Kona launched its extensive new range of 2009 bikes recently and hiding amongst the plethora of long-travel downhill mountain bikes were a couple of retro, and some not-so-retro, inspired bikes. Kona’s road bikes are often overlooked, but that’s a shame because the company produces some interesting models, including this selection.
Kona Kapu
First up, the Kapu is oozing retro-chic coolness with its Dedacciai SAT double-butted chromoly frame and featuring chromed lugs with a stylish paint job. Those seeking a return to the golden days of cycling can rest assured that, with a full complement of modern components, the Kapu should offer a contemporary ride experience. The frame is fitted with Shimano Ultegra components, Mavic Open Sport rims and Continental UltraRace tyres. Just £1499.99.
Kona Honky Tonk
The Honky Tonk is the company’s commuting option and gets an all-steel frame, clearance for large tyres, traditional down-tube shifters and rack and guard mounts. Cost? £649.99 with a Shimano Tiagra/105 groupset, Dura-Ace down-tube shifters, FSA Gossamer compact chainset, Tektro brake callipers and Alex Race24 rims on Formula and Tiagra hubs, wrapped in Continental Ultrasport 28mm tyres.
Kona Paddy Wagon
The £449 Paddy Wagon is priced competitively for the rider seeking a low budget and hip around town commuter option. It certainly looks the ticket, with a double-butted steel frameset and matching fork and a paint scheme and coloured rims that will stand out at the traffic lights or parked up outside a café. Simplicity is the name of the game here, with an FSA Gossamer 42t track chainset and Kona flip-flop rear hub so you can run a fixed sprocket on one side and a freewheel on the other.
More at www.konaworld.com
