REVIEW: 2020 Kona Honzo ST (steel) Hardtail - Hardtail Party

[@sugarfree850]

It's awesome that Kona did a refresh on this for 21 and addressed a lot of your critiques on this bike. I'm seriously considering building one now.

[@hardtailparty]

Hopefully the bike rides like their marketing materials say it does, that'd be great.

[@roryennis96943]

Ive got the 2019 Kona Honzo AL/DL and I love it. I've ridden the Big Honzo in both the aluminum and the Carbon and much prefer the 29s on it. the bike comes alive on fast flow trails and jump trails. But still handles the strep and tech trails quite well. This obsession with headtube angles is fine but I find if I ride it with a more aggressive stance and adapt to a smoother fast flowing style of riding It can handle everything I throw at it with great poise or control and has a really good balanced geometry. And it's so much fun to take out in the wet PNW because in wet slippery conditions it is just so much fun. It really fun and poppy and playful

[@Levi_Allen]

Where are you based Rory? I just got my honzo in the Fraser valley and am loving it

[@paulmulryne8405]

This is when you know a reviewer is authentic.

[@Michael-mn4tq]

Ben riding the Honzo ST just over two years. Absolutely love it.

[@braydenwhitaker4103]

What travel do you have on gours

[@Michael-mn4tq]

@@braydenwhitaker4103 120mm

[@braydenwhitaker4103]

@@Michael-mn4tq I was looking to get one but I just pre ordered the new commencal metas coming out

[@radigan209]

I’m waiting for the Cotic BFe review! Love your reviews and analysis. Looking for that long low and slack geo.

[@JaggedTusk]

I have a 2019 Kona Big Honzo set up with 29er wheels. I'm running a 160mm fork and a -2 degree angle set. This gets the head angle to about 64 degrees and really improves the ride characteristics on steep and fast trails. Highly recommended upgrades for this bike.

[@breakandrun70]

Great honest review on the Kona Honzo ST. Have a great time at the party in the mountains and be safe.

[@norootsnoproblem]

Love your reviews my man! 👍 I was wondering about this bike and now I know, thanks.

[@chumpmtb2554]

That bike takes me back.. The 1st MTB I owned was a green '06 Kona Blast hardtail 26er. 🤘

[@SteveWaldrop]

I have a frame up build 2019 Big Honzo ST set up SS with a -1degree angle set and a 140mm Fox 34, which puts the HTA right at ~66 degrees. ARC40 rims with 2.8 x 27.5 Rekons make this feel like the perfect playful hard tail. I ride it more than any other bike in the garage. While I love it, I’m certainly not married to it. I’d love to hear some ideas on other frames I should take a look at.

[@kubagajda7347]

I've had an aluminum Big Honzo AL DL - got it just about when You reviewed the SC Chameleon. It had nearly the same geo as the steel one, just with a little longer reach. As I was happy with the handling initially and had good time on it on the flow trails, but with time it became more apparent how crazy stiff and harsh this frame was. In fact it was so rigid that it began to crack at the seatstay/seattube weld and that has put it to the end. I assume that those really short chainstays (415 it was) make the most for the vibrations being transfered vertically into riders legs. Now I'm on a carbon Procaliber and though those bikes have NOTHING in common, the Trek is far, far more comfortable, but climbs much, much worse - that's the tradeoff.

[@walterreyes7664]

Thanx man appreciate the Input..🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️

[@hardtailparty]

Because weight isn't the only metric to judge a bike.

[@kubagajda7347]

@@bryanthartwig6994 Slack seat angle on the trek makes it more difficult to spin seated up the steep gradients. There's 6deg. difference between those two bikes.

[@kubagajda7347]

@@bryanthartwig6994 78deg I belive it was against 72 deg on the trek. Trek is better for a longer, rolling rides though

[@Scottydont1978]

Looking forward to a review of the Big Honzo. I just picked one up and am loving it... but coming from a 20+ year old bike clearly anything would be a massive improvement.

[@svticklemefinn1176]

I enjoy your reviews. Lots have changed over the years.

[@hardtailparty]

Indeed! Hardtails are nothing like they used to be.

[@Jdreynolds2]

Thanks for the review Steve! Didn't make me feel bad about my Big Honzo ST at all :) it does make me consider an angleset though! But if I'm being honest with myself, most of the trails where I live are very XC oriented (not my preference, but it's where I'm at), so angleset probably isn't necessary.

[@hardtailparty]

Good call. There are definitely places where s slacker head angle won't be necessary. Being able to identify that and resist the urge to go slacker I'd very important.

[@hardtailparty]

Do you need help deciding which bike to purchase next? I offer a one-on-one bike consultation service through patreon. It's how I put food on the table for my family, and how I'm able to provide custom bike advice for my vieewrs. Become a patron today for access: sign up for the monthly bike consultation tier, and cancel at any time. Most people sign up for a month or two, and we work together to discuss their needs, riding style, etc. to narrow down the list of all the great hardtails out there. When they get the info they need and they no longer have any questions, they cancel. Become a patron today: patreon.com/hardtailparty. If my videos have saved you time or money, consider supporting this channel via Patreon. For as little as $5/month you can ensure I continue making unbiased content. Support individual content creators over garbage tv or sponsored content disguised as reviews.

