I got the Fox Vanilla RC shock on the back. The best think besides the bike is the Rholoff SpeedHub. No more bullsh!t deraleur, no more adjustments. I don't even need the MRP, just had it before the hub. The frame is sick, Easton RAD is the toughest aluminum tubing there is. Get it, it's cheap, it's solid, and it's even better for 2002.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Kidd
a Downhiller
from quispamsis nb canada Date Reviewed: September 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the one i built
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
a bike shop
Strengths:
every thing
Weaknesses:
front derailer, it should have z.3's
Similar Products Used:
norco launch,andd team-dh, super 8, fetish, stab primo
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
i kicks a$$. it would be perfect if only for z.3's. huge impovement over last years bike. if you look everyone who's b1tch about it has a 2000 model
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack Lucas
a
from Elmira, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: September 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anyplace Urban
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction Cycles
Strengths:
beefy frame, vanilla r, z-5, cranks, the list goes on...
Weaknesses:
drivetrain
Similar Products Used:
some rocky bikes, brodie enduro, norco vps, norco 250cc
Bike Setup:
stock (well, except for some lizard skins)
Bottom Line:
Sweet ride. I have had a bit of trouble with the rear derailleur cable, it seems to pop out of its housing when you do bumpy sections at speed -- you can just fasten it though.
Overall, I haven't been able to really push the bike yet at all -- the thing takes repeated 4-5 foot flat landings as if you're riding over a curb.
Buy it. That's all I have to say.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john G.
a Downhiller
from DC Date Reviewed: September 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
revolution cycles
Strengths:
the frame ia amazing,it has good travel and its affrodible. the coakpit is pretty well speced too
Weaknesses:
the drive train (it just sucks) the cranks and bb (I wiegh 135lb. and i broke them) the forks (i wiegh 135lb. and i can flex it out about 3 inches) i hear the original wheel set isn't to good either but mine came with a dh one
Bike Setup:
i had it stock for about 4 monthes then i got a ds3 to replace the z5 a dh wheelset. and i'm going to order race face cranks and bb because i just broke the stock ones.
Bottom Line:
you will have to do some upgrading if you push bikes but the total coast will never be more then 2100,l wich is worth it for the frame. and if your young (i'm 14) or just have no money it's affordible for a freeride bike. although it has alot of weak stock components the frame still kicks a$s and kona is the best bike company around. 5 faming turds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada Date Reviewed: September 6, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good frame
Weaknesses:
Everythng exept the frame, i broke nearly every thing
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, Stab, AC 1
Bike Setup:
Stinky,Z1 drop off, Rhyno-lytes, Maguras, Intense Tires, Second set of firex, Pro tapers with an artos DH stem
Bottom Line:
Awsome frame, build it up and it is an awsome freeride bike (but anything over 12 feet kinda hurts), its probably better to buy a stab dee lux 00 kona frames rule ( my ratings are for the frame)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike K
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria BC Date Reviewed: August 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
a bike shop
Strengths:
nothing that came stock
Weaknesses:
all stock components. the only thing i havent broken is the front derailleur.
Kona frames break very easy. Thats the bottom line, and whats worse, is that kona doesnt honour any warranty. I love the way my bike feels and rides, but I have to ride it broken because kona wont give me warranty. Id give my bike 5 chilis if they all came like that, and since konas warranty sucks I wont give and recommendations for this bike. Buy a Norco.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stilford graw
a Racer
from Drain,Oregon,USA Date Reviewed: July 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Billys crack
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
The drain store
Strengths:
I liked The shocks, they were cool to throw off my roof!some day I'll learn how to ride it. Most of all I enjoy looking at my kona stinky unless billy has his pants down in front of it....
Weaknesses:
I hit my nuts ion the frame and they burst it was bad
Similar Products Used:
Billyu bob condoms "very vigourous"
Bottom Line:
Go and get yourself a bike. And dont hit your gonads on anything hard...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a
from North Vancouver Date Reviewed: July 28, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
Awesome frame, kick a$$ travel and nice paint job.
Weaknesses:
Ive almost broken every single conponent. Some of these conponents really suck and need to be upgraded.
Similar Products Used:
Stinky Five
Bike Setup:
Stinky with shimano disks, bonz cranks, rock ring, Mavic rims and a bunch of other crap not with the stinky.
Bottom Line:
The frame kicks ass. The suspension kicks ass unless u bottom the bombers out and break them like me. But most of the conponente NEED to be upgraded. If you could, get yourslef a custom stinky with disk brakes, better rims and a better drive-trane. If u dont, u'll find out just like me that the conponents on the stinky suck for the most part. Upgrade and then u will have a kick ass freeride bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from Newton, Ma Date Reviewed: July 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Viet Nam/ Naked Man
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Mtbr.com
Strengths:
-Four Bar linkage system -Killer Paint Job -Ultra Plush -Good solid ride in general
Weaknesses:
-Could be a little too plush on climbs... -Front derailur is tweaked a little, not bikes fault tho
Similar Products Used:
GT I-drive 2.0 Stumpjumer fsr
Bike Setup:
All stock+ specialized computer.
Bottom Line:
This bike eats up drops like its nobodys buisness. The tioga tires grip really well. Its not a bike thats ment to go fast, its a bike thats ment to perform in technecal conditions. Everyone I see says "wow, thats beautiful" the color draws a lot of attention. everyone turns and looks when u bring it into the shop. im planning on upgrading the front derailer and brakes to disc when i get the $$. Im looking for people to ride with so if ur around 16-25 and are a fairly decent rider and live in the boston area email me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
s. luke maze
a Cross Country Rider
from mv, ca Date Reviewed: June 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
aliso woods park, ca
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
atomic in whittier
Strengths:
awesome suspension, eats up the downhill ruts. Front shoks rock with some adjustment. i ride 7 weight oil. It is a screaming buy with the stock options. reviews didn't like the TIOGA tires, however i love them. inflate to 40psi and they work great.
