[grahamjtriggs]

Hi all,
I own a 2004 Kona Coiler frame, which I began freeriding and downhill on for about 2 years. Now I'm getting better at downhill, I bought a downhill bike (Im still paying it back). I've decided to make use of the coiler frame turning it into an AM bike but advice on some things would be great.
Firstly, is the coiler too burly for an AM bike? Kona class it as a beginner freeride bike but at 5in travel I can't see any problems.
Secondly, would a rockshox pike fork be a good choice for the front? I have seen loads of people riding different styles with them and hear they are good.
Last, do I go for three chainrings or two and a bash/guide?
I will mostly use the bike for trail riding and a couple of jumps and rock gardens etc.
Cheers

 

[Call_me_Clyde]

I'd say yes

I think your idea makes perfect sense. Put the pike up front and build the bike up as a 5" AM rig. As for the chain ring issue, ask yourself a couple of questions. First off, do you anticipate using the large ring on the terrain you intend to ride? Second, how large are the obstacles you'll encounter, and will their size and your BB height necessitate the additional protection you get from the Chain ring?. My personal recommendation? Put the chain ring on.

Bob

 

[coldsteele]

Good call, but if your background is in DH then....

Go two and a bash.

I have not used a big ring in 4 years. I opted for the bash after I bent some teeth on the ring then got gouged in the leg by them. You will also appreciate the clearance and the added strength to the cranks.

 

[Guyechka]

In my opinion, the only question you should be asking is, "Do I go with the dual-air or a coil spring?" I bought the '05 Pikes when they were half the price they are now. I wish I had bought a few more!

As for the bash, I've been asking myself the same question. Right now I have a triple, but I never use the big ring. Still, my BB height is 16.5", and I have very little to worry about in the clearance department. I say you need to decide based on usage. Are you ever going to get into the big ring? Maybe twice a year? On a 36# bike with 5" on either end, it doesn't seem likely.

 

[TNC]

That Coiler would make an excellent AM bike with the right build. That's a very stout frame, but with the right components you should be able to get down to the 32-34 lb. range without sacrificing a lot of durability and capability. I've turned a couple of Bullits into 33lb. trail bikes that are still plenty strong. Your Coiler can easily make the same transition. The Pike would be a good choice.

 

[uktrailmonster]

Pike on the front, 34 tooth middle ring and bash. I'd also consider a lighter wheelset, something like Crossmax XL, that can still take a good beating.

 

[never]

Speak of the devil...that's what I ride. Well I have the '05 Coiler which has 150mm out back but it's still a great match with the 140mm Pike 454 Dual Air. I use this bike for everything and it is a ton of fun. By changing the fork and the crankset, I dropped several pounds and now the bike is around 33-34lbs. In the mountains I use the big ring but that choice will depend on your terrain and riding style.