[@Eric-bh7jy]

hardtail party I think if possible, you should take video sponsors and give quick reviews on products. If it pays the bills and helps things keep going for you it’s fine. Everyone that watches knows your giving an honest opinion. It would not change people’s desire to watch your video in my opinion

[@hardtailparty]

@Eric Wurtz Most contracts with sponsors don't allow true "reviews" where I can be critical. That's why so many KZbinrs have glowing "reviews" of their sponsors' products. Plus, you don't want to bite the hand that feeds. If brand X were to provide forks for me, and I talk about how brand Y is better, brand X won't be my sponsor for very long. Sponsors are interested in ads and sales, not objective reviews. So they'd rather sponsor someone who's going to promote/advertise their products. Fortunately, the few companies I partner with allow me to be critical and review their products. I'm not expected to just create an ad. Some companies approach me with a desire to only showcase the positives of their product, but I'm not interested in working with those companies.

[@garrettsmith8286]

@@hardtailparty Maybe you could get a sponsor from a shop that has multiple brands? I just rode in Sedona in May. I'd love to know what the top 3 most complaint no carbon HT's you've tried out. Keep up the great work. I'd love to help you out when my job gets better!

[@RideAlongside]

Sponsors equal bias. Keep trying your best to be objective. I don’t create much content because 5 years of reviewing plus bike and bikepacking content doesn’t pay, but it has helped many people and I like that. Thanks for shooting us straight.

[@Cody_Hanson]

I know you have some swag. It would be awesome to be able to buy gloves and frame stickers with your HP logo. It’s a sweet logo I’d definitely rep it.

[@adamrossi7010]

Thanks Steve. Great honest review as usual!! Someone aways ends up with hurt feelings.....

[@marcbuttigieg8355]

I think this bike would suit me great. I want a burly steel hardtail, but not a fan of the new school super slack head angle + steep seat tube geo of the enduro stuff. saving up for one at my local shop now, cheers for the video.

[@MrHT-ii2ie]

Love all your reviews. Helps us who can't demo a bunch.....pulled the trigger on a middle child

[@hardtailparty]

Nice! Congrats.

[@ccallure]

I own the same 2019 Honzo ST and agree that the frame is stiff and that the price point influenced my purchase. As you adapt to the bike and make changes, it can be a great all around bike. I've run it with my fork at 130mm and 150mm and at 150mm it's slack enough to ride steep terrain with confidence. A dampening tire insert in the rear is also highly recommended for trail/all mountain riding.

[@eriksdodges853]

Good honest review like always. I can't wait for you to get some actual seat time with a san quentin 3 and give your thoughts. I'm having a blast on mine, still learning how to corner with that 65 degree HTA. Front wheel washes out with ease if i don't remember to weight the nose !

[@hardtailparty]

I've ridden a few of my buddy's san quentins. I'll get one in for a dedicated review soon though.

[@eriksdodges853]

@@hardtailparty your opinions on the bike besides the low stack height !

[@hardtailparty]

stay tuned for the review.

[@hardmtnbiker]

Kona was ahead of the curve with longer reach and shorter stays before anyone else(big brands) I have two steel hardtail’s a steep Niner Sir9, the last model to have 142x12 and a threaded EBB. I also have a Esker Hayduke, slacker Geo with thin tubes chain stay and seat stays. The Hayduke rides much smoother. I also think it has a lot to do with the tires and wheels. Both have aluminum rims and Teravail light and supple tires. Personally I think carbon rims will always make a frame feel harsh.

[@hardtailparty]

Depends on the wheels. Most carbon wheels will make it harsh, but I have a video or two coming that might surprise you

[@hardmtnbiker]

hardtail party all carbon wheels are carbon, some have come a long way, just like carbon frames but still carbon. I think that aluminum has an unmistakable give, especially when built with spokes and lacing around “your personal” needs for your intended bike use.

[@hardtailparty]

I've ridden carbon wheels that were softer than aluminum wheels. There are a lot of factors at play. But I agree that in general, most aluminum wheels are more forgiving than most carbon wheels.

[@noelwarner8874]

I like the Ok-to-Exceptional graphic. Feels like a good addition to the review. 👍🏽

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks. In experimenting with ways to visualize what I'm feeling. I don't want people to think it's a crap bike, I just want them to know there's much better out there.

[@mountaingoat8788]

dam you upload Like Crazy! lol good work and Interesting review!! I would love to see your opinion on the NS Surge evo I Love mine I have not ridden as Many Hard tails as you to compare its slack enough at 65.5 but only comes in 2 sizes I got the Large and wish the top tube was a little longer seat tube angel is to slack.. it was Originally advertised as a Free ride ht it is a interesting frame...

[@hardtailparty]

I've been doing daily uploads for the past month. I won't always be able to daily videos, but it's been good for the channel lately.

[@OutsideLookingIn]

Love your channel. I have a 2016 Canfield EPO which was 5 years ahead of its time in terms of geo. Would love to see you do a review of one to see how it compares to some of the newer frames like the RSD and Banshee. I’ll likely upgrade it next year, and I’m considering a Rootdown...

[@gabrielgarcia367]

Thanks to your friends for lending the bikes

[@hardtailparty]

Agreed, I have some great friends.