Weaknesses:
heavy but that what it takes to be sturdy. The cassettes are weak but very adequate. I am used to full XTR
Similar Products Used:
intense
Bike Setup:
all stock and it rocks
Bottom Line:
I am 42 years old, 160 lbs and i love this bike. this is a big change from my 22.5 pound hardtail. everybody said it couldn't climb but i proved them all wrong.this bike is heavy but surprisingly stiff and it climbs ok. Quit walking your down hill bikes UP THE HIL and get a stinky. rocks for both. i get a lot of compliments on the color and looks on the bike. i love it and it has made me a better climber since i am pulling more weight. now i really have increased my speed on my hardtail. my advice, If you want to ride uphill and still have an awesome time downhill, get STINKY.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
XaMieL
a
from Toronto Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Whatever, Whenever
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Trail Blazers Cycle
Strengths:
Nothing really stands out.
Weaknesses:
I still need to replace the TruVativ Firex Cranks. They are not that great but are still getting the job done for now.
Similar Products Used:
My first F/S bike
Bike Setup:
Still stock except for a Kooka bash ring and a Titec Hellbent riser bar.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review to one I submitted back in the early part of February (so its almost been one year).
For awhile I was getting the impression that the rear suspension set up was feeling pretty harsh or too soft. I thought maybe I would need a stiffer spring. I was able to e-mail Kona and found out what my problem was . I'm not suspension savy and switched the lower shock mount to the hole closer to the front as Kona suggested. Got some help ajusting my sag from my LBS and have finally seen the light.
For those of use not in the the know the hole mount closer to the rear gives you a rising rate, which means the springs stiffens up towards the end of its travel. This is what I was initially riding with. The hole towards the front gives a more linear feel, the spring feels same all the way through. What a difference! The suspension is much better now.
Not the bikes fault, just me learning something new.
Purchased another seatpost so I could raise the seat again. I still have the shorty one for the good stuff. Replaced the Kona bars with the Titec for no real reason other then the fact I bought the Titec for another bike, didn't like them on it so I stuck it on the Kona. The Tioga tires really pack up in the mud. However, I'll ride them until they're bald. Oh and I replaced the grips with lock on grips.
Good bike for the money and I'm still in the dog house!! :-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kristof Ulburghs
a Weekend Warrior
from Heverlee, Belgium Date Reviewed: June 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The one I rode yesterday
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1586.00
Purchased At:
Hotwheelz Bike Shop
Bottom Line:
Follow up review after having used this bike effectively for 6 months.
I have upgraded : - Cranks to Northshore XS ( waaay overkill for these parts but what the heck, 4x4 SUV's are overkill here as well and everybody drives them ) - Pedals to Easton Cully's ( funny thing is that the Cully signature is missing, but they are not regular Flatboys ) - Front brake from Avid V's to Avid Mech Disc ( they STOP, flat out! ) - Stem from Interloc 75mm to Azonic Shorty 100mm ( way strong, and now the bike fits like a glove, looks cool too )
Bike still keeps on rocking ! Have ridden just about anything with it : long rides, urban stuff, boscross ( []-] ), scared the nuns at the local high-school with it, ... If you take care of it, it will take care of you. Corny, but true
Kristof out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John G.
a
from washington DC Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
secret
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
revolution cycles
Strengths:
almost everything. the componet mix is great for the price, suspension is great, has a solid frame and most of bomb proof wheels and rims (a big problem on my old karakoram).
Weaknesses:
poped the tube second time out (i was being stupid though) stock pedles suck major ass UPGRADE NOW
Similar Products Used:
rocky mountian edge
Bike Setup:
stock except for pedles
Bottom Line:
this bike rocks. it is light enough to ride crosss country but still free rides like a b----. it dosn't matter wether your just starting to free ride or if youv'e been doing it for years this bike kicks @$$. it makes retaining walls fell like curbs (i am comparing it to a 98 karakoram though). get a kona if you freeride, you'll never regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Vic BC Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001
2000 Mr T Qr20, Xt disks, Vanilla RC, raceface cranks, new
wheels.
Bottom Line:
This bike needed upgrades bad, but once I put on the new stuff, Its a sweet bike. The geometry is perfect for BC riding, its a strong frame, though I cracked my seat stays. I love my bike and the only I want to get for it is a BETD suspension upgrade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ USA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Those that go down
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Rage Cycles (LBS)
Strengths:
The frame is super strong and has a killer paintjob. Rear suspension linkage provides mucho traction when climbing.
Weaknesses:
The components Kona chose aren't that great. Firex cranks suck. I wrecked mine after a few rides
Similar Products Used:
Nothing exactly like this
Bike Setup:
2000 Kona Stinky, Profile Cranks, KORE Platform Pedals, Marzocchi Monster T Fork, LX Components, Tioga Saddle, Hurricane Seatpost
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review from one I did in August. I love this bike. After destroying the stock cranks, I upgraded to the Profiles. No problem now. I ditched the Z-5, and now have a Monster T on the front. Wonderful fork, and it raised my bike to the perfect height. I plan on getting the BETD long travel kit in the future, so I can have 7" in front, and 6.5" in back. Except for a few upgrades to the components, and the fork, this bike is exceptional. I love it. Kona Rules!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesse
a
from Petaluma, CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
M@M, 007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Ceasars Cyclery ( San Anselmo)
Strengths:
solid frame that holds up under big drops and downhill runs, well balanced suspension, stable handling, and those kick ass glow in the dark grips and decals!
Weaknesses:
not a great component mix for the price, weak bb, cranks loosen up easily, Z.5 fork is average for a bomber
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain RM-6,
Bike Setup:
stock except for Hayes Hydraulic brakes and Easton Flatboy DH pedals
Bottom Line:
Overall, this bike rocks! The problems were all minor and the attributes are awesome! If you want a bike that can handle all sorts of terrain and still be ridden up the mountain, the Stinky is your ride. I used it at the beggining of this season while my downhill rig was getting some work. It handled awesome at the Sea Otter this year. I now use it as my trail riding/freeride bike, and it rocks in this role. No need for a friend to shuttle me up to my favorite riding spots. If you want a rock solid point and shoot bike that will handle anything that you throw at it, the stinky is your dream bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent
a Downhiller
from Los Gatos, CA. Date Reviewed: May 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Sports LTD.
