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Submitted by
253mtnbmadness
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington state
Date Reviewed: May 26, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Tiger Mt. Lately | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Therapy | | Strengths: | Great climber with the fox pro pedal, 5" of suspension travel makes for a great decender as well. | | Weaknesses: | Wheelsets are lame imo they have needed to be trued every time I've rode the bike. THrow the clip in pedals away if you want to ride all mountain... they're terrible for jumping and decending. | | Similar Products Used: | just test rode a couple bikes, specialized fsr expert and giant, not sure of the model cause I felt is sucked. | | Bike Setup: | 2008 Kona Dawg all stock other then Kona's new dirt pedals $100 msrp. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike all around. I know I'm having a great time on it and can floor it off jumps and drops 4-6'0" so far. Lots of fun just will change out my wheelsets in the future for more reliability. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tgoogs
a Weekend Warrior
from Olympia, WA
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | capital forest, wa | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | For '08 Dawg. Strong, tough bike yet nimble. I'm 220 lbs and this thing doesn't buckle, period. Able to carve tight corners and feel spry (enough) on xc runs (firmly believe fox pro-pedal helps here). Geometry (long top tube) suits my long torso/short legs. Componentry rocks as far as I'm concerned, especially hayes stroker hydraulic brakes & shimano xt shadow rear. | | Weaknesses: | Folks complain about bike weight, but at 5'10", 220 lbs, I can only complain about my own. I've also heard complaints that the Marzzochi XC600 doesn't have adjustable travel - no issues here up or downhill, just a blast to ride. | | Similar Products Used: | '05 Dawg. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | Best cost/value ratio I could find in an "all-mountain" full sus bike. That fit my crazy long-ass torso/short legs. Great bike for weekend warriors & heavier riders looking for worry-free fun on all terrain and trail types other than big drops/jumps. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
IcePack
a Weekend Warrior
from Israel
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Slalom Tel-Aviv | | Strengths: | Very good climber and fun descender. Strong. Predictable - inspire confidence. | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 7000,SC Bullit,Haro X3 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except: Weirwolf 2.1&2.3 tires, RS revelation fork and shimano DX647 pedals | | Bottom Line: | The DAWG is a great do it all bike, slightly overbuilt (reasonable weight penalty) like most Kona's but that was an advantage in my case - I rode and abused it for 3 year and it held perfectly. All day rides or short technical onces all were fun with the DAWG. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rembrandt
a Weekend Warrior
from Laguna Niguel, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Old San Juan | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | The Path | | Strengths: | Built tough. Good overall climber and downhiller, good value. I bought the 2004 Dawg new, but in 2006, so I got a great deal on it. Very good looking bike. Strong and solid. It wil take you anywhere. | | Weaknesses: | A bit heavy. Crappy color. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Coiler, Various Specialized bikes | | Bike Setup: | Stock. Regular pedals- How can you people stand clip-ins? | | Bottom Line: | This bike can do anything! Regardless of whether you've been riding a year or twenty, you will have fun seeing what this bike can do. Very strong, does well under pressure. I've been riding it for two years and only had to replace the front brake pads. Highly recommended. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
xaqori
a Cross Country Rider
from xxxxxxxx, GA USA
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | blankets(dwelling) &big creek | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay.com | | Strengths: | light weight compared to last
strong joints
price paid
handles well | | Weaknesses: | rear shock not adjustable
| | Similar Products Used: | ibex ignition
(if u want to buy contact me at
turf@mindspring.com) | | Bike Setup: | avid, manitou, pig headset, wellgo, shimano, jagwire, rinolite | | Bottom Line: | this is just about the best bike that you could get for the price. the components are easy to replace, comes with decent stock stuff, and is very fun to ride. i would reccomend to my friends, but they're not to keen on ridin.
THIS IS AN UTTERLY OUTSTANDING BIKE! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
William
a Weekend Warrior
from Burlington, VT, USA
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Passing the Horizon | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Earl's Cyclery | | Strengths: | Relatively light, decent spec, Kona burly-ness/agility | | Weaknesses: | Weak front fork offering, crappy Shimano pedals | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Fully stock. | | Bottom Line: | This is for the new '08 Dawg.
Sweet bike overall.
Nice geometry to do it all. This is truly a fine all-mountain bike. Tough enough to handle a little light freeriding/North Shore style stuff, but light enough to rip through some all-day rides.
We'll see how tough the Scandium frame is over time.
