Kona Libre

$1,898.99

Free shipping on bicycles priced over $1500 (within the lower 48).

The Kona Libre is a gravel bike that can handle it all, on and off the gravel. It’s a lightweight and zippy bike that can tackle road, gravel, or singletrack with confidence. It’s a bike that can take you on your next gravel-oriented bikepacking trip, with mounts for racks, bags and more. It’s a bike that’s affordable, quirky, and fun. The Kona Libre is a bike that will make you smile and invite you to get out there and be out there.


Overview

The Libre is a bike for riders who want something zippy on and off the gravel. It’s a bike that can handle it all, road, gravel, or singletrack, with ease. It’s lighter than your old “gravel” bike, while possessing more aggressive geometry so that you can shred fourth with confidence. It’s affordable, a little bit quirky, and exactly what we love in a gravel bike. The Libre is a bike that will make you smile on every ride, no matter where you go.

The Kona Libre is ideal for your next gravel-oriented bikepacking trip.  As a lightweight and nimble machine that can handle any gravel road or trail with grace, its ready for bikepacking routes like the Oregon Outback, the Great Divide, or the Trans North Georgia. The Kona Libre is ready to load up with mounts for racks, bags and more. This bicycle invites you to get out there and be out there. Répondez s’il vous plaît?

Geometry & Ride Characteristics

CAD of 54cm Kona Libre (Use BikeInsights.com to compare/contrast bicycle geometries)

The Kona Libre sports a unique geometry that sets it apart in the world of gravel bikes. It possesses a longer front-center coupled with a slacker head tube angle, features typically seen in mountain bikes, but strategically implemented here for improved stability and control. Its shorter chainstays offer agile and responsive handling, while the dropped top tube provides increased standover height, adding to the overall versatility and comfort. Wide tire clearance, another key aspect of its geometry, allows for flexibility across different types of terrains.

In terms of ride feel, the Kona Libre offers an exceptionally balanced and versatile performance. The geometry works harmoniously with its wide, grippy tires to deliver a stable, comfortable ride that excels on loose surfaces and steep descents, but also performs admirably on tarmac. The shorter chainstays contribute to a lively, quick-to-accelerate feel that makes the bike fun to ride, whether you’re powering up climbs or sprinting on flats. This, combined with the more relaxed, upright riding position afforded by the slacker head angle, ensures that long-distance comfort doesn’t compromise agility and power transfer.

  • Seat Tube Length: Ranges from 455mm to 550mm across sizes. This suggests a variety of options for riders of different heights, making it more inclusive.
  • Top Tube Length: Ranges from 543mm to 608mm. A longer top tube generally indicates a more stretched-out riding position, which is often seen in performance-oriented bikes.
  • Reach: Varies from 378mm to 394mm. The reach is relatively moderate, indicating a balanced riding position that is neither too aggressive nor too relaxed compared to other bikes.
  • Stack: Ranges from 575mm to 660mm. A higher stack height is generally associated with a more upright riding position, which is common in bikes designed for comfort and long rides.
  • Standover Height: Ranges from 740mm to 837mm. The varying standover height accommodates a wide range of rider inseam lengths, offering more flexibility in fit.
  • Head Tube Angle: Ranges from 70.5 to 71 degrees. This is a relatively relaxed angle, often found in bikes designed for stability and control rather than aggressive speed.
  • Head Tube Length: Varies significantly from 137.0mm to 230.0mm. The variation in head tube length allows for a range of handlebar heights, catering to different riding styles.
  • Seat Tube Angle: Ranges from 72 to 74 degrees. A steeper seat tube angle is generally found in bikes designed for more aggressive riding, while the Libre offers a range that accommodates both aggressive and relaxed riding styles.
  • Chainstay Length: Fixed at 440mm across all sizes. A longer chainstay length is often associated with increased stability, especially at higher speeds.
  • Bottom Bracket Drop: Varies from 70mm to 75mm. A larger BB drop can add to the bike’s stability by lowering the center of gravity.
  • Bottom Bracket Height: Ranges from 267mm to 272mm. This is a moderate range, indicating a balance between stability and pedal clearance.
  • Wheelbase: Ranges from 1042mm to 1084mm. A longer wheelbase generally offers more stability, particularly at higher speeds.
  • Front Center: Varies from 613mm to 654mm. The front center distance can affect the bike’s handling and toe overlap, with the Libre offering a range that aims for balanced handling.
  • Fork Length and Fork Offset: Fixed at 410mm and 50mm respectively across all sizes. These dimensions are fairly standard and contribute to the bike’s overall handling characteristics.

