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Submitted by
lutexas
a Downhiller
from Bkersfield CA
Date Reviewed: June 15, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Mount pinos | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | used | | Strengths: | solid, stable, great for going downhill. | | Weaknesses: | heavy. | | Bike Setup: | drop-off triple fork, dhx-5 shock, X0 rear derailleur, x9 shifters, Hussefelt parts, Kenda nevegal DH 2.5. | | Bottom Line: | great for going downhill but heavy for going up. The frame + shock wights around 10 lbs. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
g1701gst
a Downhiller
from boulder, colorado
Date Reviewed: April 5, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | no fave | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | craigs lsit | | Strengths: | very strong well balanced, and a beautiful design | | Weaknesses: | one weakness i found was that when my rear suspension bottoms out the top of the swing arm hits the seat clamp damaging the swing arm and the clamp
| | Similar Products Used: | yeti asx | | Bike Setup: | Hayes hydraulics brakes, sun/dtswiss rims, marzocchi 888rt3, fox vanilla r, shimano/gravity/sram drivetrain,maxxis tread,jagwire cables | | Bottom Line: | great, very versatile i use it for downhilling and when im freestyling i switch forks and its all good | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
benjie
a Downhiller
from Wellington. NZ
Date Reviewed: December 28, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1485.00 | | Purchased At: | trade me | | Strengths: | So far it is absolutely amazing. | | Weaknesses: | When your suspension on the rear is near bottoming the tire rubs on the D.O.P.E linkage. For me personally it's not an issue but I let my mate have a jam and he's rather large, when he finished it had left quite a mark on it. You would have thought this would have come up when they designed the bike and been corrected.
| | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi TSTR, Marzocchi 66 RC3, Shimano XT running gear and brakes 8", Sun rims and Ringle hubs, Race face everything else | | Bottom Line: | I managed to get a sweet deal on a brand new unridden '08 stinky deluxe as the guy I got from had sustained an injury. I paid $1485 for it and am amazed with it, it is fantastic, it is a little heavy yes some of the trails I do involve basically dragging it up to the top first, But the way I see it it's doing me some good physically. Handles like a dream bumps and drops don't phase it at all, brakes were too touchy when I got it so I bled a bit of fluid out and now there great (this is not a bad point I just prefer a bit of free play). All in all if your looking for a awesome f/r or d/h this is the way to go. The 18 speed set up does make it possible to ride up some of the hills too.
So I find it pretty funny when my bro is pushing his glory up behind me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charlie_H
a Downhiller
from Olympia, WA
Date Reviewed: December 10, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Devil's Throat | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$749.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel World/M.O. | | Strengths: | Strong, stiff, simple, balanced, rugged, good components and D.O.P.E. matter a lot, and are worthwhile on this 2007 frame. Great tire and mud clearance, even running two rings, D.O.P.E., and a rear 3.0 tire, free upgraded Kona rocker a big improvement, equipped like I've got it, it rails berms, flies really nice for a nose-heavy (Marz 888) bird, can tech or plow, low enough BB for stability but high enough for log hops, etc., NO brake jack with the D.O.P.E upgrade, front and rear suspension stay active at all times, low maintenance. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy, single pivot limited without D.O.P.E. addition for serious fun and 12mm rear thru axle capability, no 150mm rear axle, no 1.5" head tube for 2007 frame, lousy paint color and quality, even new, doesn't fly like a Cove Peeler (I guess you need a Cove Peeler for that), no ISCG chain guide/tensioner mounts. | | Similar Products Used: | Demo 8, Demo 7, BMW Race Link, Ellsworth Rogue, Banshee Chaparral, Santa Cruz V-10, Cove Shocker, Canfield Brothers Formula 1 Jedi, Devinci Frantik 2, Knolly V-Tach, '06 XL Kona Stinky | | Bike Setup: | Thirty bars, Yeti/Odi lock on grips, Deity Lifesaver bar end caps, 2-ring Race Face Diabolus crankset/BB, Sun-Ringle CNC Octane Mag pedals, Hope Moto V2 brakes with 203 mm vented rotors, Connex chain, Sram X.0 drivetrain, shifters, 980 freewheel, Shimno XTR shifter cabling, E.13 chainguide/tensioner, bombproof wheelset of 36H Hadley FR hubs, 12mm thru axle rear, 20 mm front, Arrow Racing DHX welded rims, DT Swiss Alpine spokes, brass nipples, 3.0 Arrow Racing Savage front tire, 2.5 Arrow Racing Ramped Bite rear, WTB Shadow V Pro saddle, Hope seat post clamp. | | Bottom Line: | NOTE: This is an expended rant from my review of the Stinky Primo... If you want a no-frills, but incredibly capable, sturdy, stable and versatile FR, non-pro DH bike, buy a Stinky 2007 frame, the D.O.P.E. full-floater rear disc brake kit, some good components, and build it from the frame up. It won't just be the bike you learn on- you can keep it a LONG while, all the way up your learnng curve, believe it! Better than the VPP Free when set up like mine, with the CCDB set up for good platform with some extra low-speed damping and for pulling up/lofting, but not enough to rattle yer teeth... the CCDB's the scert, and, even with the extra cost (it's $$ more than the less- adjustable DHX 5.0 that's on my wife's XL '06 Stinky), you'll slide WAY under well-equipped VP Free or SC Bullit (I wuz BORN in Santa Cruz in 1960, and know the guys who started the company well!) pricewize if you do your own buildup, WAY less maintenance than most other FR/DH bikes out there... And remember- you'll STILL need the floating rear brake kit with the Bullit, and you have less rear tire/mud clearance as well as crappy lower pivot bearings to contend with, all on a frame that's outsourced just like the Stinky! All said, an anvil- burly, excellent factory-stock bike, a CLASSIC that'll save yer butt time after time and keep the teeth in your head so you can grin for the camera at the bottom! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Morgan
a Downhiller
from san luis obispo, ca
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Morning Glory & A-line | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1999.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel World ( crapy | | Strengths: | solid frame design. Stable in the air, shock felt stiff until broken in (about 10 rides). lots of adjustablitiy on rear shock. no upgrades needed | | Weaknesses: | a little heavy, but in the air very stable for the same reason | | Similar Products Used: | i own a 08 heckler | | Bike Setup: | 888 rcv shock, Rocco TSTr shock, shimano XT, BFL brakes | | Bottom Line: | great bike if you need plush travel and still want to ride up to the top. i took this bike to Whislter and it took everything I could dole out. Floating rear brake make a huge difference compared my Heckler on unstable descents | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dr_orlick
a Downhiller
from Haifa
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Solid frame, great geometry. Climbs surprisingly well with the lockout of the rear shock. Great spec, would'nt change nothing at it. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Heckler, dawg, gt i-drive | | Bike Setup: | 08 stinky deluxe spec, accepet 909 rubber and added chain guide. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for freeriding and DH, the spec is awesome,
and this bike perform excellent.
Low BB and slack head angle make them really fast when you
are blasting down on the steep trails, corners like on rails
and great stability in the air.
