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Submitted by
gelinasbrian
a Weekend Warrior
from Orange, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 19, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Bachelors, Amherst, MA | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$740.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle World | | Strengths: | Frame is awesome. brakes are(squeaky sometimes)but sill good. fairly light bike. PRICE. Love the murdered out black on black color scheme. Badass looking rig. Takes on hills with ease and rips dh single tracks. | | Weaknesses: | Hate the saddle it's to hard. had a small issue with the derailleurs would not shift properly but my LBS took care of that. Going to upgrade shocks, crank/bottom bracket, saddle, f/r derailleurs. weak paint scratches easily. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line is this bike is great for the money. I looked @ many bikes before settling on this one and I feel I got the most bang for my buck. I would recommend this bike to anyone.
The minor complaints are far out-weighed by the huge value of this rig. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: April 30, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | Frame geometry and strength
XT rear derailleur
Great value
Climbs like a monkey | | Weaknesses: | Marzocchi EXR forks
Stock tyres/saddle
A little overweight (easily fixed though)
| | Bike Setup: | Stock except Selle Italia SLR saddle, Ritchey Pro 31.8 stem/flat handlebar, Larsen TT tyres, Cane Creek grips | | Bottom Line: | I bought my Caldera in Jan 2005 so this is kind of a long term review. The bottom line is that as far as XC hardtail bikes go, this is one of the best value bikes on the market - hands down. The fact is that the setup and componentry of the Caldera rivals bikes $500 to $1000 more. I have easily ridden over 15,000km on this thing in the last five years, and it still feels like new. It eats up the windy and fast singletrack, it is great for climbing, it is great for hitting big logs and technical DH, I can hardly fault this machine considering the price. The problems I've had were mostly caused by me, like I snapped the XT rear derailleur in half when a large stick got caught in my wheel, the rear dropout needed to be replaced when it hit a large log.
I'd recommend changing the forks after a while though, the Marzocchi's aren't exactly the best around, they are reasonably heavy and the teeth of the alan key hole on mine corroded away so I can't adjust the rebound anymore. I'm looking to get a new Fox fork.
Other than that, this bike stands the test of time. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben222
a Cross Country Rider
from Collingwood, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Kolapore/3-Stage/Loree Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Kamikaze Bikes | | Strengths: | Brakes, Frame, Easily-Upgradable, Agility, Seat, Rear Deraileur, Slick-Looking, Value, Quality, and everything else except for... | | Weaknesses: | Fork, there are better Front Derailleurs out there, Headset, Tires, soft and easily-scratchable Paint | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | Mainly Stock (18" frame), with Shimano M520 Pedals, and OURY Grips | | Bottom Line: | The Kona Caldera is an excellent, solid bike. You truly get what you pay for with this rig, and it is a lot better than most of the bikes in its price range. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line hardtail, this is the ride you should be getting.
Last year, I had to get a new bike, because I had grown out of my Trek 4500. So, I got a 2008 Kona Caldera for the 4500's replacement. I really started to get into the X-Country riding with this thing, and I feel as if I have tons of room to grow before I need something more heavy-duty.
The Hayes Stroker Trail Brakes kick some serious tush, and the frame is absolutely bomb-proof. The bike is agile enough that you can dominate most terrain, yet slick and durable enough that you don't look like you're riding a tank while doing it. There are a lot of high-quality components on the Caldera, but of course, there are a few downfalls:
The RockShox Tora 302's are less than amazing, but they're not horrible, so I'll probably keep them on the bike until the fork goes. I find that it doesn't take a lot to scratch the soft paint right off, but hey, good looks come at a price, I guess. Finally, the Maxxis Ignitor tires, depending on trail conditions, can be really scary to ride on when it's wet; so I suggest something better. However, it doesn't bother me too much.
In short, the Kona Caldera should be at the top of your list if you're looking to get fairly serious in X-Country riding. You absolutely get what you pay for with this bike, and the $1000 is worth every penny. The quality is top-notch, and besides, you usually can't go too wrong with a Kona. The Kona Caldera should be a no-brainer if you're willing to spend the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Storm Miller
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Walnut Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Ozone Bike Dept. | | Strengths: | I tend to be pretty rough on my bikes, and this fella has pretty much handled everything so far. I have wussed out much sooner than the bike has. The brakes and shifters are very responsive, the adjustable forks are awesome, and the bike just generally feels like it wants to play. I weigh in around 215 lbs. and I get no sense that I'm over-stressing the machinery. | | Weaknesses: | I have had no major problems so far. I blew out a spring in the rear derailleur the first week, but the bike shop replaced that part on warranty. I also put a pretty good wobble in the rims the first month, but I think that has more to do with me finding a good air pressure than with any weakness in the rims. I usually ride BMX cruisers and freestyle on the streets, so mastering off-road air pressure has been tricky. | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first foray into MTB since I owned a Trek about a decade ago. | | Bike Setup: | Nothing crazy, this is the stock Caldera set-up | | Bottom Line: | This is definitely the most I've ever spent on a bike, but I have no doubt that I got what I paid for. Being an intermediate-level rider, I feel that this bike has a lot of room for me to grow into. I would recommend the Caldera and I feel there is a pretty big gap between Kona and competitors such as Specialized and Trek. To me, this is the bike for someone who is more than a casual rider, but less than the agro MTB monster-rider. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark B.