Strengths:
Strong frame, smooth pedal efficiency considering the travel in the rear, Arch rivals are great brakes, and the bike looks unique. Z5 fork really sucks up the bumps and is a super smooth ride for being on the bottom end of the Zoc's. Very plush rear Vanilla that completely sucks up small to moderate size bumps and drops.
Weaknesses:
Cranks and BB bent on a drop that was landed flat but hard, about 5 1/2 feet. Upgrade to Race Face ISIS splined technology if you can afford it. Component group is weak for a bike this expensive, derailers should be XT at the min. Chain suck in the beginning chipped a bunch of paint on the swingarm but didn't effect much else. New chain and upgraded rings solved the problem.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Truth
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to Race Face North Shore ISIS Cranks and Race Face rings, Super T fork, Azonic DH pedals, XT Front and rear derailers. Rest is stock (Stem, seat, hubs, riser bars, brakes, shifters, wheels, tires, and headset)
Bottom Line:
Very nice beefy frame and plush suspension system gives you the confidence to try stuff you never would have on a XC or hardtail frame. It's a tits bike if you can spec it out properly. Additional bucks are needed to do so, but again, the frame is all you need for a truly sweet freeride and beginner downhill bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lindgren Carroll
a Cross Country Rider
from Wash.DC Date Reviewed: May 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Maryland North Shore Ramps
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Rev. Cycles in DC
Strengths:
Stong, fun, realivly light
Weaknesses:
fork broke twice, "that's all folks"
Similar Products Used:
everything
Bike Setup:
stock with '98 Jr.T, LX cranks, new front wheel, DH inner tubes, Arch Rival in front
Bottom Line:
This bike is really great. It's fun to ride, it jumps well, and its really stong. The past few months I have done multiple drops over 8ft. One was a 11 footer, and the bike has held up fine. See I do drops and jumps on the weekdays after school, and then I do trail rides and DS races on the weekends. The bike really is very versital. Buy it new, buy its used, buy this years model, it doesn't matter, just get a kona. You'll never regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cody
a Downhiller
from Santa Barbara, CA, Date Reviewed: April 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tunnel Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
good strong frame, four bar linkage system....
Weaknesses:
Weak derrailuer hanger, large ring on Firex bent on the first day out, stock Tioga tires suck, shocks arent very adjustable, LX rear derrailuer sucks too....
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Jekyll, Kona Chute, many low end bikes
Bike Setup:
took off mechanical brakes and slapped on a pair of LX V's, XTR rear derrailuer, XT cassete and shifters
Bottom Line:
Even though I wrote many more negative things about this bike than good, it still kicks a$$ !!!! Takes the downhill trails without whining, and is still light enough to ride uphill. handles 4-5 foot drops beatifully. Might wanna change out the rear derrailuer and always keep an extra derrailuer hanger. This bike allows you to step up your riding dramatically. I've heard you can purchase a longer rear swingarm so you can get up to 7" of travel. Thats my two cents worth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Young
a Downhiller
from Calgary, AB, Canada Date Reviewed: April 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Wintergreen
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Mountain Bike City
Strengths:
This bike is so amazing. It gave me so much confidence. I can ride things that I never would have even considered with my hardtail. The suspension works great for soaking up large hits
Weaknesses:
fox shock siezed up after 3 weeks of riding. Took fox a month to fix it up and send it back. Firex cranks are too weak for this bike
Similar Products Used:
nothing that even compares. Rode a '98 giant rincon into the ground
Bike Setup:
almost stock, except for hussefelt DH cranks, 2001 Marzocchi Super T, and Hayes
Bottom Line:
This bike is amazing to ride everywhere. It soaks up everything you put in it's path and begs for more. It would be nice to see a Fox Vanilla R on the rear (like the 1999, and the 2001 model) Everything else works great. The Z-5 fork that came stock with my bike was a great fork. IT is really stiff, soaked up lots of bumps, but wasn't the greatest to set up - no external preload knobs. Had to remove the top caps and use a 4mm allen wrench to adjust the preload.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Julian Beckett
a Weekend Warrior
from Oxford, UK Date Reviewed: April 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Aston Hills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Above Board, Abingdon, Oxon
Strengths:
Wow! what a bike. I waited and waited before purchasing to get the best deal. Junked the stock brakes and replaced with Hope DH4's as part of the package. Yehaaa!!! Lurid stoppies even with my considerable bulk!!! I've even warmed to the somewhat flexible Z5 fork. Love the 'LOOK AT ME' colour scheme. Buy this bike if you want to do a little of everything.
Weaknesses:
Poor paint finish, easily chipped. Eclectic mix of components. If you're heavier than the average bear, get a different crankset, the Truvativ's are FLEXIBLE!!! Would like to see an LX/XT mix on a niche bike like this.
Similar Products Used:
Marin B17, Kona Stinky Deelux - (way too pricey!).
Bike Setup:
Stock, UK spec, except for Hope DH 4 Upgrade.
Bottom Line:
Chuffed to bits with it. Big burly bike. Frightens XC'ers at a quarter of a mile...!!! Nicely sprung, carves like a Kona should. Look after it, and it'll look after you...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James D
a Downhiller
from Washington Date Reviewed: April 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Stad
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Built myself, bought frame
Strengths:
Good stout bike, very solid. And i'm 210 lbs, so it has to be. Turns nice, jumps good, nice and heavy. I like the over all bike.
Weaknesses:
I'm having trouble with stiction in the rear end, and then it will work fine, very strange. Fr. der. mounting is hard to use, without putting in longer bottom bracket. So that needs help too.
Similar Products Used:
K2 razorback, with a DS set up.