And a great price to. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
atreyu-fan-619
a Downhiller
from canberra
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | mt stromlo | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | privet seller | | Strengths: | AWESOME frame great setup | | Weaknesses: | nothing great bike | | Bike Setup: | 888s jucy sevens | | Bottom Line: | great bike totaly worth buying really good quality | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam
a Downhiller
from Los Osos, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: February 28, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Firebreak | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Pinkbike | | Strengths: | Solid frame. Nothing on my bike is stock but the frame and seatpost. THe frame is super sturdy, my bike is an 04 and the bearings are still in good condition | | Weaknesses: | A little heavy and i could use another inch of travel to make the bike just a little more responsive | | Similar Products Used: | IRon HOrse | | Bike Setup: | 04 Kona Stinky Dee-Lux Fox 40R, DHX 5.0, xt, Outlaw rims, etc. | | Bottom Line: | The frame is solid. end of story. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jeff b
a Downhiller
from souris
Date Reviewed: November 9, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | steam shovel | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3600.00 | | Purchased At: | stream n wood | | Strengths: | 66 RC3, roco tst r, race face everything | | Weaknesses: | nada | | Similar Products Used: | trek session 77 | | Bike Setup: | 2008 stock set up | | Bottom Line: | this is the brand new 2008 one and its amazing. its basically replaced the primo and its 1500 dollars cheaper than last year primo. get it its amazing | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Woodson
a Weekend Warrior
from San Antonio
Date Reviewed: September 23, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | City Park | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Ozone Bikes of austin | | Strengths: | This bike is rock soild. I've rode for about a year with not problems. | | Weaknesses: | A little on heavy side but good all around bike. | | Bike Setup: | 2005 setup with azonic outlaws rim on it. | | Bottom Line: | Bike is bullet proof. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Morris
a Downhiller
from York PA USA
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | backyard | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Strengths: | Insane suspension | | Weaknesses: | - none-only rode for one day | | Similar Products Used: | none- my bro has an Iron Horse Warrior Trail but that is nothing compared to this- i have tons of bmx racing bikes- no I am getting one of these to ride/race downhill | | Bike Setup: | Stock I believe | | Bottom Line: | I rented this at Snowshoie West Virginia. M bro was doiung the downhill and I was only going to ride. I liked this bike so much from renting it that I have already sold all my BMX race bikes and plan to get one of these or something similar. I saw some kids racing with it Downhill also- big 4bar design- took some pretty nasty drops- didn't see it in the park because they tore it sown. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
travis
a Downhiller
from park city,ut
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | summit cycles | | Strengths: | none | | Weaknesses: | rear link age keeps blowing rear sock | | Bike Setup: | kona stinky dee-lux all stock but e-threeten chain guide and tubless | | Bottom Line: | blew the rear shock dhx 4.0 once this yea and then went out and got a roco world cup and blew that with in one month of having that on frame. the rear siwing arm is puting too much stress on the shock and making it blow a seal. so if u are going to be using this bike for hard dh riding do not get it get a stronger bike with a diffrent swing arm | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wazeasel
a Downhiller
from Harrisburg
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Strong Frame
Awesome Geometry
Cool Design | | Weaknesses: | NONE | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Big Hit
Yeti 303
Iron Horse Sunday
Kona Stab | | Bike Setup: | Stinky Deluxe, 2002 Marzocchi Shiver, Diabolus, World Force, Intense 2.7 2.5, Hayes Mag HD, Odi North Shore LockOns, Kona DH bars | | Bottom Line: | Awesome freeride bike for just about anything. Take it from the pros- If your Robbie Bourdon you could shred on the monster drops, or if your Cowan you could rip up the dirt jumps with it, with whatever set up you get this bike can handle it all. Bottom line is that this bike is bomber, chose the right setup and you've got an awesome DH/FR rig. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mtbikermark
a Weekend Warrior
from Jackson
Date Reviewed: March 27, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Auburn | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1950.00 | | Purchased At: | private seller | | Strengths: | All parts are solid. Paint is very durable. Great ride. | | Weaknesses: | 888VF is a great fork once you dial it in. However, the lack of external adjustability makes that process too tedious. | | Similar Products Used: | SC Heckler, SC VP-Free, Ellsworth Joker, Banshee Chaparral | | Bike Setup: | Stock except thomson post, Intense wheels, Kenda Nevegal tires | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up to a review I wrote last year. I continue to be very impressed with my '06 Kona Stinky Dee-Lux.
I still have not upgraded the fork (it works great) but I would eventually like to go to a single crown Marzocchi 66 for weight and ETA for climbing.
I ride 2-3 times a week and I use this bike for everything: XC, DJ's, Shuttling, drops, stunts. It truly is the everything bike. I put a bigger cog set in the rear (12-34) for climbing. I also have a beautiful SC Heckler that I have barely ridden in a year (mainly commuting).
This bike is worth the investment. I have not had any problems. It is rock solid. Great product. Buy it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jordan whynot
a Downhiller
from on
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | blue | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | solutions | | Strengths: | dirty strong, awesome shock -dhx 5.0, wicked geometry | | Weaknesses: | not the as fast as a dh rig but ITS A FREERIDE and a sweet one at that... | | Similar Products Used: | 03 stinky, i dunno theres been a few | | Bike Setup: | 2006 stinky frame ( black), dhx 5.0, fox 40r fork, xt build, mavic 721s, hussy and diety build...just one mean machine | | Bottom Line: | it will fly off of anything, will land most of the time and yess its sweet but it will eventually be break and i will replace with another kona... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle Asay
a Downhiller
from Lindon, Utah, U.S.
Date Reviewed: March 11, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Spin Cycle | | Strengths: | The entire bike is a tank and can do anything that you want it to do and it is amazing. | | Weaknesses: | None!! | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi 888vf up front, hayes 9, and the Fox DHX 4.0 | | Bottom Line: | IT IS A SICK BIKE AND IF YOUR LOOK FOR A BIKE GET THE DEE-LUX! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chase Kozlowski
a Downhiller
from Harrisburg, PA
Date Reviewed: March 5, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Diablo | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | The bike is super stiff and sturdy. My forks and rear suspension can be a tad squishy but once you dial them in, your in business. The bike had more than enough travel to do whatever you want, whether your a freerider like myself or a downhiller. | | Weaknesses: | nothing | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Gemini | | Bike Setup: | Maxxis High Rollers, Hayes Mag HD 8 in rotors, Junior T, Vanilla RC, bontrager lock-ons | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great for an adrenaline junkie. If you wanna go big and show off your skills, i definetly prefer the Stinky DEELUX | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a Downhiller
from Ashburnham, Mass
Date Reviewed: October 12, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Vietnam, mt watatic | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Gear works | | Strengths: | Everything except the fork. Hayes Mags are awesome and the rest of the Shimano, fox and truvativ components can take a beating. Solid frame and Fox DHX makes pedaling a breeze. Thing corners great and you can throw it around like nothin. | | Weaknesses: | Fork. The 888 vf is a nice fork, but bottoms out like nothing. real squishy. I got firm springs from Marz and the fork is great minus the no-adjustability | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized BigHit, Coiler | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Truvativ Box guide and single ring crank, Azonic momentum wheels with maxxis high rollers. Firm springs for the fork make it better | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great.I do everything with it. Race DH, freeride, dirt jump, and some xc rides. It pedals great and once you get the fork dialed in, its an awesome ride! If you want a bike to do a little of everything but mostly freeride, get this. Its sick | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Weston humann
a Downhiller
from Jackson,Wyoming,Usa
Date Reviewed: August 12, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Jimmy's Mom | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | private | | Strengths: | IT ROLLS OVER ANYTHING AND ITS A BIG BEEFY BIKE! | | Weaknesses: | the front fork was a little sketchy but i replaced it....and i bought a new front tire | | Similar Products Used: | kona coiler | | Bike Setup: | 1,200 front fork new, maxxis high rollers, new saddle, and then thats basically it | | Bottom Line: | IT OWNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!#@$#!@*#^!*&#^!#!#^@!&# | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mtbikermark
a Weekend Warrior
from Jackson, CA
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Rocky at Auburn | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1950.00 | | Strengths: | Paint, Low standover, rock solid design, new rocker plates are tight, BB Height | | Weaknesses: | 888VF - no adjustability. Once dialed, it works. I am saving for an RC2X. | | Similar Products Used: | RMX, VP Free, Chaparral | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Kenda Nevegals, Thomson Seatpost, and 1.5" Hozzfeller bars. | | Bottom Line: | The ride:
In the parking lot the bike cornered and accellerated well. After I got it home, I took it out for some urban drops. The fork (888vf) stunk at first and kept bottoming out. After changing out the oil for a heavier wt and adding some volume (a long process of trial and error) the fork actually feels fine now. I plan to upgrade the fork.