vs. the Kona Rove DL

The Kona Rove DL is designed for comfort and versatility, featuring a butted Cromoly frame and a more relaxed geometry that includes a shorter top tube and a less aggressive seat tube angle. It’s components make it well-suited for a stable and comfortable ride. In contrast, the Kona Libre aims for high-performance gravel riding, utilizing a 6061 Aluminium Butted frame and a more aggressive geometry. It’s components make it more geared towards riders looking for speed and agility on mixed terrains. The Libre is positioned as a higher-end option compared to the more budget-friendly Rove DL.

  • Frameset:
    • Rove DL: Features a Kona Butted Cromoly frame, known for its durability and comfort, paired with a Kona Project Two Cromoly Disc fork.
    • Libre: Comes with a Kona 6061 Aluminium Butted frame, which is lighter and a Kona Libre Carbon fork for improved handling and weight reduction.
  • Ride Feel:
    • Rove DL: Designed for a more relaxed and comfortable ride, suitable for various terrains and riding styles.
    • Libre: More performance-oriented, designed for riders looking for speed and agility on mixed terrains.
  • Geometry:
    • Rove DL: Features a more relaxed geometry for versatility and comfort.
    • Libre: Comes with a geometry that is more geared towards performance, facilitating a more aggressive riding position.

vs. the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700c

The Salsa Journeyman Apex 1 700c is designed for versatile drop-bar touring, featuring a Journeyer Thru-Axle frame and Waxwing fork that offer a balanced and stable ride. Its components and geometry is tailored for comfort on long journeys. However, the Journeyer uses Tektro MD-C550 brakes and Teravail Washburn 700c x 38 mm tires, focusing on durability and control. While the Libre is geared towards high-performance gravel riding with its more aggressive geometry and lighter aluminum frame, the Journeyer aims for comfort and stability, ideal for extended touring.

  • Frame Material:
    • Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700c: Features a Journeyer Drop-Bar Thru-Axle frame designed for stability and comfort, ideal for long-distance touring.
    • Kona Libre: Utilizes a Kona 6061 Aluminium Butted frame, which is lighter and geared towards high-performance gravel riding.
  • Brakes and Rotors:
    • Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700c: Uses Tektro MD-C550 brakes and Tektro TR160-22 rotors, focusing on durability and control for long journeys.
    • Kona Libre: Equipped with TRP HDC711C Mechanical / Hydraulic brake calipers and TRP TR160mm rotors, designed for consistent and effective braking across various terrains.
  • Ride Feel:
    • Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700c: Engineered for a balanced and comfortable ride, making it well-suited for long-distance touring and extended rides.
    • Kona Libre: Designed for a more aggressive, performance-oriented ride, ideal for riders looking for speed and agility on mixed terrains.
  • Geometry:
    • Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 700c: Features a geometry tailored for comfort and stability, ideal for long journeys and touring.
    • Kona Libre: Boasts a more aggressive geometry with a longer top tube and moderate reach, facilitating a stretched-out and aerodynamic riding position.

vs. the Bombtrack Hook

The Bombtrack Hook is designed for rugged off-road capabilities, featuring a steel frame that provides a smooth and forgiving ride on rough terrains. Its geometry leans towards stability, making it well-suited for bikepacking and long-distance gravel rides. On the other hand, the Kona Libre is engineered for high-performance gravel riding with its 6061 Aluminium Butted frame and more aggressive geometry, which includes a longer top tube and moderate reach for a stretched-out, speed-focused riding position. While the Hook excels in durability and comfort, the Libre aims for agility and speed