Bike Setup:
Bomber z1cr 5", Atomic lab wheels and pedals, Hope disk in front, avid V brake in rear, kooka cranks w/ 2 rings, deore, xt drive train, Hard core go fast bars, xt hubs.
Bottom Line:
Very solid bike, responsive in turns. Good all around bike, can be used for anything. But is best when it is thrown off of cliffs, and drops. Ride hard.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex man
a
from Calgary Date Reviewed: March 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
Bowcycle or no cycle
Strengths:
Feels nice. Easy to control? Nice and plush. Good for a beginner to ride. Its light enough. Breaks are great. Dont get the disk breaks, i hear they are poor and noisy and the Avid V Brakes option works good enough. Easy to maintain. A perfect bike for a beginner.
Weaknesses:
My grips are plenty loose. Pedals are not too good.
Similar Products Used:
I had a bike from Zellers.
Bike Setup:
Kona 2000 Stinky frame. Z5-QR20 fork. Shimano LX front and back. Stock parts. No upgrades. Shimano LX bottom bracket (yes they do exsist)
Bottom Line:
A great bike for the beginner. Easy to maintain and somewhat affordable. Suggest you change the breaks from what i hear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler R
a Weekend Warrior
from AB Date Reviewed: March 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Pines In Red Deer
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Used from a back alley in Calgary.
Strengths:
When I first rode the bike my confidence suddenly flew high. I love the feel of the rear suspension. I found myself pulling drops and jumps I never tried before.
Weaknesses:
Fork could use some boots. Rear suspension likes to squeek like a friggin gopher.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale V somethin or other.
Bike Setup:
All stock except for the front tire and brakes.
Bottom Line:
Wicked free ride bike for those of us who aren't loaded. I encourage other 13-16 year olds to save every penny to get this bike. I enjoy the fact I can still ride up or down hills. A great all around bike, free ridin, minor XC, light downhill, or just cruisin. It is twitchy at light speeds. Handles much nicer at faster paces. Gotta luv Kona
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
XaMieL
a
from Toronto Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Trail Blazers Cycles
Strengths:
Four bar linkage suspension, built like a brick shyte house, Avid mechanical discs, glows in the dark (Oooo), Fox Vanilla coil over shock.
Weaknesses:
Bent seat tube, forces you cut the seat post to get that ultra low saddle hieght when you wanna drop in on some friends. A bike like this needs strong cranks, the truvativs with a taper BB flex. The 2001 line has the splined system which is much better. Also, lose the big ring and replace it with a bash ring I bent mine the first ride out.
Similar Products Used:
My first full suspension, scare the crap out of city folk while urban riding, ride over anything, free riding through the back 40 sick machine!
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Kooka bash ring.
Bottom Line:
This bike inspires confidence in my ability to ride. Especially if the terrain gets hairy and you've gone from no rear suspension to a whopping five inches. To me it is the best of both worlds. I wanted something that I could enjoy on a trail ride, but at the same time when certian man made obstacles appeared I could say hell yeah and let it rip. The stock flat pedals are good for Urban Assualt however on the trials you may want to invest in some DH clip ins. I like to keep my saddle hieght at a happy medium. Not ultra low but not at an XC leg stretching high when riding the Stinky. However when I want to do some dropping in and downhill I found that the bent seat tube only lets you go so low. So I cut it! Also I think all free ride bikes should come with a bashring standard as an option. When you're out on the trail hoppin logs, with a bike this portly expect low hanging parts to get killed. The Avids (they came stock) stop this bike much like a log in yer spokes, love'em. I found after a couple of rides that the BB flexes...a lot. I would have much rather seen a set of LX cranks with a pipe spindle BB then the TruVativs with a tapered square BB. I'm already thinking of replacing these. The only thing I think really sucks is the Deore shifters. They belong in a big smelly steaming pile of...well you get the idea. The paddles are too short and they are made almost entirely out of plastic (yikes!). Again I would have liked to have seen LX shifters. Probably would have paid a couple extra C notes but I would have liked to have seen LX across the board for this entry level bomber. Hey, if you're gonna already spend this much an upgrade in the shifter or crank department may be worth it. However this review is about the bike not the components and overall as an entry level free ride/trail bike it can't be beat. Four flamers because it cost me a few weeks in the dog house as well as a huge Visa bill... LOL. Four flamers overall because with a few smart component up grades you won't need to do anything else to make it great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie
a
from england Date Reviewed: January 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
bringewood Nr ludlow
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
maclines cycles
Strengths:
Fantastic frame great forks (z1 drop offs)accelarates very quickly. easy to jump deore mech smooth shifting glow in the dark sticks, cool paint job plush easy to use.
Weaknesses:
chain busted loads of times lx fnt mech shifts chain off chain rings gear hanger is weak.
Bike Setup:
Deore shifters/rear mech sdg saddle z1 drop off fork magura racelines, d521 rims with deore hubs and tioga factory dh tyres. dmr v8 pedals deore chainset planetx bars funn stem fsa stronglight headset.club roost grips.
Bottom Line:
When i got my bike 3 weeks ago it was fantastic, until it snowed being 12 (and an idiot) i got my bike out 3 hours later i came to a hill riding up it my chain snapped, so i fixed it snaped again twice. The frame is great and so are the forks they are both really plush.Every thing was fine until about 4 days ago my chain kept on shifting out of place and coming off then today it got jammed in between the bottom braket and the chainrings, good job i'm fitting a chain guide soon. But eventually my bike will be exellent well it already is compared to my orange Gringo.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ANDREW MCQUADE
a Downhiller
from ATLANTA,GEORGIA Date Reviewed: January 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
www.AtlantaProBicycle.com
Strengths:
Well i got a big hook up on the price cause i work for Atlanta Pro Bicycles...I love this bke. its my first full suspension bike. the frame is great THE STICKERS GLOW IN THE DARK! its tough as hell it had sum pretty nasty wrecks and its still alive.