Now for the real test: A long and varied day in Auburn...
At the ARD dirt jumps it felt fairly light and balanced. Railing through the berms and pumping between jumps felt great (for a 7 inch fully).
Next, I took it off a 10'+ drop. I was a little amped and overshot the transition. The bike took it like a champ and I held my line. The next run at it produced the same result...amped, overshot, but (thankfully) stomped the landing.
Now for the pedaling... we climbed to the top of the Culvert trail. The DHX shock filtered out all noticable pedal feedback but I still couldn't help but notice that the bike does weigh 41lbs+. Thank God for the 24X32 granny!
The Culvert trail was a blast on the Stinky! Great small bump sensitivity as well as swallowing bigger rocks with ease. We emptied back out on the lower confluence trail. The Stinky sprinted well and pedaled through the rough sections easily. The front end was easily hoisted over larger obstacles and the BB/pedal clearance seemed adequate.
Now more pedalling... we grunted up the fireroad on ****side and then returned on a trail that was super tight and technical. THe stinky exuded all kinds of confidence...what a blast.
Bottom line: Great Bike, great build, buy it! (but upgrade the fork). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jose Sanchez
a Weekend Warrior
from Tallahassee
Date Reviewed: March 3, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Tom Brown Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Higher Grounds BS | | Strengths: | Climbs better than most XC bikes I have ridden. Can take the big hits and handles like a cadillac. | | Weaknesses: | Front brake cable compresses too much if you bottom out the front fork causing it to come loose. Other than that it is totally awesome. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Truvativ, Marzocchi Drop off fork, fox rear. Fromt the factory all the way around | | Bottom Line: | The funnest bike I have ever ridden. Totally gives you the balls to take on thing you would not normally do. Great climber thats easily managed for a great price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben
a
from Ewa
Date Reviewed: March 2, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Extremely strong and very stable. Fox DHX 4.0 is unbelievable. | | Weaknesses: | 888 VF lacks adjustablility and is not a good match to the DHX 4.0. | | Similar Products Used: | Banshee Scream | | Bike Setup: | Currently Stock....888VF, Fox DHX 4.0, XT Rear Der, Truvativ BB and Crank, Hayes Hydraulic Disc Brakes | | Bottom Line: | A great bike for the money. Just as stable as my Banshee was without the weight and a very capable jumper or downhill bike. I do not care for the 888 VF but I knew what I was getting. To me the bike will be perfect with a 888RC and a dual ring chain guide, both upgrades I am planning on making. All around I would recommend this bike to anyone who is looking for a good solid downhill/freeride bike that you can pedal uphill instead of push. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie Hamilton
a Downhiller
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: January 3, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Vic Park / Craigeburn | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2399.00 | | Purchased At: | Penny Sport Cycles | | Strengths: | Value for money, stable,balanced, neutral, strong! | | Weaknesses: | None so far! | | Similar Products Used: | GT iDrive 4.0, KeeWee Stealth, Turner DH, Kona Coiler | | Bike Setup: | Pretty much stock except for e-thirteen DRS dual chainguide, Sun Ringle magnesium pedals, atomLab front rim | | Bottom Line: | This review is for the 06 Stinky Deluxe. So far I've found it a great "do everything " freeride bike. The lower center of gravity is very confidence inspiring to say the least! This bike has easily bailed me out of situations I would have previuosly been over the bars with! So can now feel a lot more comfortable about pushing the envelope. Vey stable at speed on smooth or rough, corners well. Nice balance on slow technical stuff. Fox 4.0 shock great! swapped out the 500lb spring for a 450lb for better use of full shock stroke. The VF forks are great, simple! plush, stiff, all good. DRS system works a treat! Great if you still have to do a bit of pedalling. Very comfortable riding position. Very stable in the air, even on those " I hope I can! " air endeavours!Best value / spec for the money here in New Zealand. Get out there and ride more! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave winfield
a Downhiller
from santa cruz ca
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | upper uc | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | ABS | | Strengths: | Solid bike,bullit proof.can handle anything | | Weaknesses: | forks suck no adjustment on the 888vf,switched to the 66. | | Similar Products Used: | bighit,6 pack | | Bike Setup: | stock except 4 rims,tires, cog ,brake lines,bars stem,and a backspire stinger chainguide | | Bottom Line: | bullit proof | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
james
a Downhiller
from dana point, ca, usa
Date Reviewed: December 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | laguna woods | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | this review is for an 05 stinky dee-lux. the frame is very sick in brown. fav. color of all bikes. the fox is unbelivable in the rear. this is the first time riding on a 888 and i lve it. its super plush and buttery smooth. The whole thing is a wonderful bike. super light too. 39 compared to old 44 pd bighit. | | Weaknesses: | not much to do with the bike. everthing is holding up fine. cant wait for 06 races
| | Similar Products Used: | not much. bighit is no comparison. | | Bike Setup: | stock, going to get lowrider crowns | | Bottom Line: | this is an awsome bike to improve on, its really light and of all the bikes ive tried, this one pedals really nicly, i can even pedal down a really steep rockgarden. the low center of gravity really helps the over all feel of the ride. the forks keep the whole bike planted on the trail, right where it belongs. havent gotten a ton of riding on this thing but already know its fast. already slid out and crashed cause i took a turn to fast with balled tires. but besides that id say the bike will hold up really good when i race. THe bottom line is if you want a bike that has a super stiff drivetrain and suspension, until you hit the tumbles, this bike is the one. id say its an all around good bike. dont recomend for xcountry though sissy trail riders. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil jones
a Downhiller
from swansea
Date Reviewed: November 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | cwmcarn | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | mark anthony cycles | | Strengths: | its got to be the frame, it has a basic, unbreakable rear end. the fox is awsome, i had to change from the stock 600 to a 450 and i'm not light, but now thats done, its on rails on burms, feels solid in the air and is VERY forgiving on landing. TOP'S | | Weaknesses: | brakes are a bit skeaky, snapped a chain, and the forks could do with some adjustment. (i'm just picking). | | Similar Products Used: | azonic dh-1 12.5" slalom bike | | Bike Setup: | changed the chainring to an e-13 srs (38t), put braided hoses on it, white DMR v12's, gold dangerboy levers, eibach gold 450llb's spring and michelin muds (muddy at the mo.) | | Bottom Line: | this bike for this money is great, the only weak link in doing big, mad stuff on this bike is the rider. what more can i say?? thumbs up..... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Longview, Wa U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt merchant @ Whistler | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire Farm | | Strengths: | very strong, the green and black looks good, the bars and pedals are cool, everything feels great on the trail. | | Weaknesses: | like everybody else the fork. also I don't care for the pig headset very much. | | Similar Products Used: | santa cruz heckler | | Bike Setup: | chris king headset and rear hub, marzocchi z1 freeride fork, sun single track wheels, maxxis tires, everything else pretty much stock. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike. I bought my 2004 brand new in June of 2005 and love this bike. Everything works good together. It fits me great. I traded out the Junior T for the Z1 Freeride. That helped the weight issue out a little bit, but it is still on the heavy side. The pain going up is forgotten once the trail starts heading down though. I don't do huge drops but it handles everything that dirt merchant and schleyer can throw at it. This is a burly bike, I went down and broke my back without one scratch to the bike. If you are even thinking of heading off the pampered trail to start looking for rocks, drops or jumps, buy this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from livermore ca
