If you’re looking for a great starter bike for your little cyclist, the Kona Makena might be just what you need. With its kid-friendly frame and 20” wheels, this bike is perfect for children who are just starting to ride. The Makena’s chubby 2.6” tires provide excellent traction, while its 28-tooth chainring and low standover make it easy for kids to ride.
If you’re looking for a high-quality youth mountain bike, the Kona Makena is definitely worth considering.
Key Takeaways:
- Kid-Friendly Starter Bike: The Kona Makena is an ideal starter bike for young cyclists. With 20” wheels and chubby 2.6” tires, it offers excellent traction for kids who are just starting to ride.
- 1x Drivetrain for Easy Shifting: The Kona Makena features a 1x drivetrain that enables easy one-handed shifting. This simplifies gear changes for kids, promoting independence and control while riding.
- Low Standover Height: The bike’s low standover height makes it easy for kids to get on and off the bike, enhancing safety and comfort during rides.
- Kid-Friendly Design: The Kona Makena is designed with young riders in mind, featuring seven-speed shifters and easy-to-operate brakes. This setup offers a gentle reach with quick response for novice riders.
- Quality Materials and Construction: Constructed from 6061 aluminum alloy, the bike is sturdy yet lightweight. Kona’s use of high-quality materials ensures durability and safety for young riders.
- Tires and Wheels: The bike’s 20” wheels and chubby 2.6” tires provide stability and control on various terrains. The double-wall alloy rims and Vee Tire Crown Gem tires offer a smooth and comfortable ride.
- Safety Features: Equipped with Tektro V-brakes, the Kona Makena ensures reliable stopping power. Sized for smaller hands, these brakes are easy for young riders to control, making them suitable for learning to manage speed effectively.
Kona Makena Overview
If you’re looking for a starter bike for your little cyclist, the Kona Makena is a great option to consider. This kid-friendly bike features 20” wheels with chubby 2.6” tires for excellent traction, making it easy to ride on and off the road. The bike is part of Kona’s Makena range of mountain bikes, designed for young riders who want to experience the ultimate form of freedom that comes with riding a bike.
The Kona Makena is a great first “real” bike for kids. It features a 1x drivetrain that allows for single-handed shifting, making it easy for young riders to shift gears. The bike also has a low standover, which makes it easy for kids to get on and off the bike. The lightweight aluminum frame makes the bike easy to ride, even uphill or into the wind.
The Kona Makena is designed to be kid-friendly, with seven-speed shifters and easy-to-operate brakes that have a gentle reach but quick response. The bike also comes with Samox cranks with a 28-tooth chainring, which is perfect for young riders who are just starting out.
This bike is a great option for parents who want to encourage their kids to get outside and explore on two wheels. The Kona Makena is built to last and can handle whatever adventures your little cyclist wants to take on. With its sturdy construction and kid-friendly design, the Kona Makena is a great investment in your child’s health and happiness.
Frame and Geometry
The Kona Makena is a kid-friendly mountain bike with a frame made of 6061 aluminum alloy. The frame is butted, which means that the thickness of the tubing varies along its length to make it stronger where it needs to be and lighter where it doesn’t. The butting process also allows for more precise shaping of the tubes, resulting in a stronger and stiffer frame.
The low standover height of the Makena frame makes it easy for kids to get on and off the bike and helps to prevent accidents. The geometry of the frame is designed to be friendly for little riders, with a shorter top tube, narrower handlebars, and a shorter stem than adult bikes. The frame is also designed to be lightweight, which makes it easier for kids to handle and maneuver.
Kona is known for using high-quality materials in their bikes, and the Makena is no exception. The 6061 aluminum alloy used in the frame is a strong and durable material that is commonly used in bike frames. Kona also uses a proprietary blend of 7005 and 6061 aluminum alloys in some of their frames, but the Makena is made entirely of 6061 aluminum.
The tubing of the Makena frame is formed to create a unique shape that is both strong and lightweight. The shape of the tubing is designed to provide maximum strength where it is needed most while minimizing weight where it is not necessary. The result is a frame that is both strong and lightweight, making it easy for kids to handle and maneuver.
Drivetrain and Shifters
The Kona Makena comes with a 28-tooth chainring and a 1x drivetrain, is ideal for young riders embarking on their cycling journey.. The 1x drivetrain allows for single-handed shifting, making it easier for kids to concentrate on their riding and less on shifting gears.
The Shimano Tourney SS derailleur is a reliable choice for the Makena, providing smooth and accurate shifting. The Shimano Revo shifters are easy to use and intuitive, allowing young riders to quickly and easily shift gears as needed.
The chain on the Makena is strong and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. The Samox cranks provide a sturdy and reliable foundation for the drivetrain, ensuring that the bike can handle whatever your young rider throws at it.