[@shaunroach7829]

Great review Steve, thanks for being honest!!! I had a aluminum Kona Wozo, the fatbike version on the Honzo. I enjoyed it but the the welds at the chain stay/seatstay were shot. LBS had to warranty 6-7 Wozo’s because of this. Wozo had 177mm rear hub and short chainstays. Now I’m a bigger rider 205 pounds but Kona had to warranty many frames in both Canada and the US was it due to stiffness, design flaw not sure. The 2020 Wozo Kona was redesigned, the frame changging the bottom bracket and going to a 197mm rear hub. I am selling the warrantied frame and bought a Surly Wednesday switched over the parts and good to go. I bought a Surly Pugsley my first steel bike rigid fatbike and was sold. It was more supple and felt better than the aluminum Wozo, and that’s why I went with the Wednesday steel frame!!!

[@AeroPrixma]

I agree with your review. Just got a 19' Big Honzo ST, and coming from a Marin San Quentin 2. The kona's geo isn't what i'd like but it does ok. MY Steel NS Surge is far more supple then the Honzo.

[@karolkrawczyk1]

It's time to test NS ECCENTRIC CROMO ;)

[@hardtailparty]

I've reached out. We'll see what they say. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@russellmontez3936]

Nice Review! I have a Big Honzo CR DL with -1 angleset and 140mm fork with 29 wheels. It should come in at 66. I think it handles great and the frame doesn't feel too stiff. I can also mullet the bike with no issues. Its a great budget endurance race bike. It handles high speed very well. I had a Pipedream Moxie, that was a burly steel enduro HT. I'm really liking the Nordest Bardino 2. I'm itching for another good steel steed!

[@hardtailparty]

Just curious why you sold the pipedream for the Kona? How did the frame compliance feel between the two?

[@davidbritton700]

The Nordest Bardino ti looks sweet as Ive read that the steel version is a tank.

[@russellmontez3936]

The Pipedream was built to party hard, my local trails weren't steep or rough enough to let this bike sing. So, I was sorely "overbiked". I was also getting into endurance racing and needed a sprightly frame for that. I would ride that Pipedream down just about anything. Crazy good with a reduced offset fork.

[@russellmontez3936]

The Pipedream felt smooth like a proper steel frame. It was so long and slack it felt invincible. The Honzo was stiffer, but not so stiff it wears you out. I think its a great carbon frame. The Bardino isn't as extreme as the Moxie, but longer than the new N9.

[@russellmontez3936]

@@davidbritton700 , I'll have to look into that!

[@charltonmanz163]

Hey Steve. Love your reviews and thorough explanations of your opinions. I’d be really interested to know your thoughts on the Pole Taival. Hopefully you get a chance to review one someday soon.

[@hardtailparty]

I hope I can get one. I reached out a few months ago but they weren't able.to send one

[@raivkka4313]

what is the offset on the fork? wonder is a 44mm might be more desirable.

[@hardtailparty]

it's a 44mm offset.

[@mazescopak405]

Steve, any chance you created a spreadsheet with the latest hartail you have reviewed? I know some of the data would be purely subjective but that would be cool to look at.

[@hardtailparty]

That's a feature I'm working on providing for my patrons. I know a lot of people would like to compare all the bikes I've reviewed across time in a handful of charts and comparisons. Its going to take a lot of time, but it's something I'd like to do for my patrons.

[@RayHowrad]

Thorough review! You really cover a lot of aspects of HT frames. I love how you mentioned how rider weight and style can change the experience. If you’re over 200 lbs and/or charge, the Honzo feels right in my opinion. To me, the Middle Child feel is just a little more refined/lively, and has much better stock geo.

[@krameohotman]

Angle sets are the best! Do what this man says!

[@SymaticStar]

Mark Salerno works components have two different -2 angle sets , am not sure which one I need for my 2020 big Honzo?

[@krameohotman]

@@SymaticStar find your headset measurements for your honzo. It should be in geometry or frame specs. For example on the timberjack it says zs44 upper and zs56 lower. All you need is to match the numbers. So for my timberjack i bought the ec44 zs56 angleset. The letters are not as important as far as i understand. Hope this helps.

[@Onecogmike]

I have a steel Honzo I use at Bootleg Canyon. My Carbon Honzo is my go-to bike after my Ti singlespeed. Neither are great all around bikes but both are snipers on the right type of terrain.

[@hardtailparty]

Props! That's some burly terrain. Between your carbon honzo and your steel honzo, which one is stiffer?

[@Onecogmike]

hardtail party definitely the carbon. I’m 220#. The steel frame feels buttery smooth going down rough terrain. I also have a Timberjack singlespeed I’m going to take your suggestion and put on an angle headset for both bikes. I just put one on my Ti singlespeed and tested it out today. I can’t believe how much better it feels. Thanks for the review on the cane creek angle set you did on the dvo

[@hardtailparty]

yeah, i used a works angle set, not a cane creek, but they do the same thing.

[@beanburnham01]

I have a 2019 honzo in aluminum and it’s fun for how I use it. Fast flowing single track. But I’m in Santa Cruz so the stiffness hasn’t been an issue yet cuz we have mainly loam. I ride my big bike mostly to get rowdy so the occasional hard tail shred on it is super fun. I definitely want to upgrade the fork to 140 though.

[@hardtailparty]

sounds like the perfect bike for santa cruz.

[@beanburnham01]

hardtail party definitely gonna look into the adjustable headset. I’m 6’6” and I picked the honzo cuz of the measurements and geo even if not as slack. Seemed to fit me better with Renthal 40mm rise fatbars.

[@davidbritton700]

I’m 6’6” as well and have ridden a honzo st for the last year. The xl is really long with a 510 reach. I thought I would love it but it actually felt a little too stretched out for me and the type of riding that I mostly do. For my comfort I’ve found that having a high stack is key for me. Everyone is different though.

[@leeretaschen231]

You may be aware, but they updated the geometry on the Honzo ST in 2021. They did exactly what you suggested. They slacking to the head tube to 66° and also made the seat to cheaper by 1 1/2°. Might be worth a revisit.

[@hardtailparty]

I've reviewed it, check out my other videos.

[@leeretaschen231]

@@hardtailparty Thanks. Must have overlooked it. Saw the one testing the 2019.

[@tommyvercetti6035]

I got an al big honzo. I didn't realize it was a plus bike or what a plus bike even was when I bought it. However, it is super fun to ride! I'm having a blast in these tough new england woods. Maybe the plus sized tires weren't the worst idea...

[@hardtailparty]

Plus tires are an amazing idea for hardtails.

[@alexanderwolfe9167]

Hope you get a chance to review the new model of Honzo ST. It seems they made updates that you said could improve the ride.

[@robertbrandt1381]

Great Review. I just bought the Honzo ST. I saw it in another comment the trails I ride are XC so the HT angle is fine. I might slacken it a little but man is the reach of the XL welcome as a 6'5” guy. I thought bikes were supposed to feel small coming off of a 2014 Giant Anthem. I will say I wish I could have found a Fuse to demo in my size, that was the other hardtail I had eyes for.

[@hardtailparty]

Yeah, that long reach is really refreshing. I feel for you tall guys. Bikes are FINALLY getting long enough for you.

[@beanburnham01]

Robert Brandt I picked the honzo too cuz of its measurements. I’m 6’6” and it fit me best of the hardtails. My squish bike is a XXL Hightower LT.

[@jamesmcmann8536]

Honzo has an extra 30mm reach over the Fuse, Fuse needs an XXL to compete.

[@davidbritton700]

At 6’6”, the 510 reach one of the big reasons I bought the frame but I have found that I really don’t need all that reach on my tight and twisty east coast single track. Having tried it for a year I just moved over to a nukeproof scout. For me, its way more comfortable and 65 head angle still allows you to bomb the downs that I feel the honzo’s reach allowed me to do.

[@walterreyes7664]

I was looking at the big honzo st 27.5+....I wonder if the frame rides the same ....stiff ride...good review Steve..can you get a big honzo st and review...thanx man

[@czechnolike]

I was wondering the same thing. Really liked the Big Honzo when I demoed it.

[@lrvz7187]

Any chance you will get to review a Nordest Bardino v2 in the future?

[@hardtailparty]

I reached out, but no reply from them.

[@twonistwon2838]

I've got a 2017 Honzo ST- 140 ML Pike- I ride in Indiana, I road a more xc oriented bike before (kahuna), when I got the Honzo it changed my riding a lot- especially in the playful factor on jumps, I can move the rear end in all sorts of ways. For the trails here it's a good match for that in-between land, there are some great flow trails with jumps that don't get TOO steep, climbs aren't too ridiculous, a mild mix of both, maybe this bike fits our humble hoosier sensibilities? ; ) Not as extreme as Sedona can be. I've never trail ridden a more slack hardtail here to compare side by side. I am going to try a mullet set-up soon as well as a total 27.5+ option. I've thought of a negative headset add-on- now your video makes me want to try it even more ; ) No hard feelings here- this is the best bike I've ridden and it's only improved my riding. Would LOVE if you could test a 2021 version- thanks for all of your work!

[@blackthanos914]

WOW... My custom 29er has a 72 degree head angle. In the tight and twisty Northeast it works very well.

[@Eric-bh7jy]

Why are you dissing his mom! Lol. Great video as always

[@danhamersley6745]

Great review just wondering if this is the 2020 or 2021? The Kona website now states 66 degree head angle for the Honzo ST. I’m looking at doing a build on an XL frame

[@hardtailparty]

This is a 2019, which is the same as a 2020. The 2021 hasn't been out long enough for me to have a review video of it

[@danhamersley6745]

hardtail party I just rewatched the video and you clearly state it’s the 2019, sorry. Keep the videos coming I just found your channel and am really enjoying it👍🏼

[@slimdog72]

Thanks for the honest review. If you taking request I would say Chromag not Stylus and both Transition steel and carbon models.

[@hardtailparty]

Transition doesn't make a hardtail anymore sadly. I'll have a chromag samurai in for review soon

[@mellissanash7517]

Kona must have listened cause the 2021 has the updated hta & gussets. Do you think you will review that updated ST?