Decent drivetrain specs, although I killed my XT Shadow RD on the first ride on some blowdown. The Stroker Trail Discs are very nice. RP2 shock is decent, but the XC600 TST2 fork is a little sticky, I may upgrade to a 55 next season. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Weekend Warrior
from CA
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Strengths: | solid frame, handles anything! | | Weaknesses: | a little on the heavy side, unimpressed with the front fork, short stem for climbs, poor breaking. | | Similar Products Used: | heckler, slayer, iron horse. | | Bike Setup: | mostly stock. | | Bottom Line: | I cant believe the punishment this bike has gone through and continues to go through. VERY strong! I had issues with brake fade so i switch to the avid BB 7's. The stem was a little short for the steep climbs, so i changed that out. All and all pretty happy with it. I recommend this bike to riders starting out that want a good platform to build on without worrying about breaking the bank or their new investment.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: November 24, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Da Goat | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Solutions | | Strengths: | Strong wheels (Sun SOS), Nice fork (Bomber MX Pro). Handles everything I throw at it. I have the rear shock set in the back hole for rising rate - climbs like a goat. | | Weaknesses: | ISIS bottom bracket is crap. No layback on seatpost. | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Dakar - loved it but bushings kept wearing out. | | Bike Setup: | 20" frame. Upgraded to sram X7 rear and X9 grip shifters, LX integrated crankset (love Ebay!) and swapped out seatpost to raceface evolve to get layback. Fizik gobi saddle | | Bottom Line: | I'm very happy with this bike, bought the low end version as I intended to replace to lighter parts (I like to customize). The stock wheels, rear shock and fork I'm keeping as they work great. I ride alot of twisty east coast style singletrack and this bike handles it with ease. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brennan Fox
a Weekend Warrior
from Chagrin Falls, OH, USA
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Century Cycles | | Strengths: | The Frame, Fox shock, | | Weaknesses: | The stock fork can not handle any hard hits, wheels are fragile, Tioga tires dont grip on most surfaces, (Scary when bombing a hill) a bit on the heavy side. | | Similar Products Used: | 2003 Giant full suspension mountian bike (forgot the name) | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for 2004 Marziocchi Bomber fork and WTB MOTO Rapter 2.24 tires | | Bottom Line: | This is a tough bike, spend $400-700 on a marziocchi bomber fork and you have yourself a beast. Can now handle 4-5 foot hits. If you plan on riding a little bit of everything this is a good bike for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan
a Weekend Warrior
from Duvall
Date Reviewed: April 21, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | My Backyard | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Bothell Ski and Bike | | Strengths: | Tough super strong frame, i've hit 8 ft drops on it and i can ride away from every one, comfortable rideing position, i can ride it all day and not feel it the next morning. Also this bike is very predictable in the air.Oh and its an easy climber! | | Weaknesses: | The Marzocchi EXR was crap, i broke with in the first month i had the bike, the chain slaps the frame. | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi, Fox Shox, Hayes, Shimano, WTB, Nokian | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike and if you are looking for that all montain bike this is the one. Ride all day, take drops, tight downhill sections and hucking it at the dj park, this bike can do it all! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan
a Cross Country Rider
from Huntington Woods, Mi
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | La Milagrosa | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Continental Bike Shop | | Strengths: | 2004 Dawg. Great geometry for epic rides. Simple design. Economical but smart parts spec. Climbs well, not great, but well. | | Weaknesses: | The stock Marzocchi is great for durability and general use, but I felt it was inadequet when I really started pushing it out west. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Rush, Giant trance, Trek liquid, Specialized FSR designs. | | Bike Setup: | Fox Vanilla RLC fork/Fox Float R rr shock. Sram X7 drivetrain. | | Bottom Line: | I enjoy long technical xc rides out west. I like that this bike can handle it all (including runs at whistler). The bike is not a great climber, but this is no fault of the suspension. The same geometry that makes it so great everywhere else compromises it's climbing prowess. The bike is also a tad heavy stock, but is in line with the price/intended use. I would classify this bike as designed for more agressive riding than many other bikes in it's class. I should also note that the Fox fork has proven to be less durable than the stock fork. That said, I still felt the stock fork rough compared to other offerings. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jan Meyer
a Downhiller
from Sydney, NSW, Australia
Date Reviewed: December 23, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Oxford falls, Red Hill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Strengths: | Strong bike, great fork and very nimble. Goood climber as well. | | Weaknesses: | Lots of chain slap and I tend to have issues with chain jumping off after heavy bits of trail. Rear shock bottoms out easily on 3+' flat drops (not surprising as that is not what is made for, but I thought I'd mention it as the front fork is quite happy to soke it up). | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpumber FSR 06, Some hire bikes | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for a recent change to 2.5 tyres front and rear which made an amazing difference on jumps/hard hits. | | Bottom Line: | I kow I mention i use this bike for downhill, but I started out XC and it is really what this bike was meant for. I just found some great downhill tracks that I didn't know about before and got hooked and luckily my bike could handle them as well. I don't do the hairy stuff on the tracks yet as they get pretty hairy. We are talking 10'-15' drops and similar gaps. I stick to the 3 foot drop range and the really nasty rocky single tracks. This bike can really handle a lot of punishment it was never meant to take (according to the marketing/manual) and is a very efficient climber and an awesome XC bike for the more daring XC'er. Highly recommend this as a first or second bike for beginner/intermediate or someone looking to switch to XC from freeride/DH. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
doug
a Cross Country Rider
from mahwah, nj
Date Reviewed: November 11, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Strengths: | this is the review for the 06 dawg deluxe... great frame, rear fox float is nice, handlebars, shifting, hayes brakes | | Weaknesses: | front fork is garbage i already broke mine, also front hub broke already too | | Similar Products Used: | yeti asx, trek liquid | | Bike Setup: | new wheels and fork on the way | | Bottom Line: | decent bike but not what i expected to get for $1800. the frame is nice but kona made some wierd choices with the components. front fork is terrible there if u just tap the front brake the whole fork ends up moving back and forth a considerable amount. other than the fork and hubs tho, i would say it is a good bike | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney , NSW Australia
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | manly dam/ oxford falls | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | manly cycles | | Strengths: | strong frame, good quality componants, climbs well, peadles like a dream, gear shift is beautiful | | Weaknesses: | quite noisy and the chain has chipped the paint of the frame . | | Similar Products Used: | mongoose wing eleite, | | Bike Setup: | stock! | | Bottom Line: | this is a great bike that i would buy again if i had the chance. , the stock componants are decent but it is a rather noisy bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don Shahid
a Weekend Warrior
from Malaysia
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Mirror, Putra Height | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1399.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Stable, pedals efficiently, nice handling and strong. | | Weaknesses: | A bit hefty on the climbs. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Reign | | Bike Setup: | Stylo crank w/ raceface bashguard. Sram rocket shifter w/ xt rd, kenda nevegal 2.35 f&r. Rockshox revelation. Everything else left stock. | | Bottom Line: | This bike can eat technical downhill through the woods easily. Jump, bunny hops, rough trails this bike just love it. Stay in the middle of the cockpit and let it flow. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
T Miracco
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 27, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Sullivan Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1150.00 | | Purchased At: | Hollywood Pro Bicycles | | Strengths: | Built like a T34 Tank! Frame is rock solid and the suspension is confidence inspiring on the decents. Maybe it's a tad heavy going uphill, but the superb balance and great traction make it feel lighter and less arduous than some of the other reviewers claim. | | Weaknesses: | Maybe it's a tad heavy going uphill. I bought this nike to climb the Alps, and maybe ther might have been a better choice. | | Similar Products Used: | Marin hardtail, Trek full supension. | | Bike Setup: | Mostly STock 2005 left over. Upgraded EXR Fox suspension. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike to climb the Alps (France/Switzerland/Italy) and maybe there might have been a lighter choice, but I know i can get uphill, and this bike makes the downhills more fun and less treacherous. So bottomline... for overall value and performance this bike is a keeper. It's very easy to pay thousands of dollars more to save a few ounces, but if you want great perfomance, versatilitity and durability this is your bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, TX
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything in Winter Park, CO | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | This bike is built like a tank. Very solid feel on moderate downhill runs. Good BB clearance.
