Looking for a comfortable high-ish stack touring bike / gravel bike.
General everyday gravel rides with an overnight or 2 every month or so.
Looking to expand that and start doing some bigger trips with long days in the saddle.
My local routes include:
50% paved
40% hard pack gravel
10% double/single track
What would you go for out of the Checkpoint vs Sutra?
by Bonniepark
1 Comment
I mean the comparison is pretty straightforward, because the main differences reflect exactly the intended use of these bikes:
– the Kona has a shorter reach and a higher stack, so it will be a bit more of an “upright” position for the same size, so a bit more confortable in theory (but you can always change stem and/or lower it and close the gap to the Trek a bit).
– The Kona has a longer wheelbase, which will make it a bit more stable, especially loaded. Reduces the change of heel striking the bags as well. However it makes if feel a bit more like a “boat”, it will turn a bit less sharply than the Trek which will feel a bit more lively and snappy because of that.
– the kona is steel and the checkpoint aluminium with a carbon fork. It’s not always the case but in this case the frame of the Kona is most likely heavier but more sturdy than the Checkpoint.
So in general if you want something faster, lighter and more fun on the road and on gravel, go for the checkpoint. If you want something a bit more relaxed and more sturdy, perfect for long loaded touring, then go with the Kona. Note that you could make the Kona a bit more like the checkpoint by putting a longer stem and lowering it.