  • Frame Material:
    • Bombtrack Hook: The Columbus Cromor double-butted steel frame offers excellent durability and a smooth ride by absorbing road vibrations. This makes it ideal for long-distance gravel rides and bikepacking adventures.
    • Libre: The Kona 6061 Aluminium Butted frame is lighter and more performance-oriented, providing a stiffer and more responsive ride, especially suited for high-speed gravel riding.
  • Fork:
    • Bombtrack Hook: The full carbon fork comes with fender and triple cage mounts, offering versatility and weight reduction, which is beneficial for long rides and carrying gear.
    • Libre: The Kona Libre Carbon fork aims to reduce weight and improve handling, making it more agile on mixed terrains.
  • Drivetrain and Shifters:
    • Bombtrack Hook: Comes with Shimano GRX ST-RX400 STI 2 x 10 shifters and Shimano GRX derailleurs, offering reliable shifting and performance tailored for gravel and off-road conditions.
    • Libre: The SRAM Apex groupset, including the rear derailleur and shifter, provides smooth and quick gear changes, optimized for gravel riding.
  • Brakes:
    • Bombtrack Hook: Features Shimano GRX BR-RX400 hydraulic disc brakes with 160 mm rotors, offering strong and reliable stopping power, especially important for off-road and downhill sections.
    • Libre: Equipped with TRP HDC711C Mechanical / Hydraulic brake calipers and TRP TR160mm rotors, providing consistent and effective braking performance across various terrains.
  • Crankset and BB:
    • Bombtrack Hook: The Bombtrack Lyer forged aluminium crank and Bombtrack T47 internal sealed BB offer a durable and efficient power transfer, ideal for tackling challenging terrains.
    • Libre: Comes with a SRAM Apex crankset, which is known for its reliability and efficient power transfer, making it suitable for high-performance gravel riding.
  • Cassette:
    • Bombtrack Hook: Features a Shimano CS-HG50 10-speed, 11 – 36 T cassette, offering a versatile range of gears for climbing and descending.
    • Libre: The SRAM PG1130 11-42t 11-speed cassette provides a wide gear range, allowing for better speed control on varied terrains.
  • Ride Feel:
    • Bombtrack Hook: Engineered for a more relaxed and comfortable ride, the Hook excels in durability and comfort, making it especially suitable for rugged terrains and long-distance gravel rides.
    • Libre: Designed for a more aggressive, performance-oriented ride, the Libre is ideal for riders who are looking to push their speed and agility limits on mixed terrains.
  • Geometry:
    • Bombtrack Hook: The bike’s geometry leans more towards stability and comfort, making it well-suited for long-distance gravel rides and bikepacking adventures.
    • Libre: Features a more aggressive geometry with a longer top tube and moderate reach, facilitating a stretched-out and aerodynamic riding position, optimized for speed and performance.

Features

Aluminium Frame with Carbon Fork: The Kona Libre AL features a 6061-aluminium frame, which is durable and comes with a lifetime warranty. The Verso carbon fork adds to the bike’s handling and reduces weight.

Robust Braking System: The bike is fitted with TRP HDC711C Mechanical / Hydraulic brakes, providing consistent and effective stopping power. This hybrid system is a unique feature that offers reliable braking in diverse conditions.

Aggressive Ride Positioning: The Libre’s geometry is tailored for a stretched-out and aerodynamic riding position. This design choice makes it more performance-oriented, ideal for riders looking to push their speed and agility limits on mixed terrains.

Internal Cable Routing: The Journeyer Sora 700C benefits from internal cable routing, providing a sleek appearance and minimizing the risk of cable entanglement or damage. This design not only enhances the bike’s aesthetic but also slightly improves aerodynamics, contributing to enhanced performance.

Bag, Rack and Fender Mounting Points

The Kona Libre is well-equipped with a variety of mounting points to cater to all your bikepacking needs:

Front Fork Mounts: There are multiple mounts on both sides of the front fork for water bottles, cargo cages, or front racks.

Top Tube Mount: There’s a mount on the top tube for a fuel tank bag, perfect for keeping snacks or small items within easy reach.

Double Down Tube Mounts: The down tube has mounts for a water bottle cage or for attaching additional gear.

Seat Tube Mounts: The seat tube also has mounts for a water bottle cage.

Rear Rack Mounts: The rear of the bike has mounts for attaching a standard rear rack for panniers or other gear.

Fender Mounts: The bike has mounts for full coverage fenders, which are essential for wet weather bikepacking.

Bento Box Mounts: Specialized mounts on the top tube offer the capacity to attach a Bento box. This popular storage solution allows easy access to snacks, tools, or small personal items while riding.

