A way to give more padding to your bars is to remove the existing cover, put on foam grips, then wrap them with your handlebar tape of choice. It takes way more tape to wrap over foam, but the result is a large diameter surface that is both softer and spreads loads over a larger area of the hand, reducing loads into the hand. The large diameter grips are not pretty, but they get the job done. I found that thin grips tended to overload my hands and transmit more stress into my wrists, eventually bringing on carpal tunnel syndrome. I lost approximately 7-10 years of riding to the healing process. The purpose of a touring bike is to take care of it's rider. By the time I tried this fix, it was already too late, but it did give me approximately one extra year of riding.
Great review! Good pacing and very clear voice! That bridge in the background looked so familiar, and then I heard the "I'm so sorry"' at the end and I knew it had to be close to home.
Thank you for watching and for the comment. That was one of my early video, so the fact that I got the audio right was a big accomplishment. :) I'm assuming you're Toronto based then.
Ryan! I'm one of Rad Bike Adventure's subscribers. :) Your long term review of the Kona Sutra put the bike on my radar months ago. I referenced Darin's ULTD review in one of the comments, as people have been asking about bike sizing. Congrats on reaching a big chanel milestone! Well deserved, and keep the excellent videos coming.
Sutra series was on my short list of touring bikes that I'd been searching for lately. Bike shortage and all. Ended up with a Trek 520 Grando. But I've watched a lot of your videos on the Kona Sutra series. They all look like great bikes too.
If I were to recommend a touring bike today, it would be the Kona Sutra. I tour on a 2006 Trek 520 which I bought new and it's been awesome, including a transcontinental this past summer without a single mechanical glitch in nearly 3800 miles. Trek recently decided to make significant changes to their highly successful touring bicycle, changes which were likely driven more by market forces than the purpose of the bicycle. A touring bicycle should be that balance of simplicity with efficiency, not follow the lead of developments intended for competitive cycling. The Kona Sutra does this. If I were buying today, it would be the Sutra. Great looking bike and well designed for long days in the saddle. I especially appreciate the bar end shifters. These shifters have a reputation as being more dependable than shifters integrated into the brake levers. I know that has been the case for me as my bar ends have lasted forever but my integrated shifters have had problems. For the record, the Fuji Touring also still has bar end shifters. I haven't read all the comments so sorry if I'm being repetitive.
Thank you for sharing your insights regarding your long term use of the Trek 520 and for flagging the Fuji Touring bike as well. I've not personally seen too many Fuji touring bikes here in Ontario, but that doesn't mean much at all. I looked at the components and they are comparable.
My current rides are the Surly Long Haul Trucker and Surly Pugsley. Love both bikes. Pug is wonderful on crappy shoulders, as are often found on British Columbia Highways [although to be fair, the Trans-Canada is being double-lained all across the province; the new sections of the highway are state of the art.]. But on the lousy sections, the wheels on the Pug are just incredible. Heavy frames both, but steady as a rock with heavy loads. Don't know the Kona Sutra. Both of my Surlys' have S and S couplings.
Oh wow! Congrats on the purchase. I'm surprised you were able to find this bike at a bike shop (I'm making an assumption you got it at a bike shop, I realize). Happy riding!
Thank you for your review, I purchased one in January and couldn't be happier, incredibly versatile. I have also swapped out for flat bars and 29x 2.25 tyres for more technical bike packing trips and performed beautifully. My only complaint about the bike is the paint seems almost butter soft, so if you are attaching any frame bags or anything else to the frame make sure to use protective tape first to save the paint. Happy riding!
Thanks for watching! I noticed the same about the paint and just bought Racers Tape Surface Guard Tape. I scratched up my gravel bike with frame bags and, like you, I also noticed the softness of the paint on this bike. Happy riding!
Thanks for that nice review, on of my favourite bikes! Like this years colour. By the way I think that the Sutras goes quite well on gravel .. Happy riding!
Thanks @Garry Cleak! Wonderful to hear about the bike doing well on gravel. I like riding on rail trails and light gravel roads, so this is excellent news!
Thanks for that riders review of the Sutra. I also have the 2021model. I did change one thing on the bike and that was to replace the stock saddle with a Black B17 standard. In my opinion it really lifts the image of the bike.
I think a black saddle would look much better. I'm not sure why the bike comes with the tan one. I have a black B17, but it's the short version (women's) and I don't like it as much in terms of comfort, so the tan one is staying for now.
@@WheelsonaBike Yes I think that the tan saddle is ok. I just had a black one off another bike so I swapped them over and thought it looked better. Thanks for the reply. Happy cycling
Witam Agnieszka, Supper Video.. Dzieki. I have the same bike, I agree with you on all of the points. I am getting ready for my multi day trip and it seems like this bike will do everything I want it to do.. Pls. keep doing the Videos...
Congrats on your new bike. I think in that price range, the Kona Sutra tops its competitors - the Salsa Marrakesh and Trek 520. It comes with full fenders, better derailleurs, and the Brooks B27 leather saddle (I hope you applied proofide to the top and bottom of the saddle!). I currently own 6 bikes, but am trying to thin the herd as much as possible by replacing about 4 of the bikes with 1 Kona Sutra for touring. Also, keep a close watch on your bike. Bike thefts have increased since the COVID-19 lockdown and the concomitant new bike shortage.
Thanks @Bruin. I agree. I think the Kona offers best value for money in this pricing category. Yes, I've been applying proof hide to break in the saddle (definitely more than once). You own a lot of bikes! I have three and I think that's one too many. :):) Bike theft has always been a problem in Toronto, but now will be even more so due to the shortages.
I don't personally have any experience with the Fuji bike, but maybe Bruin does. I have read owners speak highly of it, but again, I've never ridden it myself or met anyone who rides it.
Just had my dealer order me one, partially based on what seems to me to be an honest review--useful as always. One thing that attracted me to this model was it's great feature set--I don't have to change anything; it even ships with my preferred tire! Looks like I might have to add a kickstand (?) Thanks!
That's great to hear. I hope you like the bike as much as I do. It has proven to be a reliable machine for me. Yes, I'd add a kickstand. I am actually considering adding two, one for each wheel.
Good overview! I have a 48cm 2019 model of the same bike. I swapped the seat for a Terry women’s specific model. I have multiple sets of pedals & plan to use pedals that are flat on one side & clipless on the other for long touring rides, otherwise clipless for normal riding. I will also put padded tape on the handlebars when I go touring. You're right-the cork tape that comes with the bike isn't very helpful. I didn't like the idea of mechanical disk brakes but they work well & are more maintenance free for long term riding. So I'm not swapping them for hydraulics any time soon. Ride safely. 👍☮️🌞🌟🚵🏼♀️
Thanks for watching and for the thoughtful comment. On the topic of bar tape, I recently swapped it for a Wolf Tooth Supple tape and it's made a huge difference. I also think my saddle is fully broken in and it was a dream to ride on (without padded shorts) on my recent mini tour. I'm very happy with this bike.