| | Weaknesses: | I rented the Dawg for a 60 mile ride in Colorado on every kind of terrain. This is not a good bike for climbing in general, but it's especially bad for technical climbing (I mean real climbing, flatlanders!). At one point during a long climb I switched bikes with my buddy who was riding his Stumpy FSR. It was like I had a new set of legs. The weight, esp. in the front end, is a big issue on the Dawg. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpy FSR | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except this rental had a low end Marz. fork that had too much of a pogo effect. Rear FOX mid grade shock was fine. | | Bottom Line: | This might be a decent choice for people who ride hard in flatter states like Texas and where long climbs are no where to be found. Maybe a good choice for heavier riders - you are not going to ever crack this frame. However, this bike is not very versatile and despite what some say, it isn't suitable for mountain clibing, real downhill runs or (god forbid) freeriding either. Bottom line - It's a bike with a narrow range of use. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jose
a Weekend Warrior
from Stanton CA
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | downhill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | thepahbikeshop | | Strengths: | All around great bike! | | Weaknesses: | A little heavy for uphill rides. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Stock Kona Dawg 15in frame. | | Bottom Line: | I am glad i got this bike, it rides well on all types of terrain. Shock and fork work greatI would recommend it to a friend. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Walter
a Downhiller
from Mill Valley, California
Date Reviewed: December 27, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Northstar | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | The front fork is ok. | | Weaknesses: | Most Everything, Rear Shock (Fox Vanilla). WAY TO HEAVY FOR AN XC BIKE. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized XC series. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I like to downhill, but I have been doing some XC lately. I demoed this bike up in tahoe and I was dissapointed. After going off a 2 ft. drop the rear shock totally bottomed out. Even after tightening the rear shock it still bottomed out. Kona describes this as a bike in between free riding and xc. It was horrible at freeriding, and was WAY to heavy for a XC bike. I busted my balls getting up a small hill that I have flown up with a the Specialized XC, the lest expensive model in the XC lineup, which by the way has worse parts and is about $500 dollars cheaper. I do not reccomend this bike at all. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary Edmunds
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington, DC
Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | Rented from Backcountry Bikes, Truckee CA | | Strengths: | Burly and tough, and I have to say, looks quite sexy. Good geometery (for me) and handles quite well for an all mountain rig. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy. This is NOT an XC bike, despite having only 4 inches in the rear. The parts list on the stock Dawg doesn't justify a $1,600 price tag. | | Similar Products Used: | Turner, Marin, Ellsworth, Yeti, Intense | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock, apart from XT cranks (which were stripped, GRR!) Since it was a rental, I didn't have the opportunity to pay too much attention. | | Bottom Line: | I had a horrible time on this bike, but I don't think it had anything to do with the frame! I pedalled this around the Hole in the Ground at Lake Tahoe, and it damn near killed me - I had wanted a lighter XC rig, and this is all the rental store had. It would be a very fun bike to throw around a little, but at 8,000 feet with extremely strenuous climbs, I felt every gram - it certainly came in over 30lbs, and that's a 15.5" frame. Nonetheless, she handled pretty well, and the suspension felt good - not as good as the "true" horst on my Turner, but still pretty plush.
So bottom line. For an all mountain rig, the frame is very good, but if you're dropping over $1,500 on a bike, I think that the components do need upgrading (Koski? C'mon!!) - one reviewer noted that for the price it was a good bike, and after $2,000 of upgrades it's a great bike. And I'd agree with that - the Dawg is a good bike, not a great one.
