Kona rolls out Hei Hei Carbon in race and trail versions
As World Cup cross-country courses have become more technical, race bikes have become more capable (click to enlarge).
Short travel 29ers are among the most versatile bikes available today. With the right mix of components, you can race cross country one day, then swap on aggressive tires and wide handlebars for more rowdy riding the next.
Depending on size claimed frame weights are 1500-1900 grams for carbon, and 2200 to 2600 for alloy (click to enlarge).
Kona, a brand that has a reputation for being forward thinking in terms of geometry and spec, fully realized this concept with their new Hei Hei Carbon platform. The 100mm travel frame has XC World Cup proven geometry, is lightweight, and relies on a single pivot suspension system.
The alloy and carbon versions of the Hei Hei share the same geometry, but the carbon version has boost spacing (click to enlarge).
The new frames come dressed in one of two build kits, Race DL and standard DL. In its race oriented trim, the Hei Hei sports a 100mm fork and low profile, fast rolling rubber.
Despite its XC roots, the Hei Hei DL is a blast on the trail due to its 68 degree headtube angle, low BB, and short 430mm chainstays (click to enlarge).
Its more aggressive sibling sports a longer travel 120mm Fox 34 fork, dropper post, and burlier tires. To better understand how these small changes impact handling and performance, check out this video from Kona.
Click here to view the embedded video.
The Hei Hei DL retails for $4699, while the Race model runs $4199. Here is a breakdown of geometry for the race and standard versions.
If you want to spend a little less, the Hei Hei is also available in aluminum with similar style build kits. For more information visit www.konaworld.com.
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