Kona’s Process MTBs have become well-established in the trail and enduro categories, so it makes sense for Kona to create a few eMTB models based on that proven platform. They’ve just announced a revised Remote 160 DL and an all-new Remote X, adding a longer travel option for rowdy riders.
The new Remote eMTBs share the same frame updates as Kona’s current Process MTBs. The long-legged 180/178mm travel Remote X is the choice for riders who want to self-shuttle gnarly trails, and the 160 DL is a more typical enduro/trail eMTB with 160mm travel.
Both models are powered by Shimano EP8 motors and can keep you pedaling for hours with 612Wh batteries. Kona says the Remote eMTBs present great performance and value, with both models offering mid-spec builds at reasonable prices.
Remote X and 160 DL Common Features:
There are several common features between the Remote 160 DL and the Remote X, so let’s start with those. Both frames are built from 6061 butted aluminum and come in S/M/L/XL sizes. Both models roll on 29” wheels, and are likely intended to stay that way as Kona makes no mention of mullet compatibility.
The new Remotes both got the same frame updates as Kona’s current Process lineup. These updates include refined suspension, which aims to offer great small bump sensitivity and a more progressive shock curve for solid bottom-out resistance. The frames are also compatible with coil shocks.
The updated frames offer shorter seat tubes with more dropper post-insertion depth. Small and medium bikes come with 170mm posts, and the larges and XLs come with 200mm posts. The updated frames also have more water bottle clearance, so all sizes can carry a bottle on the down tube.
Remote frames are UDH compatible and use Boost 148mm rear axle spacing. Kona says tires up to 2.5” wide will fit into the rear triangles. The frames accept 31.6mm seat posts and feature internal cable routing.
To help handle the extra weight of the drive system, both Remote models include Maxxis tires with tough DoubleDown casings.
Shimano EP8 Drive System:
The Remote 160 DL and Remote X feature the same drive systems. At the heart of them is Shimano’s EP8 motor, which puts out 85Nm of torque.
Power is supplied by a Darfon 612Wh downtube battery. For the Remote bikes, Kona developed a new dual-material battery cover that’s very durable and resistant to weather and debris. The cover is attached with two M5 bolts. The bolted design keeps the battery snugly in place while you ride.
A 4A charger is included with the Remote bikes, and a full battery charge from empty takes 6-7 hours. Currently, there is no range extender option for this drive system.
Shimano’s SC-EM800 display/control unit shows your ride metrics and allows you to toggle between assist levels, etc. A charge port for smartphones is included below the bike’s top tube-mounted power button.
Spare batteries and chargers will be available through Kona dealers. Kona will also stock replacement motor and battery covers, frame grommet parts, and battery mounting parts. Kona will provide warranty support for two years on all Kona and Darfon components. Other components are covered by their manufacturer’s warranties.
Kona Remote 160 DL: $4,999.00
The new Remote 160 DL is a fully redesigned 2nd generation model of the bike. It is basically the electric version of the Process 153. It has the same geometry and more or less the same suspension design… but it gets 160mms of rear travel and is tuned specifically for the ride characteristics of an eMTB.
Geometry:
Kona didn’t go nuts with long reaches for the Remotes, with a medium frame at 455mm and a large at 480mm. The Remote 160 DL has a slack but still trail-friendly 64.5° head tube angle. Seat tube angles range from 76.7-77°, and the bike gets one 440mm chainstay length for all frame sizes.
Build Spec:
For the Remote 160 DL’s MSRP you get a decent setup of mid-grade components. The bike features a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain and Code R brakes. The RockShox suspension package includes a Zeb Select+ fork and a Super Deluxe Select rear shock.
The Remote 160 DL comes in Matte Lead Powder with Gloss Black decals.
Kona Remote X: $4,999.00
The Remote X, more or less an electrified Process X, is an eMTB for burly riding. Kona describes it as ‘glorious excess’, or pretty much a bike park bike that will get you around the trails with ease. This model gets 180mms of front and 178mms of rear travel.
Geometry:
The Remote X gets the same conservative reach numbers as the 160 DL model, and the same 440mm chainstays on all frame sizes. The Head tube angle is nice and slack at 63.5°, and the seat masts are steep with various sizes sitting between 77-78°. Not surprisingly with its longer travel, the Remote X sits a few mm’s higher than the 160 DL in terms of BB, standover and stack height.
Build Spec:
Kona has cleverly included some nice bits and pieces in their build specs, but like the 160 DL the Remote X gets a mid-spec build that reflects its attainable price tag. The Remote X gets a Fox 38 Performance fork and Float X Performance Elite rear shock. Shimano supplies the drivetrain with Deore shifting components and SLX brakes.
The Remote X comes in Gloss Viridian with Metallic Bronze decals.