Date Reviewed: October 23, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | nor * | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | salida bike shop | | Strengths: | jump greats it just floats in air, tracks good, great bike for the price | | Weaknesses: | FORK SUCKs!!! no adjustment bottoms out, handle bar grips could be better, a bit too heavy for up hill climbs | | Similar Products Used: | big hit, iron horse sgs, santa cruz | | Bike Setup: | stock but changed to the 888r fork, single chain ring with a e-13 srs bash ring, | | Bottom Line: | awesome bike for the price, handles great, im glad i bought this bike... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Downhiller
from Whenuapai, Auckland, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: October 17, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything downhill :) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Brand spanking new at Bikebarn New Lynn | | Strengths: | The Frame, the forks, the shocks, pretty much everything about the bike.(2005 Stinky Dee-Lux) people whine about the lack of adjustability on the 888's but it is not to hard to change or have the oil changed to a heavier weight, I didn't have to the fork was perfect when I bought it. | | Weaknesses: | The only tiny problem would be the Hayes HFX 9 HD's. They are very functional and work fine, but if you want to get picky they do make quite a bit of noise and are quite hard to set up right, they also have to be re-tuned very often. | | Similar Products Used: | 2004 Kona Coiler | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2005 Stinky Dee-Lux. Soon as I have enough money I will upgrade the brakes. (see if you can get a deal on new brakes when you by the bike) | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the Bomb! Great on the jumps and down the hills, it is a bit heavy up the hills but still rideable. This bike inspires confidence and will save your pride (and your skull) if you suddenly realise you aren’t going to make the landing on that double you thought you could do with you newfound confidence. The bottom line is Kona rocks! This is my third Kona and it won't be my last, (I’m young and still growing or I'd ride this bike for the rest of my life) or at least until technology develops enough to warrant a new bike, which should be at least a few years yet ;). This bike is ideal for anyone involved in freeriding from small 4ft drops to 30ft gaps this bike does it all, its not to shabby downhill either. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bob wood
a Downhiller
from ca
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | non uphill trails | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | wheelworld.com | | Strengths: | durable, stable and solid at high speed. nice and smooth rear travel | | Weaknesses: | the fork sucks!! who needs a fork that is nonadjustable?! it also comes way too soft. besides that its perfect | | Similar Products Used: | specialized xcFSR, 04 stinky, 05 coiler, specialized enduro | | Bike Setup: | bone stock | | Bottom Line: | as long as the fork is changed or adjusted by marzocchi, theres no problems. very cheap for its value. i have never bottomed out my rear shock yet!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin Jackson
a Downhiller
from Mcmurray, PA, USA
Date Reviewed: September 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Snowshoe | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2450.00 | | Purchased At: | Dirty Harrys | | Strengths: | Good price, Very strong frame, dhx 4 is a plus. | | Weaknesses: | No chain guide. I am not a fan of the 888vf, no adjustments. Tires suck, I killed both of them at the same race... | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Stocked pretty much except: front rim sun singlespeed, maxxis Dh tires, e.13 chain guide. | | Bottom Line: | If your just getting into Downhill or freeriding this is a great bike. If your serious about racing dont get it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rhys Lennings
a Downhiller
from Australia
Date Reviewed: September 15, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Nerang Mountain Bike Centre | | Strengths: | Everything - plush, strong, geometry, suspension, frame. Does anything, dh,ns,fr,dj. | | Weaknesses: | Nothing really maybe rear hub, had to get a bolt seat clamp cause rocker hit the qr version | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Faith, Mongoose Black Diamond | | Bike Setup: | Stock with sram x9, actually sram everything. Lighter rear spring | | Bottom Line: | The bike rocks. I love it. The best bike I have ever owned. Will do anything, will not break, who's broken a stinky frame? Plush as, you won't feel a thing. Love the 888's and the DHX, make sure you get it all sramed up though, shimano sucks. Overall this bike deserves 5 flamin bananas and 5 for value as well. For under $4000AUS, what other bike has 888's and dhx 4.0? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nate
a Downhiller
from Westfield
Date Reviewed: August 23, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | WH resevoir | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Gravity Warehouse | | Strengths: | Frame
Fork
Rear shock
Frame | | Weaknesses: | Rear hub
bottom bracket | | Similar Products Used: | 01 Stinky
04 Cowan | | Bike Setup: | All stock for now | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is: how many times have you heard of a Stinky frame cracking? You know that you have to get this bike.
I have a brand new 04 that I got a KILLER deal on, if your shop has ANY 04 StinkyDs, buy them NOW. You can probably get one for under 2k which is amazing.
The Junior T seems quite strong enough for all but the biggest drops, and the Vanilla RC is nearly as good as the DHX shocks. I don't really like the rear hub, but time will tell if I need a stronger one. The BB could at least be a freeride type, but it hasn't given me problems. Yet.
Overall this bike is silly strong. The frame will last years.
How many Stinkys have you heard of cracking? I thought so. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
hardcore newbie
a Downhiller
from stockbridge
Date Reviewed: August 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | anything | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | very plush, pedalable, durable | | Weaknesses: | i noticed 0 | | Similar Products Used: | stab supreme, gemini, sinister r9 | | Bike Setup: | 2005 stock | | Bottom Line: | very nice freeride bike, get it if you have the bills | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C
a
from Edmonton, AB, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 10, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | The frame, components, all are beefy. This bike inspires huge amounts of confidence to all riders. From beginner to expert, this bike will suit you fine. | | Weaknesses: | None that I've encountered so far. Rear Hub could be better, and fork lacks adjustability, but that's just splitting hairs. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Primo, Kona Stinky Dee-Lux(2003), Intense UZZI, Specialized Bighit, Orange 223 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike is definately worth every penny you pay for it. Many of my friends ride Specialized Bighits, and everytime I get back on my Kona, it blows me away. The balance point is a little higher then the Specialized or other bikes, but it handles better, and the rear suspension feels much, much nicer.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brant tablesworth
a Downhiller
from kaslo
Date Reviewed: August 4, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | ladies first | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | super durable frame, long lasting components | | Weaknesses: | wish it didnt come with a junior T | | Similar Products Used: | bullit, Banshee scream ,stinky | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | bye this bike if you want a durable longlasting freeride bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Hopewell Jct NY
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | wheel and heel | | Strengths: | strong all around bike great for jumping and all around freeriding in general | | Weaknesses: | the front fork is not ajustable easily | | Similar Products Used: | stinky, intense M1 | | Bike Setup: | stock fox 4.0 888 VF | | Bottom Line: | great free ride bike, solid frame and components over all | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gareth
a Weekend Warrior
from North Shore City, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: July 27, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Big Muma, Woodhill Forest, New Zealand | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | 2nd hand | | Strengths: | Everything. Beautifully plush travel, fantastic brakes, just a great, strong, reliable rig. | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | Haro Extreme x3
Kona Scrap Hardtail (still have it) | | Bike Setup: | 2003 Dee-Lux
Standard shocks (Jr T's and Vanilla RC)
Removed small front chainring to make room for chaingude.
