2012 Kona Entourage

Ha..ha! I don't know how it took me a week to see this thread! :lol:

The new bike looks cool.

I love my Operator!

I realize it's a "downhill" bike. With a 64 degree HA, and a 74.4 degree SA, it really isn't suposed to be ridden on long rides, with long climbs.

BUT, the Operator frame is lighter, and has more travel than my Stinky. It's at just over 40 pounds right now, with most of the stock parts. I'll be able to drop a few pounds after I kill the stock wheels, and change the heavy cranks that came on it. :lol:

My first ride on mine was up Skyline, a 7'ish mile climb, and down Skinsuit. I've also pedaled it up Maple Springs. I can get almost full extension with my Gravity Dropper post, and it makes the climbs a bit easier. Does it climb like my Stinky. No way! There's no way to mount a front derailuer, so granny gear to fall back on. If I can't pedal up it, I'll push. No big deal to me. BUT, it's more stable at speed and on steeps than my Stinky ever felt. And that's saying a lot for me, since my Stinky WAS my favorite, do anything bike!

So, some rides are going to be very rough going on the Operator. But ALL of the descents will make the climbs up worth it!

 

Definitley an option!

 

Laid back seatpost....run backwards?

 

Agreed!

Not a bother for me any bike I ride will have a Dropper post!!

 

Preach it!! Thank you, finally someone who gets it.