Kona Libre Featured in the Wild

“Review: The Kona Libre AL Steers Clear Of Niches” – Singletrackworld

In this insightful review from Singletrackworld, the Kona Libre AL is praised for its versatile characteristics. The reviewer remarks on its ability to transcend conventional categorization, stating, “It’s a bike for all seasons and a bike for all reasons”. The Libre AL is recognized for its adept performance across a range of terrains, proving itself to be more than just a gravel bike. The blend of comfort, speed, and off-road capability provides a holistic cycling experience that resists being confined to a single niche.

“Kona Libre AL Review” – Gran Fondo Cycling Magazine

In Gran Fondo Cycling Magazine’s in-depth review of the Kona Libre AL, the bike is celebrated for its comprehensive versatility. The reviewer lauds the Libre AL’s accessible price point, rugged durability, and comfortable ride. A key observation by the author notes that, “Despite its racing ambitions, the Libre AL offers a lot of comfort, which makes it a great companion for long rides.” This underlines the bike’s ability to offer a balance between competitive performance and enduring comfort, making it a robust choice for riders who value a blend of speed and stamina.

“Review: Kona Libre AL” – Path Less Pedaled

In the detailed review by Path Less Pedaled, the Kona Libre AL shines as a versatile and capable gravel bike. The author expresses great appreciation for the Libre AL’s adaptability, saying “it can handle light singletrack, but it still feels quick on the road.” This duality of function makes it an excellent option for those who prefer a bike that can transition seamlessly between various terrains. The reviewer also highlights the Libre AL’s comfortable geometry and ample mount points, affirming its suitability for long-distance bikepacking adventures.

Specs

Build Kit

The Kona Libre is equipped with an SRAM Apex drivetrain, including a 40t X-Sync chainring and an 11-42t 11-speed cassette, offering a wide range of gearing options. The bike utilizes TRP HDC711C Mechanical/Hydraulic brakes with 160mm rotors for reliable stopping power. The wheelset consists of Formula hubs and WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0 rims, wrapped in Maxxis Rambler Silkshield TR 700x45c tires.

Frameset

  • Frame: Kona 6061 Aluminium Butted
  • Fork: Kona Libre Carbon fork

Drivetrain

  • Front Derailleur: N/A
  • Rear Derailleur: SRAM Apex
  • Cassette: SRAM PG1130 11-42t 11spd
  • Crankset: SRAM Apex
  • Shifter: SRAM Apex
  • Brakes: TRP HDC711C Mechanical / Hydraulic
  • Rotors: TRP TR160mm

Components

  • Headset: FSA No.57B
  • Stem: Kona Road
  • Handlebar: Kona Road
  • Grips / Bar Tape: Kona Cork Tape
  • Seatpost: Kona Thumb w/Offset 31.6mm
  • Saddle: WTB Volt
  • Seatclamp: Kona Clamp

Wheels

  • Front Wheel: WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0, Formula 100x12mm
  • Rear Wheel: WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0, Formula 142x12mm
  • Tires: Maxxis Rambler Silkshield TR 700x45c

Frame Construction

The The Kona Libre features a 6061 Aluminum Butted frame, providing a balance of strength and weight. The bike is equipped with a Kona Libre Carbon fork, enhancing its performance on various surfaces. The Kona Libre is equipped with a front hub that has a spacing configuration of Formula 100x12mm and utilizes a 12mm thru-axle for the front wheel. which provides increased stiffness and better alignment compared to quick-release systems.The Libre features a rear hub with a spacing configuration of Formula 142x12mm and uses a thru-axle system for the rear wheel,

Geometry

SIZE 50 52 54 56 58
1 ST LENGTH 455 490 510 540 550
2 TT LENGTH 543 558 573 588 608
3 REACH 378 383 386 389 394
4 STACK 575 590 610 630 660
5 STANDOVER 740 768 791 817 837
6 HT ANGLE 70.5 70.5 71 71 71
7 HT LENGTH 137.0 153.0 175.0 196.5 230.0
8 ST ANGLE 74 73.5 73 72.5 72
9 CS LENGTH 440 440 440 440 440
10 BB DROP 75 75 72 72 70
11 BB HEIGHT 267 267 270 270 272
12 WHEELBASE 1042 1052 1058 1068 1084
13 FRONT CENTER 613 623 628 638 654
14 FORK LENGTH 410 410 410 410 410
15 FORK OFFSET 50 50 50 50 50

Warranty

WARRANTY REGISTRATIONS

Registration is no longer necessary for your Kona warranty to be valid.