Weaknesses:
well i dont think kona did a great job of picking out its parts package...I totally killed 2 LX derailurs(right now im runnin an El-Cheapo Deore and it works the best and has lasted 3 months) the seat tube is bent!!! so i had to cut down the seat post(im 15 yr old, 5'6")the fourmaulas are just crap...the squeak like a chinese school girl! i bent the fork and bought a White bros UD150..and replaced the tru-vativs with Race face north shores...nine speed.......WHAT THE HELL IS UP WITH NINE SPEED...ITs POINTLESS
Similar Products Used:
K2 disco monkey.
Bike Setup:
White Bros UD150, RF North shore cranks. MAXXIS DH tires same cheap rims...hope hydraulic discs, Marin DH bar, Tioga seat....
Bottom Line:
the bike is the S**t for hitting 4 to 8' drop off, rolls down stairs like a and rover, and also goes up stairs like one..this bike is perfect for Urban assult/free riding imma start DH raing soon...i read sumwhere that you can get a upgrade kit for the fox...giiving it the full 5 inches, but thats all i know peace out happy trails...and if your in Atlanta Georgia come to Atlanta Pro Bicycles...we only ee high end, and we can get what ever you want, and we might ven cut you a deal... happy trails
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Weekend Warrior
from Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia Date Reviewed: December 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Housing estate drainage/retaining system.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Extreme Cycles
Strengths:
Glow-In-The-Dark Stickers!!! Very tough frame (as one would expect for a semi-downhill bike). Heavy duty main pivot on the suspension makes ofr a stiff rear end. Travel is very smooth and very plush. Highly adjustable Fox Vanilla shock. Huge seat height adjustability. Well specced handlebar setup. Practical and functional cable routing. Drive train looks good and works better. Options for both disc and standard brakes. Sealed bearing pivots in most pivots. Beautiful stinky colours.
Weaknesses:
Front derailluer cannot be mounted at the right spacing from the cogs because of main pivot. Piant on the rear "triangle" is easily chipped or damaged. Stock wheelset is large and heavy, and the mechanical discs DO NOT WORK!!! Couldn't get the full five inches rear travel without rear spring upgrades. Stock forks don't really match the bike, and are heavy for what they do.
Similar Products Used:
Previous bike was a Diamondback V-link with Hi Fives
Bike Setup:
Kona Stinky with RST delta HL's, Bontrager wheel set, radially spoked on the front, Avid Arch Rival brakes. The rest is just what came with the bike.
Bottom Line:
It wasn't till I got this thing out of the shop that I knew what I'd been missing with my V-link. With the new wheel set and brakes, the bike was still lighter than it was originally even though I had the full length RST forks put on. The bike rides smoothly and is very plush. I've been on full day road rises with it, and it was fine for that as well as being an absolute weapon off-raod. The adjustable seat height is a big bonus, I hate being limited to around an inch of adjustment. The fox vanilla is impressive because I don't think there'd be any trouble installing a longer spring which would give it much smoother and glonger travel. Main pivot is strong and really stiff, so the back end doesn't flop around when you pedal. If however, you like to have brakes that stop you, keep the incredibly chunky dichwitch wheel set and disc rotars, and upgrade to a hydraulic system. Alternatively, if you don't have a money tree, and you don't need a bike that laughs at cliffs, do what I did, and get a lighter wheel set put on, and get some kind of linear-pull brake put on. My bike shop replaced the dichwtch wheel-set with a beautiful, light Bontrager set, and put on Avid Arch Rivals for me for free, and I have no regrets. The setups works exceptionally well, and makes the bike a whole lot lighter. I suppose the forks are more of a personal matter. I got the full length RST's put on because I wanted the travel to match front and back, and because I prefer the stiffer forks. The standard Marzocchi's had a nice feel to them, and were stiff, but they were too slow on rebound, and were a little heavy for their size and lack of travel. I was a little unhappy about the main pivot getting the way of the front derailluer. It gives the derailluer about 1/4" clearance from the large cog, rather than the 1/16" or so it's supposed to have. This makes changing up under load, even more diffucult, because the derailluer flexes away from the change. Perhaps a different brand of derailluer would do the job better. Overall.....I love this bike! It's a pleasure to ride, it makes me ride better, and be more confident with drop-offs and the like, and boy does it get some attention from passers-bye. It's my baby.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kristof Ulburghs
a Weekend Warrior
from Heverlee, Belgium Date Reviewed: November 25, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1586.00
Purchased At:
Hotwheelz Bike Shop
Strengths:
Sturdy frame. Good Geometry.
Weaknesses:
Pedals. Brakes.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for : shop fitted Avid 10 V's because front disc was bent upon arrival of the bike ( resulted in small price deduction ) and I replaced the pedals by Easton Flatboys
Bottom Line:
What can I say. It rocks. I got it cheap ( about 500$ knocked off ) since the shop went along with the big Kona end-of-line 2000 bargains. I already have a Roast which I think is one heck of a ride, but I just couldn't leave the Stinky in the shop, especially not since the size was L and I'm 6'2.5" ( my Roast is an XL ). The ride is great, I can't compare it to other free-ride full sussers, but to me it's very plush. I use it for just about everything, 'cause I don't like the XC/dual/downhill/urban... specializations. You have a bike and you ride, it's as simple as that. But that also means your bike has to be able to handle all that, and to me the Stinky fits the bill. I was surprised at how much the handling resembles that of the Roast ( definitely a good thing ), I never notice any pedal bob. It's probably there, but I don't notice it. Bottom line : I have yet to find out why I would need a more expensive freerider. Ride it and you will like it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
spencer johnston
a Racer
from campbell river bc Date Reviewed: October 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
poop loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2789.00
Purchased At:
simons cycles
Strengths:
rims,hayeshidros,frame,stem. I dont know what the other fu*kers are saying abought this bike but it is good for every thing i even broke my rist on it and didnt even hurt it .