a Weekend Warrior
from toronto
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Don't have one yet | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | Sweet Pete | | Strengths: | Nice frame, good brakes. it was the only bike that was all black. | | Weaknesses: | Forks are pretty basic, crank and bottom bracket are very entry level. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Monkey Lite XC bars, Easton EA70 stem, Thomson seat post, 08 Deore XT levers, rear cassette and front derail. Marzocchi Corsa WC forks, Cane Creek S8 headset, Mavic Crossride Disc wheels, Ritchey Zmin tires with Maxxis superlite tubes, Truvativ 08 Team Stylo 3.3 crank and bb. Carbon fiber spacer, seat post clamp and skewers. New grips (i forget which ones) | | Bottom Line: | It's a great bike to build from, have yet to do much riding though. The end result looks pretty killer.I will keep you posted on how it rides. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA
Date Reviewed: January 26, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Rodalben "F" trail, Germany | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Ramstein Outdoor Rec | | Strengths: | Just about everything. | | Weaknesses: | Marzocchi MZ II Fork and the rims are hard to get tires off and on of | | Similar Products Used: | Not really similar, but 06 Kona Coiler Deluxe | | Bike Setup: | Stock (minus fork and bottom bracket) Went with Marzocchi All Mountain III and a Race Face Dues X bottom bracket. | | Bottom Line: | The stock Marzocchi MZ II (100mm) sucks! I cranked the adjustment as tight as I could but with my 220lbs arse it did no good. I had to ride it partially locked out to keep it from bottoming out. I got a great deal on a Marzocchi All Mountain III so I swapped it out. Now I love it!! I can make the climbs with ease and then bomb down a piece of semi-technical singletrack and not worry about anything. It's great on long hauls too. The only reason I swapped out the bottom bracket was to lighten up the bike. I have plans to lighten up several other components, but its just one step at a time for now. Great bike at an amazing price!!! Woulda gave it all 5 chilis on the overall if I didnt have to swap out the fork cuz of my weight. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Hubert
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: November 22, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Solutions | | Strengths: | 2007 Colour Scheme - Black & Grey; very stealthy, most components are great, brakes are phenomenal (once broken in) | | Weaknesses: | Within the first 2 weeks one of the front brake caliper piston seals blew leaking brake fluid on the disc & pads (all replaced under warranty), refuses to shift up under load, chain sometimes falls off when shifting too fast | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Hardrock, various Giant & Gary Fisher bikes | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | If you're looking for a good bike that you can keep for a while, instead of a disposable like those "department store specials", I'd have a serious look at this bike. Other than some initial teething problems, the Kona Caldera is fantastic. It also doesn't hurt that it looks GREAT! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kyle
a
from Santa barbara,CA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 8, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | no trails (elwood jumps) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | friends house | | Strengths: | I bought this bike from my friend and Im pretty pleased with it! None of the components rattle around like on my Raleigh dirt jumper and the disc brakes are great. I also like the bomber front forks. | | Weaknesses: | standard kona pedals strip your crank arms too easy! | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh M40 hardtail, Kona stuff | | Bike Setup: | maxis high roller dirt tires and custom seat, but other than that nothing. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike if you can get it used but if your going to pay a grand for a bike new then I would get a kona stuff! I am impressed with the bomber suspension and disk brakes. Over all, I think this is a good, dependable bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Owen
a Weekend Warrior
from Loughborough (UK)
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Marin trail Wales | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Rutland Water | | Strengths: | Sturdy frame, I liked the gold colour of the 2006 model. | | Weaknesses: | The front deraillieur failed very quickly so upgraded with an XT and it is now much smoother. The front brake squeeks all the time and is a real pain plus it slows me down. The bike also feels heavy comapred to other bike's I have owned (Cannondale M500 rigid fork and Marin hardtail). The Marzocchi front forks don't seem to adjust very easily either and lastly it ghost shifts when changing gear. | | Similar Products Used: | If you are reading this then you already know ! | | Bike Setup: | Standard 18 inch frame | | Bottom Line: | I always wanted a Kona as I had heard good things but this bike has let me down and I am very disappointed. I just want a good bike and my Marin is much more reliable and better and it cost less too and handles everything I throw at it. Not many chilis from me I'm afraid. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kelvin Brown
a Weekend Warrior
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | All Nelson trails! | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | Strong frame, good geometry for me at 5' 11', cheap ($1300 NZD new) | | Weaknesses: | Front fork gives 75mm travel, not 100mm. Bottom bracket gave out quickly as did the headset. Would have been nice to have all XT gear but then again, the price is quite reasonable! | | Similar Products Used: | my brothers 2005 Caldera! | | Bike Setup: | American Classic MTB26 wheelset, Avid Juicy 7 Carbon front with 185mm rotor, Avid Juicy 7 rear with 160mm rotor, raceface bottom bracket, FSA headset, 07 XT shifters, 07 XT front mech, Crank Brothers Eggbeater pedals, ODI ruffian lock-on grips | | Bottom Line: | This is my first mountain bike for a long time. I have made a few changes to components of the bike - this is my third bottom bracket so far! Some of them have been replacements, some of them have been upgrades to improve the weight. I have done around 2500km's in the last year so I have given it a decent workout. I have found it a good entry level bike, light enough to keep you spinning along but strong enough to take the knocks I have given it. I would recommend the wheelset upgrade as first thing to do - it makes a huge difference to climbing. I wouldn't buy another one but then again, I will be buying a full sus. next time anyway. Just about to get powdercoated and void my Kona warranty - ah well, at least it will look better! I have ridden this bike in two distance races, 109km and 90km and it has not let me down. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Antonio Neto
a Weekend Warrior
from Alpharetta, GA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 11, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Big Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Roswell Bike | | Strengths: | Kona Frame, Hayes Nine brakes, Gears (Shimano XT) and WTB Laser saddle. | | Weaknesses: | No one so far. | | Similar Products Used: | First MTB | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I really like the riding of my Caldera 2007. Few people complain about the Marzocchi MZ Race, but I didn't have any other to compare (looks fine to me). It is a tough bike with great components for a All Mountain terrain. The weight is not bad, but it isn't a racer bike. I really recommend for the Hardtail lovers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
VincE
a Cross Country Rider
from Zagreb, Croatia
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Ciklo centar | | Strengths: | Frame!!!! Hayes HFX-9 XC (although I have some problems with rear disc...) | | Weaknesses: | Fork (marzocchi mz II) - very loud after few jumps and hard driving, not 100 but 75mm travel, etc.