[@rongiles2024]

Put a works component angle set on my Honzo ST and it totally came into its own. Originally I started by over forking with a 140mm MRP Ribbon air which felt great with 27.5+ set up but with 29 wheels I just did not love the geo changes overall. I reduced the fork down to 130 and put a 1.5d angle set in and it rocks now! There are days though that I wish for a little more compliance in the rear or that the frame was at least lighter. Have to admit that Banshee looks very appealing.

[@hardtailparty]

That sounds like a sweet setup!

[@davidbritton700]

Rear end of the honzo is totally overbuilt and I’m 240. It has very little compliance for a steel frame like Steve said. No sense in taking the weight penalty of steel if it rides harsh.

[@HenleyHenderson]

Nice review love that color on the Honzo. The Marin Pine Mountain 2 is the hardtail on my radar a real do everything adventure bike I think. Cant wait for the review. Will those wispy seatstays make it rival the supple ride of the Jonny Rotten?

[@hardtailparty]

You'll have your answer soon in a few days. Almost done editing it.

[@lundoftheeast219]

I'm hoping you can get ahold of a Transition TransAm someday. There's zero reviews out there...

[@uonadtehrrocks]

I would really like to see you ride the Aluminum version too, the Big Honzo DL and give your ipressions. are the 2020's with the 67.5 degree head tube angle different and updated from the 2019? or is it just because they put a 130mm fork on it?

[@hardtailparty]

Don't quote me, but I believe it's just because they put a bigger fork on it. I've been trying to get a big honzo in for review but no luck.

[@uonadtehrrocks]

@@hardtailparty I was thinking it must be because it only changed the head angle half a degree and if they redesigned the bike for 2020 I would think they would go further, however I noticed the seat post is shorter and has a smaller gusset that you complained about. I'm looking for a bike and thought about the Timber Jack (impressed by the spec) but was worried about the older geo which you confirmed, so now I'm looking at the Honzo's, Fuse which 275 with a worse frame and low spec or 29 and still with a weird spec IMO or the GG Pedal head but it almost looks to much like a dirt jumper.

[@niteryder50]

Nice review, seems really not that modern trail HT. Can be had quite cheap but then there is also the much cheaper Kahuna with very similar numbers but shorter fork. Seems Kona like many are reserving modern geo for their full suspension bikes which rip hard.

[@josephnubile1970]

Nice review, how do you feel about carbon bars for a hard tail is it a must? do you notice a big difference in transmitting vibration and arm pump? Are they worth the money or is the fork more important to comfort and dampening ?

[@hardtailparty]

I haven't found any carbon bar that's significantly softer than an aluminum one, despite the marketing claims. I've ridden both carbon and aluminum bars that were too stiff, but no single bar has been noticeable more comfortable than the average.

[@SymaticStar]

Coming to the 2020 Kona big Honzo St version from a 19 year old Norco this is aggressive super comfortable playful and very stable. I also have not ridden the large amount of hardails you have Steve, maybe your also completely used to an even slacker headangle so this angle felt sketchier only in comparison? I'm interested to see how in what areas the geometry has changed from the 2019 to 2020, I do remember the head angle is 67.5 in 2020 vs the 68 of the 2019. The body feels hardcore hardtail so maybe I'll go with your angelset -2 idea it helps the front match the back better? In the previous vids comments we touched on headset angle kit would put more strain on frame but I do small to medium jumps and drops no large or huge, ride a medium to fast flowy style all round and have plus tyres also adding to a softer ride...?... thanks Simon :)

[@Scottydont1978]

Big honzo was redesigned for 2019... same in 2020.

[@SymaticStar]

Scottydont1978 you mean it was re designed again in 2020?

[@SymaticStar]

Have asked two local super experienced and honest bike mechanics if the angleset would place any stress on the frame and they both said it would not. Especially not on a steel frame. Good news.

[@hardtailparty]

It will definitely put more stress on it, the question is, whether it'll be enough to matter. If you think about it, the slacker a head angle is, the more leverage the fork has on the head tube. I would expect the steel honzo to be able to handle it no problem though.

[@SymaticStar]

hardtail party if I try refine my question, taking a bike from 67.5 down to 65.5 does this bike have any more stress on the headtube than a bike that came from the factory as a 65.5? As I understand it : The outer cylinder of the angleset rests in the headtube the same way but it's inside is offset? Either way I'm coming to the decision that this 2020 steel frame is more than strong enough to handle it. :)

[@jimk1988]

I have a 2020 Honzo ST frame that I’m having built custom. I’m going with IBIS S35 Alloy 27.5" 32h wheels with 2.6 tires. I also have Shimano XT DEORE 8120 brakes. Will a Shimano 203mm rotor fit on the rear or will it have clearance issues? Thanks in advance, Jim

[@billw_mtb3220]

I wonder if the Unit, which doesn’t look as overbuild would have a more compliant ride.

[@TrailFeatures]

What’s crazy is I’ve heard the honzo Ti is even stiffer than the ST. 😬

[@hardtailparty]

Aw man, that sucks. What's the point of a ti frame then? I don't get it. Sounds like Kona is relying on stereotypes to sell bikes. Bummer.

[@Gingerpele91]

Id love to see you review Giant Fathom sometime. Im currently riding a Trek Marlin and looking at upgrading. I have a good selection for a small area. Trek, Giant, Specialized, Felt, Norco, Scott, Kona, Santa Cruz.