Weaknesses:
some of the riders are pu**es
Similar Products Used:
Giant bolder i beet the fu** ought of it
Bike Setup:
stock but i put on hayes
Bottom Line:
this bike is good for every thing i have dun a 4 foot drop on it and landid on my front shocks and nothing hapind its a bit hefty but you get us to it when you get going fast it will fly like a bi*ch. dont lisin to the other people just bye it but get the 2001 its goot some beter components and some badones . So quit crying and bye it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Donk Best
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria, BC, CANADA Date Reviewed: October 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hartland, MT Work
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Goldstream Bicycles
Strengths:
Hot Looks, beefy frame, Brakes and Front shocks
Weaknesses:
derailers
Similar Products Used:
Nothing Close
Bike Setup:
the shop had suped this one up with new marzocchi JR T double triples and front and Rear Hydrolics. which pushed the price up a bit. but worth every penny
Bottom Line:
My confidence shot through the roof on the first day i had this. coming from a hardtail didnt deter me one bit. as soon as i hit the ground i was feeling on top of the world. the weight of the bike was noticable at first. but wore off by the end of the ride when i realized what a sweet beast i was riding. only comlaint is the component setup. some xt would be nice. but not neccesary.:)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Toshi
a
from the east coast Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lots of plush, coil-sprung travel. Looks good, imo. Pretty strong parts spec, overall.
Weaknesses:
Cheesy rear hub; started squeaking after only a week (as opposed to the XT and LX hubs that I ran on my old bike, which never developed squeaks). Chainsuck, big time. Seatpost doesn't go all the way down.
Hayes hydraulics, Control Tech DH stem, my favorite saddle, the WTB SST/K, and Time ATAC carbons
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike because I wanted something on which I could play, race recreational (Beginner) level downhill races on without killing myself, and generally get less beat up than on my other bike. (Which is a '96 Cannondale caad3, with a Manitou Mach 5 SX of the same vintage -- the difference in suspension plushness between the two bikes is amazing.) For the purposes that I have listed above, the bike is perfect. Well, except for the chainsuck (the chain likes to wedge itself between the small ring and the swingarm) and my freakish bent chain on the first ride, that is. Despite these teething problems, I give it a five for both value and overall, because it never fails to put a smile on my face.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Douglas Wortley
a Weekend Warrior
from North Vancouver B.C. Date Reviewed: September 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ladies
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Cove bike shop
Strengths:
Awsome bike, wicked shox, nice price sweeeeet
Weaknesses:
Very heavy, crappy brakes and crank week rims
Similar Products Used:
99 stinky, stinky five
Bike Setup:
z5 qr20, fox rear, crappy avid brakes
Bottom Line:
aside from my sad brakes, breaking crank and weaka$$ rims, i love this bike. It was a big change from my cosco bike witch a snapped in half. these shox are ssssooooooooo plush and comfy. Iv'e been riding things with ease with these shox and these kona frames are koolest things around. i would recomend paying that extra cash to get those hayes brakes and get a good crank. this bike is super fun to ride and is for someone who does everything possible. it's a sweet bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lindgren Carroll
a
from DC in the City Date Reviewed: September 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Whitetale's Expert only DH
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Revolution Cycles
Strengths:
Travel, pedaling, flys straight, really handles spectacular on really rocky DH's Go on a night ride and look at the stickers on the Stinky. It'll make you smile, ear-to-ear.
Weaknesses:
The fork can't handle drops over 5 feet high, even if you land perfect. The weight is no problem (mine ways 34 pounds), brakes aren't bad either so STOP YOUR WHINING.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing, I don't know what I am talking about. Actually I own a couple Kona hardtails and I know more about bikes then anyone should at 16.
Bike Setup:
Stock, with SunRingle ZuZu pedals and LX Cranks (not hollow tech)
Bottom Line:
READ THIS. This bike feels really cool. I was able to really step up my riding when I got this bike. The bike is slow and heavy compared to my Kona hardtails (the best handling bikes in the world), but its not a problem if it is the only bike you ride for a week. The Stinky really handles best at speed and in the rough. I got the 18inch, so it's pretty big, but that lets you get more comfortable at really high speeds. The best thing about this bike is you never, ever get nervous at high speeds. In fact this bike right at home at DH race speeds. You always know that the bike CoulD TakE a BeatinG if it had to. Mine did and I got a big dent and a nasty scratch on the down tube. THEN I CRASHED IT AGAIN. This time I bent the fork. The shop fixed it. The frame is fine i'm sure, my handle bar is bent too, I think. My wheels are way out of true. I broke the original cranks off. Yeah! Anyways this bike is way cool, buy it if your a Kona fan, i'm tired,i'm going to sleep.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Sutter
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ US Date Reviewed: August 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any that challenge me
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Strengths:
The frame is stiff and solid. I feel very confident riding it and it has allowed me to try things I never would imagine riding.
Weaknesses:
The stock Tiogas are too thin for the thorns out in the desert. I have never so many flats. The bolts on the seatpost rounded out very easily. Replace them immediately. The components could have also been a little nicer. I would like to see Kona spec some Race Face and Shimano on this rig. This is definitely not the ideal bike for weight conscious riders. Mine is over 30 lbs. stock, but I don't mind it.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale, K2, Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Stock, although with Avid 40 brakes
Bottom Line:
This is the best bike I have ever owned. It can punch through the most radical lines and is a blast when urban freeriding. The weight is not an issue to me. Those who complain about it should look for another bike. I do wish that they would have a better fork, even though I have had no trouble with the Z5 QR-20. Buy this bike if you want to take the scariest line down the mountain and climb back up to do it again. You will have a blast riding it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from BC Canada Date Reviewed: July 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything gnarly
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Beefy frame. Some components. The Avid 4.0 brakes I got with mine.
Weaknesses:
Forks, rear shock needs adjustability, wheels too weak. If your chain is too short, you'll rip off your rear derailleur alot. I found the tires lost pressure after a lot of urban riding.
Similar Products Used:
VPS 4, Stinky 5, RM6
Bike Setup:
I put a Z3 QR20, new front wheel, flats and new seat on it.