Disabled front derallieur and removed front shifter.
Replaced seat with Azonic DH seat.
Lizard Skin ODI lockon grips.
| | Bottom Line: | The absolute best freeriding bike in the world. There's not much this rig can't handle. a little hard to pedal up steep hills inn the setup I have, but that more than pays for itself on the way back down.
A very confidence inspiring frame, I bought it to step up my riding a notch, and now I'm clearing doubles and gaps I could never do before. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tom
a
from canada
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | aaa@wqq.com | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | perfect bike !` | | Weaknesses: | nothing ! | | Similar Products Used: | BH , a-line and and vpfree | | Bottom Line: | the best freeride bike !
get it !
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
alex vus
a Racer
from ukraine
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3500.00 | | Purchased At: | sportmaster | | Strengths: | the best | | Weaknesses: | no weakness | | Bottom Line: | i think stinky de-lux is the best bike in the world | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dustin Campbell
a Weekend Warrior
from Murphys,CA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Penny Pines | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | dealer | | Strengths: | Descends with strength and agility. Climbs better than your average 40lb rig. Built solid. Won't disappoint you unless you stick to the asphalt all day. | | Weaknesses: | Could be a bit lighter. But then, I could probably shed some pounds myself. | | Similar Products Used: | Intense Uzzi,Iron Horse 7 | | Bike Setup: | 02 Deelux w/ LRP chain guide, 2005 Z1 forks, you know the rest, High Roller tires | | Bottom Line: | Buy this if you go big and still want to pedal to the top. It is a heavier bike than some, but you get strenght and durability in return, and peace of mind...The only thing better is the 2005 Deelux | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt G
a Racer
from Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
Date Reviewed: April 19, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Western Rim (colorado/utah border) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Monkey Wrench Cycles - Lincoln, NE | | Strengths: | - confidence inspiring handling
- great durability
- good suspension components for the money
- nokian nbx 2.5" tires
- ability to fine-tune frame geometry with jr. t fork | | Weaknesses: | - rear shock eyelets have a 'tick' that i can't eradicate.
- heavy, but what freeride bike isn't??? | | Similar Products Used: | - '05 kona king kikapu
- '04 klein palomino xx | | Bike Setup: | - stock '04 stinky deluxe | | Bottom Line: | this is the first freeride bike i've ridden extensively, after sticking to 4-inch travel bikes previously. what an eye opener! i've had a great time geting to know this bike, and have been amazed at the confidence it gives me to try things like technical log rides, jumps and drops... stuff that would kill my xc bike is simply laughed at, and sucked-up by the stinky. it's truly amazing.
the bike pedals very nicely for a bike with as much travel as it has, and i've been very happy with how it gets around corners, even in tight woods that aren't traditionally the realm of a long travel bike like this. provided the trail doesn't have heinous climbs, i can keep up with just about anyone on xc-type trails. i even use the bike to commute on some days (about 10 miles round-trip - all asphalt), and it's not too much of a chore.
the fork is the limiter (imho) as far as pedaling performance goes though. when you get out of the saddle, the shock stays pretty still, but the fork starts to bounce wildly. i'm thinking of trying a manitou sherman in an attempt to gain some additional pedaling composure. to the jr. t's credit though, it's taken a lot of abuse, and has always come back asking for more. that's very impressive.
overall, i can't imagine a better, more durable, better handling freeride bike being available for under $3 grand (retail). since kona's been in the freeride thing as long as "freeride" has been in evolution, they have a great feel for how such a bike should ride. i guess the thing this bike gives me is confidence. i don't ever worry if the bike can take what i'm giving it. it's easy to ride, predictable and seems to work with my riding style, rather than against it. to-date, i've been very impressed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd
a
from Williston, VT
Date Reviewed: April 3, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | the inn trails | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | EARLS | | Strengths: | sick bike, really enjoy the feel of it. weight is displaced prefectly, manuals are cake. bike is completely ready for anything! | | Weaknesses: | i perfer to run a chain guide, so the weakness is the bash gurad adn dual rings, but that is all preference | | Similar Products Used: | RM7, BIG HIT | | Bike Setup: | stock except blackspire chainguide
| | Bottom Line: | for the money, this is a really solid freeride bike. DH isn't a problem, the bike isn't too heavy adn i nimble enough to tackle the skinniest skinnies. I work at a bike shop and can't say i've ever heard a bad word about this bike. built to take the roughest treatment, i can guaruntee that it will handle anything the average rider can dish out. think about this: first day on the bike, 10 ft. drop, second day on the bike 20 ft drop...no pain, no gain. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from Toronto, Ontario
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Great components for the price. Tough frame. Pedals very well. | | Weaknesses: | Rear travel not adjustable. Fork will need to be upgraded if you want to do some serious downhilling. Weight will turn some people away (just get in shape!). | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Gemini 2000 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price. Can be used for almost anything from downhill/freeride to aggressive trail riding.