[@seanwgg]

Any chance of a Cainfield Nimble Nine review?

[@hardtailparty]

Yup, I should have a nimble 9 frame soon.

[@davidbritton700]

Yes, definitely want to see the canfield in review. You are filling an awesome niche here Steve as hardly any reviews are out there on any of these hardtails. Much appreciated!

[@toanmaxdark7]

Question Steve, the Timberjack and this bike have pretty close to the same HTA. Why would that bike handle better than the Kona?

[@hardtailparty]

Good question I'm not sure. It could be the higher bb of this since it's overforked. Could be the weight Could be the super short stem on this, could be a combination of the two. I feel like the timberjack frame is a lot more comfortable and transfers less vibrations to the rider.

[@EthanBares]

Can you review the Rocky Mountain Growler 50? It has a 64 degree head angle which is really interesting as it seems extremely aggressive for a hardtail. That spec is on every price range for the growler this year

[@hardtailparty]

I'm trying to get my hands on one for review. No luck yet.

[@Borokiro]

What angle set can you get for this bike? I have one and like it! Works Angleset out of the UK is the only one I can find? Any help?? Thanks

[@hardtailparty]

works makes great stuff. I recommend them.

[@Miiks81]

Any interest in reviewing the Rootdown Chromag?

[@Morpheas001]

Yeah, but apparently Chromag has no interest in him... lol

[@jonzylka9474]

Another great review! Any chance for you to do a review on the trek stache??

[@hardtailparty]

I'd love to review a stache on the channel. Still waiting to find one locally in my size.

[@flyingfish555]

I've done most of my riding on Honzos, and I agree that they benefit from an angleset! I think Works only offers a -1deg max angleset for these headtube dimensions (someone correct me if I'm wrong), so I'm actually considering getting the 2021 frame for an extra degree of slackness on top of the angleset - then I think it'll be perfect! I think the ESD would be a little too extreme for me. Works -1 + 2021 geo + 140mm fork would put it at ~65 deg. With the old Honzo geo it's hard to find confidence on steeps.

[@hardtailparty]

Agreed. I'd love to try the new honzo st.

[@flyingfish555]

@@hardtailparty Kona also says they revised the chainstays to be more compliant for the 2021, so you might like it on that end too. I asked my local Kona dealer if they could get one for me, still waiting to hear back.

[@hardtailparty]

@@flyingfish555 Yeah, I take marketing claims with a grain of salt. But the esd was nice and compliant. Hopefully they use the same rear end as that.

[@flyingfish555]

@@hardtailparty It sounds like the new model is going to be available in May 2021. Also I need to correct my earlier comment, Works DOES make a -2 deg angleset for 44/56. For some reason, it was missing from their catalogue at the time I made that comment (either that or I can't read, which is also possible). Already ordered one!

[@luisfamendes]

@@hardtailparty I hope you get the opportunity to review the 2021 honzo St. I already bought the 2021 Al version, but I'm still curious about your review on St model.

[@wardkurisu]

Are you planning to test ride the Marin Pine Mountain still?

[@hardtailparty]

Of course

[@guadaanto]

When reviewing a GT hardtail? like Avalanche or Zaskar LT

[@hardtailparty]

my buddy @trailfeatures has reviewed the avalanche. I've tried to get ahold of a zaskar LT, but they're not interested in sending one at this time. Plus it's not available in the US market for 2020, so no real reason for them to promote it here. What they forget is that half my audience lives outside the US.

[@guadaanto]

@@hardtailparty yeah! thanks for your answer!

[@kalynstalinski8375]

The times have changed when 67 degree head angles are considered “steep”.

[@bicketybam]

I love the look of the straight top tube and seat stays but that gusset is horrible - i much prefer the small support tube most companies use. I do agree seat posts need to be straight (to get a dropper in) and not as long as that is.

[@delgabertan7499]

Looking at this frame online right now. How tall are you? I know you like a bit longer reach so wondering how the fit was for this medium. thanks

[@hardtailparty]

I'm 5'6". I have the torso of someone 5'10" and the legs of someone 5'0"

[@delgabertan7499]

@@hardtailparty bro I'm exactly the same. Inseam i think is 29.5" Just joined your Patreon.

[@danfrst1]

What trails did you ride in this review? I liked the section with some exposure

[@hardtailparty]

axis and outer limits. sames ones I did with my xc setup on the banshee and the ti mc

[@danfrst1]

@@hardtailparty Right on, thanks. I'll hit those up next time i'm there.

[@gusgonzalez1338]

I had a Kona big kahuna 27.5+ but i could'nt keep the pace of the guys i was ridding with, the traction of the plus size tires was imppresive but i felt the head tube angle was very steep, It was more in the XC territory, now i have a chameleon 29er the difference is a lot, is very comfortable and a lot faster and lighter

[@hardtailparty]

I agree, there's a huge difference between a chameleon and this honzo, even though the geo is very similar (67.5 vs 68). I much prefer the chameleon.

