Overview
Embrace the call of the open road with the Kona Rove DL. Built for those who value the timeless appeal of steel and the feel of a smooth ride, the Rove DL is your ticket to endless fun and adventure. This bike combines style, comfort, and functionality in a package that won’t break the bank. So, whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner looking for a great intro to getting out there, the Rove DL is ready to roll.
Imagine the crunch of gravel under your tires, the thrill of an open trail, and the call of the wild beckoning you forward. The Kona Rove DL is your gateway to bikepacking bliss. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails or rolling through serene meadows, the Rove DL’s blend of durability and comfort ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors. With the Rove DL, you’re not just buying a bike, you’re investing in a passport to outdoor freedom. So, gear up, embrace the unknown, and let the Kona Rove DL guide you to your next unforgettable bikepacking journey.
Geometry & Ride Characteristics
The Kona Rove DL’s short chainstay contributes to the bike’s nimbleness, allowing for quick response to rider input. The lower bottom bracket, on the other hand, lowers the bike’s center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. The slack head tube angle further bolsters the bike’s steering, making it easier to handle and providing a stable and less twitchy ride. The extended top tube improves the bike’s fit and rider’s reach, offering a comfortable riding position for long-distance journeys.
Riding the Kona Rove DL feels both comfortable and gives you control. The upright position afforded by the seat tube angle reduces strain on the back and shoulders, making it ideal for extended rides. The stable chainstay length ensures that the bike remains steady at high speeds and during technical descents, while still being agile enough for quick maneuvers. The head tube angle complements this by providing responsive steering, making the bike feel lively without being overly twitchy.
- Seat Tube Length: The Rove DL’s seat tube length varies across sizes, from 480mm to 580mm, accommodating a wide range of rider heights. This sets it apart from bikes with more limited size options.
- Effective Top Tube Length: The Rove DL’s effective top tube length ranges from 515mm to 598mm, ensuring riders of all sizes can find a comfortable fit. This distinguishes it from bikes that might have a more uniform top tube length.
- