As the winner of some of the most prestigious endurance stage races in the world, the Kona Hei Hei Supreme continues to do things the Kona way. As one of the most iconic mountain bike brands, Kona has a reputation to uphold. Their signature suspension design and trademark trail-gobbling capability extends throughout the lineup on down to their cross-country 29er.
Now dubbed the Beamer Independent Suspension, the modified single-pivot design is certainly tried-and-true and delivers that classic Kona feel. With the 100mm travel Hei Hei Supreme, you get the full SRAM treatment — including RockShox Monarch RT3 rear shock, SID XXS fork, XX1/X01 drivetrain and Avid X0 Trail stoppers.
To achieve the solid $5999 price point, Kona doesn’t employ the “house brand” treatment. To get this capable of a bike elsewhere, you’d get a smattering of homegrown parts, but not here. The Cockpit and cranks are RaceFace with a carbon Next 35 low rise bar that’s a modern 760mm wide.
The full-carbon frameset is built using some of the finest TORAY unidirectional carbon fiber available. With a monocoque front triangle, Kona engineers have reduced weight and increased stiffness as much as possible. The chainstays and seatstays are also full-carbon — not something you’ll always find at this price.
Some of the other great features of the Hei Hei Supreme include internal cable routing and accommodation for a stealth dropper post. Expect complete weight to come in around 25 lbs.
2015 Kona Hei Hei Supreme Specs:
- 100mm rear travel via Beamer Suspension and RockShox RT3 shock
- RockShox SID XXS 100mm fork
- Mixed XX1/X01 drivetrain
- RaceFace cockpit including Next Carbon 35 low risers
- Stan’s ZTR Crest wheelset (easy tubeless for weight reduction)
- Price: $5999
The Bottom Line
As one of the most iconic brands and suspension designs, the Hei Hei Supreme is lightweight and capable. Most testers agree that it feels instantly comfortable and lightweight on the trail. Some concerns about excess rear end flex have been noted previously, but may be solved for 2015 with improved wheels.