Derailleurs - F Deore dosen't like shifting on uphills, must shift very slowly and easy.
- R XT, was expecting a bit more...
Hubs - Just don't do well with my >210 lbs | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 820 full deore, Kona Blast 05. | | Bike Setup: | STOCK | | Bottom Line: | Great climber, good on descending (would be great with good fork)
Quite fast on all XC courses
The frame is definitively the bast part of this bike...
Great bike for entering and exploring XC world! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Calum
a Weekend Warrior
from High Wycombe, UK
Date Reviewed: April 13, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Bracknell | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Evans | | Strengths: | It is amazingly good quality and is great for going uphill and is easy to control on xc. The brakes provide excellent stopping power. | | Weaknesses: | The paint scratches easily. Not sure about the tyres - but will stick with them for now. I'm only ten - so the fork is a bit stiff - but I should grow into it. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek and other Konas. Went for the Caldera because it was light, had good gears and good brakes. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except DMR V8 pedals instead of SPDs | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. This bike is best for tough xc. Not for freeride or downhill. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick Hand
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: April 7, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Lake Tekapo - port hills | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Penny sport cycles | | Strengths: | Hand Grips, Brakes real nice, shocks are pretty good. | | Weaknesses: | Seat snapped, Bottom Bracket self destructed, paint wears off easily. | | Bike Setup: | All right. | | Bottom Line: | It is a good bike. I find it quite uncomfortable but it does the job. Just like all the other reviews, the bottom brackets are very poor on all Kona bikes, and the paint scratches off very easily. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Yardie
a Cross Country Rider
from Bristol< England
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | chrisbarnett50@yahoo.co.uk | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$780.00 | | Purchased At: | bike | | Strengths: | Great ride position and balance. Nice looking. Climbs well. | | Weaknesses: | Raceface BB did not last very long. Limited adjustability on fork. Spec value has some strong competition. Paint is easily worn away by cables. | | Bike Setup: | As per standard apart from xt wheels and fsa bottom bracket. New tyres | | Bottom Line: | Good trial bike. I have the 05 version and have had it for 2 years now, it was well worth £780 and would reccommend it to anyone. Not sure what the later models are like, i prefer the look of the 05 model, although the later models are more 'all mountain' and are probably stronger. Make sure that you fit protection to the chain stay as the paint will not last long. Buy it, its good | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KillerT
a Cross Country Rider
from Copenhagen, Denmark
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Rude Skov | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | CyclePath, London, ON | | Strengths: | This is the 2005 cream colored version. The frame can take a beating, good riding position, RaceFace crank, XT back der., very nice fork! | | Weaknesses: | I have had to change the brakes, front derailleur, rear cassette (twice), chain. A bit heavy? | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Caldera 2003, 2004 (both got stolen...) | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for Avid BB7 brakes, XT cassette, Rohloff stainless steel chain, SRAM Xgen front der., Specialized Crossroads hybrid tires, mud flaps when required | | Bottom Line: | I use the bike for daily commuting (30 km/day) and for XC on forest trails. In Denmark loads of salt is spread on the roads during winter, this really takes a toll on your equipment. The Hayes HFX9's absolutely do not like salt - they totally lock up, giving you huge drag. The crappo Shimano front derailleur locked up too. Chain rusted, back cassette wore out fast. After these issues were resolved, it rides very nicely, the riding position is excellent, frame seems indestructable, RaceFace crank is smooth and tough, so is the Marzocchi fork. Recommended! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben
a Weekend Warrior
from Yorkshire
Date Reviewed: January 7, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Dalby Forest Red Route | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Evan's Castleford | | Strengths: | Looks the business, Great components, relatively light and good value for money. | | Weaknesses: | Forks not suitable for bigger jumps and drop-offs, but then again it isn't a freeride or dirter. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for those looking for something better than a Halford's special but not wanting to shell ot thousands for a purebreed. Handles everything I can throw at it and you look good in the process. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 14, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$820.00 | | Purchased At: | The BikeBarn | | Strengths: | Looks, value, frame | | Weaknesses: | The WTB saddle is very comfy but a little flimsy around the edges. The bike fell over while it was leaning against a tree and the side of the saddle ripped - very SOFT!
Some people don't like the fork but I've never had a problem with it. Never tried another fork so I have no comparison.
Not sure about the Gold colour. | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first serious MTB | | Bike Setup: | As new 2006 model... added bar ends for a 100km race - I know its a riser but the alternate hand position on long distnace rides by far out-weighs any strange looks I might get. | | Bottom Line: | This bike got me through my first 100km race and it has never let me down.
The frame fits me like a glove! I've tried other brands like Scott and Massi but I feel like I have a more natural position on the Kona.
