It was only a matter of time really before Kona released a carbon version of the Process 29, so while it’s exciting news that they have done so it’s hardly surprising news.
The Process 153 CR 29 is new to the Kona Process range for this year and it is claimed that the new bike retains the ride quality of the original alloy model while reducing weight and adding stiffness.
While the G2 Process frame gets a familiar linkage driven suspension system, that’s proving to be popular with many brands this year, the bike stays true to its roots and retains it’s long, low slack heritage.
A size medium Kona Process 153 CR 29, the smallest that’s offered, has a generous reach of 450mm, if you move up to the large that figure jumps to 475mm while the XL bike boasts a 510mm reach! Each of the new carbon 29ers shares the same short 425mm chain stay and slack 66 head tube angle.
Kona is offering 2 build options in the Process 153 29, along with 2 alloy models as per last year’s range.
2019 Kona Process 153 CR/DL 29
Sitting at the top of the Process line is the Process 153 CR/DL 29 rolling on WTB KOM Trail 29in rims, and shrugging off boulders with the help of a RockShox Lyrik RC2 fork and Super Deluxe Donbonair RCT shock on the rear.
SRAM DUB makes an appearance, in a controversial press fit form, while the rest of the drivetrain comes in the form of SRAM X01 Eagle with a pair of SRAM Code RSC brakes to pull you to a stop.
2019 Kona Process 153 CR 29
The entry-level carbon Process 29 receives the same frame but in a Gloss Seafoam and Dark Seaform finish and a similar RockShox/SRAM finishing kit, but from more affordable levels.
12-Speed Eagle is made up of a mix of NX and GX systems. The 160mm travel Lyrik is the RC version while the rear shock is a Super Deluxe RCT Debonair.
At the same time as finally announcing its’ carbon 29er, Kona has also updated the rest of the range of Kona Process bikes with new colour options and a few drivetrain and component tweaks to keep them fresh for the new year.
For more info head over to the Kona website here.