Salut . Je suis content de t'avoir rendu service , effectivement , les shifter avec friction sont plus agréable à utiliser qu'avec l'indexation et demande beaucoup moins de réglages . Bonne continuation et merci . ( Pourquoi ne pas t'écrire en Anglais ? )
You can certainly write in English, but I do enjoy trying to figure out the gist of your comments written in French. Then I run them past Google Translate to really make sure I understand. I'm being a little selfish in asking you to continue in French, as it's a great, authentic way, to learn a language.
Steel frames are nice. Mechanical disc are quite good. Easier to repair than hydraulic. Especially when touring. Not every shop carries bleeding tools. There is such a thing as over engineering. The bike industry is no different than other businesses. They push lots of merchandise. Bar end shifters are sweet. Installed hundreds as a shop technician/ mechanic
Hi! Thanks for posting this video! Can you please elaborate some more on why you want bar end shifters? Is it only because you dislike integrated shifters with brakes? Was this due to a bad experience? Thanks!
Integrated shifters didn't work out for me. I ended up getting a lot of forearm pain when I rode long distances, so I prefer not to have them on my bike.
Thanks for the review. I looked at Kona but now on my second Genesis Tour de Fer which I love. Like others, I am not sold on bar end shifters especially with the wide bars on the Sutra where a bar bag can fit no probs.
Thanks for sharing. I'm not familiar with the bike you mention, I will look it up. Bar end shifters are quite polarizing, somewhat like Brooks saddles.
Great video! I own a 2021 Kona Sutra myself and I'm not a big fan of those bar-end shifters.. I wanted to replace them for the integrated shifters but heard that I needed to change the crankset and both the derailleurs... not sure about it though. Sorry for the mistakes, I'm french 🙂
Thanks @Pixeldeter! Sorry to hear you don't like the bar end shifters. Have you seen Path Less Pedaled's video on setting up mullet shifting (mountain bike gears with road shifters) on a bike? You may find it of interest as he identifies a potential solution for doing this on a budget. He is working with a SRAM drivetrain not a Shimano one. Have a look if you haven't already: ruclips.net/video/znAfrCXbnnQ/видео.html.
@@WheelsonaBike thank you for the reply. After some research I think I'm gonna go with the Jteck shifmate 6. Seems to be working well and easy to install =)
Based on the attachment points it looks like it should. I also found these cycling discussion groups, in which people talk about installing the rack on their Sutras: 1. Adventure Cycling forums.adventurecycling.org/index.php?topic=15397.0 2. Reddit www.reddit.com/r/bicycletouring/comments/7hrcfl/front_rack_suggestions_for_kona_sutra_2017/ Hope this helps.
Bonjour , très bonne présentation . J'utilise aussi le Kona Sutra pour mes voyage . Vous pouvez aussi enlever l’indexation du shifter du dérailleur arrière en tournent la bague situé sur le shifter , cela est plus pratique pour éviter de régler la tension du câble . A bientôt .
Perfect timing for your comment as I was thinking about doing this as my gears need to be indexed. I'll see if this is something I can do myself. Thank you for watching.
Hello! Great video! I am waiting this bike in Russia too :) Could you please say, do you know which version of Shimano Diore has this bike? I tried to understand but according information in internet shimano Diore has 3 or more different version. Maybe you know? And one more question, do you use kickstand? As I understood this bike don't has place for kickstand and I am thinking what can I do)
Hello and thanks for watching! I'm glad you liked the video. The bike seems to be popular around the world. I couldn't find any info about the gearing on the bike itself, it just says Shimano Deore, but Kona's website identifies Shimano Deore SGS as the rear derailleur. Here's the page I'm referencing: konaworld.com/sutra.cfm. I don't have a kickstand on the bike, but I'm most likely going to be getting the Click Stand, which is a folding kick stand custom made for my bike. Here's a page with more info: www.click-stand.com/. Hope this helps.
@@WheelsonaBike Thanks a lot! This is strange that Kona don't tell accurate model of Deore) Regarding Click Stand, thanks! I wrote to Kona and they advised me the same:)
@@WheelsonaBike I live in Florida and bike touring all over state. Next week heading out to another bike tour on the Florida panhandle for four days, should be nice 🙂
thanks for the review. Could you tell me what is the advantage of the bar end shifters compared to integrated shifters. I do not really see the advantage yet because you have to reach extra to switch to the handlebar ends.
For me the advantage is two fold. From a mechanical standpoint, bar end shifters are simpler to fix on the road than integrated shifters. From a functional perspective, integrated shifters for me cause a lot of discomfort in my forearms when on a multi-day bicycle tour. I've not had this happen with bar end shifters. I think, just like with anything bike related, shifters are very personal.
Thank you for the review. I am waiting for my Kona Sutra as well. Would you rather have gone for a size 48 if possible? I have ordered a size 50 being 5'7 with short legs. I hope it fits
It's hard to say as I wasn't able to ride the smaller size, but I think it would've fit me as well. I could've gone either way. Have you seen Rad Bike Adventure's review of the Kona Sutra ULTD? I'm not sure if the frame geometry is the same (as the touring bike's), but she's 5'7" as well and she bought the 50cm frame. Here's the link to where she addresses her height: ruclips.net/video/jOWemsAkVgU/видео.html. I hope you like your bike as much as I do!
I absolutely love these bar end shifters, especially when switched to friction mode. To answer your question, you just reach down to the end of the drops and move the lever up or down. It's quite easy to get used to.
Spoko film! Tylko jak to tak mieć nowy rower dwa tygodnie i tylko 30 km zrobić, ja bym nie wytrzymał i dzielnie testował prawie w każdej wolnej chwili 😅
Looking to buy this bike right now for long distance touring trips. Hello from a fellow Torontonian! Can I ask which shop you got it from? I'm talking to Sweet Pete's at the moment. I'd prefer to have a test ride, but I'm not sure if there's any way to do that.
Awesome to hear from another Torontonian! I got the bike from Cycle Solutions, the Parliament location. They had no bikes for me to test ride at the time of order (July) and it looks like as new bikes come in, they're already spoken for.
@@WheelsonaBike Yep, everyone is sold out. This is what I get for waiting so long! I want to do Toronto-Halifax this year and I'd appreciate an upgrade from my Kona Dewey commuter bike haha
I have the Satori Heads Up extender installed. 78mm max extension. Here's more info www.amazon.ca/dp/B089VS8GGN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_X6FTEJK8KSG79T0QF2DZ. I hope it helps. As well, you can see the stem close up in this video ruclips.net/video/YwyiRMFkHD4/видео.html.