[@sirwalksalot3574]

Good review on the honzo st and agree with the review, as I had one, the steel version is too stiff. Switched over to the ti version set up singlespeed and it is stiffer in the right places but def more compliant overall (great for long rides), the geo of the honzo really shines running with a 120mm fork (42-44mm offset) setup stiff (maybe 130mm max imo) a slightly longer stem (50-60mm imo) and frame sized down one size if < 5’7 as the reach is deceivingly long (I’m 5’6 and ridden both the med and sml and found the sml to be a better fit overall, more standover, can run longer dropper post and no seat tube extension),moving the rear wheel slightly longer on the chainstays makes the bike feel better planted and gives the front end more better bite. The bike then really shines, stays very planted (despite the 68 head angle), tracks precisely up and down, while still being agile. The ESD is much better geo and setup for hitting the steeps all the time. Love the vids 👍.

[@FlyingBrickADV]

Any plans to review a steel Norco Torrent

[@Jay-dy6cb]

Love the review made me wanna see you review a trek Roscoe I know they aren’t your favorite

[@hardtailparty]

I've got one in for review. Stay tuned. It's the 141qr that I don't like.

[@Jay-dy6cb]

That’s the first bike Ive ever owned can’t wait to see your blunt and honest opinion haha!

[@mountaingoat8788]

do you think there is a such thing as to slack of a head angle? if so Have you ran into that Yet.? my Gf is building a Ragley mmmbop Head angle is 63.75 with 150mm fork lol can not Wait to see what she thinks

[@hardtailparty]

Definitely. Slacker is not always better. Same with more travel. More travel is not always better. A lot will depend on your trails and riding style. I don't think we're going to see many hardtails slacker than 64* for a long time. I'll be reviewing the mmmbop soon. Stay tuned.

[@mountaingoat8788]

@@hardtailparty Yeah she is on the Fence with fork travel think she is going for the full 150.. how ever for the majority of our rides what she Has now is Fine its a 2014 26" Ghost 4-x with 120mm xc forks not sure about Head angel thinking 68/69. Defiantly going to be different then what she is used to but we intend to do more Bike Park more steep and Jumps.. I'm sure she is keeping her old build as a buddy bike and for more relaxed xc rids.. Nice Cant Wait for that One I will let her Know as well! you got a good Channel here man One Of my Favorites! and I am not Just being Nice.. lol

[@CrazyMalawian]

What do you think of Cannondale’s Cujo?

[@hardtailparty]

I'd put it near the bottom of the "ok" category

[@theepicridecom]

You could also extend the fork travel to slacken the HTA.

[@hardtailparty]

see my previous video where I take the first look at this and talk about that topic. He's already over-forked it at 140mm. So it's got a 67* hta in this review, but it's still not enough. Overforking often comes with some downsides.

[@theepicridecom]

My bad, I missed it. I’ll definitely take a look!

[@brendonmarek2502]

I have a size XL Honzo ST. While I do enjoy the bike, I hate the seat tube gusset as well. The triangle size doesn’t change at all with the changes in size. All Kona does is make the seat tube gusset longer and larger as the sizes go up. Quite disappointing.

[@oklahotb3217]

Have you done the NS Eccentric Chromo yet?

[@hardtailparty]

Nope

[@andrelafond7474]

Hi, there’s a small British brand I think you might want to check out. Bird bikes make two aluminum Hardtails, both of which have a great value for money and great geo. I just thought it’s something that you’d want to know about. Have a great day everyone!

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks for the info. I'll see if I can get one for review. Usually, the smaller the company, the less they're able to afford to send me a bike for a bit. But I'll see

[@andrelafond7474]

hardtail party from what I’ve read about them the frames are really stiff. But it’s exactly what I’m looking for and it’s too good to pass up. I’ll be getting a zero 29 soon.

[@hardtailparty]

you like the stiffness, or the spec/price?

[@andrelafond7474]

hardtail party mainly the geo/value. They have an online parts configurator so you can get a custom build out of the box essentially

[@mccarnickle]

Have you reviewed any Soma bikes?

[@hardtailparty]

Not yet. I'd really like to, I really think highly of them.

[@mccarnickle]

hardtail party thank you. I’ll wait patiently

[@hardtailparty]

@@mccarnickle i wish they made something slacker than 67.5*, but maybe I can run an angle set.

[@SymaticStar]

Maybe Kona watched this review, have you seen the teaser for the new Honzo ESD ( extra slack design ) ? Much slacker steel hardtail, much smaller seat tube etc... Article on pinbike.... Kona also reply that the "Big Honzo " is different being like a Explosif with plus size tyres. :)

[@hardtailparty]

I wish Kona watched my channel, but I highly doubt it. The esd looks cool. I'd love to review one on the channel.

[@mathblier]

It would be nice if you can put your hands on a big Honzo and give a review on it.

[@hardtailparty]

I've been trying. No luck getting one from Kona. The bike shortage is affecting us reviewers too.

[@mathblier]

@@hardtailparty thanks for the quick response! I really like your work! I used to ride a lot in the late 90s and I want to go back on MTB. I am looking for a good all around hardtail and I think that a big Honzo could be a good choise. I dont want to buy a full suspension and I dont have a load of money.

[@SamlaManna014]

I'd kill to see you review a cotic solaris max. That thing looks ideal.

