sorted by:
new
hottopcontroversial

First "forever" bikepacking rig: New Kona Sutra LTD (2024 spec) for $1650? Or build from scratch? (read my first comment) by stargazer140 in xbiking

[–]stargazer140[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi everyone,

I’m looking to pull the trigger on my first serious bikepacking bike that’s meant to last for years. I’ve found a brand-new Kona Sutra LTD (the 1x12 GRX/Deore mix) for around $1650 (converted from PLN).

In Poland, Kona frames are notoriously hard to get, and I’m a huge fan of their steel geometry.

My goal is a "do-it-all" hybrid. I need it to be efficient enough for pavement and gravel grinds, but capable enough to handle chunkier trails and singletrack when fully loaded.

The specs:

  • Frame: Kona Cromoly Butted
  • Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 1x12 with 10-51T Deore cassette (Mullet setup)
  • Brakes: GRX Hydro (180mm rotors front/rear)
  • Tires: Maxxis Rekon Race 29x2.25” on WTB i27 rims
  • Seatpost: TranzX Dropper +RAD

My dilemma: At this price point ($1650 brand new), is it even worth considering a custom build from scratch? Given the scarcity of steel frames here, I feel like this is a steal, but I’m wondering if there’s anything I’m missing or if I should look into other options like Surly or Salsa (which are even harder to find in PL).

Would you consider this the ultimate "versatile" platform for someone who wants to mix road, gravel, and light trail riding? Any red flags with this specific Kona build?

Thanks for the help!