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Trail Testing: Kona Hei Hei Supreme
Posted Date: 3/21/2013
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This month we are putting some trail time on the Kona Hei Hei Supreme. For 2013, Kona's top-of-the-line cross country racing machine is all new. The Hei Hei features  all-new monocoque front and rear triangles with a shorter rear end than previous years, a tapered headtube with zero stack headset, 12x142-millimeter rear axle and a press fit bottom bracket. It sells for $5500 USD.


Kona acknowledges that the demands on carbon fiber as a frame material vary with the use of the bike. For that reason, they specifically pick materials that cater to the intent of the bike. 


The Hei Hei Supreme is spec'd with a SRAM X0 drivetrain with their Type 2 rear derailleur with a built-in clutch mechnanism for chain management. 




Race Face is equipment of choice for the cockpit. Their Turbine handlebar, stem and seatpost all come stock on the Hei Hei Supreme. 


Kona first developed their Walking Beam 4-Link Linkage in 1996 and have never stopped refining it. Kona claims that the design helps create a stiffer and more durable linkage system that gives the frame good ride characteristics as well as cut down on bushing wear and unwanted, lateral forces on the shock.




Avid X0 brakes are equipped on the Kona. We always appreciate the predictable feel and lever ergonomics of the Avid stoppers and they have been performing great on the Hei Hei.


The Easton EA90XC aluminum wheels have proven to be snappy and durable so far, without any issues. We are also really digging the Maxxis Ikon tires for our SoCal hardpack and loose-over-hardpack trails. The Ikons provide a serious bite while still rolling like a road tire; perfect for cross country riding. 



The wrecking crew strives to put as many miles on each test bike before we write a full review. Watch for the full write-up on this bike in the coming pages of Mountain Bike Action




VOLUME 28, NUMBER 7 JULY 2013

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