[@hardtailparty]

Agreed. It looks like a blast. I'd love to test one out someday. For now, I've got the BFe MAX in for review, which is pretty similar in geo (with a few tweaks). I expect the solaris rides a little softer, but who knows.

[@davidblackman3127]

@@hardtailparty Rumour has it that for 2021 Transition is going to make another hardtail

[@HollyBoni]

I would love to see a video where you'd just hop on a bike without knowing the exact geo numbers. 🙃

[@hardtailparty]

I actually do that a lot the first few rides on a bike, but I like to check geo numbers when I film the final review so I can describe the geo numbers to the viewers.

[@HollyBoni]

@@hardtailparty Ah sweet, didn't know that!

[@mrskibum885]

have you ever seen/riden a vassago verhauen?

[@hardtailparty]

My good buddy rides a mooseknuckle. That's the only vasdsgo I've seen.

[@mrskibum885]

@@hardtailparty i'll have to let you know how it rides once it arrives :)

[@chunkylover54]

how much is the johnny rotten? i cant find any info on them

[@jamesmcmann8536]

It's coming. Give Ionic your email and they'll give you a head's up.

[@hardtailparty]

Fingers crossed we see one soon. That bike is still haunting me.

[@chunkylover54]

@@hardtailparty I have a surly krampus right now which is a ton of fun but a tank. wanting to build something up a little faster and the johnny rotten checks all the boxes but i am worried this money burning a whole in my pocket will cause me to do something dumb haha

[@howardpetty550]

Have you asked Kenny if you can try this bike with your angle head set? Would be interested to see what your opinion is then.

[@hardtailparty]

I'm sure he'd let me try it. I'd need to get a different angleset, as my wife loves her dv9 with it on, and she doesn't want to switch back. Even with a slacker head angle, it's still going to be a heavy, stiff bike. But it'll probably have a lot more confidence. Might be a good video down the road...

[@bhishannembang3081]

Can u make videos on hardtails around 1000$ because its the price most people will to spend on their first bike and can u plz make video on kona cinder cone

[@hardtailparty]

There are a few great channels.out there reviewing budget bikes. Check out my buddy Joseph @trailfeatures. He does a lot of stuff in that price range.

[@luqman1994]

Try the nukeproof scout!

[@davidbritton700]

Just moved over from the honzo st to the scout. Looking forward to putting some miles on it to see how they compare. The honzo is heavy and will definitely take a beating. I totally agree with hardtail party that it has sort of an identity crisis as it doesn’t do anything particularly well.

[@uonadtehrrocks]

You should try the Guerrilla Gravity pedal head

[@tjay_mac]

If you're in Bay Area, hit me up. I have a Guerilla Gravity Pedalhead for you to demo. I'm 5'6" as well and running it with 27.5x2.8 size tires. That frame is very supple and poppy.

[@hardtailparty]

Sounds super fun. Is the seat tube as long as it looks?

[@tjay_mac]

@@hardtailparty It's short but the max insertion is also short due to the bend. I tagged you in IG. Check it out.

[@rotorwind177]

You're welcome to review my Aluminum one if you want. Its a size large, no fancy parts- all stock. Let me know. Good review as always!

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks. Unfortunately I won't fit on a large, but I appreciate it.

[@rotorwind177]

hardtail party I figured it may be too big for you but wanted too offer :)

[@Srdeo33]

If you put an angle set, would you have to increase fork length also? Otherwise would effect of lowering stack height make head angle steeper? Am I correct on thinking this way? So if you lower the head angle by 2 degree, fork travel needs to grow 40mm(160mm travel) to keep same stack height (at static). When you account for 30% sag @120mm (36mm sag) and @160mm(48mm sag), it will need another 12mm of travel to lower head angle by 2 degrees when riding.

[@hardtailparty]

No. When you reduce the head angle, you dont lower the stack a noticeable amount. Maybe 7* max. See my video on making a bike slacker. Most good anglesets account for this 7mm drop and add a 7mm spacer to the bottom cup. In the end, your reach has shortened a bit, but your stack remains unchanged.

[@Srdeo33]

Thanks. I always wondered that. That clears it up.

[@mChav34]

I wonder about the ride of this frame from a BMX rider's perspective.

[@hardtailparty]

I used to race.bmx..

[@mChav34]

@@hardtailparty Cool! I'm currently riding an EMD and i love it because of the steep head tube angle. Feels like it lends itself to hard standing cranks more like a large "BMX" bike. was wondering if this frame is along those lines?

[@hardtailparty]

Wide bars will help with hard standing cranks too. Your EMD has a very steep head angle. This has some of that same feel, though not as steep.

[@brakejuice]

140 is steep?

[@OverTheHillMTB]

Epilogue: Listed on Pinkbike, Kona Honzo Steel, Location: Sedona, AZ, email Kenny 😂😜

[@hardtailparty]

Kenny actually loves his honzo.

[@OverTheHillMTB]

@@hardtailparty im glad bc i had a Kona King Supreme for years which i loved, i think the Kona Process line is really dialed in...but that's for a different channel.

[@bengeise8390]

dragons layer has been way softer for me

[@hardtailparty]

What's that?

[@bengeise8390]

@@hardtailparty Jamis dragonslayer. has 520 and eagle for 1600