How is the standover height of the bike relative to your inseam? Did you clear it, or is the 50 cm frame slightly higher than your inseam height? If so, how important is this for a touring bike? Of note: on the Kona website, the Sutra's 50 cm frame has a 765mm (30.11" in) standover height, which seems high to me for a 50 cm bike for those up to 5'3" in height.
I have about an inch of clearance. It's perfect for me. I think this is super important as I sometimes dismount the saddle and walk the bike over rocks, etc. If I had no standover clearance this would be difficult. Also, I'm not sure how I'd dismount the bike altogether. I'm 5'4", and the frame fits me well. Maybe consider a smaller frame? Best to get a test ride or speak to a Kona Rep.
@@WheelsonaBike I was told that I should base standover height, based on my inseam height, while flat footed or using flat shoes, which I never use while biking. With my shoes/sneakers, including hiking boots at times, these typically add 1.5"-2.0" inches to overall inseam height, making me clear the Sutra's stanover height.
The low drop (Venturemax) or very low drop (beacon) are super comfortable and the flare gives you more stability when riding in the drop too. I wasn't using the drop too with the stock Sutra bar. So if you still don't like the bartape changing the handlebars with it could be an option.
You already found the stem extender info, so onto your second question - the kick stand. I never added a kick stand, but did use the Click Stand while on my cross Canada tour.
Really informative, thank you. I've ordered a 58" and the grip tape was something I was already planning to replace having come from a Claud Butler that had super soft sponges which I loved. One question you though, have you found a decent kick stand for the Kona? I've read there aren't that many that work well with it and was after suggestions. Love from the UK
Happy to hear you found the video informative, @baronjokes. I'm considering the Click Stand instead of a mounted kick stand. It's custom made to fit the size of the bike, the con is that it's an extra thing to remember to carry. Here's the link to the website: www.click-stand.com/. There are a few videos that review it and people generally really like using it.
I reached out to Kona and here's what they wrote (in reference to the 54cm frame): OK for this bike right here 30.7 lbs setup just like shown. konaworld.com/archive/2021/sutra.cfm I don't personally own a scale and haven't weighed the bike, but it's not a light bike, that is for sure.
This is an amazingly comfortable bike, the more I ride it, the more comfortable it gets. The price has recently gone up for the 2022 model, it's currently listed at CAD $2099 on the Kona website: konaworld.com/sutra.cfm.
Hello Peter. Excellent to know you got your bike! I have the Satori Heads Up extender installed. Here's more info www.amazon.ca/dp/B089VS8GGN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_X6FTEJK8KSG79T0QF2DZ. I hope it helps. As well, you can see the stem close up in this video ruclips.net/video/YwyiRMFkHD4/видео.html.
Instead of recommending the size out right, I would suggest that you follow instructions on the Kona Sizing page and then get in touch with Kona reps for additional support. Based on the info you share with them, they'll be much better able to answer your sizing question than I can. Here's the page: konaworld.com/sizing.cfm. Hope this helps!
@@carlosrafaelduran8438 I think so and I agree with looking at the sizing info. I find Kona's run a little big. I'm 5'4'' and have the 46 Sutra (which they don't make anymore) but I'm also really short waisted. Of course a test ride is ideal!
I'm having a hard time understanding the translation of your question "factory connecting rods" is the translation I'm getting - I'm not sure what this means. Can you elaborate?
@@WheelsonaBike Thanks a lot! I'm about to buy one and although it's a little big for me being 170, the arms help me to keep it from being so much xd. I follow you on instagram from now on. Greetings from Chile!.
Hey! I'm currently riding a 2009 Long Haul Trucker. I've been thinking about a replacement, and so far the Kona Sutra is the front runner! Thanks so much for the clip. I currently ride a 56cm LHT, do you think I'd be the same size for a KS? Peace from St. John's Newfoundland.
Thanks for watching! I'm not familiar with the sizing for LHT and would recommend you use the Sizing Form Kona offers - this will be useful in figuring out which size would be best for you. Here's the link konaworld.com/sizing.cfm. Alternatively, you can look at the sizing measurements specific to each frame size and see how they compare to what you currently ride konaworld.com/sutra.cfm. Hope this helps.
It's the Satori Heads Up extender. 78mm max extension. Here's more info www.amazon.ca/dp/B089VS8GGN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_X6FTEJK8KSG79T0QF2DZ. I hope it helps. As well, you can see the stem close up in this video ruclips.net/video/YwyiRMFkHD4/видео.html.
@@lonepecheurboussac1249 I worked with a mechanic to get this sorted as I didn't really know which one would work. The one they recommended is perfect.
It's a good bike but a bit of a downgrade from the previous year, the previous year had cabke/hydraulic brakes and integrated shifters, it was a bargain at less than 2k.
Hmmm, you may be thinking of a different Kona model. The Sutra Touring has not had hydraulic disc brakes or integrated shifters. It's known for its bar end shifters. The 2022 model, called SE, still has the same components.
@TrumpetPlayer68 - did they run out for 2022 or for this season? I don't know where you're at, but bike shops in Toronto seem to be out of inventory for this year.
Thank you so much for getting back to me! I really appreciate it. I am new to your Channel. I enjoy your content. Sorry, one more question. In the center bottom is there one of those cutouts near the bottom bracket where you can put the v-shaped type kickstand, like the motorcycle type?
No worries about the questions, thanks for asking them. Here's a photo of the cutout by the bottom bracket you are asking about: photos.app.goo.gl/63DdTFEztJifQtSq6.
