[Prostreet513]

I am wanting to make some changes to my bike to make it a bit more of an xc bike. Here is what I have. What do you guys thing I should change? I was thinking wheels, stem, handlebars etc.

Frame: Kona Hoss Frame
Fork: Fox F100 32 RLC 100mm
Brakes: Avid BB7 Mechanical Disc
Rotors: Alligator Serration
Cassette: Shimano SLX 11-32
Headset: Cane Creek
Chain: Shimano SLX
Crankset: Shimano SLX
Front Derailleur: Shimano SLX
Rear Derailleur: Shimano SLX
Shifters: Shimano SLX
Grips: WTB Trail Grips
Handlebars: Azonic B-52 Handlebars
Stem: Truative Hussfelt 31.8 60mm
Levers: Avid Speed Dial 7 levers
Pedals: Wellgo Sealed Platform
Seatpost: Ritchey Comp
Saddle: WTB Speed Rocket
Spokes: DT Swiss
Hubs: Sun Ringle Disc Jockey
Rims: Sun Ringle Equalizer
Tires: WTB Weirwofl 2.1

 

[mooddude]

Don't know much about Kona Hoss - isn't it a Clysdale dirt jump bike???

 

[Prostreet513]

Yes but I am only 5ft6-5ft7 and the geometry on the frame is very low and short stand over height so its a good fit for me

 

[mooddude]

So I guess to answer your question is - the frame.

 

[Ansible]

How about some clipless pedals? And, the weirwolf 2.1 tires are around 700g. Get something like a race king 2.2 instead - more like 460g per tire.

 

[aBrownCow]

I have seen a Kona Hoss being raced (and well) in the lower classes at provincial-level races. If the frame fits, ride it. But realize it is never going to be a weight weenie bike, and don't waste money on exotic or flimsy lightweight parts. I believe the main things you want to concentrate on are the wheels and tires (acceleration and rolling resistance). Other components you want to upgrade such as the stem and handlebars are not a bad idea, but I think the main goal there should be to get you into an efficient "race" position. Additional weight savings are just a small bonus. Don't break the bank on these parts because that is just money that you could save up and put towards a purpose-built XC bike, if you decide to go that route in the future. However, a sweet wheelset can easily be transferred to your future bike, so investing more in the wheels is probably a wise decision.

 

[Prostreet513]

I'm not super concerned with weight I just want to lighten it up some especially the wheels and tires. I am going to go with clips as well and I figured I would go to a stright bar and different stem. I did my first race ever last week and finished 6th out of 25 and that was with my chain breaking and also a crash. I appreciate all the info guys!

 

[MrEconomics]

I'm not super concerned with weight I just want to lighten it up some especially the wheels and tires. I am going to go with clips as well and I figured I would go to a stright bar and different stem. I did my first race ever last week and finished 6th out of 25 and that was with my chain breaking and also a crash. I appreciate all the info guys!

Changing the cockpit will put you in a more aggressive position so plan on some sore back/shoulders until you get use to it. I race on a Spesh Epic (VERY aggressive) but my road bike is a roubaix (Relaxed). I just bought a Felt AR-4 road bike which is MUCH more aggressive. I have a solid core, but even that change from Roubaix to Felt caused some back pain, especially between shoulders. Its fine now, but took a bit.

Other than that, for racing, the first thing I look at is wheelset and tires. A good combination of those will make you significantly more efficient. That translate to better race performance. Reduce the rotating weight and tread resistence as much as possible.

 

[jd1072]

I agree with the others!

The most important upgrade (and one of the cheapest) will be switching to faster rolling tires, followed by nicer wheels. Just remember XC tires aren't made to take the type of abuse your Weirwolfs will.

I'm also very partial to carbon bars and a carbon seatpost for comfort. Jensonusa has some great deals on those cocmponents. Never pay retail unless you're supporting your local shop.

 

[Prostreet513]

Ok so what are some of the frames you guys recommend? I like the GT Zaskar (can't find the frame anywhere), Kona Kula, Yeti Arc etc. I have also thought about maybe a light 100mm travel full suspension as well. I want something that wont break the bank

 

[onlycrimson]

Ebay has some nice frames for good prices. You could get an Access frame from performance bikes for very cheap.