If you're looking for an ACTUAL XC bike, I would look elsewhere (heard very good things about the Kikapu) but if you want a decent all mountain bike, and can't afford a 5-Spot, this is worth a look. But only if you can buy the frame only, or get one on clearance/used. Sorry, but as a package, it just doesn't ride like a bike that should cost $1,600 to me, and I've seen much better specced Marins and Haros that cost less and perform better. So alas, had to knock a couple of chilis off for value, and give it the mark it deserves overall - good, but not great. :( | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
calvin
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta Canda
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Terwillegar | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Strengths: | Heavy duty frame (big welds), Brakes (Hayes 9), Rear Shock Fox float R, Tires, Bar, stem, drivetrain, geometry | | Weaknesses: | Fork. It was really sticky, so I emailed Marzocchi and they said that there was a bushing problem inside the fork. they would replace it if i sent the fork back to them. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain Slayer 50 (05 model, Norco Fluid 2 (o4 model) | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for pedals, seat and bar-ends. | | Bottom Line: | I have the 2005 model and I have to say that it is a fantastic ride. The only thing I would change is the fork, maybe upgrade to something like a fox. After everything ive thrown at it for a whole year, nothing has worn-out or broken and it still handles climbs, jumps and downhills like it did when it was new (which means terifficly). It tracks right on target through rock gardens and fast turns, and there is absolutley no frame flex or bending. (The 5 inches of travel is a good thing to, upgraded from 4 last year).This is a bike that you should buy if you wand to climb like a mountain goat on speed and decend equally as well. Its a bike that you can take to whistler and ride for a few days for vacation and still have something left at the end. It also jumps and drops like nothing else out there in the all-mountain section.Bottom line: One of the best All mountain bikes on the planet. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trent Theriault
a Cross Country Rider
from Tehachapi, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: September 26, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Cannell Meadow, Sequoia NF | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3300.00 | | Purchased At: | The Block Shop-Lancaster CA | | Strengths: | tough as h@LL, eats up the mountain, rolls over huge obstacles and flies down gnarly downhills but can climb like a burro up hills. | | Weaknesses: | heavy but so's my beer gut, and stock front suspension is good but needed upgrading, again for my beer gut. | | Similar Products Used: | first full suspension rig- rode hardtail for 7 years before I made the jump and durn glad I did. | | Bike Setup: | Marzz AM-SL on front Susp, Hope xc-front hub, Hope Bulb rear hub riding on Sun Rhino Lite's and Weirwolf race 2.5 front & 2.3 rear tires. Avid 185 bb7's with EBC Gold Pads And Avid 7 levers, XO grip shift and XO der. and PG970 11-34 cassette, Shim. PDM 545 pedals, Blackspire stainless 22 tooth chainring and freeride 32 tooth middle ring, | | Bottom Line: | It's the sheeet for an all mountain bike, not a racer but neither am I, I'm 185 lbs 5-11 tall and do mostly technical singletrack with descents and try to keep my climbing to the pavement. My dawg excells at the sort of rocky, sandy/hard pack that I live in and seems to love the pummice of Mammoth as well. I have one note of caution though, make sure you adjust your suspension for the conditions you are riding in. Mine was set a stiff for x-country and so I found myself bounced around a bit on Mammoth's Skid Marks and Bullet downhill runs while following my Bro on his 7 inch freeride bike. Other than that this bike is the bomb, don't be afraid of my sticker price though as I got the shop to upgrade me out the door, and got an exchange on all the stock stuff, got it just the way I wanted it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tamás
a Cross Country Rider
from Budapest, Hungary
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | lot | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Strengths: | plush descending, comfortable | | Weaknesses: | a bit heavy, climbing abilities | | Similar Products Used: | hardtails | | Bike Setup: | changed the rear and front derailleur to Sram x.9 and X Gen.
Race face evolve stem to make it shorter, WTB Rocket saddle, a few tire change, others are stock | | Bottom Line: | My first full suspension bike, and I do ride better and more since I have it. For the money I paid , it is a very good product, and I love it.
On the other hand I can feel the limits of its climbing abilities, especially on steep sections where it starts to lift its front. It can take you up the mountain though, and I am not far behind my friend who has a Trek carbon Fuel.If it was a bit lighter...
For the next bike I will probably look at the Blur LT, I think that will be a better climber with the same descending abilities. For twice as much money, of course..no miracles.:-) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Flower Mound, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Isle Du Bois, Ray Roberts State Park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1699.00 | | Purchased At: | XL Cycle | | Strengths: | Sturdy Frame, Travel, good pedal clearance, climbs well. | | Weaknesses: | Weight | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper 120, Specialized Enduro, Giant Trance 3, Gary Fisher Cake 2 Dlux, Yeti 575, | | Bike Setup: | 2005 Kona Dawg, Kenda Nevegal 2.35, eggbeaters sl, everything else is stock. | | Bottom Line: | This bike rewards your pedaling efforts. Prior to riding the full suspension rig, I owned a Yeti FRO hardtail. This bike actually climbs better than that did. I am 6'2" and 215lbs and as long as I am sitting while climbing there isn't much that I can't make. I was amazed. It took me about a month to figure that I needed to sit instead of stand when climbing. You get a little pedal bob when hammering it out, however, when you learn how to use that rhythm to you benefit, it actually helps you over the rocks and roots. Downhill with large rocks I would rate it a 6, however, if you are riding TSALI Trails in NC, where you have smooth buttery singletrack that flows nicely this bike rates a 11. I rode the Specialized Stumpjumper 120 disc there as well and it didn't hold a candle to the DAWG! I have to say overall for the money this is the bike that can take a beating and keep performing. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cory
