New Kona LBF: a radical bet with a road handlebar and MTB DNA

Kona has just presented its new LBF, a model that leaves behind any classic label to present a rigid bike with front suspension, road handlebars, and a clearly MTB approach. The brand defines it as an “adventure bike,” but its design goes far beyond traditional gravel with a Reynolds steel frame, 100 mm fork, and 2.4” tires. An unusual combination that directly targets those who have been pushing the limits for some time.

Kona breaks the limits of the drop bar with the new steel LBF

Like the mythological being that inhabits the forests, Bigfoot, Kona presents its own legendary bike with this Big Fork. A bike designed to roll fast on trails, but also to tackle broken paths and mountain descents without hesitation.

The frame is made of Reynolds 520 Butted Cromoly steel, with a 73 mm BSA threaded bottom bracket and sliding UDH dropout. Kona insists that steel is not a nostalgic choice, but a functional one: vibration absorption, durability, and a more pleasant feel on long rides and uneven terrain.

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The geometry is one of the key points of the whole. With a 67° head angle, the LBF moves in figures typical of a modern trail bike, far from any conventional gravel. The seat angle is 75° across all sizes, aiming for a centered and efficient position. The brand speaks of a “Fit Geometry” specific for drop handlebars, adjusting posture and weight distribution without resorting to improvised solutions.

In line with its adventurous approach, the frame offers multiple anchor points with dual bottle cage mounts in the main triangle, mounts for a rear rack and fenders (up to 65 mm), and three anchors under the top tube for internal bags.

The sliding UDH dropout allows for chainstay length adjustments and future compatibility, although they are not interchangeable with other models from the brand.

It is designed exclusively around a 29” fork with 100 mm of travel. In fact, Kona warns that any modification in this regard voids the warranty.

The choice of the RockShox SID 3P in a 100 mm version reinforces its orientation. With 35 mm stanchions, it maintains stiffness and efficiency but provides enough margin when the terrain gets complicated.

One of the most striking details is the brake system: SRAM Apex Eagle levers combined with SRAM G2 4P four-piston calipers. This is a configuration authorized by SRAM and developed specifically for Kona, seeking MTB power and control without sacrificing the ergonomics of a road handlebar. It accommodates discs up to 200 mm.

The setup is completed with a TransX RAD+ dropper post and a Ritchey Beacon Comp handlebar with a Comp Trail stem, aimed at maximizing control and stability in technical areas.

The wheels feature 27 mm internal RaceFace ARC Asymmetric rims, fitted with Maxxis Dissector in 29x2.4” at the front and Maxxis Forekaster in the same size at the rear. The maximum tire clearance is 29x2.5”.

The drivetrain is single chainring with a maximum of 34 teeth and a chainline of 55 mm. It does not accommodate a front derailleur. The declared weight is approximately 14 kg.

Price and availability

The Kona LBF is available in sizes SM, MD, LG, and XL with a price in Europe of €3,999.

With this LBF, Kona does not enter the wider gravel or the lighter XC. It operates in the territory that characterizes the brand. For those who want a road handlebar bike capable of tackling technical trails, broken descents, and multi-day routes without sacrificing stable geometry and components clearly inherited from modern MTB.