A few of my "1st" impressions about this bike being used for touring... please don't take offense from my personal opinions. The 1st thing necessary is defining "tour". I think of a touring bike as something you could use to ride a few thousand miles over a month or more in comfort and ease. Although any "tour" bike could be used as a daily commuter, not all touring bikes are suited for riding around the planet. A touring bike needs to be the best possible bike for All riding surfaces... a Jack-Of-All-Trades and the King of none really. Keeping that in mind...: Frame: The one area that most tour riders can agree about touring bikes is the frame and the upright rider position. Steel is the best material for tour bikes and for hanging weight on. They are strong, relatively easy to repair, and can flex under a load. (Which they will do!) The owner needs to decide upfront if they want a rigid frame or a suspended frame, however. There are fewer complications and considerations with a rigid frame but they are simply less comfortable over extended periods of time and comfort is of the utmost importance. Brakes: Hydraulic, hydraulic, hydraulic! Mechanical disc brakes just don't provide enough stopping power when riding a fully loaded tour bike, and hydraulic brakes are very reliable nowadays. Gearing: Open gears will take you around the world but an enclosed internally geared hub like a Rohloff Speedhub is a far better system than the very highest quality open gear cluster for touring. Pairing a Speedhub with a Gates belt would be the best of the best for a touring bike. Seat: Seats are a very personal choice. Something that is good for one rider will split another in half. You need to find something that is comfortable to your own butt..., buuuuuuuuut leather is the worst possible choice for any touring gear and more so for a bike seat. Too much maintenance and worry about keeping them dry. Find something that you don't have to get up in the middle of the night to cover because it starts raining. Bars: Handlebars should have multiple handholds so the rider can change positions while riding. They should also have a stem that can be adjusted to raise and lower the bars for the same reason. But more importantly, they should have lots of room for mounting "stuff". The more time you spend on the bike the more gear that you will be hanging on the bars. Mirrors... a must-have, GPS, brake levers, gearing controls, phone, bar-bags, and the list can go on and on depending on the bike and rider. Having the most room possible is better than not having enough. Racks: Bolt-on racks are the standard. That being said the "standard" can suck. The best possible racks are integral to the frame, not something that can lose a bolt anywhere along the ride. Even the very best bolt-on racks suffer the same problems. It's a given that a tour bike will have racks so they shouldn't be an afterthought. Wheels/tires: Commuters primarily stay on hard surfaces where large wheels and thin tires are fine, whereas touring can take you almost anywhere and on any riding surface. They need to be strong and able to withstand a few broken spokes in the middle of your tour. 36 spoke rims are able to take a great deal of wear-n-tear. Larger wheels can be better for riding over rough surfaces but they are also harder/slower to turn on single-track and even more so when carrying full panniers, bar-bags, and having the bars loaded. 26" wheels and 2.5" tires are optimal for all riding surfaces. Dynamo hub: A dynamo hub gives you a constant power source for your lights (always have a backup) and/or for charging a battery bank in the bar bag while you ride. This is something you will find a must when riding long distances over long periods of time. The longer you can ride without needing any infrastructure support the better and a dynamo helps with that. Here's where I am presently with my tour bike. photos.app.goo.gl/ADgC6oyPM2gyrCq27 Stay safe.
No offense taken. Thanks for a comprehensive comment and access to the images. I noticed a huge difference in ride quality between this steel bike and my aluminum bikes. Rohloff Hub and a pinion gearbox - that would be amazing. Not needing to worry about deraileurs and daily chain maintenance while on tour, priceless.
I looked into Trek 520 and Surly Long Haul Trucker. I couldn't test ride either because of the pandemic so made my decision based on specs and bar end shifters. I wanted a bike with bar end shifters.
The current Kona Sutra touring bike price listed on the Kona website is $2099 CAD. The price went up by a $100 CAD since last year. konaworld.com/sutra.cfm
Following up to let you know that I did it! I made the change to friction and I've ridden the bike and really like it. I'll be keeping friction shifters for both the front and the back gears. Thanks again for pointing out how easy it was to do. And, please continue writing in French. 😉
A way to give more padding to your bars is to remove the existing cover, put on foam grips, then wrap them with your handlebar tape of choice. It takes way more tape to wrap over foam, but the result is a large diameter surface that is both softer and spreads loads over a larger area of the hand, reducing loads into the hand. The large diameter grips are not pretty, but they get the job done. I found that thin grips tended to overload my hands and transmit more stress into my wrists, eventually bringing on carpal tunnel syndrome. I lost approximately 7-10 years of riding to the healing process. The purpose of a touring bike is to take care of it's rider. By the time I tried this fix, it was already too late, but it did give me approximately one extra year of riding.
Thank you for this tip. I hadn't considered foam grips. Thank you for taking the time to outline the process as well. I appreciate it.
I also find that injuries related to bike touring are not often discussed or shown, yet they happen. Your experience demonstrates that.
An old-school solution is to wrap the bars with an old inner tube then wrap your tape of choice over that.
A proper tour bike ,any bike can tour to a point but bringing a tour bike is very smart , this bike is built like a tank good bike
Great review! Good pacing and very clear voice! That bridge in the background looked so familiar, and then I heard the "I'm so sorry"' at the end and I knew it had to be close to home.
Thank you for watching and for the comment. That was one of my early video, so the fact that I got the audio right was a big accomplishment. :) I'm assuming you're Toronto based then.
@@WheelsonaBike I used to live close to that bridge, on the Lakeshore, right?
You will love it! Nice overview of the Sutra. Mine went around the world and my partner just got the ULTD! Great bikes.
Ryan! I'm one of Rad Bike Adventure's subscribers. :) Your long term review of the Kona Sutra put the bike on my radar months ago. I referenced Darin's ULTD review in one of the comments, as people have been asking about bike sizing. Congrats on reaching a big chanel milestone! Well deserved, and keep the excellent videos coming.
@@WheelsonaBike wow,a legend commenting on your channel.
Sutra series was on my short list of touring bikes that I'd been searching for lately. Bike shortage and all. Ended up with a Trek 520 Grando. But I've watched a lot of your videos on the Kona Sutra series. They all look like great bikes too.
If I were to recommend a touring bike today, it would be the Kona Sutra. I tour on a 2006 Trek 520 which I bought new and it's been awesome, including a transcontinental this past summer without a single mechanical glitch in nearly 3800 miles. Trek recently decided to make significant changes to their highly successful touring bicycle, changes which were likely driven more by market forces than the purpose of the bicycle. A touring bicycle should be that balance of simplicity with efficiency, not follow the lead of developments intended for competitive cycling. The Kona Sutra does this. If I were buying today, it would be the Sutra. Great looking bike and well designed for long days in the saddle. I especially appreciate the bar end shifters. These shifters have a reputation as being more dependable than shifters integrated into the brake levers. I know that has been the case for me as my bar ends have lasted forever but my integrated shifters have had problems. For the record, the Fuji Touring also still has bar end shifters. I haven't read all the comments so sorry if I'm being repetitive.
Thank you for sharing your insights regarding your long term use of the Trek 520 and for flagging the Fuji Touring bike as well. I've not personally seen too many Fuji touring bikes here in Ontario, but that doesn't mean much at all. I looked at the components and they are comparable.
My current rides are the Surly Long Haul Trucker and Surly Pugsley. Love both bikes. Pug is wonderful on crappy shoulders, as are often found on British Columbia Highways [although to be fair, the Trans-Canada is being double-lained all across the province; the new sections of the highway are state of the art.]. But on the lousy sections, the wheels on the Pug are just incredible. Heavy frames both, but steady as a rock with heavy loads. Don't know the Kona Sutra. Both of my Surlys' have S and S couplings.
