(+) nearly everything including the frame, forks, brakes, wheels and 1.5 big headset (-) the shimano alivio front mech and the double chainrings on the front
Advantages: Robust build and a superb frame Disadvantages: Average forks brakes and cranks. Also not the lightest
Buy this bike for probalby the best do it all hardtal frame at this price point. While it is a little bit heavy for a proper cross country hardtail it more than makes up for this with its versatility. The frame is beatifully stiff and tracks well through the corners while still giving just enough comfort from the taut back end, and frame forks and wheels are even strong enough to do a bit of jumping and north shore. The forks are not the best, neither ar the brakes or the cranks, but the ride more than makes up for all of that.
Kona have managed to make the handling agile and yet stable with good stand over clearance. Add to that good Canadian build quality with components that are built to last and good mud clearance and you cannot go wrong. ...
Advantages: nearly everything including the frame, forks, brakes, wheels and 1.5 big headset Disadvantages: the shimano alivio front mech and the double chainrings on the front
I had owned an older model of the cannondale chase 2, i think it was the 2004 one and it was excellent, only flaw being the avid cable disc brakes which i had to upgrade. I had had this for a while and thought of getting a new bike so i looked at the cannondale range as i liked my old one so much. I saw the chase 2 2007 model and fell in love with it.
Among the strengths is the chase hardtail frame which is chunky, made from cnc machined 6061 aluminium which is mega strong and has nice simple graphics.
Also the ISGC BB is great as it give you a better ability to keep the chain on when used with a suitable chain guide and single ring at the front.
The forks are an upgrade from the 2004 model. The 100mm Marzochi dirt jump 3s are slightly better than the manitou stance 100mm which used to rock bottom if used for jumps. Although ...
