Kona Smoke Long Term Review
After 3 months and over 350 commuting miles the Kona Smoke still remains one of my favorite commuter bikes. I have added a few accessories, but I pretty much have kept it stock.
Still Rocks: I still like the looks, low maintenance, bomb proof frame, very smooth ride. The fenders have kept the mud and water from staining my clothes. I don’t have to worry too much about crossing a small puddle. The shifting still remains smooth, the brakes are in great condition and the rims are still true.
Kind of Sucks: One thing that has annoyed me is the lack of water bottle holes on the seat tube. Both sets of water bottle holes are on the down tube, a set on the top and a set on the bottom. I prefer not to put a water bottle holder on the bottom ‘cause I like to drink my water, not chew it. It is also a very inconvenient place to try to grab a bottle while riding the bike.
The bottom Line: I sincerely think that Kona has hit a home run with this bike. The bike is affordable and it would pay itself off after 3 months of commuting by bike to work. Yes the looks are different, but the fenders can always be removed, slap some all-terrain tires and you will basically have a rigid MTB.
August 26th, 2005 at 11:41 am
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August 26th, 2005 at 11:49 am
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September 26th, 2005 at 2:24 pm
Hi there, great bike.
I’m thinking of buying a Kona Smoke myself and wonder if you could tell me what size of frame the bike in the pictures is I think I’m about the same height as you (I’m 5′ 8″) and secondly, do you find the gearing high enough with the 42 tooth front ring (as opposed to a 48)?
Regards,
Al.
November 27th, 2005 at 2:17 pm
I am looking for bike to keep more fit and as its just great fun to get out in the fresh air, faster as well with the way the traffic is going.
I do like the sounds of this bike, but not sure on the looks.
What would you say is one of the best looking bikes.
November 27th, 2005 at 2:31 pm
I really like the looks of the Corrida LT. The looks are kind of deceiving because it sort of looks like a Mountain bike with skinny tires. Once you start riding this bike, you can tell its all road bike. Although the color is rather subtle, the pictures on the site don’t do justice to this bike. You can also dress up this bike with a carbon fiber seatpost and a carbon fiber handlebar and you got a bling bike.
February 1st, 2006 at 11:43 pm
[…] t to ride the Livestrong Ride, I decided to dust my trusty […]
March 2nd, 2006 at 1:28 pm
Hello,
I have had the KONA smoke for almost 2 years now, and during that time I have ridden the bike to work, it has been very reliable. I love this bike.
April 6th, 2006 at 5:05 pm
Hey-
I’ve been riding bikes for about 4 years- 2 and a half years commuting with no car. I’ve always had old cruiser style bikes, but I decided (after riding my friends nice bike) that I need a better one. I really like the Kona Smoke, I like the way it looks (and the price!) but I’m wondering if it will be comfortable enough. I live in New Orleans and there are a freakish amount of potholes.. some streets feel like you’re literally just riding on rocks. I need a bike with a really comfy seat and something that will handle all the bumps. Also, is this bike suitable for women? I’m 5′7″ and I think I’ve always gotten 17.5 inch bikes, is that correct? I might have to mail order this..
Thank you so so much for your help!!!!
franandzoe@gmail.com