This video was awesome! Convinced me to buy today - and the ride is incredible!
Oh wow! Congrats on the purchase. I'm surprised you were able to find this bike at a bike shop (I'm making an assumption you got it at a bike shop, I realize). Happy riding!
Thank you for your review, I purchased one in January and couldn't be happier, incredibly versatile. I have also swapped out for flat bars and 29x 2.25 tyres for more technical bike packing trips and performed beautifully. My only complaint about the bike is the paint seems almost butter soft, so if you are attaching any frame bags or anything else to the frame make sure to use protective tape first to save the paint. Happy riding!
Thanks for watching! I noticed the same about the paint and just bought Racers Tape Surface Guard Tape. I scratched up my gravel bike with frame bags and, like you, I also noticed the softness of the paint on this bike. Happy riding!
Thanks Agnieszka! Great presentation video and bike! I bought my Kona Sutra too. I'm waiting for delivery, it should arrive next week 😀
Thank you! Excellent to hear your bike is arriving soon. Hope you enjoy it!
Thanks for that nice review, on of my favourite bikes! Like this years colour. By the way I think that the Sutras goes quite well on gravel ..
Happy riding!
Thanks @Garry Cleak! Wonderful to hear about the bike doing well on gravel. I like riding on rail trails and light gravel roads, so this is excellent news!
Very thorough, yet simple, description.
Well done..!! 👍👍
Thank you! Glad you found it useful.
Thanks for that riders review of the Sutra. I also have the 2021model. I did change one thing on the bike and that was to replace the stock saddle with a Black B17 standard. In my opinion it really lifts the image of the bike.
I think a black saddle would look much better. I'm not sure why the bike comes with the tan one. I have a black B17, but it's the short version (women's) and I don't like it as much in terms of comfort, so the tan one is staying for now.
@@WheelsonaBike Yes I think that the tan saddle is ok. I just had a black one off another bike so I swapped them over and thought it looked better. Thanks for the reply. Happy cycling
Witam Agnieszka, Supper Video.. Dzieki. I have the same bike, I agree with you on all of the points. I am getting ready for my multi day trip and it seems like this bike will do everything I want it to do.. Pls. keep doing the Videos...
Dzięki @Bruno Bruno! It's such a great bike. The more I ride it, the more I like it! Enjoy your trip and thanks for the encouragement.
Congrats on your new bike. I think in that price range, the Kona Sutra tops its competitors - the Salsa Marrakesh and Trek 520. It comes with full fenders, better derailleurs, and the Brooks B27 leather saddle (I hope you applied proofide to the top and bottom of the saddle!). I currently own 6 bikes, but am trying to thin the herd as much as possible by replacing about 4 of the bikes with 1 Kona Sutra for touring. Also, keep a close watch on your bike. Bike thefts have increased since the COVID-19 lockdown and the concomitant new bike shortage.
Thanks @Bruin. I agree. I think the Kona offers best value for money in this pricing category. Yes, I've been applying proof hide to break in the saddle (definitely more than once). You own a lot of bikes! I have three and I think that's one too many. :):) Bike theft has always been a problem in Toronto, but now will be even more so due to the shortages.
@@WheelsonaBike Wishing you and your new Kona Sutra many wonderful and safe adventures together.
What do you think about Fuji touring disk and disk ltd?
I don't personally have any experience with the Fuji bike, but maybe Bruin does. I have read owners speak highly of it, but again, I've never ridden it myself or met anyone who rides it.
Looking forward to more from you. Keep Safe!!! love from England xx
Thank you very much Sheila.
Love the stem extender.. l too have them on my touring bikes and had no problem with any hydraulic brakes, love em
Just had my dealer order me one, partially based on what seems to me to be an honest review--useful as always. One thing that attracted me to this model was it's great feature set--I don't have to change anything; it even ships with my preferred tire! Looks like I might have to add a kickstand (?) Thanks!
That's great to hear. I hope you like the bike as much as I do. It has proven to be a reliable machine for me. Yes, I'd add a kickstand. I am actually considering adding two, one for each wheel.
Good overview! I have a 48cm 2019 model of the same bike. I swapped the seat for a Terry women’s specific model. I have multiple sets of pedals & plan to use pedals that are flat on one side & clipless on the other for long touring rides, otherwise clipless for normal riding. I will also put padded tape on the handlebars when I go touring. You're right-the cork tape that comes with the bike isn't very helpful. I didn't like the idea of mechanical disk brakes but they work well & are more maintenance free for long term riding. So I'm not swapping them for hydraulics any time soon. Ride safely. 👍☮️🌞🌟🚵🏼♀️
Thanks for watching and for the thoughtful comment. On the topic of bar tape, I recently swapped it for a Wolf Tooth Supple tape and it's made a huge difference. I also think my saddle is fully broken in and it was a dream to ride on (without padded shorts) on my recent mini tour. I'm very happy with this bike.
With pleasure, thank you very much for your RUclips channel which is very good.
Salut . Je suis content de t'avoir rendu service , effectivement , les shifter avec friction sont plus agréable à utiliser qu'avec l'indexation et demande beaucoup moins de réglages . Bonne continuation et merci . ( Pourquoi ne pas t'écrire en Anglais ? )
You can certainly write in English, but I do enjoy trying to figure out the gist of your comments written in French. Then I run them past Google Translate to really make sure I understand. I'm being a little selfish in asking you to continue in French, as it's a great, authentic way, to learn a language.
Thank you for this! I plan to get one soon for touring! :)
Fantastic. I hope you like it as much as I do.
Steel frames are nice. Mechanical disc are quite good. Easier to repair than hydraulic. Especially when touring. Not every shop carries bleeding tools.
There is such a thing as over engineering. The bike industry is no different than other businesses.
They push lots of merchandise.
Bar end shifters are sweet. Installed hundreds as a shop technician/ mechanic
Riding the bike long on my recent tour just reiterated how well built it is. No bells and whistles, just a very reliable bike.
@@WheelsonaBike I ride steel and aluminum track bikes. Love my reynolds frame
@@WheelsonaBike I give you huge credit. I would not do what uou do
Hi! Thanks for posting this video! Can you please elaborate some more on why you want bar end shifters? Is it only because you dislike integrated shifters with brakes? Was this due to a bad experience? Thanks!
Integrated shifters didn't work out for me. I ended up getting a lot of forearm pain when I rode long distances, so I prefer not to have them on my bike.
Thanks for the review. I looked at Kona but now on my second Genesis Tour de Fer which I love. Like others, I am not sold on bar end shifters especially with the wide bars on the Sutra where a bar bag can fit no probs.
Thanks for sharing. I'm not familiar with the bike you mention, I will look it up. Bar end shifters are quite polarizing, somewhat like Brooks saddles.
