However, the test winner from last year's comparison is now only available as a mini downhiller with a double bridge (see Specialised vs Trek duel). The supported single pivot from Kona comes with the most aggressive geometry data of the test field: 63.8 steering angle, almost 450 millimetres reach in M and an extremely low bottom bracket for a 26-inch bike with so much travel. The top tube drops like a ladies' bike - the freedom of movement is enormous. The equipment with "Lyrik RC2 DH", "Vivid" shock, 1x11 drivetrain and 150 mm dropper post is ideal for this segment. When the Kona is extended, you sit very comfortably stretched out for long uphill pedalling sections. Surprisingly, the rear shock, which is tuned with a lot of sag, moved virtually zero when pedalling and even when pedalling out of the saddle, even though we left the compression damping open. Despite the higher weight, we were able to climb well over 1000 metres per climb without any problems.
Downhill, the "Process 167" is a force to be reckoned with. The suspension is extremely plush and stable in its travel. No bottoming out, no bottoming out. The bike also has good pop and feels very agile and safe when changing direction quickly. Prerequisite: Active bodywork and targeted weight on the front in corners, otherwise the long reach and short rear end will take revenge with front wheel slippage. We were surprised by how well the "Lyrik" performed compared to the competitor forks. In combination with the fantastic rear suspension, the bike is the new benchmark in this category. Just like the Cube, the 40 mm seat tube on the Kona is problematic for riders over 1.80 metres.
ConclusionThe "Process 167" is the worthy successor to last year's test winner Specialized "Enduro Evo": top suspension, top geometry and ideal equipment. We had nothing to criticise and had a lot of fun on the bike. Our clear number 1 in this comparison.
PLUS - Chassis - Geo - Handling
MINUS - nothing!!!
Manufacturer information
Distribution Kona Europe www.konaworld.com
Material / Sizes Aluminium / S, M, L
Price / weight without pedals 3 499 Euro / 15.2 kg
Measurement data
Front / rear suspension travel 170 mm / 167 mm
Rear suspension system Supported single-joint
Equipment
Fork / damper RockShox Lyrik RC2 DH / RockShox Vivid R2C
Cranks / gears SRAM X1 / SRAM X1
Brake system Avid Code R
Impellers Novatech hubs, WTB Frequency Team i25, rims, Maxxis Minion DHF 2.5 tyres