I know there are better bikes out there but if you don't have $2000+ to spend this bike is a great buy.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Romano Verlengia
a Cross Country Rider
from Parker, Arizona, USA
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Willo Lake, Prescott, Arizona | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel World | | Strengths: | Good strong bike, excellent power transfer to the rear wheel, stable and easy to handle, looks good | | Weaknesses: | Heavy? | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Purchased the frame at Wheel World in Culver City, built it myself with parts from Jenson USA & Nashbar, 9-Spd Shimano LX or XT components, SRAM Twist Shifters, Bonager wheels, Manitou front shock, Race Face, etc.. | | Bottom Line: | This is my favorite MTB, I ride it several times a week, I love it, I just cleaned it and installed a new XTR/Dura Ace Chain, it peadals uphill fast & downhill even faster! If you're looking at one, I recommend you buy it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hernan
a Weekend Warrior
from Quito/Ecuador
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Cuenca | | Strengths: | This is the 2005 cream color Kona Caldera.
Very nice xc bike. Not the lightest but excelent for my 230 pounds body. I just needed to put some heaviest oil in the fork and is perfect. | | Weaknesses: | not the lightest...some people dont like the light cream color, but I love it (its unique at least here). | | Similar Products Used: | similar: gt arrowhead, garyfisher something, treks many somethings.
Not similar: kona scrap, canondale jecklyll and gemini and SC bullit. | | Bike Setup: | al stock with heaviest oil in the fork, platforms and some carbon components are coming. | | Bottom Line: | Very very nice bike, much better geometry than 2006 caldera. (the 2006 seems very similar to my 2003scrap, that is not bad but is not for pure xc).
Excelent brakes, drivetrain Race face and xt rules!!
Great xc geometry (like the new 2006 kula and oldest xc race frame) but really strong. Ill get a lightweight saddle and carbon cokpit to light my bike up 1-2 pounds.
No more 2 feet jumps for me with this bike (Im 230 pounds) but is great for pure xc spirit. Nice weird cream color
Best xc bike for the price 750 almost new= 5 chillies
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johan
a
from Ontario
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them... | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | local store | | Strengths: | Solid frame yet light. Great components. Handles well on the trails. | | Weaknesses: | Fork.....This fork should be replaced.
Color, Would be nice with a choice of colors | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | Fork Marzocchi MZ-2 100mm
Headset Aheadset STS
Crankarms TruVativ Blaze ISIS
F/D Shimano Deore
R/D Shimano Deore XT
Shifters Shimano Deore
Handlebar WTB CXC Riser
Stem WTB CXC
Brakes Hayes Hydraulic HFX-9 XC
Brake Levers Hayes Hydraulic HFX-9 XC | | Bottom Line: | I have had some adjustments the first few rides but it seems to settle the more you ride. It handles well in the trails and the hydraulic discs are awesome. Great value for the $ with good feel and great components. Some changes might be required (cough...Fork...cough) but overall its a great bike.
4 chills due to the fork and 5 chills due to the overall performance of the bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from Van Isle, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Tzouhalem & Maple Mtn. | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Experience Cycling | | Strengths: | Hayes Hydrualic Disc brakes, XT rear deraileur, Solid Truvativ crankset and beefy frame | | Weaknesses: | Marzocchi MZ-2 forks prevent this from being the perfect XC/All Mountain bike | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Blast | | Bike Setup: | '06 Kona Caldera Stock except for after-market Sun Ringle flat pedals | | Bottom Line: | Overall this is an awesome bike to ride, built with quality components. The frame is a sturdy yet fairly lightweight 7005 Aluminum frame. The shifting is effortless with an XT rear deraileur, deore front deraileur and shifters as well as a truvativ blaze crankset. The tires provide excellent climbing traction, the cornering traction could be a little better though. The cockpit is quite comfortable with WTB saddle, stem and riser bars. The forks are probably the weakest link on this bike, they are regular spring forks with no adjustable rebound and no oil bath. You can, however, adjust the rebound and if you get it dialed in right these fork are good enough for most trail riding. The brakes on this bike are amazing, the hayes disc brakes will give you enough stopping power for any kind of riding in any kind of weather.
This bike is perfectly suited for any XC rider, right from the weekend warrior to the light XC racer, not only that but it will probably be sufficient for most all mountain riders. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Battle Creek, MI USA
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Red loop Fort Custer | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Custer Cyclert | | Strengths: | Great value, love the brakes. Strong frame. | | Weaknesses: | Paint, but who cares??? Its a MT bike for god sake!
fork Marzocchi MZ-2 makes alot of noise.
