After launching new carbon versions of the short-travel Hei Hei mountain bike and Libre gravel bike earlier this year, Kona is introducing aluminum-framed versions of both. Both models were well received, and these new versions are identical to their carbon counterparts — other than the frame material, of course. With tough aluminum frames and sensible, budget-friendly builds, Kona is lowering the price and barrier to entry for both of these awesome bikes.
Kona Hei Hei Aluminum: $3,999
Now in its tenth generation, the Hei Hei is the best it has ever been, and now it’s being offered at a much more approachable price point. The 6061 aluminum frame shares the same geometry and suspension design as the carbon version, so presumably, it will be just as much fun to ride. You can check out our Hei Hei CR launch article for all the details, but here are the quick hits.
The Hei Hei is a short-travel mountain bike that blurs the lines between cross-country and trail riding. The frame has 120 mm of rear travel using Kona’s Swinger suspension design, paired with a 130 mm travel fork. By today’s standards, the geometry is on the more conservative side, though it is well matched for the bike’s travel numbers and intended use. Key figures include a 66-degree head tube angle, a seat tube angle of ~76 degrees, 435 mm chainstays, and moderate reach measurements — 474 mm on a size large.
Like its carbon counterpart, the aluminum Hei Hei has a low standover height and deep seatpost insertion for today’s longer dropper posts. It comes loaded with frame mounts so you can carry multiple water bottles or attach your favorite tools and accessories. Standard internal cable routing gives it a clean look, and molded rubber chainstay protection helps keep the noise down. It was originally listed at $4,399, but Kona just informed us that the price will actually be $3,999.
Spec Highlights
- Kona 6061 Aluminum Butted frame
- Swinger rear suspension design, 120mm travel
- Super deep dropper post insertion depth
- Nine bottle/accessory mount options inside front triangle
- Fox Float Rhythm rear shock w/ custom tune
- Fox 34 Float Rhythm 130mm travel
- New SRAM 4-Piston Motive Bronze brakes
- New SRAM Eagle 70 Drivetrain
- TransX +RAD dropper post in 125 – 200mm travel (frame size dependent)
- Maxxis Dissector 29 x 2.4” WT EXO/TR tires
Kona Libre Aluminum: $2,099
Like the Hei Hei, the carbon version of the Libre gravel bike was also updated back in the spring. The 2nd generation of this versatile gravel ride got updated geometry, a UDH, and a lighter frame, with the goal of enhancing capability and comfort while maintaining its high level of versatility. It slots very nicely into the do-it-all gravel bike category with a fairly neutral geometry that leans more toward the recreational and adventure side of the gravel riding spectrum.
The new aluminum Libre shares an identical geometry and frame design with its carbon sibling and differs only in frame material and component spec. It comes in just one complete build with affordable yet functional components. Still, it’s ready for any adventure straight out of the box with a reliable and durable 2 x 10-speed Shimano CUES drivetrain and tubeless-ready WTB wheels and tires. All that slides in at a reasonable price of $2,099, which seems like a bargain in today’s market.
Spec Highlights
- New “G2” version Libre, now in Aluminum
- Now available in 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58 sizes
- New “G2” Carbon Libre fork
- Shimano CUES 2 x 10 speed drivetrain and Flatmount hydraulic brakes
- 180mm rotors simply because this bike is too fast for smaller rotors
- Kona Gravel dropbar with 16º flare
- WTB SL8 saddle
- WTB tubeless-ready ST i23 TCS rims w/ Vulpine TCS Light 700 x 45c tubeless-ready tires
Kona Hei Hei and Libre: Availability
The new, aluminum-framed versions of the Kona Hei Hei and Libre bikes are available starting today. Check out the Kona website for more information, to order a bike, or to find a dealer near you.
