2008 Kona Stab Deluxe

Size medium

Changes to bike on test day:

Removed Kona grips and replaced with ODI lock on grips.

Removed Kona stock tires, 2.5 Maxxis, Minions, replaced with 2.35 Kenda Nevagals.

Removed Kona stem, replaced with 63mm Marzocchi 4 bolt integrated stem.

Removed Shimano long cage derailleur, replaced with Saint short cage, through axle mounted derailleur, removed a few links out of the chain to accommodate the short cage derailleur installed on the bike.

Removed the stock cog, replaced with an 11/26 Powerglide cog.

I had to cut the stock seat post to get is low enough for my desired seat position.

Okay, over all this is a well put together stock package, especially when you consider the price. I did make some changes before riding and this is why. Althought the KONA comes with a decent pair of locking grips, I like a pair of grips that has some cushion and a decent size diameter. Hand fatigue happens from over gripping (too small a diameter) as much as having a diameter that is too big.

I removed the stock 2.5 tires out of desire to have a faster rolling speed, and quicker side to side speed during cornering.

I have never truusted a standard stem on a downhill bike. I went with a 63mm because I am 6'2" and like a smaller frame. This lengthens the cockpit which gives me more leverage. In doing this all the risers under the stem went above the stem giving the front of the cockpit a lower angle. The long cage deraillers that come stock on most bikes are begging to be destroyed by the rock in little time. I like a smaller cassette for quicker "out of the hole" acceleration.

The Kona Stab Deluxe has the capability to set the floating brake arm in one of two positions, the upper position or the lower position. Changing the position requires moving one bolt and pulling the rear brake off the mount to re-route the brake housing. this takes maybe ten minutes. It also has the option of moving the lower shock mount back one (pre-drilled holes) position. This changes the leverage ratio. I'm not sure of the exaxt measurements, but I am sure Kona could answer that question.

I rode the bike in both the upper and lower positions. Both positions have benefits. I'll start by reviewing the upper (stock) position. I consider this more of the freeride position. It has more resistance and gives the bike a clean responsive "pop" off lips, and is easier to preload the rear end for drops. I hit lip after lip on runs like Whistler's A-line and Dirt Merchant, and was impressed by the solid and consistent feel of the bike leaving and returning to the ground. The drawback to this setting is that the rear end doesn't give enough in high frequency bumps creating a rougher ride that gives a bucking motion.

With the floating brake arm in the lower position the bike performs more like a downhill bike. The inconsistent motion in the rough is gone and replaced with a very smooth subtle feel that allows a person to take the bike into mach speed through the rough. The bike still jumps well in this position, but requires a little more consistent rider energy in doing so.

Sidenote: when putting the brake arm in the lower position the leverage ratio doesn't feel quite right and would recommend moving the rear shock to the rear position, towards the rear tire. This also creates a slacker angle to the bike. Given that I ride mostly downhill style courses I liked this lower position better. I think over all the bike is more predictable anad smoother to ride.

The bike cornered well and consistent with a solid feel in either position. The stock Shimano XT brakes provide good stopping power. The stock rear shock is a Fox Vanilla that doesn't have all the bells and whistles of other shocks, but has established itself as a trusted workhorse with ease to learn, and longevity.

I would recommend this bike to anyone who desires either type of bike feel, especially considering the ease in changing the bike set up. The price is quite nice too!

Reviewed by Troy Huff