1996 Kona Fire Mountain (update 14/08/11)

[Mahoney1978]

Hey Team,

Just got myself a 1996 Kona Fire Mountain (see photo's below).

I'm living in New Zealand now, so some of these older (retro) bikes are harder to come by. I Paid GBP70 for the set up you you see here. A real shame the P2 forks have been replaced, but beggers can't be choosers....right?

At first I wanted to do the following:

- Add XT Thumbies, XT Rear Mech, XT Front Mech, new Crank (happy with LX), new grips and some P2 forks. However... getting these bits and pieces could be tough (living in NZ). Most of this kit I have on an old bike stored in the UK... but i'd rather keep that bike (a Dyna-Tech) complete).

So..... then it begs the question what to do? I have never riden a single speed, but have a feeling this could be my first project. The main reason of going single speed.....

As mentioned above getting the bits I need for a retro build would be expensive and a lot harder living down here in NZ. Before you ask... I do have an eBay account, but then postage (rates) becomes a problem. Therefore... at this point in time, converting to a single speed will be the cheapest option, plus I am keen to have a go at it.

Now here is where I would like your ideas and help.

1. What are the main starting points for me on a retro build or single speed? I assume clean and lube is a great place to start....
2. Is it a no-no to buy brand new P2 forks (like Evans Cycles is selling?) or should I wait for some retro ones to come on the market?
3. The bike needs a massive clean (It's currently 7 hours north of where I live at the in-laws), but could I work with what I've got to get back to it's original self?

Appreciate your help or advice, I will make sure any updates to the bike are posted up on here.

 

[lankshear1976]

you could wait for retro p2 forks but i have been having trouble getting the parts as i dont spend all day on here so when i see something its usually gone two items i was looking for went so i got new as wanted it done and rideablekeep us updated on the build

 

[coomber]

Put a wanted ad up then you dont worry about being first on the for sale section. New Project 2s will be different axle crown so get period correct.

 

[Mahoney1978]

you could wait for retro p2 forks but i have been having trouble getting the parts as i dont spend all day on here so when i see something its usually gone two items i was looking for went so i got new as wanted it done and rideablekeep us updated on the build

Thanks mate... I think i'd be very lucky to come across any for sale in NZ that are cheaper than the ones Evans have at the moment. I am in no hurry (unless Evans Cycles whack their price up!!) so will keep an eye out.

My best chance of finding old P2 forks... is on an old bike that comes up for sales locally!! Unfortunately, old Konas are quite rare here (they mustn't have been popular back in the day in NZ?? And most examples are ex-pats who've bought them to NZ with them).

 

[al-onestare]

I have a pair going spare. Triple butted 1997, 7/10 cosmetic rating. Would be happy to ship to NZ if you wish but obviously it'll cost a bit. Up to you.

 

[Mahoney1978]

I have a pair going spare. Triple butted 1997, 7/10 cosmetic rating. Would be happy to ship to NZ if you wish but obviously it'll cost a bit. Up to you.

That's a great offer. I don't want you to go to too much trouble but if you could let me know how much you want for them and if you can get an estimate on the postage it would give me an option.

Thanks

 

[Mahoney1978]

Shocks question....

OK... So a bit of an update on the Fire Mountain (and i've still not seen it in the flesh yet...!)

But, so far I have had an awesome offer for some Thumbies (thank you to that man - not sure if I should identify you or not?), so this has made my mind up and I am going to keep the bike 'geared' with a whopping 21 gears.

My next decision will be the forks. Can any one identify from the photo's which RST forks I have and If they are worth keeping?

My other options are:

a) New P2's (Evans Cycles delivered to NZ for around GBP40)
b) Older P2's from NZ (just seen some for 2nd hand for GBP30)
c) I have found some older style Rockshox Judy XC's for around GBP20 (might be able to haggle this down) BUT... they are in need of a service. The seller states that they move freely but have no rebound.

I know the decision is mine, but if I get the vibe from you fella's that my current RST's are rubbish and that the Rockshox are too much hassle...(and $$'s to fix) I will look at the P2 option.

Personally, if I am keeping the bike geared, my main aim is for it to be as light as my budget will allow. P2's are the lighter option, but Rockshox Judy XC's have an appeal as well.

Any opinions welcome... and thanks in advance.

 

[Buzzsaw]

Being a ex Kiwi I remember the distributors for Kona in the 1990's were pretty rubbish. They were run like a small time backyard business and bike shops I use to frequent who supplied them said backup from the suppliers were dismal so getting oldie Kona is rare as hen's teeth.

 

[Mahoney1978]

Being a ex Kiwi I remember the distributors for Kona in the 1990's were pretty rubbish. They were run like a small time backyard business and bike shops I use to frequent who supplied them said backup from the suppliers were dismal so getting oldie Kona is rare as hen's teeth.

So my 1996 Fire Mountain was a fairly good find then?! I get very envious at the finds others get on here... but I'm hoping that one day a retro Kilauea or a Explosif will find it's way into my garage!

 

[Adamhellstrom]

I wouldn't keep that RST fork. It's probably very heavy. I used to own a -99 Kona Explosif wwith P2 forks. The P2:s are great. have patience and you'll get your hands on one sooner or later.