[Dirtgrinder]

Just wanted to know what your opinions were on these two bikes. I found 1 Jake the Snake that I think is my size but it's in KC. Also found some Fuji Cross bikes. Know anything about these or which is the better bike? Thanks

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[velocipedio]

I ride a Kona, so I know what its like -- a good, comfortable ride, responsive without being twitchy...

The differences...

Component spec: Both are specced with 105. I think the Fuji has a slightly better finishing kit, with better tires, bar, stem, etc. Very slight advantage to the Fuji.

Wheels: The Fuji has pretty good Ritchey wheels and tires, and the Kona has Mavic MA3s with 105 rear and Deore front hub. The weight differences would be in the 10s of grams, with advantage to the Fuji, but the MA3s are damned tough rims, with that advantage to the Kona. No advantage either way.

Frame: Tough one. I really, really, really like the feel of the Kona frame. It's Easton Ultralight 7005 taperwall and it's the most comfortable aluminum frame I've ever ridden. On the other hand, I have a few issues with the geometry. The Fuji is a proprietary 6000-series metal matrix aluminum, probably similar in ride quality to Specialized M4. The Fuji has a tigher rear triangle, which will probably make it a zippier climber [not that I have a lot of complaints about my Kona's climbing]. On the other hand, the 54 cm Fuji has a 55 cm top tube, while the 55 cm Kona has a 54 cm TT. They will fit you differently... though you might find the Fuji somewhat more comfortable, and easier to get fit. Remember that the convention fit for a 'cross bike is a little small on the vertical than you would have for a road bike.

The Fuji does not come with pedals, however. This probably would not be a huge problem, since you could just swap pedals with your MTB.

So the bottom line is that you should get the bike that fits you the best. They are about even on features, with the Fuji having a very, very slightly better component spec, with the Kona having (IMO) a slightly better frame material...

[Rich]

Yep, I agree,

out of the two, I'd go for the Kona rather than the Fuji...:D

Rich

[Rotifer]

I live in Washington State ... buy the Kona! :D

[Rotifer]

Oh, just noticed this post is a bit out of date.

[Alan Perkins]

Yea, but I read it. :):)

[Rotifer]

Hmmmm.. wonder which one he bought.

[velocipedio]

He got the Fuji.

[Dirtgrinder]

Originally posted by velocipedio
He got the Fuji.
No he didn't!!!
He got the Bianchi Axis! :)

[goodcatjack]

oh, man, the Axis.

got one about a month ago. beautiful, beautiful ride. I'm going to ride this one into the ground until I can justify geting a Seven.

--alex.

[velocipedio]

Originally posted by Dirtgrinder
He got the Bianchi Axis! :)
You know... I've been really dyslexic lately. I thought I saw "Bianchi" when I saw and typed Fuji. Been spending too much time above my AT...