1990s Konas donor bike question

pauldorset

Retro Newbie
Just picked up a 1991 Lava Dome frame off ebay – first foray into steel, thought it might as well be retro too!

As this will be my first build, I'm planning to buy another, cheaper 1990s Kona as a donor for as many components as possible.

So my question is, do certain years or models share the same dimensions, e.g. BB shell width?
E.g. can I use the bits from a 1993 Hahanna?

Also, any recommendations for a sus fork from those in the know would be much appreciated

Thanks

Paul
 
I can't think of many things that were different. However, early frames had 1" head tubes. In around 1992-3 the upmarket frames went to 1 1/8" steerers, while the cheaper ones were still 1". Otherwise they all took 28.6mm front mechs, 68mm BB shells etc.

There wasn't much front suspension in 1991, so you'll need a fork with 63mm travel...from a later year. Marzocchi Z3 or Pace would work well and are still possible to get bits. Many others especially elastomer forks can be problematic.
 
I believe early steel Konas had slimmer seat posts (26.6mm?). From mid-90s (about '94ish?) onward they were 27.0mm. It might depend on the model on those early frames. I'm not 100% certain so i suggest to double check this as part of your research.
 
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