fork is not that great in general, but u get what u pay for
| | Similar Products Used: | Kona Cinder Cone-the brakes one the cone are garbage pay the extra $200 for the brakes alone! | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2006 model year | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the money, Id think about upgrading the fork right away tho. Buy this bike if you are new and want something you can be happy with for a while, and when you are no longer happy with it just upgrade this great frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Burlington, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: February 28, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | X-Bruce Trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Works | | Strengths: | Light, durable frame, with on the dime handling, shox are amazing (i have an earlier model with manitou/bombers)easy up hills | | Weaknesses: | weak tires,some ghost shifting and a little bouncy on the downhills, quite a few ajustments needed, especially on brakes (very testy and squeaky if not maintained regularly) | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bottom Line: | If you want to fly for a decent price, get er done but be ready to make many adjustments | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trevor
a Weekend Warrior
from Hamilton Ontaio Canada
Date Reviewed: December 22, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Works (#1 Shop) | | Strengths: | The Frame is amazing. rigid, light strong great on up hills
| | Weaknesses: | if you can find one please let me know | | Similar Products Used: | muni mula, hahanna, I only buy Kona. I have yet to ride a bike thats better | | Bike Setup: | nowhere near stock. MX comp fork, raceface proidigy cranks, sun ryno lite wheels w/ black spokes, Deore hubs R derailer & F brake, XT F derailer & R brake, Sycros bars, Avid leavers specialized saddle and tires | | Bottom Line: | My bike serves duel purposes transportation and slautering trails. The bike is all black. It looks like death on the Trail w/satin on board! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Elkington
a Cross Country Rider
from Hampshire- UK
Date Reviewed: December 10, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | borrowed | | Strengths: | fantastic clmibing, really responsive to pedalling and a super low climbing gear. Nice wide riser bar give control and made it feel natural coming fro a jump bike. Strong breaks with good modulation and no problems at all. On the smaller decents it was perfect, probably quicker than m specialised P3. | | Weaknesses: | On rocky terrain the smaller tyres don't inspire confidence but they do hold well. The stem was a little long for my liking. | | Similar Products Used: | carrera fury, varius specalised hardrock and specialised P3. this si the first good XCbike ive ridden coming from a jumping BMX backround. | | Bike Setup: | Stock but with DMR v8 flat pedals instead of SPD. | | Bottom Line: | great all day bike, good for most UK trails. Not so good for rocky terrain. very reliable | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pawel
a Cross Country Rider
from Warsaw, Poland
Date Reviewed: November 9, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | A new one :o) | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$760.00 | | Purchased At: | www.ski-team.pl | | Strengths: | Hayes brakes, rear XT derailleur, frame | | Weaknesses: | Tyres (Tioga Terra Firma) are not suitable for hard and sandy trails; front wheel slips without notice while cornering, but they work well in mud while climbing. There is something wrong with the fork: while cornering front brake disc rubs. Screws for brake levers regulation are loose - need to fix it / correct their position every couple of hours. Front Deore derailleur sometimes is not enough. Soft paint. | | Similar Products Used: | Schauff Cr-Mo hardtail (10 years old now) | | Bike Setup: | Caldera 2004 16" stock except for tyres (IRC Mythos XC / Schwalbe Racing Ralph, Fast Fred) | | Bottom Line: | Since I bought it in July 2005 (new old stock) I have ridden approx. 1000 km (620 miles). Before I rode 2 XC marathones last summer, mostly in sandy condition, I had changed tyres to Schwalbe (see. bike setup). Tiogas are good for climbing in muddy trails, but be careful on roots. Schwalbes make the bike run really fast and firm. I would also think of changing the fork, it is not the kind of operation I expect. Hard to find balance between stiffness and dumping. Perhaps I am an ignorant? Anyway price/performance - very good for me. WAF (Wife Acceptance Factor) is also high. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anthony
a Cross Country Rider
from Massachusetts
Date Reviewed: September 8, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | vietnam in milford | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle world in greenfield | | Strengths: | bombproof frame, brakes will stop anything, xt rear | | Weaknesses: | tioga tires aren't the best, Deore front derailleur is a little lacking | | Similar Products Used: | trek 3500 | | Bike Setup: | stock except for Panaracer fire xc pro rear tire, and Easton Monkeylite xc carbon handlebars | | Bottom Line: | I am almost 100% percent satisfied with the purchase of this bike. I have never used a bike that climbs better, especially with the panaracer. The WTB seat is very comfortable, and the Marzocchis will suck up anything my 130 lb body rides over. The hayes discs are expensive to maintain, but have unbelievable feel and stopping power. The raceface crankset is one of the nicest features on the bike. The only part that might need to be replaced (but still works well enough) is the Deore front derailler, and XT would have been nice. i tested a $1500 Jamis Full suspension, but the caldera just felt more comfortable and stable. For anyone looking at $1000 range for a bike, make sure to take a hard look at the Caldera. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1250.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclepath | | Strengths: | Best bang for the buck, especially for hydraulic disks. | | Weaknesses: | None for the price category. People who complain about stock equipment should just buy a higher level bike, as the upgrades put them there anyway. | | Bike Setup: | Stock - Hayes HFX9, XT rear, Deore front, Marz. EXR Pro Coil, etc. | | Bottom Line: | I have had zero trouble with this bike, some tuning of brakes during break in (big deal), shocks are known to make a bit of noise, but function perfectly. Shifting is smooth, climbing is easy. Paint is soft, but I didn't buy it to show off the paint, just kick ass in trails. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt B
a Cross Country Rider
from Cincinnati, OH USA
Date Reviewed: August 16, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$570.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | Durable and responsive frame. Good climber. Decent drivetrain. Great Marzocci fork.
| | Weaknesses: | Shimano Deore front derailleur, Hayes HFX-9 disc brakes, Kona seatpost and saddle, Tioga Terra Firma tires | | Similar Products Used: | Iron Horse Warrior Expert, GT Avalanche 1.0, Giant Rainier, Specialized Rockhopper, Kona Blast | | Bike Setup: | Stock with the following changes: Shimano XTR front derailleur, Avid Juicy 7 brakes, Thomson elite layback seatpost, WTB Rocket V saddle, Panaracer Fire Pro XC tires | | Bottom Line: | I tested 1/2 dozen bikes before settling on the Kona Caldera. It was the only bike that truly felt comfortable the moment I started riding it. I was set to buy an '05 Caldera from my LBS but happened on an '04 in the same size on eBay. As a second-hand bike, I can't account for upkeep or abuse by the original owner, which may have something to do with my impression of the Hayes disc brakes. They stop well but require constant tinkering to avoid rubbing. At one point, I chose my 18-year old Giant Sedona over the new Kona just because I wanted a quiet ride in the woods without the constant brake rubbing.
I ride XC on single track nearly every day and overall the bike has been a pleasure to ride. The fork has enough adjustment to take the bumps nicely without flinging me off the bike. Coming off a fast rigid steel bike, I was worried that this hardtail would not climb well, but it does. The Deore front derailleur is serviceable, but I couldn't pass up the XTR for $30. The Hayes brakes just plain suck as do the stock Tioga tires. The Kona seatpost loosened up about once/week and started to creak, so it had to go. The Kona seat is OK on trails, but quick to make a sore butt on the occasional road ride.