Get a HSCV cartridge from Marz. to rememdy the spiking problems with the Junior T, or switch out the fork. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
harry
a Weekend Warrior
from bend, oregon, usa
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | bend cyclery | | Strengths: | this bike is bomb proof,kona has did it agian for 05, nothing more to say good componets, great price, and redesigned frame | | Weaknesses: | nothing yet. thins bike has gone over bigger jumps and drops than my last years stinky and has shown no signs of botteming out or anything | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky (04) | | Bike Setup: | bone stock | | Bottom Line: | this is a great bike if you want a bike that is already bomb proof right out of the boxi dont know what else to say. i guess you should try one soon. great bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
zac
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Barbara, California ,USA
Date Reviewed: February 1, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | jessasita | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | VELO PRO, GOLETA | | Strengths: | built for abuse, great components, and ready to take anything you can dish out, plus it was used in the video NWD 5 | | Weaknesses: | none at all best bike you can ever ride | | Similar Products Used: | kona stab | | Bike Setup: | stinky deelux with an mrp world cup system 2 | | Bottom Line: | if you have any doubt about buying this produst just forget about it and buy it you wont have a problem with its performance, the best bike you can get for around 2000 bucks. Great bike for those who are geting started in freeride/downhill or are even close to becoming pro. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil Williams
a Downhiller
from UK
Date Reviewed: January 23, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3800.00 | | Purchased At: | Westend Cycles | | Strengths: | Good solid bike very stable in the air.This bike gives you the confidence to hit anything, pedals like a xcountry bike to.A go anywhere do anything kind of bike. | | Weaknesses: | Hubs are crap,I've only had the bike 6 months and I'm on my second free hub and second set of bearings on the kk.The fox shock has no small bump sensitivity due to the pro pedal.Also the pedals grips and hubs no way dee-lux. Made in Taiwan | | Similar Products Used: | Coyote dh3 | | Bike Setup: | Odi lock-ons 888r mrp halo combats marzocchi hub mitchelin comp 16 Gazza jnr. | | Bottom Line: | A good allround bike, and with a couple of upgrades its the dogs bollocks.The thing is for the money you pay for one of these bikes new you shoudn't have to make any upgrades.Also Kona should take a leaf out of Banshee bikes book and give more than 1years warranty on the out of bounds bikes. That said I'm still impressed with the overall feel of the bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric L
a Downhiller
from Laguna Hills, CA
Date Reviewed: January 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Schoolyard | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Very strong(obviously), the Vanilla RC it comes with is great...people underestimate it. The junior T is much better than I thought, also-It very smooth and simply feels good. I absolutely love the green/black color scheme. This bike also comes well equipped, right out of the box-you don't really need to upgrade much. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy...but it is, afterall, a freeride bike. The brakes are also pissing me off...they rub alot, and I cant adjust the so that they dont rub. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Gemini's(I almost bought a gemini, but Ive heard they're flexy), those Rocky Mountain FR bikes(too damn expensive) | | Bike Setup: | Chris King Steelest, Mavic Ex 721 rims, E thirteen bashring/chain guide, Brooklyn machine works saddle, Bonz shorty brake levers, XT cassette, Maxxis Mobster 2.70", odi lock on's, rest is stock i think | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. It is a very comfortable bike...I felt scared on it the first month or so(my first ride was in Moab), but once you get used to it, you get incredibly confident. The suspension is great...its been a little hard getting used to it, since my previous bike had 4-5 inches. This is, in my opinion, one of the best freeride bikes around. It was either this or a Gemini, but I found a great deal on Ebay. I want to change out the stem/Bar, just because I hate generic crap. Immedately get lizard lock on grips-they make a big difference. If you're looking for a freeride bike, look no further. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JOE
a Downhiller
from CT
Date Reviewed: December 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | some of CASE and secret spot | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1557.00 | | Purchased At: | Bro Ordered From KONA | | Strengths: | strong...............plush rear travel because of the four bar linkage...I prefer the Vanilla RC which comes on it stock to another shock that I own, the 5th Element five way coil with retails for over $600. fork was way nicer than the drop off that comes on the lower stinky model. it was more plush as in smoother. I liked the adjustable head angle. brakes were really responsive...but they dragged a little even though I adjusted them. Also, as in many hayes hydraulic brakes, the little allen screw that controls the distance the lever is from the handle bar always comes loose even with some locktight.the rims are awesome....but I got lucky with even better rims, the sun MTX....in exchange for lesser shifters. I never called and complained. Nokians seem to be holding up well along with all the other components. | | Weaknesses: | cause of the fourbar the tire may hit the seat if it is too low. tire clearance in fork. springs were too soft in fork. nothing that can be delt with or replaced for cheep | | Similar Products Used: | '03 '04 stinky, stinky 9, M1, Ironhorse SGS, a lot of stuff really | | Bike Setup: | stock except rims are MTX, seatpost is thompson elite, and pedals are shimano m545 clipless | | Bottom Line: | sweatbike but heavy.....I still pedal it on plenty of uphill...................awesome for freeriding and ladders...............jumps awesome.....super responsive........awesome on ski areas and really rocky sections.....I would deffinatelt but it even if I have to pay $2700 which is retail...but also consider the SGS line for a considerable price but a different riding style... my next move will be to upgrade my fork to something inverted and hopefully not adding to much weight....definately worth it for the price | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt Broehl
a Downhiller
from Federal way WA
Date Reviewed: September 3, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Phils bike shop (where i work) | | Strengths: | This is a great bike. I have beat the hell out of it and its still in the same shape as when i bought it. This bike has really nice suspension smooth rear tringle nice freeride bike. The rims are great i got the 2005 sun rims on mine because i got mine right at the end of the season and they probley ran out of the mavics. The biggest Drop i have done is a ten footer and i didnt even use all my suspension travel | | Weaknesses: | The weight but its worth the durability. | | Similar Products Used: | 2004 jamis xlt 1.0 | | Bike Setup: | new cog set 32 tooth is what it came with i put a 34 tooth on it because i wanted a easyer first gear.new sram chain. and a new freehub because my other one went out. | | Bottom Line: | If you want a nice freeride bike with nice componets get this bike.The stinky deelux is a beefy frame with all decent parts.I am only 17 and i ride my bike hard but not that hard consendering what the bike made to do.Great bike its worth the extra wright. mine is 45 pounds. and its worth everly pound. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, California
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | "red mailbox" | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | ABS (another bike shop) | | Strengths: | There rear shock is good. The frame is stout and rigid. It tracks well through the rutted out turns. | | Weaknesses: | Its heavy, and the front fork could use different oil. It doesn't climb as well as I had hoped for. | | Similar Products Used: | BigHit comp, s-works, AC-1, and a Stinky | | Bike Setup: | stock, with a sponge bob bell. | | Bottom Line: | good bike but for the price, I would go with a regular stinky. I prefer the kona over the giant and specialized, although I would ike to try a turner or santa cruz. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Romano
a Downhiller
from CT
Date Reviewed: July 25, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Case Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Benidorms | | Strengths: | Best Fox on the market, the fork is awesome too, paintjob is sweet, could it honestly look anymore bad-a$$??? The look on your cocky friend face who recently bought an Enduro as you pull that green monster off the bike rack. | | Weaknesses: | Grips suck, could have better components, it's so expensive because of the frame. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Gemini 900 | | Bike Setup: | Kona knows best (stock) | | Bottom Line: | This is probably one of the best free-ride bikes on the market. Awesome I mean awesome suspension. Plus you could throw this thing off the grand canyon and it wouldn't break. It looks amazing as well, I love the stares from everyone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremy
a Weekend Warrior
from Roseville
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | 1st Divide @ Downieville | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | SpinCity | | Strengths: | Strong, solid, dependable parts. | | Weaknesses: | None so far... | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I've ridden this bike at Northstar and Downieville and both places this bikes was stellar. I'm not a huge huckster by any means but everything I've done so far this bike has just devoured. Pedaling uphill sucks but the pay off for the downhill is worth it. No problems with anything on it so far. I highly recomend this bike to anyone looking for an all-around DH/FR/Extreme Trail bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Garrett
a Weekend Warrior
from Rochester, NY USA
Date Reviewed: July 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | White Face Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | trailblazers victor ny | | Strengths: | Soild as a rock, pedals smooth, super plush 7" of travel | | Weaknesses: | kona grips suck, didn't like the color at first but it grows on ya | | Similar Products Used: | yeti ASX, kona kahuna, cannondale jekyll | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | this is the best deal out there for free riding, recreational downhill, aggressive cross country, all mountain, WHATEVER!!!!(wouldn't ride it on the road though) pro pedal Fox works great for the up hills and she is straight as an arrow going down!!!! if the only bad part of a $2000.00 plus bike is the grips yer doin pretty good! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a
