Endurance test performance: 3,232 km | 45,420 altitude metres
As a Transalp guide, I dreamed of a 29er for a long time, as wheel sizes were wildly discussed on every tour. Don't get me wrong: My 26er All-Mountain had never let me down before, but now I wanted to know whether a 29er made sense for me.
I felt comfortable with the 16-inch frame of the Big Kahuna right from the start: the geometry is suitable for touring, the 710 millimetre wide handlebars and the wide Maxxis tyres convey a sense of security. The low-maintenance Scandium frame, the two thru-axles and the solid mid-range equipment ensure stress-free kilometres. The Big Kahuna accompanied me across the Alps several times without a hitch and the Sram X7 gears worked flawlessly. Only on steep climbs on the main Alpine ridge did I wish I had a 22 or 24 t chainring. On day tours, however, the 26 teeth at the front were sufficient. I particularly enjoyed the 29er's smooth ride on long gravel descents and fast corners. The big wheels swallowed roots and stones with ease, but were surprisingly manoeuvrable on the trail.
Only the Avid rear brakes required regular maintenance. The Kona was finally put to the test in Australia: 600 km of Great Ocean Road and 300 km of dust-dry trails - up and down. The Kona showed no weaknesses in the outback. Very easy to maintain, it took me over hill and dale in the Australian trail parks and put a big smile on my dusty face. Not as lively as a 26er, but all the smoother: the robust Big Kahuna also impressed me down under.
Functionality ****
Shelf life *****
(max. 6 stars)
Conclusion: reasonably priced touring 29er which, apart from the technical quibbles with the fork and brakes, cuts a fine figure even for small bikers and women. Unfortunately a little heavy. Top: the X7 groupset.
Tuning
- 130 km - change to SQlab: Instead of the WTB saddle and the standard grips, I fitted the SQlab saddle and grips. The seat post was fitted with a quick release for fast lowering.
- 250 km - Tyre change: Changed to Schwalbe Rocket Ron tyres before the first Alpine cross
Defects
- 2300 km - Fork ticks: Stroke can no longer be used: Air in negative chamber lowered
- 2950 km - Pistons stuck: The pistons of the Avid rear brake are stuck and occasionally block the rear wheel: Pistons cleaned