a
from Virginia
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Just the Right Gear | | Strengths: | STRENGTH! Very strong, sturdy frame, good parts spec, price. Little pedal bob for a 5" travel. Better fork for 05. | | Weaknesses: | A little heavy, but for such a strong frame it's worth every ounce. The stock Shimano Chain is weak. | | Similar Products Used: | Titus LocoMoto, Jamis Dakaar XLT | | Bike Setup: | Stock- upgraded to full XT, New Sram PC970 chain. | | Bottom Line: | I have the 2005 model. Very sturdy, strong bike. Well worth the money. The deore chain snapped on mine after about 20 miles- wasn't shifting or pedaling hard or anything. Sram makes the best chains anyway. The parts spec on this bike is great. If you've got an extra couple hundred bucks get the Dawg Deelux to save a couple pounds. No complaints so far though. This thing soaks up the big hits and has little to no pedal bob. I wouldn't buy this bike if all you do is XC though- it's a little heavy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dawg Lover
a Weekend Warrior
from Nova Scotia Canada
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Cyclesmith Dartmouth | | Strengths: | Comfortable ride, strength, solid feel underneath you. Disc brakes are my first, big diff. Fox float with pro petal works surprising well without the lockout. | | Weaknesses: | Tiogo tires, in our climate (muddy, wet) did not hold or grab on very well. LX doesn't shift great even after adjustments, prob why 2005 version went XT alon with 05 competition are XT. | | Similar Products Used: | Canondale Jekyl, Spec. Enduro, Giant VT2 | | Bike Setup: | switched out the kona seat, 2004 stock wasn't cut out ;O) not taking any chances! will switch out seatpost, bars for lighter versions. Tires will go bye bye when they wear out. | | Bottom Line: | A great bike. I do 2 to 3 hour enduro rides and more concerned with comfort and durability than weight. The dawg is abit on the hefty side but comfy and gives you great confidence that it will take you there and then back. the 2005 bike runs 5" and XT so a solid choice with a great value. I tested quite a few bikes and the dawg was the best feel, a great value. I am happy with my choice, would have waited for 05 version but the color....yuk! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from Westchester
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | woods by the parkway | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | tarrytown cycles | | Strengths: | Mine is the 2003 model. Great looking chrome/green. Came out awesome with recent upgrades. Strong frame, rides great, all around awesome. | | Weaknesses: | In stock form, the bike did not climb well. Pedal clearance seems low compared to my Banshee morphine. | | Similar Products Used: | I have some hardtails and a Big Hit, nothing that similar to this. | | Bike Setup: | Mavic Crossmax Enduros, Fox RP3 rear, Talas 130 up front, Hayes Mag disc brakes, Hutchinson Spider UST tires, ODI Ruffian grips, Answer Pro-taper bars. | | Bottom Line: | This was a nice first full suspension bike when I bought it for $1500. After about $2,000.00 worth of upgrades, it is really awesome. Fast as hell on flat dirt trails(new wheels and tires, I guess), climbs awesome with rp3, I've only ridden it once since all of my upgrades so I have to get the suspension dialed in a little for downhill sections, bike feels very stable in the air, brakes aren't any real improvement (stock ones moved to my girlfriend's bike, but they were fine). Pedals seem low. I may get BETD conversion kit to increase rear wheel travel to 5 inches (raises rear a little, but should balance out with new Fox 130mm front fork - a major improvement over stock Marzocchi EXR) I was thinking about getting a Titus Moto -Lite or a Turner Flux, but now I think I will be happy with this bike for quite awhile. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MACK NIDROS
a
from ROSEVILLE CA
Date Reviewed: May 4, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | SOUTH YUBA | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1599.00 | | Strengths: | THE DAWG, STRONG FRAME, GOOD BRAKES SUSPENSION
IS SMOOTH. CLIMBS GOOD | | Weaknesses: | SEAT POST SLIDES DOWN FROM TIME TO TIME. | | Bike Setup: | CHANGED THE TIRES AND SEAT | | Bottom Line: | THE DAWG IS A GOOD ALL AROUND BIKE FOR WEEKEND RIDES.
I RIDE ABOUT 15 TO 20 MILES A WEEKEND WHEN I GET THE TIME. SUSPENSION HAS HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH SMALL JUMPS AND GENRAL SINGLE TRACK RIDING. BIKE WORKS VERY GOOD FOR ME.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a Downhiller
from Rutland, Vermont
Date Reviewed: April 24, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$599.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel World - (Frame only) | | Strengths: | it's a featherweight w/ the 7075 alum., strong, great color | | Weaknesses: | none yet. | | Similar Products Used: | '02 Kona Bear | | Bike Setup: | marzocchi marathon s, mavic UST, race face, xt drivetrain, magura julies | | Bottom Line: | solid frame, worth every penny and kona keeps getting better at building frames!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hugo Oliveira
a Weekend Warrior
from Massamá, Portugal
Date Reviewed: September 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Ciclovias | | Strengths: | Strong frame, brakes, riding position, overall sturdyness | | Weaknesses: | Weight, but hey, its a strong bike for strong men
Wheels (?) - still true
Koski components - heavy but they do the job | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4400, Merida Matts Speed, B1 Hornet, not so cheap dept store bike, San Andreas, KTM | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Selle Italia seat, Shimano 514 pedals, Ritchey WCS barends | | Bottom Line: | When I started looking for a new bike I began looking at the Caldera but the tubing seemed a bit fragile and, besides, I saved a bit of money enough to buy the Kikapu. But then again I had doubts the Kikapu's frame would resist for a long time due to my riding eh... skills. Basically I ride over everything, no cares. So, I got the Dawg and what can I say?
Myself: 6,1", 210lbs fully equiped, short legs for my torso.
The bike:
Sturdy frame, a bit heavy (14,5Kg / 32lbs present setup, size 19), good all round parts. Transmission works very well (had some chainsuck before tunning it). Brakes are the world famous Hayes and do the job well. The major flaw would be the wheels, but after 400Km of pounding they are still true!!! Koski parts are replacable so the next item will be a lighter seatpost, or bar. The Fork still is not broken in, so, its a bit on the stiff side. The Fox shock is OK I guess, no lockout but who needs it anyway.
