Kona’s enduro line contains seven different Process models, all of them sharing one overriding common denominator: low-slung frames with long toptubes, short chainstays, a stubby 40-millimeter stem, a ton of standover clearance and relatively slack geometry. This here is the 6-inch (153 millimeters, to be precise) travel iteration.
There are two Process 153 models for 2015–this base-level version and a
pricier $5,000 version decked out in swankier parts. Kona, however, didn’t
skimp on this bike. The parts that matter most–frame, fork, brakes and wheels –
are absolutely solid. The RockShox Pike RC is simply brilliant–light, stiff and
a strong performer on every size of hit. Shimano’s Deore brakes are a smart
pick. What they lack in
on-the-fly adjustability, they make up for in reliability and stopping power,
which is aided by the 203/180 millimeter rotor combo. Other highlights
include the excellent Kind-Shock LEV Integra dropper post and WTB i25 wheelset
shod with meaty Maxxis Minions.
But the real gem here is the frame. To be honest, the Process 153 kind
of ruined me. It took a ride or two for me to adjust to the sprawling
25.25-inch toptube and Lilliputian stem combo, but when I did it became real
hard to feel 100 percent happy on any other bike.
The Process demands that you ride it aggressively; it’s not a sit back
and steer-from-the- rear kind of machine. But once you weight that front wheel,
you’re rewarded with an exceptionally centered feeling. What that meant, in
practical terms, is that I found myself attempting jumps I’ve always shied away
from, pushing harder in corners and flat-out having more fun than I’ve had in a
long time. Ridiculous amounts of fun. I could go on and on about how the
Process’ short 16.75-inch chainstays and insane standover clearance make tight
conditions a blast, but you get the idea.
What’s not all rainbows and pretty ponies? This is not a light bike.
Sans pedals, our size large model weighs 32.78 pounds. To its credit, it rides
lighter than that, but still, if you count grams, you’ll be bummed. There are
also bikes that pedal more efficiently. The 153 is no dog, but it’s not a
crotch-rocket either and traction suffers with the Monarch RT’s lock-out
engaged. But I don’t care. The Process is an incredibly solid and well-designed
bike. I already
miss the bastard.
PRICE 3500$
