bkwentz

And in that quest, I have been searching for a decent starter bike to see if I really want a light, efficient, quick bike for making longer trips on the weekends. Craigslist recently offered up an older Kona Kapu.
I hear good things about the newer bikes, but this one has some age on it. It still has down tube shifters. they seem bearable, and i figure i can upgrade them at some point if need be. but is it worth the 300 the guy wants? If there are any particular problems or tips about this particular frame set you have, please let me know as I hope to pick it up tomorrow afternoon, if it turns out to be worth it.

My apologies for being another in the long line of newbs asking what is surely another unoriginal question.

Thanks

powpow

What year is it? How many miles on the frame/components? If it's a steel frame.....any rust?

bkwentz

I am waiting for a reply on age and such. I didnt think to ask about mileage. Rust is a deal breaker for me really.





The pictures do little to provide any help about its condition.

powpow

Kona makes good bikes. They don't focus on road so much, but they do make quality frames.

If you want to go retro, it doesn't have rust, and it fits you, I'd offer $200.

Andy-JCL-

I'd say look for more other options and do research on things you want to know more about. Like beginner cycling in the search. I do those things and it helps. Just understand what you looking at and ask when you need to. Yup.

botto 

this should help.

jonestr

Those were nice bikes when they were new. I think that one is mid to late nineties vintage. Make sure you check out the rims to make sure they have some braking life left in them and make sure the drivetrain is not totally shot.

I used to ride with a some women who were sponsored by Kona and that was their rain bike. They seemed to like them.

patentcad

Growing up is over rated.