KONA HEI HEI 2025: Test, Review, First Impressions of the Professionals, Strengths, Weaknesses, Problems, Performance, Opinions, Everything You Need to Know (Really)
KONA HEI HEI 2025: Analysis, Test and First Ride Impressions, Detailed Review, Strengths, Weaknesses, Potential Issues, Real-World Performance, Expert Opinions and Opinions: A Complete Overview
The Kona Hei Hei, now in its tenth generation in 2025, represents a significant evolution for the brand's full-suspension cross-country bike. With a competitive pedigree and a redesign involving the frame, suspension and mechanical transmission, the new Hei Hei presents itself as an interesting option for athletes and demanding enthusiasts. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis based on tests, first riding impressions, reviews and expert opinions, outlining the strengths, weaknesses, potential issues, real-world performance and consolidated opinions of the 2025 Kona Hei Hei.
First Riding Impressions and Pro Tests:
The first rides and tests conducted highlight a marked change in the dynamic behavior of the 2025 Kona Hei Hei compared to the previous model. The introduction of the new Swinger suspension system with pivot on the seatstays seems to have led to greater fluidity and sensitivity in managing the roughness of the terrain.
Climbing Efficiency: The increase in anti-squat is an aspect that clearly emerges. Testers report a lower dispersion of energy during pedaling, translating into greater reactivity and speed on climbs, even the steepest and most technical ones. The riding position is described as well-balanced, favoring efficient pedaling for long distances.
Downhill Performance: The redesigned rear suspension, combined with the 120 mm travel and 130 mm fork, gives the Hei Hei 2025 greater confidence and absorption capacity on descents. The linear compression curve, with a well-calibrated progression in the final part, allows you to tackle obstacles and rough sections with greater control and predictability, effectively resisting bottom outs.
Handling and Agility: The new carbon frame, with revised geometry (66 ° head angle and short 435 mm chainstays), contributes to reactive handling and good agility on twisty sections. The bike proves easy to insert into corners and sufficiently stable at high speeds.
Mechanical Transmission: The adoption of an optimized internal cable routing seems to have improved the precision and fluidity of the shifting, an aspect often overlooked but crucial for XC performance.
Detailed Review:
A look at the more in-depth reviews reveals the following key points:
Frame: The carbon construction is praised for its lightness and stiffness, which are key to pedalling efficiency and steering precision. The revamped design, with a straighter down tube and straightened seat tube, not only improves aesthetics but also offers practical benefits such as greater compatibility with long-travel dropper posts.
Suspension: The Swinger system is widely acknowledged as a significant improvement over the previous design. Small bump sensitivity is improved, offering greater traction and comfort, while mid-stroke support is adequate for tackling more challenging sections without sinking too much.
Components: The complete Hei Hei CR features a componentry that is consistent with its price point and intended use. The SRAM drivetrain, RockShox suspension, and wheels with 2.4" Maxxis WT tires on 30 mm internal channel rims are choices that balance performance and reliability.
Practical Details: The presence of nine bottle cage mounts in the front triangle is a welcome detail for those who go on long excursions or stage races. The improved internal cable routing makes maintenance easier and contributes to a cleaner aesthetic.
Pros:
Significantly improved pedaling efficiency.
Smoother, more sensitive and performing rear suspension on descents.
Agility and responsive handling.
Light and rigid carbon frame.
Modern and well-balanced geometry.
Good load capacity thanks to the numerous bottle cage mounts.
Optimized internal cable routing.
Cons:
Only color available for the complete model: The limited choice of colors may not suit all tastes.
Lack of MX compatibility: The choice to focus on speed and efficiency excludes the possibility of mounting wheels of different sizes.
PF92 Bottom Bracket: Some riders prefer screw-type bottom brackets for ease of maintenance and less chance of creaking.
Potential Issues:
Long-term reliability of the Swinger suspension system: Although initial impressions are positive, only extended use will confirm the durability and need for maintenance of the new linkage and pivot system.
Real World Performance:
Based on initial testing, the 2025 Kona Hei Hei appears to offer top-notch performance in the context of modern cross-country riding. Its climbing efficiency makes it competitive in racing, while its increased descending ability makes it more versatile and suitable for technically demanding trails. Its agile handling helps it on mixed sections and twisty singletrack. Real world performance will obviously also depend on the rider's skill and the conditions of the terrain.
Opinions and Expert Opinions:
Industry experts seem to agree that Kona has made a significant step forward with the 2025 Hei Hei. The suspension upgrade is seen as a key element that has transformed the bike's behavior, making it more competitive and fun to ride. The increased anti-squat is praised for its climbing efficiency, while the increased descending ability makes it more versatile.
The limited colorway is seen as a potential limitation for some buyers.
Everything You (Really) Need to Know:
The 2025 Kona Hei Hei represents a significant evolution over its predecessor, offering improved climbing and descending performance thanks to a redesigned suspension system and optimized geometry. It is a modern and capable cross-country bike, suitable for both racing and more hardcore trail use. However, the limited colorway could be a factor to carefully consider, in addition to the price and limited sales network.
For those looking for a lightweight, efficient XC bike with good ability to tackle technical descents, the 2025 Kona Hei Hei presents itself as a valid and performing option. It will be essential to carefully evaluate your budget and your specific needs, comparing it to the alternatives on the market to make the most informed decision. Long-term testing and user feedback will provide an even more complete picture of the real-world performance and reliability of this new generation of the Kona Hei Hei.
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