Great video! I own a 2021 Kona Sutra myself and I'm not a big fan of those bar-end shifters.. I wanted to replace them for the integrated shifters but heard that I needed to change the crankset and both the derailleurs... not sure about it though.
Sorry for the mistakes, I'm french 🙂
Thanks @Pixeldeter! Sorry to hear you don't like the bar end shifters. Have you seen Path Less Pedaled's video on setting up mullet shifting (mountain bike gears with road shifters) on a bike? You may find it of interest as he identifies a potential solution for doing this on a budget. He is working with a SRAM drivetrain not a Shimano one. Have a look if you haven't already: ruclips.net/video/znAfrCXbnnQ/видео.html.
@@WheelsonaBike thank you for the reply. After some research I think I'm gonna go with the Jteck shifmate 6. Seems to be working well and easy to install =)
Hello me again. Do you think that the Tubus Tara lowrider will fit? I'm looking for a good front rack without breaking the piggybank
Based on the attachment points it looks like it should. I also found these cycling discussion groups, in which people talk about installing the rack on their Sutras:
1. Adventure Cycling forums.adventurecycling.org/index.php?topic=15397.0
2. Reddit www.reddit.com/r/bicycletouring/comments/7hrcfl/front_rack_suggestions_for_kona_sutra_2017/
Hope this helps.
@@WheelsonaBike perfect. It helps a lot thank you
Bonjour , très bonne présentation . J'utilise aussi le Kona Sutra pour mes voyage . Vous pouvez aussi enlever l’indexation du shifter du dérailleur arrière en tournent la bague situé sur le shifter , cela est plus pratique pour éviter de régler la tension du câble . A bientôt .
Perfect timing for your comment as I was thinking about doing this as my gears need to be indexed. I'll see if this is something I can do myself. Thank you for watching.
Hello! Great video! I am waiting this bike in Russia too :) Could you please say, do you know which version of Shimano Diore has this bike? I tried to understand but according information in internet shimano Diore has 3 or more different version. Maybe you know?
And one more question, do you use kickstand? As I understood this bike don't has place for kickstand and I am thinking what can I do)
Hello and thanks for watching! I'm glad you liked the video. The bike seems to be popular around the world.
I couldn't find any info about the gearing on the bike itself, it just says Shimano Deore, but Kona's website identifies Shimano Deore SGS as the rear derailleur. Here's the page I'm referencing: konaworld.com/sutra.cfm.
I don't have a kickstand on the bike, but I'm most likely going to be getting the Click Stand, which is a folding kick stand custom made for my bike. Here's a page with more info: www.click-stand.com/.
Hope this helps.
@@WheelsonaBike Thanks a lot!
This is strange that Kona don't tell accurate model of Deore)
Regarding Click Stand, thanks! I wrote to Kona and they advised me the same:)
This looks like a promising channel, subbed to continue watching. Thanks. 🙂
Welcome and thank you for subscribing! I appreciate it.
@@WheelsonaBike I live in Florida and bike touring all over state. Next week heading out to another bike tour on the Florida panhandle for four days, should be nice 🙂
thanks for the review. Could you tell me what is the advantage of the bar end shifters compared to integrated shifters. I do not really see the advantage yet because you have to reach extra to switch to the handlebar ends.
For me the advantage is two fold. From a mechanical standpoint, bar end shifters are simpler to fix on the road than integrated shifters. From a functional perspective, integrated shifters for me cause a lot of discomfort in my forearms when on a multi-day bicycle tour. I've not had this happen with bar end shifters. I think, just like with anything bike related, shifters are very personal.
@@WheelsonaBike thanks for your answer
Ok . Avec plaisir mon amie 👍
Thank you for the review. I am waiting for my Kona Sutra as well.
Would you rather have gone for a size 48 if possible? I have ordered a size 50 being 5'7 with short legs. I hope it fits
It's hard to say as I wasn't able to ride the smaller size, but I think it would've fit me as well. I could've gone either way. Have you seen Rad Bike Adventure's review of the Kona Sutra ULTD? I'm not sure if the frame geometry is the same (as the touring bike's), but she's 5'7" as well and she bought the 50cm frame. Here's the link to where she addresses her height: ruclips.net/video/jOWemsAkVgU/видео.html. I hope you like your bike as much as I do!
happy travels thanks for the info
Thanks @Vegan David Box!
Hi how do you use those shifters? seems very unpractical compared to integrated shifters in the brakes. Or am I wrong?
I absolutely love these bar end shifters, especially when switched to friction mode. To answer your question, you just reach down to the end of the drops and move the lever up or down. It's quite easy to get used to.
Spoko film! Tylko jak to tak mieć nowy rower dwa tygodnie i tylko 30 km zrobić, ja bym nie wytrzymał i dzielnie testował prawie w każdej wolnej chwili 😅
Ah, no więc przez kontuzję kolana nie mogłam więcej jezdzic. 30km w dwa tygodnie, parę miesięcy tymu, to dla mnie był wielki cud sam w sobie!
@@WheelsonaBike Rozumiem. W takim razie mam nadzieję, że już jest lepiej
Very informative review 😎
Thank you very much!
Looking to buy this bike right now for long distance touring trips. Hello from a fellow Torontonian! Can I ask which shop you got it from? I'm talking to Sweet Pete's at the moment. I'd prefer to have a test ride, but I'm not sure if there's any way to do that.
Awesome to hear from another Torontonian! I got the bike from Cycle Solutions, the Parliament location. They had no bikes for me to test ride at the time of order (July) and it looks like as new bikes come in, they're already spoken for.
@@WheelsonaBike Yep, everyone is sold out. This is what I get for waiting so long! I want to do Toronto-Halifax this year and I'd appreciate an upgrade from my Kona Dewey commuter bike haha
How Long is your stem extender, wich model you use, do you have an Link?
I have the Satori Heads Up extender installed. 78mm max extension. Here's more info www.amazon.ca/dp/B089VS8GGN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_X6FTEJK8KSG79T0QF2DZ. I hope it helps.
As well, you can see the stem close up in this video ruclips.net/video/YwyiRMFkHD4/видео.html.
How is the standover height of the bike relative to your inseam? Did you clear it, or is the 50 cm frame slightly higher than your inseam height? If so, how important is this for a touring bike? Of note: on the Kona website, the Sutra's 50 cm frame has a 765mm (30.11" in) standover height, which seems high to me for a 50 cm bike for those up to 5'3" in height.
I have about an inch of clearance. It's perfect for me. I think this is super important as I sometimes dismount the saddle and walk the bike over rocks, etc. If I had no standover clearance this would be difficult. Also, I'm not sure how I'd dismount the bike altogether. I'm 5'4", and the frame fits me well. Maybe consider a smaller frame? Best to get a test ride or speak to a Kona Rep.
