Well, finally got around to building my bike. Finished my wheels a week ago and just got my frame and fork back from the shop where they installed my crown race and headset cups. Here she is after an application of framesaver. Today I am cutting the steerer and wondering if I should install the cranks first so I can get a better feel for everything. I will try to add more pics as it progresses.
Love my 2012 Kona Unit. Had her for about a month now, also was a custom build. Here she is on my local 30km loop. And yes, those are zebra in the background!
Thanks man! I decided that I wanted to build my bike from the frame up, and just decided on the Unit after almost committing to a Jabberwocky. I decided I wanted to buy the parts I wanted and go all out. It's designed for XC trails, but I will take it almost anywhere (here in Austin TX) like I did with my hardrock. I just took it around the block for a test ride and it rides really nice. A couple times there was a pop when I mashed down hard on the pedals. Not sure what was up with that. I'll have to keep my eyes/ears on that. I'm 6'3" and about 215lbs and it fits good.
Specs:
2012 Kona Unit Frame (20") and P2 fork
Chris King Threadless headset
Truvativ Stylo Stem 5°-100mm
Truvativ Stylo Bars
ODI Rogue grips
Avid Dial 7 levers
Jagwire cables
Avid BB7 calipers
Avid 185mm disc in front
Avid 160mm disc in back
Thomson seatpost collar
Thomson seatpost
WTB Rocket V saddle
Truvativ Stylo 1.1 SS crankset 175mm
Shimano M520 pedals
KMC X8 chain
ZTR Flow 36h 29er rims
WTB Bronson 2.2" tires (tubeless)
DT Competition spokes
Chris King 36h SS ISO disc hub in back
Chris King 36h ISO disc hub in front
Salsa quick release in front
Looking very good. I ride mine mainly on cross country and mild trails with small drops, rocky descents and ascents. The rigid fork definitely ups the technicality of any trail.
I recently picked up a stock unit. I absolutely love mine. I ride mainly loose gravel trails, firebreaks, some technical stuff, altnough I have to admit that cobblestone streets and a rigid fork are not a pleasant combination. Love your unit though, she looks great and will be a lot of fun to ride.
2011 Unit takes a 30.0. I'd assumed 2012 is the same. Hope sells a 30.0 QR with non-tool micro adjust (although its bulky and fugly compared to Salsa's QR tool micro adjust).
I just got back from my LBS and ordered a 12 Unit. Cant wait to rip it up on this beast. This will be my first 29", first SS and second full rigid (other than my 9 zero 7).
I just pulled the trigger on an order for a 2012 closeout frame/fork.
Can somebody confirm, 27.2 post and 30.0 collar?
I'm pretty stoked, I've always wanted to have a Kona, and this will be my first orange bike since the Bontrager Race I was riding back in the mid-90s.
Woo hoo!
EDIT: One other thing, is the frame suspension-corrected for a 100 or 120 (4 or 5 inch) fork? I plan to run it rigid at least for a while, but wonder what squishy fork it would take if I decided to go that way.
What are the most important upgrades to the Unit, in Unit owners opinions? About to buy one and have a couple benji's left-over to spend on components, including a recon fork... I think. Thanks!
After getting some rides in, I'd get my fit dialed in by replacing any necessary cockpit parts: grips, bar, stem, saddle, and pedals. And change the rear cog's size if necessary. Beyond that, I'd get a fatter front tire and look into tubeless options.
I've swapped out a number of the parts on my '11 Unit. Not sure whats on the '12 but the FSA BB on mine was shelled after about 150mi. I replaced the BB and cranks with an e-thirteen. Also replaced the bar, stem, pedals, post, and just yesterday went to Geax Mezcal tires.
I love this bike, and I will be replacing the fork with a Niner carbon in the next few weeks. Also have a Groovy Luv Handle bar on order to try the backsweep.
I've swapped out a number of the parts on my '11 Unit. Not sure whats on the '12 but the FSA BB on mine was shelled after about 150mi. I replaced the BB and cranks with an e-thirteen. Also replaced the bar, stem, pedals, post, and just yesterday went to Geax Mezcal tires.
I love this bike, and I will be replacing the fork with aNiner carbon in the next few weeks. Also have a Groovy Luv Handle bar on order to try the backsweep.
Update: been riding the unit daily around the hood and nearby hike/bike trail. Took it on some singletrack one time before realizing I am gonna need some squish. I don't think my headset/arms will endure it. Besides that, it's been a pleasure to ride. I highly recommend one if you are still considering various SS frames. No complaints at all.
VERY nice!
I bought a leftover UNIT almost 2yrs ago, '06-'07? Purple frame.
Love this bike, so much I bought a 2011 frame and built it up geared!
I'll put up some pics when my post count is high nuff....
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