Bottom Line:
I love my bike. It rules on the downhills, and still climbs, if i dont decide to just walk the hill. I suggest taking off the mech disks, and putting on v-brakes, unless you can afford hydros. I suggest this bike to any rider looking for an all purpose bike on a tight budget.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matty F
a Downhiller
from Canada Date Reviewed: July 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
I worte the review 4th from the top and after a month of riding I cracked my this bike. Two other people with this bike also cracked theirs. If you plan to do freeriding and be hitting drop 5+ feet don't buy this, buy they Stinky Five or Stinky Dee-Lux and get the Easton RAD tubing
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
P-LOVE
a
from CARY NC Date Reviewed: July 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
PLUSH SUSPENSION,TIRES,
Weaknesses:
WEIGHT ,STOCK PEDALS ARE A JOKE,STILL QUESTIONING THE R HUB,
Similar Products Used:
FSR ENDURO,SANTA CRUZ BULLIT,SCHIWINN 4BANGER
Bike Setup:
FORMULA HYDROLIC,WHITE BROS TI BAR,SHIMANO DH PEDALS,RACEFACE CRANK,XT R DER,GREEN PROFILE GRIPS
Bottom Line:
*THIS IS NOT A RACE MACHINE* A LOT OF BEEF HERE,BUT WITH THAT BEEF COMES SOME PORK.THE STOCK BRAKES ARE OK FOR FLOWER SNIFFING RIDES,BUT THAT ISN'T WHAT THIS MACHINE WAS MADE FOR.REPLACE WITH SOME TYPE OF HYDRO DISC,LOOKS COOLER&YOU ARE GOING TO NEED THEM TO STOP THIS MACHINE.BONUS-LOOKS BADASS IN THE PARKING LOT OF A LOCAL TRAIL WHEN EVERYONE HAS 25LBS MACHINES AND YOU HAVE 10LBS+ ON THEM.IT'S HEAVY,BUT YOU DON'T HAVE TO CHECK IT WHEN YOU CRASH.IF YOU PLAN TO RACE,BUY A SECOND MACHINE(AMP OR GIANT DS-1)BUT IF GROUP RIDES WITH FRIENDS IS WHAT YOU DO,THIS IS THE MACHINE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RoMad
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: June 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Palmer Park & Pikes Peak
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Super heavy duty frame and wheels. Gonna be tough to break this thing.
Weaknesses:
Brakes are a little weak. Forks and shocks could stand to have some adjustibility.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
It can take a beating for sure. Really increased my level of confidence, the stock shock and fork are really good to begin with but for 200lbs plus gear I would like to adjust them a bit. Really and truly this bike is badass. Unless you are super skilled or are a downhill racer, with a set of Hydraulic brakes this bike can handle anything! Only four chilis for value because I think for $1800 list, we should get more adjustable goods.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe blow
a Cross Country Rider
from flagstaff Date Reviewed: June 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything fast, scary , and technical
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This frame is gonna be a tough one to break. The ride quality has sent my confidence level through the roof.
Weaknesses:
Brakes and rear hub
Similar Products Used:
A bunch of hardtails and an AMP B-4....I cracked them all
Bike Setup:
all stock except for brakes...XT disc
Bottom Line:
I became a big-drop enthusiast overnight when I got this bike. Get it if your on a budget and want to wage war on the local mountain...without a shuttle to the top. The brakes and rear hub are worthless though. The hub is very loose (even after rebuilding) and has a grinding sound. The brakes work bad if you just take it easy, and outright frightening if you push it. Otherwise, this bike performs extremely well. The best value, but minus two chilis for those bad parts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matty F
a Downhiller
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Monistary
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Awsome suspension, good shifting for 9 speed, very good at trials for it's weight and travel, climbs well, tioga tires are nice, rims, pretty much everything.
Weaknesses:
Stickers don't glow in the dark after time.
Similar Products Used:
VPS 4
Bike Setup:
Mine had a slightly different set up, here are the differences. Flat pedals, Avid Rim Brakes(better), Different grips (mine Glow in the dark).
Bottom Line:
Great for freeriding. Awsome package, I bought it over the VPS 4 which was a few hundred cheaper. I prefer my different specs but some might not.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nigel
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver Date Reviewed: May 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anywhere on the shore
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
everything on this bike is awsome for the price. great feel, nice geometry, all around a great pakage
Weaknesses:
the damn seat tube is bent, what gives? oh well it doesn't take any thing away from the bike.
Similar Products Used:
roast, stab, rm pipline, norco vps, gt i-drive
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
well this bike straight up rules, i've been doing some test riding to figure out what bike i should get. it by far is the nicest out of all the bikes i tried. for what you pay for and what you get, it is by far a better deal than its more expenive dee-lux cousin. it is awsome up hills and even better going down. it can easily handle big drops and hard thrashings. the z5 qr20 is a great fork, nice and stiff. even though it only has 4 inches, it can handle stuff a z3 or z1 could take. all around this bike is great. kona changed the specs and the brakes are now arch rival 40's which i think work better than mech. disks anyways. i think the bike is surprisingly light for a beefy out of bounds bike. i don't know what some people are whinning about, it's not supposed to be an ultra light xc bike. it could use some upgrades, like the cranks, shifters, the brakes, and the fork, but what the hell, its already a great bike at a great price and the stinky five is going to have all the upgrades. this is the best free ride frame around i'm definately going to get this bike, or the 5 for the better components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Striker27
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario,Canada Date Reviewed: May 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Steep Downhills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Quality of frame is impressive, Z5 QR 20 fork doesnt bottom out, Awesome freeride capabilty. The Kona Stinky is just plain indestructable..