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you!! :)
@@WheelsonaBike I was told that I should base standover height, based on my inseam height, while flat footed or using flat shoes, which I never use while biking. With my shoes/sneakers, including hiking boots at times, these typically add 1.5"-2.0" inches to overall inseam height, making me clear the Sutra's stanover height.
Try a ritchey venture max or beacon bar with very low drop, first thing I changed on my sutra.
I'm not familiar with either one of these handlebars. Based on your experience, what makes them better?
The low drop (Venturemax) or very low drop (beacon) are super comfortable and the flare gives you more stability when riding in the drop too. I wasn't using the drop too with the stock Sutra bar.
So if you still don't like the bartape changing the handlebars with it could be an option.
Will you tell me what stem extender you added to the bike?
Which kick stands have you added to the bike, if you have?
You already found the stem extender info, so onto your second question - the kick stand. I never added a kick stand, but did use the Click Stand while on my cross Canada tour.
Really informative, thank you. I've ordered a 58" and the grip tape was something I was already planning to replace having come from a Claud Butler that had super soft sponges which I loved. One question you though, have you found a decent kick stand for the Kona? I've read there aren't that many that work well with it and was after suggestions. Love from the UK
Happy to hear you found the video informative, @baronjokes. I'm considering the Click Stand instead of a mounted kick stand. It's custom made to fit the size of the bike, the con is that it's an extra thing to remember to carry. Here's the link to the website: www.click-stand.com/. There are a few videos that review it and people generally really like using it.
May I ask how tall you are? Is 58" large enough for a 195 cm person?
Hi, how heavy is the bike? I found nothing about the weight
I reached out to Kona and here's what they wrote (in reference to the 54cm frame): OK for this bike right here 30.7 lbs setup just like shown. konaworld.com/archive/2021/sutra.cfm
I don't personally own a scale and haven't weighed the bike, but it's not a light bike, that is for sure.
This is what I am exactly looking for. I think this bike is a great way to go office regularly for middle age people. Please mention price.
This is an amazingly comfortable bike, the more I ride it, the more comfortable it gets. The price has recently gone up for the 2022 model, it's currently listed at CAD $2099 on the Kona website: konaworld.com/sutra.cfm.
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you.
안녕하세요. 저는 2023. 5월에 러시아 10000Km 여행 준비를 하고 있습니다. 그래서 Kona Sutra 를 구매 할 생각을 갖고 있습니다. Sutra를 구매하셨다니, 부럽습니다. 하하하하
Wow! That will be an adventure. I really enjoy touring on this bike. Which other bikes are you looking into?
Bet the bike feels odd without panniers on it, mine does, not use to just the bike now
I found it feels weird the first time I ride it without bags after I finish a tour. It feels almost too light (all 30 lbs of it :) ).
@@WheelsonaBike and to think race bike people worry about 4 pound system lol ,they need to try our bike system
I just received my 2021 Sutra and I need to raise the handlebar like you did. What extender did you get?
Hello Peter. Excellent to know you got your bike! I have the Satori Heads Up extender installed. Here's more info www.amazon.ca/dp/B089VS8GGN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_X6FTEJK8KSG79T0QF2DZ. I hope it helps.
As well, you can see the stem close up in this video ruclips.net/video/YwyiRMFkHD4/видео.html.
@@WheelsonaBike I see you already named the stem extender here!
Did you have to change the Bike stem to a shorter one to bring the cockpit closer to you?
No, I didn't have to make that change. The stem is very short on the bike already.
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you for sharing your touring adventures, equipment reviews and sharing your passion on 2 wheels with us.
Hi! Thank you for the review! Question: how tall are you? I am looking to buy this bike and I am not sure what size should I buy.
Hello and thank you for watching! I'm 5'4" or around 164cm. I fall between two frame sizes and I decided to buy the bigger one.
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you so much!
I am 5’6” would you recommend them to buy the same size?
Instead of recommending the size out right, I would suggest that you follow instructions on the Kona Sizing page and then get in touch with Kona reps for additional support. Based on the info you share with them, they'll be much better able to answer your sizing question than I can. Here's the page: konaworld.com/sizing.cfm. Hope this helps!
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you 🙏
@@carlosrafaelduran8438 I think so and I agree with looking at the sizing info. I find Kona's run a little big. I'm 5'4'' and have the 46 Sutra (which they don't make anymore) but I'm also really short waisted. Of course a test ride is ideal!
Get a 90 degree stem it’s better than a stem extender
What makes it better? I'm not familiar with a 90° stem.
Hola buenas! una consulta muy breve.. cual es el largo de las bielas de fabrica en la kona sutra? 170, 175? Saludos..
I'm having a hard time understanding the translation of your question "factory connecting rods" is the translation I'm getting - I'm not sure what this means. Can you elaborate?
@@WheelsonaBike thank you very much for answering first of all... hehe the query is the length of the crankset arms. if they are 170mm or maybe 175 🙂
Oh! Thanks for clarifying! It's 170. That's what's noted on the crankset arms.
@@WheelsonaBike Thanks a lot! I'm about to buy one and although it's a little big for me being 170, the arms help me to keep it from being so much xd. I follow you on instagram from now on. Greetings from Chile!.
Wonderful! I hope you can get the bike soon and that you enjoy riding it! See you on Instagram.
Спасибо 😊✋👍👏
You're welcome!
Hey! I'm currently riding a 2009 Long Haul Trucker. I've been thinking about a replacement, and so far the Kona Sutra is the front runner! Thanks so much for the clip. I currently ride a 56cm LHT, do you think I'd be the same size for a KS? Peace from St. John's Newfoundland.
Thanks for watching! I'm not familiar with the sizing for LHT and would recommend you use the Sizing Form Kona offers - this will be useful in figuring out which size would be best for you. Here's the link konaworld.com/sizing.cfm. Alternatively, you can look at the sizing measurements specific to each frame size and see how they compare to what you currently ride konaworld.com/sutra.cfm. Hope this helps.
i could you tell me what the stem extender model is please i need this too
It's the Satori Heads Up extender. 78mm max extension. Here's more info www.amazon.ca/dp/B089VS8GGN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_X6FTEJK8KSG79T0QF2DZ. I hope it helps.
As well, you can see the stem close up in this video ruclips.net/video/YwyiRMFkHD4/видео.html.
@@WheelsonaBike thanks alot for the info i bought one here in france but it doent like the stem for some reason the bolt sits of set
@@lonepecheurboussac1249 I worked with a mechanic to get this sorted as I didn't really know which one would work. The one they recommended is perfect.
