Kona Smoke????
#1
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For a while now ive been looking for a relativly cheap mtb bike (300-400) to commute on . I was thinking maybe a trek 3900 or specialized hardrock and then throwing some slicks and fenders on. My goal is too enventually take this bike on some tours. After looking around, I stumbeled upon the Kona Smoke https://www.konaworld.com/2k4bikes/2k.../2k5_smoke.cfm
The bike is 350, comes with fenders 1.5 slicks and is a Cromoly Butted Frame, with a rigid fork. My question to you guys is, do you think this bike will hold up for what I wanna do with it (The touring part mainly), and do u think this is a practical solution, or am I just kidding myself?
(I currently us an Allez triple for road riding, So im not new to biking. While I love the like for road riding, I wouldent trust the wheels or frame for long tours)
The bike is 350, comes with fenders 1.5 slicks and is a Cromoly Butted Frame, with a rigid fork. My question to you guys is, do you think this bike will hold up for what I wanna do with it (The touring part mainly), and do u think this is a practical solution, or am I just kidding myself?
(I currently us an Allez triple for road riding, So im not new to biking. While I love the like for road riding, I wouldent trust the wheels or frame for long tours)
#2
Slow and unsteady
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: St Louis, MO
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It is built up with low-end components, and my experience is that low-end stuff breaks down more often. You don't need the very best, but somewhere in the middle like Deore or LX. Low-end Formula hubs and cheap Alex rims are probably not the most durable combo.
The frame might be tough enough, but I can't tell if it has braze-ons for attaching front and rear racks along with the fenders.
My impression is that you'd be getting a bike equal to the cheap mtb you already have. Might be better to save up for the touring bikes from REI, Bianchi, Fuji, etc.
The frame might be tough enough, but I can't tell if it has braze-ons for attaching front and rear racks along with the fenders.
My impression is that you'd be getting a bike equal to the cheap mtb you already have. Might be better to save up for the touring bikes from REI, Bianchi, Fuji, etc.
#3
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I tour once or twice a year here in Hawaii. My rides are not too ambitious, between 3 and 5 days on the road. I have not yet invested in a high end touring bike. I used an ancient Team Fuji (re-geared for touring) for years, then a Giant MB (which was stolen), and most recently a very inexpensive Trek (model 3500) . All have served me well. On my last tour I climbed to the summit of Haleakala, a 10,000 foot climb, on my Trek 3500. It handled a full touring load fine, was very comfortable, and performed great.
Someday I may purchase a true touring bike, but until then I won’t hesitate to tour on my Trek.
Tom
Someday I may purchase a true touring bike, but until then I won’t hesitate to tour on my Trek.
Tom
#4
kipuka explorer
Join Date: Apr 2004
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Bikes: 1994 Trek 820, 2004 Fuji Absolute, 2005 Jamis Nova, 1977 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36
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Any thoughts on the new Kona Sutra "touring" bike, as well?
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-=- '05 Jamis Nova -=- '04 Fuji Absolute -=- '94 Trek 820 -=- '77 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36 -=-
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-=- '05 Jamis Nova -=- '04 Fuji Absolute -=- '94 Trek 820 -=- '77 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36 -=-
Friends don't let friends use brifters.