This is my Kona 2021(?) ULTD which I’ve build up to serve as my touring and year-round commuter bicycle. I'm 173 cm tall and with 650b wheels the 54 cm size frame fits perfectly, I love how stable this bike feels.
I’ve tried to pursue a mix of very classical and elegant 1950’s motorcycle and French bicycle aesthetics, but as the ergonomics and rowdiness are of utmost importance, I've decided to stick with the original dropper post. Winters around here are icy and this thing sees some irregular off-road use as well, so the sloping frame design and a dropper make it really comfortable to ride in variable terrain.
I like to switch the handlebars from time to time, from drop bars to swept-back bars, so I really appreciate having all the cables routed outside the frame. The geometry seems to work equally well with both, at least if I load the basket with some everyday items.
This build rolls on a seriously dialed 650b wheel setup, with Velocity Blunt SS rims laced to a SON 28 dynamo hub up front and an Onyx Classic out back for instant engagement and silent cruising. Wrapped in Ultradynamico Cava 55 mm tires, the bike gets a plush, fast, and confident ride feel on pavement, gravel, and winter muck alike. The SON dynamo powers matching SON lights, keeping the entire lighting system ultra-reliable for year-round commuting and long-distance touring.
Up front, the Crust Towel Rack handlebar gives a wide, stable stance with heaps of hand positions, paired with Gilles Berthoud grips that keep things comfy on long hauls. The bike is propelled by a full Shimano XT M8100 drivetrain, including a 38t crankset and 10–51t cassette for massive range on climbs and loaded missions. Old-school Shimano brake levers with modified Diacompe hoods add a personal touch, controlling a set of Paul Klampers for dependable mechanical braking power.
Cargo is handled in pure practical style with a Nitto Mark’s rack supporting a Wald 137 basket, making room for everything from groceries to camp gear. It’s a setup that leans into utility without sacrificing aesthetic, and keeps the bike ready for errands, overnight rides, or anything in between.
Comfort and control come together with a Gilles Berthoud Mente saddle mounted to a TranzX +RAD internal dropper post, giving the bike both classic leather comfort and modern trail-friendly capability. A Tune seat clamp ties it together with a clean, lightweight finish.
SimWorks by Honjo fenders keep road spray in check and complete the bike’s all-weather mission. MKS XC-III pedals give a grippy, bombproof platform, while the Hope XC stem and FSA headset keep the steering tight and smooth.