from Sydney OZ
Date Reviewed: July 5, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | BA | | Strengths: | Decent overall strong frame and forgiveness | | Weaknesses: | Ok since my first review I have had issues with JrT's, changed oil to heavier weight but no good, springs will be the next to change. Jr's bottom out way too easily for a heavier rider which sucks. Dont want to have to upgrade but will start checking out 888s or SuperT's if spring change does not fix the problem. | | Similar Products Used: | Staabs and other stinky's, iron horse, Gemini's | | Bike Setup: | All stock except few small bits - playing with forks | | Bottom Line: | Not bad cept the Jr T is a big issue for me at 93kgs. Great to ride everywhere can ride up most hills but would be lying to say I did or even did want to, spend more time looking for hits, jumps and DH now. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bijan Fathy
a Downhiller
from Charleston, WV
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | "Trail of Death" Charleston, WV | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | OutdoorExtremes, Charleston, WV | | Strengths: | Very good stability, in the air and on the ground. Climbs well, and tracks well and almost all terrian. Good clearance under bottom bracket. Awesome (but noisy) Hayes Disk. Kick Ass color and great components for the money. | | Weaknesses: | For some reason Kona decided to place a seatpost clamp that is to wide for the rear linkage which causes it to hit the frame on drops. I have filed mine down and think it has fixed the problem. Rear hub seems weak. Junior T needs Dampener upgrade form Monster T and springs. Pedal screws suck. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Bullit | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I really am enjoying this Bike. I felt comfortable with the bike the very first time i got on it. I am a pretty aggressive rider and have done some large and nasty drops on this bike stock! It really should have the Junior T built up a little bit before it can be really mashed but it can easily handle most rider ablilities out of the box. The tires are no good in the mud and your top end speed is limited by the drivetrain. If you are the type of rider who enjoys drops, skinnies, and punishing DH, this is the bike for you. The bike climbs pretty well with the Fox propedal and i seem to always be able to hang with the cross country bikes on climbs. If you can't afford the Santa Cruz VP free, which i think is not worth almost twice the price of the Kona, This is probably your next best option for a dependable freeride/DH. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Rocklin, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 7, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Butcher Ranch Downieville | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Strengths: | Incredibly strong frame. Excellent component spec for the money. This bike has allowed me to really push my limitations and is very forgiving. I can go much faster on this bike than I could on my Giant VT2. It obviously does not climb nearly as well, but it is a freeride bike. The only upgrade I recomend is getting the damper adjustment set up (super T upgrade valve). This made a tremendious difence in the forks performance. | | Weaknesses: | The only thing I did not like was the Kona stem. I upgraded this to a direct connect Marzocci. Nothing wrong with it. I just did not like the handle bar position. And as for the set screws falling out of the pedals, try blue loctite. I lost a couple on my second ride. | | Similar Products Used: | Own Giant VT2, demoed Specialized bighit, and a Rocky Mountain Switch, RM7 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except fork upgrade. | | Bottom Line: | The stinky D is the best freeride bike for the money. It would be great to have a Foes Inferno or a Santa Cruz VPP Free, but they cost serious Buck$. By no means is the Stinky D an inexpensive bike, but you get a lot of bike for your money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
don corleone
a Weekend Warrior
from athens greece
Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | calopoula | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2900.00 | | Purchased At: | tsirikos | | Strengths: | everythin(talk about what,the frame?,the components?,the price?) | | Weaknesses: | is a bit heavy but this is my problem not the bikes i have to get used to it we are talkin about fr/dh bikes heavy means stable n strengh | | Similar Products Used: | kona ob/dh family,norcos,big hits | | Bike Setup: | stock for now(no needs) | | Bottom Line: | well im new in freeridin with a dual suspention bike i ve tried demoin some bikes but when i tried stinky i fell in love with it.It is stable n strong.the bike just plays with my abilities can handle everythin.Cant think about any other bike or any other price tag!the bike offers things that other brands askin 4.000 or 5.000 and im happy with konas philosophy | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Medicine Hat
Date Reviewed: April 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | All Of Them | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Path | | Strengths: | Great stock parts list with only a few upgrades needed, good for FR/Downhill and you can still climb a hill if need be. | | Weaknesses: | The pedals are pretty cheap, had the bike for less than a month now and the allen screws are falling out of the pedals. Tried to screw a couple in to see if that would help and they just popped out of the pedal. A little pricey but if you can afford it, totally worth the buck$ Almost forgot...despite fooling around with tire pressures I find the tires themselves to be very slippery in pretty much every condition I have tried. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Warp DS1, Kona Stinky | | Bike Setup: | stock other than primo pro pedals, and 888's up front. | | Bottom Line: | Love the bike, I am pretty new to the FR/Downhill scene but this bike has taken me anywhere I want, despite what common sense may dictate. If you have the $$$ go out and get one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a
from Pincher Creek, Alberta Canada
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | they are all good | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2528.00 | | Purchased At: | Ascent Cycle | | Strengths: | Very stable in air and on ground, climbs easily, excellent stock componentry, everything is easily adjustable. | | Weaknesses: | Top rear shock bolt comes loose once in a while after a violent rear wheel landing. | | Similar Products Used: | None, this is my first F/S | | Bike Setup: | Stock with NRG Downhill Saddle | | Bottom Line: | Awesome bike for those who are looking for a hefty durable, yet still very maneuverable freeride/downhill rig. Highly recommended to all. One possible upgrade would be chainguide (for the more downhill oriented rider) and a heavier weight of oil in the fork (or possibly heavier springs) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a
from NY
Date Reviewed: April 4, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Jumpers Ally/ Woodhill park NZ | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Strengths: | Great feel, doesn't seem to mind when I ride it into a tree. | | Weaknesses: | It's weaknesses are well beyond my riding ability. The only problem I had was I bent my brake lever but in it's defence it was probably never designed to take my weight and the bikes. My friend has shown me how to aviod this now. If you just loosen up your levers when you land on them instead of bending they just spin around. Pretty neat trick. | | Similar Products Used: | This would only be my second bike and my first free ride so I wouldn't know. | | Bike Setup: | Saint Crank and E13 Gaurd | | Bottom Line: | This bike has been great. I have fallen in love with the sport and the bike. Some complain about the weight but I have no problem climbing hills with it and the extra weight gives you a little more confidence.
I have played on a couple others in the shop. Basically the Primo, Stab, and some of the Marin bikes. Nothing gave me the feel that this bike did... Well the Primo did but I wasn't about to go spend that kind of money. Anyway, it may be a bit over kill for a beginner but I am thankful that this was my first experience into the sport.
I ride with some pretty experienced guys and they seem to like the bike. Some complain a bit about the front fork and one will be replacing his oil with some heavier stuff (15 wieght or like 15 and 10) but I feel really comfortable on mine and thats what seems to be important.
Remember to feed your bike trees on a regular basis, they seem to like them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nathan
a
from Queensland Aunstralia
Date Reviewed: April 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | big scary ones | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$4300.00 | | Strengths: | Its green, it pedals, it's really stable in the air,it's fast, and like stinky's in the past it's very strong | | Weaknesses: | Rear hub is really weak if you thrash it, you can't do road racing on it | | Similar Products Used: | Stinky, Giant | | Bike Setup: | Fairly stock apart from just a few things upgraded at purchase, it really did'nt need much. | | Bottom Line: | I had a really good look around for somthing that you could push up a hill without killing myself to get to a downhill as well as something I could put a single chain ring on and take to a dh race as well as something I could hit up a few decent drops on. For approximately the same money the only thing that came close was a giant AC and they have less travel and a pogo rear suspension action due to a short rocker arm.
The only trouble I've had was the rear hub which is a pretty crud piece of hub and the rocker arm hits the seatpost collar when you bottom heavy. To fix that change to a slimmer collar. I just hacksawed the overhanging thread of the original and fixed the problem.
If your a downhiller who does'nt have a chairlift at his back door or your girlfriends sick of driving you to the top of the hill, this is a good bike for you. Kona are a good company who make great bikes without bs advertising to sell their bikes. The only bike that would kick this bikes butt at what it's meant to do would be a Santacruz vp-free, and if you can even get one you'll need twice as much money, so forget it.
