When Kona introduced the new Magic Link rear suspension system two years ago, it was thought to be a marketing stunt. At least not that the Canadians would install this system not only on extreme freeriders, but now also on enduro bikes. This takes a lot of courage, because the principle of a kind of automatic suspension travel limitation is not so easy to explain. An additional spring sits on a slide between the shock absorber and chainstays, which moves forwards under chain tension. When you pedal, the suspension travel is greatly reduced. The result: less suspension bob.
In practice, the system works impressively: while you have almost the suspension travel of a downhiller available downhill, this is noticeably reduced as soon as you start pedalling uphill. Downhill, the Coilair is not fazed by anything. The extremely long wheelbase due to its design is not entirely innocent. Logically, the bike reaches its limits as soon as things get tight and twisty. Uphill, the Coilair rides very smoothly and without bobbing. But that alone does not define a mountain sprinter. Magic Link not only makes the bike sluggish, but also very heavy. Well over 16 kilos is simply not competitive, even in this category.
This is partly due to the entire equipment, from the cranks to the gears and the add-on parts. They are below the level of the competition in terms of quality and weight.
CONCLUSIONUnconventional hardcore enduro bike with a very special rear triangle. Unfortunately only very limited touring suitability due to cheap equipment and high weight.
+ Plenty of suspension travel
+ Very comfortable
- High total weight
- Not manoeuvrable
Web: www.konaworld.com