@@WheelsonaBike yes i fear im house siting and no where near a bike shop being in the middle of france and i so want to ride myvnew bike
Good luck finding a solution that will work for you.
It's a good bike but a bit of a downgrade from the previous year, the previous year had cabke/hydraulic brakes and integrated shifters, it was a bargain at less than 2k.
Hmmm, you may be thinking of a different Kona model. The Sutra Touring has not had hydraulic disc brakes or integrated shifters. It's known for its bar end shifters. The 2022 model, called SE, still has the same components.
Would love to buy it, but they already ran out of the 56cm frames..
@TrumpetPlayer68 - did they run out for 2022 or for this season? I don't know where you're at, but bike shops in Toronto seem to be out of inventory for this year.
@@WheelsonaBike just the 2021 ones. I'm in Baltimore, Maryland.
But thanks for the heads up, I'll look for the 2022 lineup
Is there a built in kickstand mount? Also, is the rear rack made of steel?
No to both questions. There isn't a built in kickstand mount on the bike and the rear rack is aluminum.
Thank you so much for getting back to me! I really appreciate it. I am new to your Channel. I enjoy your content.
Sorry, one more question. In the center bottom is there one of those cutouts near the bottom bracket where you can put the v-shaped type kickstand, like the motorcycle type?
No worries about the questions, thanks for asking them. Here's a photo of the cutout by the bottom bracket you are asking about: photos.app.goo.gl/63DdTFEztJifQtSq6.
I almost picked one of these up but decided to opt for the Fuji Touring 2021 after changing the tyres for better im now very happy with my choice.
There are so many touring bikes available to us. I'm glad you found one that works for you, Liam. Happy touring.
A few of my "1st" impressions about this bike being used for touring... please don't take offense from my personal opinions. The 1st thing necessary is defining "tour". I think of a touring bike as something you could use to ride a few thousand miles over a month or more in comfort and ease. Although any "tour" bike could be used as a daily commuter, not all touring bikes are suited for riding around the planet. A touring bike needs to be the best possible bike for All riding surfaces... a Jack-Of-All-Trades and the King of none really. Keeping that in mind...:
Frame: The one area that most tour riders can agree about touring bikes is the frame and the upright rider position. Steel is the best material for tour bikes and for hanging weight on. They are strong, relatively easy to repair, and can flex under a load. (Which they will do!) The owner needs to decide upfront if they want a rigid frame or a suspended frame, however. There are fewer complications and considerations with a rigid frame but they are simply less comfortable over extended periods of time and comfort is of the utmost importance.
Brakes: Hydraulic, hydraulic, hydraulic! Mechanical disc brakes just don't provide enough stopping power when riding a fully loaded tour bike, and hydraulic brakes are very reliable nowadays.
Gearing: Open gears will take you around the world but an enclosed internally geared hub like a Rohloff Speedhub is a far better system than the very highest quality open gear cluster for touring. Pairing a Speedhub with a Gates belt would be the best of the best for a touring bike.
Seat: Seats are a very personal choice. Something that is good for one rider will split another in half. You need to find something that is comfortable to your own butt..., buuuuuuuuut leather is the worst possible choice for any touring gear and more so for a bike seat. Too much maintenance and worry about keeping them dry. Find something that you don't have to get up in the middle of the night to cover because it starts raining.
Bars: Handlebars should have multiple handholds so the rider can change positions while riding. They should also have a stem that can be adjusted to raise and lower the bars for the same reason. But more importantly, they should have lots of room for mounting "stuff". The more time you spend on the bike the more gear that you will be hanging on the bars. Mirrors... a must-have, GPS, brake levers, gearing controls, phone, bar-bags, and the list can go on and on depending on the bike and rider. Having the most room possible is better than not having enough.
Racks: Bolt-on racks are the standard. That being said the "standard" can suck. The best possible racks are integral to the frame, not something that can lose a bolt anywhere along the ride. Even the very best bolt-on racks suffer the same problems. It's a given that a tour bike will have racks so they shouldn't be an afterthought.
Wheels/tires: Commuters primarily stay on hard surfaces where large wheels and thin tires are fine, whereas touring can take you almost anywhere and on any riding surface. They need to be strong and able to withstand a few broken spokes in the middle of your tour. 36 spoke rims are able to take a great deal of wear-n-tear. Larger wheels can be better for riding over rough surfaces but they are also harder/slower to turn on single-track and even more so when carrying full panniers, bar-bags, and having the bars loaded. 26" wheels and 2.5" tires are optimal for all riding surfaces.
Dynamo hub: A dynamo hub gives you a constant power source for your lights (always have a backup) and/or for charging a battery bank in the bar bag while you ride. This is something you will find a must when riding long distances over long periods of time. The longer you can ride without needing any infrastructure support the better and a dynamo helps with that.
Here's where I am presently with my tour bike. photos.app.goo.gl/ADgC6oyPM2gyrCq27
Stay safe.
No offense taken. Thanks for a comprehensive comment and access to the images. I noticed a huge difference in ride quality between this steel bike and my aluminum bikes. Rohloff Hub and a pinion gearbox - that would be amazing. Not needing to worry about deraileurs and daily chain maintenance while on tour, priceless.
@@WheelsonaBike I wish I could use a Gates belt on my bike... Hey! You can't have it all, you were right. Stay safe.
It has served you well hasn't it.
What other bikes did you look at before buy this one?
I looked into Trek 520 and Surly Long Haul Trucker. I couldn't test ride either because of the pandemic so made my decision based on specs and bar end shifters. I wanted a bike with bar end shifters.
Masha Allah
Cześć, w Polsce niestety niedostępny model.
Oh, szkoda. Czy tylko w 2021 czy nigdy nie dostępny?
Oficjalna dystrybucja zatrzymała się na modelach z 2020
@@maciejduk1685 Szkoda. Ale na pewno w Europie sa inne fajne rowery gotowe na wyprawy.
Perfect.
hi what is your height?
I'm 5'4".
thanks
bicycle price
What will be the price
The current Kona Sutra touring bike price listed on the Kona website is $2099 CAD. The price went up by a $100 CAD since last year. konaworld.com/sutra.cfm
@@WheelsonaBike thanks you so much
Good bike
Oui tu peux le faire toi même en desserrant la vis de la manette du shifter et en tournent la rondelle , c'est tout simple . A bientôt .
Thanks so much for pointing it out. I just did it! It was very easy indeed. I'll test ride the bike and see how I like this new shifting setup.
Following up to let you know that I did it! I made the change to friction and I've ridden the bike and really like it. I'll be keeping friction shifters for both the front and the back gears. Thanks again for pointing out how easy it was to do. And, please continue writing in French. 😉
Good
good bike