Overall, I can't complain given the price I paid for this bike used and probably would have been OK with the $910 new retail price. With better component selection, the Caldera would get 5 chilis from me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a
from UK
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Weaknesses: | Hayes brakes are unreliable and need constant adjustment to prevent rubbing.
The Mavic wheelset is poor quality, both the hubs packed up after 6 months riding.
The fork is a cheap Marzocchi OEM product. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, aprt from EA50 stem. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike about a year ago and used it on singletrack, nothing too rough. Firstly, the front hub started making a grinding noise, then the brakes started rubbing. This bike would be much better with a decent fork, some better wheels and brakes. But then I guess it would cost more too. Overall, it's not a bad bike for the price, but these problems have earnt it 3 chillis overall. I now use it as my road training bike, I don't think it's well suited to anything other than that in it's original spec. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from WC, Ca, USA
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | Hank & Frank | | Strengths: | Hayes 9 Hydraulics disk brakes stop on a dime, Frame is rock solid, Shimano XT derailer is decent, Sun DS2-XC are sturdy for XC rims | | Weaknesses: | Component package is somewhat lack luster. Highly disappointed with thier choice of forks. Marz EXR Pro isn't very response and just feels kind of 'jankey' and Shimano hubs leave a lot to be desired. | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Dakota and Cannondale 600 | | Bike Setup: | Stock for now | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is you get what you pay for...and there's alot more expensive bikes out there if you follow my drift. The first thing I'll be getting rid of is that Marzocchi EXR. Secondly I'll be trying to shave some of those excess pounds with a new bar and seat post. The tires and hubs are on the list too, taco risk is low but changing flats on these Sun's suck. Maybe my standards are too high but I'm not that impressed with it as stock. It does have potential though, if you've got the cash. Personally, I would recommend saving a few hundred bucks more and getting a bike with a better component package. But if a grand is your price range, it's as good as any other XC bike...minus that dam fork! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Derbyshire U.K
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere in Derbyshire | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | new from ebay | | Strengths: | I have the 04 model (fitted with marzocchi EXR forks). I have subjected my caldera to just about every condition imaginable for over 1500 miles all year round in the UK. This rig is excellent value for money. It rides smooth and inspires confidence on the tricky bits. I have given my bike hell over the last 2 years, and it always comes back for more!. I have only recently had to replace the front & rear cones and bearings, and the headset bearings could do with taking up and thats all. The marzocchi air/oil forks do a great job of soaking up any big bumps and impacts, however they lack sensitivity on the smaller stuff. The combination of the hardcore XC frame geometry and riser bars gives a nice relaxed riding position on long hauls. The shimano hydraulics give adequate stopping power. Offroad, this bike feels stiff (maybe a little too stiff), solid and well planted when rode aggressively. And it feels equally at home on the road.
| | Weaknesses: |
Weaknesses: 30lb weight dulls responsiveness in handling on the technical sections
Sometimes feels twitchy on the back end down fast trail descents
Original Kona saddle was a pain in the ar*e!
Original tioga tyres gave little grip in the wet and wore out quickly
Thin film-thickness of clearcoat on frame. It scratches very easily
XT front mech needed. Deore mech is not the best.
| | Bike Setup: | Stock, apart from club roost saddle, V8's and continental 'vertical' tyres. | | Bottom Line: | A hardcore XC machine that's built to last. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Debyshire (UK)
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere in Derbyshire | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | new from ebay | | Strengths: | I have the 04 model (fitted with marzocchi EXR forks). I have subject my caldera to just about every condition imaginable for over 1500 miles all year round in the UK. This rig is excellent value for money. It rides smooth and inspires confidence on the tricky bits. I have given my bike hell over the last 2 years, and it always comes back for more!. I have only recently had to replace front & rear cones and bearings, and the headset has slight movement in and thats all. The marzocchi air/oil forks do a great job of soaking up any big bumps and impacts, however they lack sensitivity on the smaller stuff. The combination of the hardcore frame geometry and riser bars gives a nice relaxed riding position on long hauls. The shimano hydraulics give adequate stopping power. Offroad, this bike feels stiff, solid and well planted well ridden aggressively. And it feels equally at home on the road. I did a lot of research before buying this bike, and despite a few minor gripes, it has definately paid off. | | Weaknesses: | 30lb weight dulls responsiveness in handling on the technical sections
Original Kona saddle was a pain in the ar*e!
Original tioga tyres gave little grip in the wet and wore out quickly
Thin film-thickness of clearcoat on frame. It scratches very easily
XT front mech needed. Deore mech is not the best. | | Bike Setup: | 04 Caldera, club roost saddle, V8 pedals, continental 'vertical' tyres. | | Bottom Line: | A hardcore XT machine that is built to last. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
howlingdog
a
from Tucson, AZ, USA
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Christy's Bicycles Manila RP | | Strengths: | Great handling with my altered setup. Braze-ons for racks. Very light and strong. | | Weaknesses: | None so far. | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh M600, steel Colnagos, Trek 2300, other steel road bikes. | | Bike Setup: | Converted to urban assault/road all rounder and air transportable touring machine. I bought this bike in Manila while there on business and wanted to challenge the traffic and generally get around and see things on a bike. I also wanted to be able to break it down to transport back to U.S. So, this isn't a typical use review. The set-up now has drops, bar-ends, Shimano M540 wheels with narrow 1.25/95psi tires, Brooks B-17 saddle. | | Bottom Line: | I have waay too many bikes, road and mountain. However, I find myself riding this one everyday ~25 miles or so. I've never had a small geometry frame, but I guess I do now. This thing handles great, mostly on the road, but I done a bit of singletrack and dirt road stuff and it's great. I recommend thinking about this for folks who may have a "spare" mountain frame around and want to make it more of an all rounder. I'm 6'1" and my 19inch dialed in configuration fits in golf travel bag. Wheels go in another bag along with enough clothes,etc for a 1 week trip. Take down/build up takes about 30 minutes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria, Australia
Date Reviewed: February 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Any singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Brunswick St Cycles | | Strengths: | Kona market their bikes well. Always wanted a Kona.