And don't let anyone tell you grasshopper terd green is a bad colour. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Pittsburgh, PA
Date Reviewed: March 3, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Dirty Harry's | | Strengths: | Strong bike with good looks. Definately a blue collar work horse. The parts spec is decent for the price. Green color really grows on you. | | Weaknesses: | Hayes rear brake squeals like hell. Tried everything to fix it, but haen't found the remedy yet. Other than that, none. | | Similar Products Used: | Stinky | | Bike Setup: | Still pretty much stock. | | Bottom Line: | Before I bought this bike, I only did tail riding and road cross-country with my Santa Cruz Superlight. I always wanted to have a bike thar was capable of going big. The Stinky Dee-Lux definately filled my needs! I've only done Urban freeriding so far because the trails are muddy this time of year. The Dee-Lux is able to handle everything I dish out. This is definately the most fun I've ever had on a bike, period. Believe it or not, it'll be hard to go from this 40+ pound beast back to my Superlight!
As far as changes, I've pretty much left it stock. Nothing has broken, yet, so there hasn't been a need to upgrade. I did change the fork oil in the Jr T to 10 wt, and it improved the performance a bit. Oh, and if you use the full travel in the rear, the swing arm hits the quick release on the seat post clamp, so I switched to a regular clamp.
As far as size goes, I'm 5'10" and I bought the medium (17"), and it's perfect me. I wouldn't go bigger.
If you're looking for a capable freeride bike, the Dee-Lux is definately a good choice. The price point isn't bad for what you get. I think it's worth the extra cash over the regular Stinky, but if you're on a budget, that one's a good choice, too. Buy one, ride it hard, and enjoy it.
` | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
allen smithwen
a Downhiller
from North Carolina
Date Reviewed: March 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | too many to ride | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Strengths: | Very strong, as a D/H, the bike has very little, (jack hoping), I believe that is what is called. It's has more then one link on the swing arm, which gives it a very good traction, while on your rear brakes. Lots of bikes have that problem but it all depends what you are looking for. | | Weaknesses: | Love it, very strong and has a lot of durability, which makes the ride feel very plush, and well built, therefore stable. The hub has some weaknesses, but it all depends on how hard you are going to riding, plus any rider knows that someday they are going to change parts, either to upgrade or when you brake it. | | Similar Products Used: | stinky 9/ old but vey good. | | Bike Setup: | Secret, it's made for D/H, more then FreeRide, it is set up for me. | | Bottom Line: | A lot of people say that it is too expensive, but what I say it is not expensive for people who can afford it. I think it is a really good value if you want to do free riding or D/H, but you need to do a couple of expansive, changes for D/H, but for free riding I thing it is a really good bike. Buy one, you'll love it.
Bottom line, if you are a beginer it is a very nice way to start, if you've been riding for a while it's a beautiful, bike, you will have lot's of fun regardless, | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kev-Dog
a Weekend Warrior
from West Covina, CA
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Wilson | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2699.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel World | | Strengths: | Every time a friend hops onto the bike to try it, they always rant and rave on how light the bike feels when you're actually riding it. Oh yeah, the fork, the frame, the rims, and the feel of indestructability. | | Weaknesses: | 1.Hubs.
2.Top end speed suffers from lack of big ring.
3.You would think you'd get a XT derailleur in the front as well, but you don't.
4.Kona should engineer some kind of rubberized pad right onto the foward part of the chainstay where it appears the chain is having a nice lunch. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Bullit(I liked the non-horst linked 4-bar better), Giant AC-1(Three Grand is alot for 6&6, when you can get 7&7 with the stinkiness of Kona), Stab(the stinky felt more versitile), Foes Fly($$$$$). | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Lizard Skins grips. Planning on putting on a blackspire dewlie, and changing over to gazzaloddi jr. 2.6's for a more aggressive tread pattern. | | Bottom Line: | Gathers and maintains your speed like a mother, saves you when you mess up, climbs as well if not better than some 5in bikes, the extra weight of the bike is a blessing in disguise(longevity and durability), feels right at home cruising on the street, huntington beach, as well as the trail, and if you squint your eyes on the downhills it makes the spandex on those dudes look like regular clothing when you pass'em up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jose Pratts
a Weekend Warrior
from Teaneck, N.J., U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Stewart Airport | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Workshop | | Strengths: | This rig is one beefy ride, it's a terminator on wheels. | | Weaknesses: | I have none yet, but I'm sure I'll go through rims and other components quickley due to my poor downhill and freeriding skills. | | Similar Products Used: | I demoed a 04 Kona stab, AWESOME and almost identical to the Stinky D, just a bit heavier. | | Bike Setup: | I have no special setups at the moment, but I am looking to get a longer stem from race face, a chainguide, and odi grips. This bike pretty much comes hooked up ready to terminate. | | Bottom Line: | I have not taken advantage of this bike due to purchace that I made toward the end of the fall. the little riding that I did do though was one hell of a ride. This bike begs for a beating and then some. It's Hulkster look is groovy and It's my first ever serious aggresive bike. I am 5'9 200lbs. and I purchased a 17inch which is perfect because handling a piece of machinery of this size and weight any bigger would be like asking minime to take a monster truck out for a spin. I'm pleased with my purchased and will continue to buy from Kona because they live up to their stuff. If you want a bike that freerides/downhills and climbs some this is the perfect bike for you. You will not be disappointed, There is nothing about the Kona Stinky Dee-LUX that stinks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MagGO SKoolGirl
a Downhiller
from Florida, usa
Date Reviewed: February 10, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Quit water | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2450.00 | | Purchased At: | JIms Bike | | Strengths: | The bike is the F_cken best, i was looking for a bike over 4 month until i saw the KONA STINKY "D"-LUX, which made me forget all the other companies. | | Weaknesses: | NONE that i have found yet | | Similar Products Used: | NONE, CAUSE THERE IS NONE> | | Bike Setup: | 7/7-----> YOU need to buy one to know. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike i do not know if i would have bought another bike, and if i would be as happy as i am with this bike. LOve the color, love it all, and people say that it ways to much, i weigh about 250lbs, and when you ride this bike, youfeel like it weighs 27lbs, even though it probably weighs, closer to 40 lbs. Well all i have to say is they i do not like this bike i F_cken love it.
P.S.---> The "D"-LUX is for a reason, i really do not care what other people who ride other bikes say, because they do not own a D-LUX. you need to own one to know what this bike is all about, not just test ride it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Downhiller
from Sydney Australia
Date Reviewed: January 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Red Hill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$4600.00 | | Purchased At: | BA | | Strengths: | Strong with little flex in the rear, pretty smooth, little bob in rear shock when peddling withxcountry riders. Still able to ride up everything I used to on a shorter travel bike. Decent specs for the bills. | | Weaknesses: | heavy (=strong?) None yet | | Similar Products Used: | Norco's, Iron Horse, Stinkys, | | Bike Setup: | Stock at present with new 'custom' scratches. | | Bottom Line: | Let you know in 6month how it holds up. So far really happy and impressed.
Its a very forgiving bike even when you dont land well and has saved me a few times local and at Thredbo.
I can still keep up or beat all the others I used to ride with round all parts of my local trails but dont feel like the bike is breaking every time I do a 4footer upward.
The kermit green will grow on you! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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