Kona is getting set to release the details and photos of its new 2017 line of bikes, including its extensive selection of cyclocross, gravel and endurance road bikes, but we got an early look at the models relevant to our readers.
The new road line from Kona shrinks by one model for 2017, but that's still an impressive selection given that none of the models are traditional skinny tire road racing bikes.
The Sutra line returns with two models, and the do-it-all $1999 Sutra LTD is a do-it-all monster cross bike that looks like a whole lot of fun. The Sutra LTD rolls on WTB 45c Riddler rubber and a Rival 1 drivetrain:
The 2017 Kona Sutra LTD is the modern day monster cross bike, with 45c WTB Riddler rubber, SRAM Rival 1 drivetrain and a steel frame and fork.
The Jake cyclocross line loses two models, with the top-end Major Jake (or Super Jake as raced by Helen Wyman) and the pint-sized Jake 24 we saw at Sea Otter not listed for 2017. Update: The Jake 24, while not listed in 2017 bikes, will still be available as a carryover from 2016.
The Jake the Snake CR is the company's sole carbon cyclocross model and looks to be a good value, with Shimano 105 components and Clement MXP tires for $2399.
The $2399 Jake the Snake CR, with Shimano 105 components, is Kona's only carbon cx model, but features a higher-and-shorter rear geo than the alloy models.
Hidden in the line, but perhaps most appealing to today's one-bike racers is the Private Jake. Used as the foundation for Barry Wick's Lost and Found rig, this alloy model comes with a carbon fork, Rival 1 components, Clement MXP clinchers, features 42cm chainstays (shorter than the redesigned Cannondale Super-X) and a low bottom bracket (6.75 to 7cm drop). We're excited to test with bike in both cyclocross and gravel.
The Private Jake might be the unheralded star of the Kona line. The $1999 Rival 1 alloy bike features short 42cm chainstays, a low BB drop, Clement MXP tires and a carbon fork. It's said to be at home on a cyclocross course or gravel race.
The big tire steel road disc line and the flat bar Dew line each grow by one new bike, while the gravel Rove line goes from five models to four with the Big Rove ST going away. As typical with many model year releases, new components, tires and colors headline the changes for 2017, but the new $1599 Reynolds 853 Wheelhouse model is brand new, and should be an attractive gravel and b-road option for steel bike lovers who can't afford the higher-end shiny Roadhouse that we saw at Sea Otter.
The Wheelhouse brings the Reynolds 853 Roadhouse into the wheelhouse of more budget-constrained riders. The $1599 gravel bike offers thru axles, Tiagra 10-speeds, and Schwalbe 30c rubber for your next adventure.
Take a look at some of the highlights of the new 2017 line of Kona cyclocross and gravel bikes below, and stay tuned as we'll be testing out some of these models later this month.
More info: konaworld.com
2017 Kona Cyclocross, Gravel and Endurance Road Photo Gallery:
The Esatto line brings disc brakes, fat tire clearance and either an alloy or titanium frame to the endurance road market. There’s four options, although the $999 base model has caliper brakes, for gravel riders. The $2099 DDL model pictured features a Shimano Ultegra/105/R505 component spec.