The ride:
The riding position is very confortable. I can ride for 3/4 hours and my back ain't broke. The head angle is a bit laid back so climbing technical stuff demands some weight over the front to keep the wheel down. Barends help a bit. BB height is greater than other bikes I've used, wich can be a blessing in very rocky/rooty terrain or a curse on very closed woods. The long wheelbase is good for speed but bad on tight switchbacks. The 'ground reading' is not as good as the B1 Hornet but the Hornet is a true 4 bar link.
Tire grip is OK, never tried them on mud but they should be as crap as other general use tire.
Overall: this bike rules going downhill fast, it flyes over anything, its weight is good for your heart, legs and lungs. At 2200US$ is very expensive, but I think in the long run its a good investement.
Any changes in my opinion I will state them here. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wesley Finger
a Weekend Warrior
from bellingham Wa, USA
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | shutes + ladders @ galbraith Mt. | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | Jack's Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Components not top of the line, but work extremely well.
Good all around bike;climbing, downhill. jumping, small drops. | | Weaknesses: | No significant weaknesses I've discovered in 6 months.
| | Similar Products Used: | n/a | | Bike Setup: | Same as when bought. | | Bottom Line: | This bike may not be really expensive, but it ride's really well. It is a great bike for a diverse rider who likes more than one style of riding. All the components on the bike work well together and make for a heck of a great ride for any style of riding. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Skookum Flats | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | Redmond Cycle | | Strengths: | Frame, price | | Weaknesses: | A bit heavy | | Similar Products Used: | None, hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Duh | | Bottom Line: | I was actually looking at the Dawg Deluxe because it's 4 lbs lighter but my wife suprised me with this for my birthday and I didn't have the heart to return it for the higher model. I'll just upgrade the parts as they wear out anyway and since I weigh 195 lbs the weight of the bike really hasn't been an issue other than I'm breathing harder on the long climbs and I'm sure I'm going slower than on my hardtail race bike. I haven't used the granny gear for any of the climbs yet and it actually feels relatively light on the trails. The real test will be taking it up some of the 3000-5000' climbs that I'll be doing in the next month or so. I already notice a huge improvement in my descending with this bike but I'm still getting used to technical climbs with a heavier, full suspension bike. I would recommend this bike to anyone interested in trail riding that wants a durable bike/frame but for lighter riders I would suggest upgrading to the Dawg Deluxe. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Rix
a Cross Country Rider
from Wetaskiwin alberta canada
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | jumping pound, cox hill, powder face | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | rvcns.com | | Strengths: | Plush, great all mountain bike. | | Weaknesses: | Bit of a heffer | | Similar Products Used: | none, all other bikes were full out xc racers. | | Bike Setup: | sram x.0. Marzocchi mx comp 120mm with eta. Trailblaster tires. easton stem and bar race face post, spinergy wheels. | | Bottom Line: | great all mountain bike.
Like to free ride= buy a feeride bike.
Like to climb like a goat on speed= but an xc-racer.
Like to ride everything and are not into the lazy ass way up the hill(chair lifts and shuttle runs)= Buy a DAWG.
I saw a few people complain about climbing on this bike, I have had no prolems, sure it's a bit heavy but it more then makes of for that in the traction, and I feel so damn comfortable on this bike, I could ride for hours and be good to go the next day as well.
Not everyone is into huge drops, dirt jumps and chair lifts. Not everyone is into spandex, shaved legs and racing. For everyone else there is the DAWG.
RIDE THE WHOLE MOUNTAIN DAWG-EE-STYLE!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
P
a Cross Country Rider
from Auckland, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Rotorua Red Wood Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Penny Farthing AKL | | Strengths: | bullet proof frame, hayes brakes | | Weaknesses: | tires, rims, front fork | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale, Gary Fisher, Specialized | | Bike Setup: | stock except rear shock (fox float RL), pedals, and yes... a chain stay lizard skin :-) | | Bottom Line: | demoed a lot of bikes in this price range - the dawg just felt right straight away - I'm 193cm tall and have a few extra kgs - the 19" frame is little bit on the smaller side for me (the dawg doesn't come any bigger) but it puts me in a nice "back wheel" riding position even with the seat high up. I changed the rear shock to the '04 float RL which takes care of any complaints about the bike's uphill capability - everytime I see a long climb ahead I just flick the lever and lock the rear - and then it feels like a hardtail. It actually climbs very well even when active, you just have to get your pedalling sorted - nice and smooth does it. I ride mainly tight technical trails - lots of roots and rocks and this puppy just loves it - the frame is tight and rigid, the steering quick and the LX rear just does the job - click, click. Took me a while to dial the suspension right - I find it best to keep the rear shock's sag as per the manual and the rebound quite fast. The front is bit of a pain - the "Zokes" Air fork is still sticky after three months (they said it was because the seals are tight and it will get better with time????) and the rebound is slow (had it serviced and still the same) - it's hard to get the sag right, when pumped as recommended to get a 25mm sag the fork bottoms-out all the time and feels soft so I keep more air in the fork (forget the sag) and then it sort of does the job - not what I'd expect from a Marzocchi fork. Will upgrade as soon as I get some spare $$$. Hayes brakes do a great job, no problems there. The rims are basic Mavic's - they went "wobbly" on the first ride which affected the discs - luckily there is a good "wheel dude" back at the shop - another thing to change ASAP if you ride in the rough. Which brings us to the tires - Tioga Extreme XC - I can see they can be good in mud and on a consistent, softer trail but if the trail conditions change often the big knobs just cannot handle it - the tires are unreliable as hell, hit some rougher stuff while cornering hard and fast and it's "good night nurse".
