[120]

Thinking about replacing my 2010 Unit frame with a new KM. I wonder what the real difference would equate to though. I can sort of make some handling inferences from the geo charts and both are 4130 CRO MO of their own spec (if I understand correctly).

The Unit is in good shape and seems nice but it's the only steel mtb I've ever owned - for all I know it could be the best riding frame in the world.

But probably not.

Maybe they're similar enough that it would be difficult to notice much? Perhaps going up another level (price and materials range) would be more contrast.

Or maybe not worry about it and just ride a bike.

Oh yeah, and will I need a freewheel or can I convert my old cassette? Just kidding...

 

[umarth]

I think this is liking trying to choose tits over ass. Sure, you then have tits, but you're gonna miss the ass.

 

[CB2]

As great a frame as a KM is I say just ride your bike.

 

[Drbbt]

Like the T&A analogy. I had a KM for years...most versatile bike I've ever owned. The KM comes with horizontal dropouts and I coverted a rear wheel with a cassette to singlespeed with cogs and spacers and swapped out the QR axle for a bolt-on axle (axle cost me $10). I had that thing set up as a rigid SS, geared with suspension fork, and as a monstercross rig over the years. They are great bikes, but probably not much difference in ride quality between the KM and the Kona, imho. At any rate, best wishes with your decision.

 

[buddhak]

I think this is liking trying to choose tits over ass. Sure, you then have tits, but you're gonna miss the ass.

Umarth, you undercover Boddhisatva. You just awakened my third eye with that aphorism.

 

[umarth]

Umarth, you undercover Boddhisatva. You just awakened my third eye with that aphorism.

I was thinking of you when I wrote that.

Never make me go to an online dictionary again.

 

[cvbeam]

Just ride your bike. I have a KM and love it overall, but because the stays are so short it does not climb as well as other frames ( meaning it still climbs fast, but in comparison to other frames I exert much more energy on the KM climbing ).

 

[bolo]

Only cycling. I really take time and every time I care less where the bike ride, yes, ride is the important thing

 

[Sparticus]

Just ride your bike. I have a KM and love it overall, but because the stays are so short it does not climb as well as other frames ( meaning it still climbs fast, but in comparison to other frames I exert much more energy on the KM climbing ).

Huh?

--sParty

 

[amishscum]

^^^

I think cvbeam is referring to the extra energy he has to exert by keeping his weight forward on bike to prevent front-end wandering/lifting.

But yeah, I was confused when I first read that. Maybe I still am...

 

[umarth]

I think cvbeam is referring to the extra energy he has to exert by keeping his weight forward on bike to prevent front-end wandering/lifting.

Had a KM and never had that problem, and really, on SS, how big of a problem is it?

 

[amishscum]

Had a KM and never had that problem, and really, on SS, how big of a problem is it?

Like I said, I'm just guessing that's what he meant, and I wouldn't call it a "problem." I'm just saying that it takes extra effort to re-distribute your weight while climbing. Less so on a singlespeed, definitely. :thumbsup:

 

[buddhak]

Back when I used gears (and wore bellbottoms) short chainstays bothered me too. But now that I ride ss, I can't get them short enough (thank you Canfield Bros!). The KM makes a great SS bike. But the OP barely has a year on the Unit and no real complaints...why switch horses now?

 

[Stevob]

The KM is probably a bit heavier (sturdier) too. I'm happy with my 2010 Unit, but always looking at other options for the future.

 

[120]

Thanks all for the replies and opinions, I appreciate the input.

Best Regards

 

[sslos]

I had the first gen, campstove green KM, and enjoyed it considerably- it was my first 29"! However, my current bike, a 2009 Unit, rides and handles much better for me. ATMO, the KM would be a step back.

Los