Price competitive against Giant XTC3. Best bang for buck.
Deore spec with XT RD - it get's you up and going.
Basic Marz EXR Pro coil/oil fork damps well. | | Weaknesses: | Front castor stiffness seems low (flexy fork).
Too much castor - so the front end jacks too much - too much work turning back to centre on singletrack.
OE tyres - changed to Maxxis XC tyres (personal of course)
WTB saddle - changed to Serfas DD pro (ditto)
Strange chainline. Do Kona buy this frame in from a mass Taiwanese manufacturer 'cos it's got a big BB offset spacer?
Heavy bike - either in the fork or frame. It takes too much NRG to push all day. Bike seems best at home ridden aggressively through short singletrack - that's where the fun is.
Hayes brakes are okay - prefer my Magura rim brakes any day.
Paint is soft - so clear film your frame strategically for protection if you care.
Seat angle too slack (personal) for XC work as the reach distance changes too much with saddle adjustment. | | Similar Products Used: | 1997 Mongoose Rockadile with Marz DH3s, Mavic X517rims, XT throughout with Magura hydro rim brakes. I could ride it all day.
1997 Avanti dually w/ Judy DH, Fox Vanilla rear shock.
1995 Giant Iguana hardtail tricked up and stolen. | | Bike Setup: | Almost stock 2005 model - cream in colour. | | Bottom Line: | If you're a casual XC racer or all day rider don't buy the bike - it's too heavy, go for a lighter bike with XC geometry.
If you're a trasher and luv the Kona theme, it's a good package for the money.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
off242
a Cross Country Rider
from Texas
Date Reviewed: December 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | McAllister Park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Heaven | | Strengths: | Bomb-proof frame with overall good component setup. | | Weaknesses: | Wheelset & saddle left a bit to be desired, which is why they were replaced...quickly. Same with the stock riser bar (see below). | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock frame, fork, & shifters; Time ATAC XS Carbon pedals; Fizik Gobi saddle; Easton EC90 flat bar; Mavic Cross Max UST wheels | | Bottom Line: | As a most-of-the-time roadie, I was unaccustomed to sitting that upright on a bike. Replacing it with a flat bar remedied that, and swapping out the wheels for tubeless made a big improvement in cornering. For my first foray into off-road riding, I don't think I could have picked a better bike than the Caldera...which is why I'm glad the guys at Bike Heaven helped pick it for me. :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek Jordan
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellingham
Date Reviewed: November 25, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Galbraith, Chuckanuts | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Jack's Bicycle Center | | Strengths: | Very strong, responsive frame that's also super stiff; Good value with stock component set up; feels indestructable when flying fast on the roughs. The Marz EXR Pro fork, while quite chunky, serves well for all intents. Nice geometry for trailriding, very nice eye candy. | | Weaknesses: | Weighs 30lbs. with stock set up. Stock wheelset is poorly built with bottom-end hubs. Can't sit on the Kona seat for more than eight seconds. Switched it immediately. | | Similar Products Used: | Norco Sasquatch, Cannondale F200, F700, F800, F1000 | | Bike Setup: | Stock. I've got a nice mavic wheelset w/XT hubs waiting once the stock ones burn out--should be soon. | | Bottom Line: | This bike deserves one of those flying star things, if the Cinder Cone has. The Caldera has the same frame as the Cone, plus higher end stock components. At least mine does.
I sometimes ride the same area as the reviewer below and purchased this as a durable alternative to my race bike for the sort of beating that places like Galbraith Mtn. hand out. While the frame may at first appear to be another XC hardtail, the straight gauge 7005 tubing with it's geometry lends a hardy strength suitable for a real bashing. The weight, too, precludes this as a XC race-worthy bike, but once you get into the big rocks and logs it handles really nicely without worry. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from Mount Vernon, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 8, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | galbraith mountain, Bellingham | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Skagit Cycle Center | | Strengths: | Bomb proof frame, good balance of component quality and value throughout | | Weaknesses: | Can't keep the rear disc brake quiet | | Similar Products Used: | GT Avalanche 1.0, Giant XTC | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I feel the Kona groove every time I saddle up! This bike has everything I was looking for, and the more I ride it the more I love it. The only negative is the noisy rear disc brake...I'm giving it some time to wear in before I make a judgement on that. I have heard of people having probs with the Hayes hydraulic brake setup but I haven't seen any of that yet. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from UK
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Ogusuyama, Japan | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | I like the quick handling on this bike, this is down to the racing geometry. The component package is good for the price. | | Weaknesses: | I had some trouble with the front wheel bearings(this might be a one off).
The brakes started squealing on a long ride, and the levers move towards the bar on a rough trail. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is good value for the money. I have ridden this bike pretty hard, and so far it has stood up to the challenge. The racing geometry and 100mm fork allow for quick line changes. If you ride XC with some occasional harder riding, then this is a good bike for you.
