New Build >> 1998 Kona Caldera

letmetalktomark

Retrobike Rider
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I've had one of these since 1998 albeit the '99 version and in a 19''.

caldera.jpg


My 99 frame has been modified by Argos into a disc only frame (see below).

Despite being owned from new and not having grown since its purchase I find the frame nowadays too cramped :cry:

I saw this frame come up as a complete bike for sale on one of the eBay links. I wasn't interested in the complete bike. Luckily whoever bought the bike split it almost straight away.

The frame was in relatively (so I thought) easy life but had its issues. Well one major issue. The frame came to me with about 5'' of seat post stuck in the frame.

The previous previous owner had gotten a post stuck in the frame. It had then been cut and hammered into the frame :shock: :cry:

I knew of this before buying the frame and took a punt knowing that they didn't come up too often in the larger 20'' size.

➡️ This is what the frame looked like when it arrived:

Looked okay from the side. Paint had been touched in and decals were still good. I had always planned a repaint if I could get the seatpost out!



The top of the ST was in pretty bad shape and what wasn't obvious was the flaring that had occurred further down the tube :(





➡️ The first item on the agenda was removing the seatpost

I went in hard :oops: on the post and in two hours this came out! :twisted:

{insert Image}

I then set about dressing the ST around the clamp. Pretty happy with the result (the shots were taken WIP). An added bonus is that the frame now comfortably takes a 27.2 post :mrgreen:





Having never weighed my 19'' I thought this was an ideal time to get it on the scales:





➡️ The frame was then sent off to paint and new decals were ordered from Gil.

Decals



More to come later ......
 
Tapping in for a read. Was just thinking my 98 pahoehoe should get a re spray treat.

Good luck with your build.
 
Positively blasting along with this build :facepalm:

Plan is to have the bike ready for the Long Mynd meet - just needs cables and setting up :oops:

Look at the dust :shock: :x :cry: :evil:



 
I had one new and it was superb, I think it was the cheapest Kona hardtail with decent drop outs and a Judy fork. Classic 'up grade the rear mech to hide STX RC other parts' job.

Enjoy :)
 

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