LIMITED WARRANTY

Kona Bicycle Company ( “Kona” ) makes the following limited Warranty:

ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON COMPLETE BICYCLE (USA, UK & CANADA)

Kona warrants to the original owner that this new Kona bicycle shall be free of defective materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original purchase in the United States or Canada and operated under normal conditions and use. During this one-year period, Kona shall repair or replace, at its sole option, all parts that are found by Kona to be defective and subject to this limited warranty. The original owner shall pay all labor charges connected with the repair or replacement of all parts. On Kona electric pedal-assist bikes, the electronic system is covered by a two-year warranty, whereby accidents or consumer mistakes like shorting polarity are not covered. Warranty on the battery is for one year, at the end of that period, the battery is guaranteed to retain at least 70% of its original capacity.

TWO YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON COMPLETE BICYCLE (EUROPE)

Kona warrants to the original owner that this newly purchased Kona bicycle shall be free of defective materials and workmanship for the two-year period stated under EU consumer protection laws, dated from the original purchase and subject to normal conditions and use. During this two-year period, Kona shall repair or replace, at its sole option, all parts that are found by Kona to be defective and therein subject to this limited warranty.

THREE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON KONA BRANDED BICYCLE FORKS.

LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY ON BICYCLE FRAME (USA, CANADA, UK & EUROPE ONLY)*

Kona further warrants to the original owner that the frame of this new Kona bicycle purchased from an authorized Kona dealer shall be free of defective materials or workmanship for the lifetime of the product. This is ONLY VALID ON NON-CARBON FRAMES. During this warranty period, Kona shall repair or replace, at its sole option, the bicycle frame if Kona determines the frame is defective and subject to this limited warranty. The color on the warranty frame may vary from the color of the original frame. The original owner shall pay all labor and shipping charges connected with the repair or replacement of the bicycle frame. This warranty is only valid in the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe.

*This is valid on all non-carbon Kona bicycle frames. CARBON FRAMES receive 3-year warranty.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

This limited warranty is made only to the original owner of this Kona bicycle purchased from an authorized Kona dealer, and it shall remain in force only as long as the original owner retains ownership of the Kona bicycle. This limited warranty is not transferable. In order to obtain service under this Limited Warranty, the original owner must deliver the Kona bicycle, and the bill of sale or other dated proof of purchase document identifying the Kona bicycle by frame number/serial number, to an authorized Kona dealer. This Limited Warranty does not apply to normal wear and tear, nor to defects, malfunctions or failures that result from the abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, alteration, modification, accident, or misuse (including without limitation bicycle racing, bicycle motocross, stunt bicycling, commercial use or rental use) of the Kona bicycle. Damage caused by transporting bicycle, especially across the tailgate of a pickup truck – even when a pad is used – voids warranty.

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE ONLY EXPRESS OR LIMITED WARRANTY APPLICABLE TO KONA BICYCLES. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, SHALL BE LIMITED IN SCOPE AND DURATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. KONA SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES SUFFERED BY ANY PARTY. THE FOREGOING STATEMENTS OF WARRANTY ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER REMEDIES.

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS; YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE OR PROVINCE TO PROVINCE. SOME STATES OR PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES; SO, THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS SET FORTH IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

THE LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH HEREIN MAY NOT BE EXTENDED, ENLARGED OR OTHERWISE MODIFIED BY ANY KONA DEALER, AGENT OR EMPLOYEE, AND KONA DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY OR MAKE ANY WARRANTY EXCEPT AS STATED IN THE LIMITED WARRANTY.

WARRANTY ONLY APPLIES IN USA, CANADA, UK AND EUROPE. PLEASE SEE YOUR DEALER OR DISTRIBUTOR FOR THE SPECIFIC WARRANTY IN YOUR COUNTRY. WARRANTY VALID ONLY IF BICYCLE IS ASSEMBLED BY AN AUTHORIZED KONA DEALER.

NOTE:
Warranty is made only to the original owner of this Kona bicycle purchased from an authorized Kona dealer, and it shall remain in force only as long as the original owner retains ownership of the Kona bicycle. This limited warranty is not transferable.