Weaknesses:
NONE. Not even the brakes!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Kona Roast, Rocky Mountain Pipeline
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
With quite a few rides under my belt I can say it is awesome bike. The suspension works flawlessly over everything I can ride over. It works great going downhill allowing you to ride over anything in your path. The Stinky is also a manageable climber for me up hill but the hills I ride arent that great. People seem to complain about the weight of the Stinky, I weigh only 150# and dont seem to notice it at all. The Formula MD-1 brakes stop the bike very well once they are adjusted. However they do have a tendency to make a fair amount of noise at times. I dont know yet if I will upgrade them yet or not. I do know I will probably not make very many component upgrades to this awesome machine!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Liu
a Downhiller
from Calgary, Alberta Date Reviewed: May 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Powder Face, Barrier Dam
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
*Frame material *Frame gusset. *Great four bar linkage *Nice strong rims *Headset
Weaknesses:
*Needs the bomber Z1 fork with five inchs. *Hint: Upgrade the crappy components to higher grade shimano *Mechanical disks aren't great. XT V's are all you need *Poor mud clearence
Similar Products Used:
Tried: RM6, Kona Stab, Stinky Dee lux
Bike Setup:
Easton Monkey bar, Race face shorty stem, XT V's Avid levers XT pods LX front, race face xy seat post, tioga front 2.1 front and rear.
Bottom Line:
Really awesome bike. I haven't had it long enough to give it a real beating yet, however, this summer I'll try breaking it ( I probably won't though.) If you are serious about freeriding and about this bike, you must try and upgrade the suspension on it. I think that a Fox Vanilla RC shock would provide this bike with a lot of adjustability and swap the Z5 over to a Z3 or a Z1.......one inch makes quite a bit of difference. This is a great bike for what it is.........great value. You probably won't win any NORBA competitions on this thing.....but its probably not the main purpose of this bike. This is strictly a freeride bike. You can pedal it slowly up a moderate grade and then bomb down the other side, drop 8-10 ft here and there, ride over some logs, hikers, animals and still have enough energy to ride home. Show me a full on downhill bike that can do that. Bomb proof frame. With a few minor upgrades......this can be one sick ride. Also, Kona will warranty a triple up front. What more do you want??
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Racer
from Seatle Washington, US Date Reviewed: April 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
fin hill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
strong frame, i loved the back shock. great for anytype of rding/rider.
Weaknesses:
the brakes and shifters could use some upgrading.
Similar Products Used:
specialized FSR, GT 3000
Bottom Line:
i think this bike is a great bargin bike for what you get. the only problem i found was the breaks, but those weren't bad enough to make me dislike the bike. this bike can be used by begginers or some of the best riders out there
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Shwets
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: April 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
E-wok
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Tough indestructable frame, Rear linkage is oh so sweet. The PERFECT bike for the Free-Rider on a budget.
Weaknesses:
Some very weak stock components that must be upgraded.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, RM6, Cannondale Jekyll, Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Hayes Disc brakes, Shimano 434 pedals, XT deraileur, Tioga 2.3 DH tires front and rear.
Bottom Line:
I love my Stinky. You'll feel like a champ riding down/off of stuff you've never had the guts too before. This bike loves to descend and thanks to the geometry of the rear-linkage allows you to climb some moderate ascents. I've given the bike a good pounding and feel that it is safe to say that the only limitation of the bike is the rider.
It performs comparably well with much higher priced models, and for most riders will get the job done. The rear end of the bike is solid in comparison with the RM6. Most of the other bikes I've tried my friends own, with the exception of the Jekyll and RM6, and you sacrifice some plushness in the suspension department with the Stinky in comparison to the high end models, but you get what you pay for. The bike gives you tons of control descending to the point where you're looking for the toughest line down, and the rear end is super efficient with virtually no pedal bob since the 4-bar linkage keeps the 5 inches of rear travel fairly vertical.
Stinky doesn't disappoint!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Whitey
a Downhiller
from Victoria BC Canada Date Reviewed: March 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very strong, reinforced frame Lots of travel No pedal feedback in middle or big ring
Weaknesses:
Some minor upgrading may be required Formula mechanical disk brakes are unacceptable
Similar Products Used:
Norco, specialized, Rocky
Bike Setup:
Hayes hydraulic, XT derailler (better bearings than LX), 646 platform pedals, longer (100/25)stem, Large chainring replaced with rock ring
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is this bike rocks. 5" of travel in back and 4" in front will eat up everything. Stuff that you were afraid to ride down before you will now be jumping over without even noticing. As long as the bike lands wheels down there is no consequence. The weight of the bike is NOT noticeable unless you are some 100 lb half-man. This bike will ride over anything, and in my opinion has the best (cartridge bearing) and most efficient (least bobbing) of all the long travel freeride bikes. Did I mention that this bike rocks? Do not waste your time with mechanical discs however - lets not kid - swap to V brakes if you can't afford hydraulic right away. For those of you worried about the Z5 fork - get over it. This fork also kicks ass - coil spring just like the Z3 QR 20 with exactly the same preload adjustment (with an allen key instead of knobs). Only 4" but that just makes for easier climbing with no real loss of performance. This fork is massively stiff. I questioned the cranks but so far they have held up to huge impacts - and the chainrings are 100 times better than shimano crap (which wears out to the point of chainsuck after a handful of muddy rides). Do your self a favour and do not be tempted to upgrade the cranks. Oh yeah - you'll have so much fun on this bike you'll wonder why you didn't buy one sooner. Did I mention this bike rocks?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Eames
a Weekend Warrior
from new london pennsylvaina Date Reviewed: March 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
fiar hill md
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
it is a solid frame, great front and rear suspension, it looks cool, the bomber z-5 could be better but it defintly does the trick
Weaknesses:
it is a tad bit heavy(if you care about that, i could care less though, i need the exersise) the compenents are a little bit dissapointing w/ the lx shifters and front derailer, but other than that, this bike rules
Similar Products Used:
trek vrx400, gary fisher sugar 2, cannondale super v700, kona mokomoko.
Bike Setup:
marzocchi bomber z-5,fox vanilla, disk brakes, yada yada yada
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike for the value, you get most of the needs to have a great bike, a little bit of up grading and this would be the best bike in the world. all u need is some new components and its set. i got this bike for 1,600$ and u cant beat that price. it is smooth, plush feel, works for the weekend warrior, the xc'er, or the downhiller, it is amazing
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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