I give this bike 5 chilis for value, but only 4 overall because of the brake problems. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
thomas choquette
a Weekend Warrior
from calgary alberta canada
Date Reviewed: September 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | any trail in the crowsnest pass area | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | bow cycle | | Strengths: | great brakes,good looking bike,got a rear carrier on it attached to the frame with very little mods for around the rear caliper..basicly the kind of bike i've always wanted. | | Weaknesses: | heavier that i'm use to...a bit tougher work on the carries and pushes. | | Similar Products Used: | univega alpina 3.5 | | Bike Setup: | stock with the exception of a rear carrier. | | Bottom Line: | great bike for all the trail riding i do...i should still be riding it 10 years from now! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SS
a Downhiller
from Canada
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Strengths: | The frame is solid and brakes are great, the rest is what you can expect from shimano. Oh I forgot those rims are very solid, after some drops the wheels kept tuned with a nice steady rotation. | | Weaknesses: | its more about whats the bike designed for then weakness! If you ride cross country but are violent and just blast though rocks and roots and manage to drop and even jump, you need a heavier cross country. Thats what this bike is designed for. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike to train for downhill but I sometimes go downhill with it in the easier trails. Its amazing it doesnt break or get loose! So far it does what I want, a bike to train healt and skills | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Martin
a Cross Country Rider
from St-Sauveur, Qc, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | A store in Canada | | Strengths: | Good and solid frame, good at climbing
Nice equipment for the price range
Good hydraulic disk brake
The EXR fork handle well and is rock solid! | | Weaknesses: | The bike is a bit on the heavy side compared to the other bike of the same range. (Don't forget a liter of water weight 2lb!)
| | Similar Products Used: | Different Specialized and gary fisher hadtail or FS bikes | | Bike Setup: | Stock, planing to change pedal (because it doesn't came with in my special case) | | Bottom Line: | A good bike for the price I paid, solid and effcient.
A bit on the heavy side for and hardtail of this price but the hydraulic and the fork play a lot in this case. Very good for climing, good handling for downhill. I really like this bike! A great bike that have potential for future modifications. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
glen vajcner
a Cross Country Rider
from winnipeg
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Woodcock Cycle Works | | Strengths: | Great stock components for the price. The bike, with stock parts, 'looks nice' (c'mon - we all know that's kinda important!). Mz. fork is great at taking in the bumps, although an upgrade might be in store in the near future. Frame's light enough, but sturdy as anything. This is a great all-around bike | | Weaknesses: | As mentioned in other reviews, the cables scratch the paint. I find kona's paint to be pretty 'soft' - scratches easily. The stock disc brakes are a little odd to center completely, although i think this is more of a setup thing than a bike weakness. The saddle attacks my butt with fury on those long rides. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper Comp | | Bike Setup: | stock, for now. Planned upgd: new fork (undecided), new pedals, xtr derailleurs | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for a great price. If you're looking at getting started in 'higher-end' mtb (compared to bikes bought at the local walmart or canuck tire), go for the caldera. It's good enuf in stock form to help you progress, and the frame is pretty indestructible, so when you're ready, upgrade to your heart's desire. And, it's from a company you can respect... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Pike
a Cross Country Rider
from Pretoria, South Africa
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Any singletrack. | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Strengths: | The frame is indestructible, yet light enough to race seriously | | Weaknesses: | Cable routing across top tube results in plenty of scratches. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant hardtail, Schwinn Moab | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi MX Comp with ETA, Syncros Lil snapper wheelset, Full XT drivetrain. | | Bottom Line: | After replacing the uncomfortable saddle and swapping the riser bar for a flat bar the bike rides like a dream and climbs exceptionally well. I ride mainly cross country and have competed in a number of enduros in all conditions. As you can see I upgrade components on a regular basis (usually with stuff my mates are discarding)and the bike is now a far cry from original spec. I just cannot go as far as replacing the frame as it is the best I've ever ridden. The 2004 Caldera is very similar to mine, except for the discs. If it aint broke why try and fix it. Spread the Kona groove! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joao pedro
a Cross Country Rider
from Lisbon, Portugal
Date Reviewed: June 7, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | sintra hardcore 4 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Ciclonatur | | Strengths: | Brakes, front shocks, tyres. | | Weaknesses: | A noise coming from rear brake, but might be bad setup... | | Bike Setup: | factory | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for XC and freeride. Good traction in slippery surfaces. Excellent brake system and long course front shocks - can even try it in hardcore DH trails.
Great buy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich
a Cross Country Rider
from Lehighton / Jim Thorpe
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere on the mtb is a favorite | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | Nestors Full Cycle Shop (Quakertown) | | Strengths: | EVERYTHING! | | Weaknesses: | If your like me and like to keep your equipment immaculate, I would have to pick on the cables on the top frame tube, after 20 miles of riding i noticed that they were rubbing against the paint on the frame. Some people don't care, but i like to keep my stuff in good shape. I would recommend getting a clear stick on to protect the top tube from scratching. Everything else on this bike rocks. | | Bike Setup: | All Stock | | Bottom Line: | I took my new Caldera for a 20 mile ride on the 1st day I got it and it rides like a Lexus! I'm very happy on the purchase and very pleased with the bike shop that I got it from. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john alderton
a Cross Country Rider
from sydney, australia
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Strengths: | light, good climbing ability, fast, value for money | | Weaknesses: | brakes can take a while to wear in | | Similar Products Used: | giant xtc3, big sur disc, etc. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | the bottom line is that the caldera is great value for money. bikes with a similar setup and ability are around $1000 more. i've just done a melbourne to adelaide tour on this bike and it hardly gave me any probs at all. its fast, a mean climber, light, and extremely responsive. anyone looking for a high quality bike for xc bashing, look no further. ive got a lot of enjoyment out of the caldera. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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