Headset and Stem
When it comes to the Kona Makena, the headset and stem are important components that contribute to the bike’s overall performance and comfort. The Makena features an internal headset, which means that the bearing cups are pressed into the frame and are easily removable. This design also reduces the stack height, allowing for more adjustability in the height of the stem and bars and giving the rider the best fit possible.
The stem on the Makena is the Kona Control, which is a sturdy and reliable component that provides excellent handling and control. The stem is adjustable, which means that you can customize the height and angle of the handlebars to suit your riding style and preferences. The Kona Makena also features a Kona Thumb 27.2mm seatpost, which is a high-quality component that provides excellent support and comfort for the rider.
One of the benefits of the internal headset design is that it allows for a more streamlined and integrated look for the bike. This design also reduces the weight of the bike, which can be especially important for younger riders who may not have the strength to handle a heavier bike. The Makena also features a seat clamp that is easy to adjust and provides a secure and comfortable fit for the rider.
Tires and Wheels
When it comes to the Kona Makena, the tires and wheels are an essential part of the bike’s performance. The Makena features 20” wheels with chubby 2.6” tires that provide excellent traction on various terrains. The Vee Tire Crown Gem 20×2.6 tires offer a smooth ride and are perfect for young riders who are just starting on mountain biking trails.
The Makena’s double-wall alloy rims are durable and can withstand the rigors of off-road riding. These rims are designed to provide stability and support to the tires, ensuring that the bike can handle any terrain. The rims also feature a low standover height, which makes it easy for young riders to get on and off the bike.
The 20” wheels on the Makena are the perfect size for young riders. They are large enough to handle rough terrain but small enough to provide control and stability. The wheels are also lightweight, which makes it easy for young riders to maneuver the bike.
In terms of tire pressure, it is recommended to keep the tires at around 20-30 PSI for optimal performance. However, it is important to check the tire pressure regularly and adjust it as needed based on the terrain and riding conditions.
Brakes
When it comes to brakes, the Kona Makena is equipped with Tektro V-brakes, which provide reliable stopping power for your little one’s adventures. These brakes are easy to use and adjust, making them ideal for young riders who are still learning how to control their speed.
The Tektro V-brakes on the Kona Makena are designed to work with the bike’s 20” wheels, providing plenty of stopping power without being too hard to squeeze. The levers are also sized for smaller hands, making it easy for your child to reach and control them.
It’s worth noting that V-brakes are a popular choice for children’s bikes because they are lightweight, easy to maintain, and provide good stopping power in dry conditions. However, they may not be as effective in wet or muddy conditions, so it’s important to teach your child to ride safely and adjust their speed accordingly.
Pedals
The Kona Makena comes with Kona pedals that are designed to provide a comfortable and secure ride for your little one. The pedals are made of either composite or alloy material, depending on the model you choose. The composite pedals are slightly cheaper, while the alloy pedals are more durable and long-lasting.
The Kona Wah Wah 2 composite pedals are priced at $70, while the Kona Wah Wah 2 Alloy pedals are priced at $120. Both pedals are suitable for the Kona Makena and provide excellent grip and traction. The composite pedals are lightweight and perfect for younger riders, while the alloy pedals are more durable and suitable for more advanced riders.
The Kona Makena also comes with Kona Control grips, which are designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip for your little one. The grips are made of rubber and are designed to fit comfortably in your child’s hands. The Kona Control grips are perfect for younger riders who need a little extra help with grip and control.
Saddle
The saddle is an essential component of any bike, and the Kona Makena is no exception. The Velo Junior saddle is specifically designed for young riders and provides excellent comfort and support during long rides. The saddle is also adjustable, which means you can customize it to fit your child’s body shape and size.
The Velo Junior saddle is made of high-quality materials, which means it is durable and can withstand wear and tear. The saddle is also designed to provide maximum grip, which means your child will not slip or slide off the saddle during rides. The saddle’s design also provides excellent shock absorption, which means your child will not feel every bump and jolt during rides.
When it comes to sizing, the Velo Junior saddle is designed to fit most young riders comfortably. The saddle’s dimensions are 235mm x 140mm (L x W), which means it is the perfect size for young riders. The saddle’s weight is also minimal, which means it will not add unnecessary weight to the bike.
Hubs and Spokes
If you’re planning to explore Kona Makena, you may want to consider using the hub and spoke system to get around. This system involves a central hub where multiple bus routes converge, allowing passengers to transfer easily between different routes. The spokes refer to the individual bus routes that radiate out from the hub to different destinations.
One of the primary benefits of the hub and spoke system is that it can reduce travel time by eliminating the need for passengers to travel to a central station before continuing on to their final destination. Instead, passengers can transfer between buses at the hub, which can be more convenient and efficient.