Saddle was literally a "pain in the arse" on the first few rides and I thought seriously about changing it but then my arse got used to it and it's now OK momma.
The rest all sweet, not great but not bad either, RaceFace cranks are a nice touch. If you're looking for a back country bike that can ride straight outa shop and has a super frame (not too heavy either) with Kona's meaty 4-bar sealed bearing linkage (notice the nice touch - the assymetric chain stay) - this one's your pooch, I mean dawg. Upgrade some of the components if you ride a lot and it's all WOOF WOOF. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marcel
a Weekend Warrior
from BC Canada
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Robs Bicycle Works | | Strengths: | Bike geometry, this bike puts you in such a relaxed riding
position. Fox pro pedal works great, coplete Bike is just a
great package. Looks great! | | Weaknesses: | The only weakness so far are the brakes they work great but
tend to rub after heavy braking | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Kona advertises this Bike as a Backcountry Bike and thats
exactly what it does best,the geometry lets you go forever.
This Bike will get you way the hell out there and back.
This Bike does it all climbs great, pedals great, great on
rough trails. I would buy this Bike again no question about
it. As they say a dawg is mans best friend.
If you're looking for a allday epic adventure Bike this is
it, great job Kona. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Skippy roo
a Cross Country Rider
from sydney
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | red hill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Addiction | | Strengths: | Great Climber,Fun Downhills...Great All Rounder | | Weaknesses: | Forks,Brakes,Rear Suspension Linkages | | Bike Setup: | Changed Bars for wider,Longer Stem,Lighter Better wheels,All XT,Stinky Linkage Components | | Bottom Line: | I really love this bike.I have snapped the top shock bolt which did make a mess of the linkages but luckily the frame survived.I think a bigger disk on the front might help.The front forks are still working but dont inspire confidence.But if you want a well priced bike that does it all this is it... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Pomona, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Marshall | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | Coates Cyclery | | Strengths: | Bang for the buck, frame is strong, hydraulic disc brakes, stablity on tight downhill singletrack, climbs ok, all around good 4" travel bike for mid-level seasoned rider, makes me a better rider than my hardtail | | Weaknesses: | stock Marzocchi fork works fine but is a bit low end, that's about it! But I must say, I like that the fork doesn't sag at all. | | Similar Products Used: | '96 Kona Hardtail First F/S bike! | | Bike Setup: | the LBS threw in Mavic F219 rims with XT hubs for free. I never rode the stock wheelset, but I think my upgrade makes a big difference. The new rims are really stable and feel solid when jumping and cornering. I think they add a few grams of weight since they are technically freeride rims. | | Bottom Line: | Allright, I had been going back and forth between this bike and the Jamis XLT 1.0 for about 6 mos. I demo'ed the Dawg on an actual ride and I was pleasantly surprised with it's climbing ability. I was faster uphill on that bike than my old hardtail. That ride sold me on the Dawg. I rode the Jamis around the street a while, but it seemed too long and too squirrely. I'm sure it's a good bike, but I had to get the Dawg 'cause I rode it on my normal fireroad climb and it felt awesome. Also, I asked the opinion of 3 bike shops who sell both brands, and everyone said that the Kona has a way better built frame/suspension. The other reviewer from Tucson may need to put a better wheelset on his Kona, or dial in the suspension a bit more. After 5 long rides, I think my Kona is just now broken in. I use a little more psi in the rear than recommended, and a little less in the fork than recommended. I keep the rebound pretty quick, too. This bike did not disappoint, and I did some serious research! If you are new to the full suspension game and enjoy riding down steep tricky downhills, buy this bike. When climbing, use an even cadence, use the gearing more. I used to "grind" uphill a lot more on my hardtail, but this machine wants you to pedal nice and even. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BILL ZAMARIPPA
a Cross Country Rider
from TUCSON, AZ
Date Reviewed: March 23, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | TOO MANY TO LIST | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | The only strenghts this bike has is the "kona" name and I guess the paintjob, brakes. | | Weaknesses: | cheap,cheap components. this bike isn't really good for anything, unless you're retired and want to cruise around the trailer park in Florida. It's too squirly for downhill, to heavy for cross/country and no travel for freeride. I can't believe that people actually say they use this for light freeride! They must jump alot of curbs and run over speedbumps at the mall. I am so dissapointed with this bike. I wish i would have just bought a coiler or stinky for that matter. I have only ridden it for aggressive c/c and the cranks bent the first week, tacoed the front rim the next week and 2 days after i got that fixed, the rear derailer went out as well. | | Similar Products Used: | cannondale jeckle and gary fisher sugar 3. | | Bike Setup: | does it matter? | | Bottom Line: | don't buy this bike unless you want to look like a fool. Trust me, i don't know what i was thinking when i got this. I just wanted something different and saw that last years model got o.k. reviews. If you are going to spend that kind of money on a bike, get the coiler, doesn't weight that much more and has better components and stiffer frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex Moore
a
from little rock
Date Reviewed: February 14, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | It looks nice, it has quite good gear on, good in corners | | Weaknesses: | Very tricky uphill, on some steep sections bike is impossible to drive | | Similar Products Used: | giant vt1, cannondale jekyll | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | ok, I agree that this is the bike for singletrails and moderate freeride, but you have to come somehow to the top of the hill!!! It is NOT DH bike so climbing should be much more efficient. This is enduro bike with uphill handicap. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Peoria, AZ USA