In Kona Makena, the hub and spoke system is still in the planning and community outreach phase. However, the proposed routes include Route 75 North Kohala, Waimea, Kailua-Kona, Route 90 Kohala-Pohala, Route 201 along Alii Drive, Route 202 from Kona Airport by way of Ane Keahokalole, Route 203 Kona Airport by way of Highway 190, and Route 204 Kuakini Highway.
The buses that will be used in the hub and spoke system are expected to be equipped with electronic pass readers and payment systems, automated voice announcements, and Wi-Fi. The formula 140x100mm nutted axle and formula 175x130mm nutted axle are expected to be used for the bus wheels.
Rear Derailleur
The Kona Makena is equipped with a Shimano 14-34t 7spd rear derailleur, which is responsible for shifting the chain between the gears on the cassette. The rear derailleur is a crucial component of any bike’s drivetrain, and it is important to keep it properly adjusted and maintained to ensure smooth and reliable shifting.
One of the key features of the Shimano 7spd rear derailleur is its ability to handle a wide range of gears, making it well-suited for a variety of riding conditions. The 14-34t cassette provides a good balance of low-end climbing gears and high-end speed gears, making it ideal for both off-road and on-road riding.
To ensure optimal performance from your rear derailleur, it is important to keep it clean and well-lubricated. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help prevent dirt and grime from building up on the derailleur, which can cause shifting problems and premature wear.
In addition to regular maintenance, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you get the most out of your Shimano 7spd rear derailleur. For example, when shifting gears, it is important to ease up on the pedals and shift smoothly and gradually rather than jamming the gears into place. This can help prevent damage to the derailleur and ensure smooth and reliable shifting.
Kona Makena Specifications
If you’re looking for a bike that is perfect for your little cyclist, the Kona Makena is an excellent choice. This bike is designed with kids in mind, featuring 20” wheels with chubby 2.6” tires for excellent traction. The low standover and 28-tooth chainring make it friendly for the littles, while a 1x drivetrain allows for single-handed shifting and make it an awesome first “real” bike.
The Kona Makena is made with Kona 6061 Aluminum Butted frame, which is tough and durable yet light enough for kids to handle. The fork is Kona Project Two JR, providing a smooth ride over rough terrain. The ProWheel crankset is sturdy and reliable, making it perfect for young riders.
The bike is part of Kona’s Makena range of mountain bikes, which includes a Shimano drivetrain. The bike comes in a range of sizes, including 11”, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your child.
Here are the specifications for the 2021 Kona Makena:
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Kona 6061 Aluminum Butted |
| Fork | Kona Project Two JR |
| Crankset | ProWheel |
| Drivetrain | Shimano |
| Wheels | 20″ |
| Tires | Chubby 2.6″ |
| Chainring | 28-tooth |
| Standover | Low |
| Shifting | Single-handed |
Please note that all specifications are subject to change without notice and may vary depending on the year and model of the bike.
FAQ: Kona Makena
What is the price of the Kona Makena 20-inch bike?
The Kona Makena 20-inch bike costs around $399. It is a great starter bike for kids, with features such as 20” wheels, chubby 2.6” tires for excellent traction, and a 28-tooth chainring.
How does the Kona Makena compare to other kids bikes?
Compared to other kids bikes, the Kona Makena has a lightweight aluminum frame and a 1x drivetrain that allows for single-handed shifting. It also has kid-friendly seven-speed shifters and easy-to-operate brakes with a gentle reach. Overall, the Kona Makena is a great option for kids who are just starting to ride bikes.
What are some reviews of the Kona Makena?
According to reviews, the Kona Makena is a fantastic bike for kids. It has a sturdy, lightweight frame and is easy to ride. The 1x drivetrain and seven-speed shifters make it easy for kids to shift gears, and the brakes are responsive and easy to operate. Overall, reviewers highly recommend the Kona Makena for kids who are just starting to ride bikes.
What is the Kona Honzo 20?
The Kona Honzo 20 is another bike in Kona’s lineup of kids bikes. It is designed for kids who are a bit more advanced in their bike riding skills, with features such as a lightweight aluminum frame, hydraulic disc brakes, and a 1x drivetrain. The Kona Honzo 20 is a great option for kids who are looking for a more advanced bike that can handle tougher terrain.
What is the Kona Lana’i?
The Kona Lana’i is a bike in Kona’s lineup of adult bikes. It is a hardtail mountain bike that is designed for riders who want to tackle tough terrain. The Kona Lana’i has a lightweight aluminum frame, hydraulic disc brakes, and a 1x drivetrain. It is a great option for riders who want a bike that can handle a variety of terrain.
Is Kona a reputable brand for bikes?
Yes, Kona is a reputable brand for bikes. They have been in business for over 30 years and have a reputation for producing high-quality bikes that are designed to handle tough terrain. Kona bikes are known for their durability, performance, and innovative design.