Date Reviewed: February 9, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Trail 100 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikes Out West, Cave Creek, AZ | | Strengths: | Riding position more upright than my previous very inexpensive Trek Hardtail, full suspension and the Fox R with Pro Pedal. Bike enables me to power through and over rough sections that were more of a challenge on previous bike. I think the pedals are a strength as I had not had clipless before. Acceleration and climbing is much improved. Hayes hydraulic disc brakes are very powerful. Deore Mega 9 Drive Train is really sweet compared to components on previous bike. Thus far shifting has been very precise. | | Weaknesses: | Grips and saddle. While the saddle is not that uncomfortable, I am concerned about pressure and numbness on longer rides and potential effects on prostate. | | Similar Products Used: | I had a couple short test rides on the Trek Fuel 80. Still own a Trek 820 hardtail, that is basically a MTB style street bike. I will keep this bike to ride on the paths in the neighborhood with our kids. The 2004 Dawg is my first full suspension bike. | | Bike Setup: | Stock from the shop. Koski seat post and handle bars, Race Face Ride XC crank, Marzocchi EXR Pro fork, Fox Float R w/Pro Pedal, Hayes Hydraulic disc brakes and Shimano M505 pedals. | | Bottom Line: | The 2004 Dawg is a huge improvement over my last bike and it so much better that any comparisons are not valid. Over the past year I have really gotten into mountain biking and ride every Sunday morning. I spent 6 months shopping, researching, reading reviews and talking to different shops in the Phoenix area. I finally decided on the Kona Dawg as it just seemed to be a comfortable bike that can take a beating and with the Fox Pro Pedal, I did not notice any significant bobbing. In fact pedaling through rocky sections is smooth and climbing up out of rocky washes is much easier now. While I was at first seriously considering the Fuel 80, I became much more interested in finding a 4-5 inch travel, full suspension trail bike that can sort of do anything. Honestly the manner in which Kona markets the Backcountry Dawg product set really hit home with me. I am not looking to do any downhill or freeriding as my serious risk taking days are behind me. I just wanted a comforable full suspension bike that would make my rides more enjoyable. I am not looking to race so a lighter XC full suspension was not appealing. Even though the Dawg weighs right about 33 lbs, it is still a bit lighter than my steel hardtail. The desert trails around Phoenix are quite rocky, and after learning more about the punishment that the Kona bikes have endured in the North Shore area, I felt that Kona Dawg would be durable, long lasting bike for me. My first ride lase week was discouraging as I did not practice enough with the clipless pedals before hitting the trail. However, this past weekend I spent about three hours clicking in and out, and then my ride on Sunday morning was heaven. I was able to really enjoy my Dawg and begin to appreciate my first full suspension bike. I also got a great price on the Bike from Bikes Out West in Cave Creek, AZ. Given that I am a weekend warrior, I could not see spending much more on a bike. After all my shopping and research I decided that it would take about $1,500 for a nice bike upgrade. I feel very good about this purchase. The Dawg does not have the highest end components, but getting disc brakes, Marzocchi and Fox suspension at the price I got was very reasonable. I think that any rider who wants a pretty plush ride and very strong frame should look at the Dawg. I had so much more fun on my ride yesterday. I would consider myself an intermediate rider at best, and this bike should improve my skills. I would not recommend spending more than $1,000 on a bike from the get go unless you are sure you will enjoy mountain biking. However, if you are looking to upgrade you bike like I was, the Kona Dawg is an awesome choice. I take off one Chili in value as I wish the grips were a little softer and that the saddle had design features to prevent numbing. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joel
a Weekend Warrior
from portland
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | a trail that I don't know the name of om mt hood | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | gresham bike | | Strengths: | The frame is the bomb. Bike geometry, somehow kona builds these suckas to be both aggressive and have a laid back pedaling position. If you are considering buying a dawg just go for a test ride you will know if its the bike for you. most of the components. brakes are nice, I have had some trouble getting the front disc to not rub on the caliper/pad, but overall I like them, my first disc brakes, they have so much more responce and stopping power.
I like the seat, although others say they don't, the crank, the suspension, deore components all have worked just fantastico for me so far, some things will be changed but most of the components are pretty good. | | Weaknesses: | Some of the components are dang weak for a bike in this
price range. You will probably find better components on most bikes in this price range. I doubt you will find a better frame, and that is much more important. I have heard of other dawg owners who have had problems with the wheels. I have not as of yet, but they are the real weakspot on the bike, I thing the hubs are alivio, and the rims are cheap mavic. I have my own wheels in mind so it was not an issue for me anyway. pedals, tires need to be changed. | | Similar Products Used: | kona hardtail. raleigh hardtail. | | Bike Setup: | mostly stock, have changed the pedals, most bikes come with crappy pedals because they know you will change them. I plan to put new tires and a z.1 freeride fork on the dawg this summer. | | Bottom Line: | I would buy this bike again in a heartbeat. I have owned it now for 6 months and it is el special. Looks the business is the business. Pedals well, climbs well, eats up trails, and is good in downhill sections. I thought I was going to want to get a rear shock with a lockout but I really don't need it. What has worked best for me is to turn the knob almost all the way to the left for climbing and it almost feels like it is locked out on uphill sections. I bought this bike for trail riding and that is what it does best like a hot knife through butter as some old person might say. If you are primarily a cross country rider and prefer tights over shorts (not that there is anything wrong with that) this bike may be to burly for you. If you ride mostly trails, even epic all day rides, freeriding or occasional downhill this bike is the sh!t.
If you buy this bike and want to ride more aggressively it is easy to beef up. You can even buy plates for the rear suspension to increase it to 5-6" of travel. That with beefier tires and a burlier fork and you now have a lightweight freeride, downhill machine. If you are thinking of getting the dawg test ride it after your other choices if its the one, you will know right away. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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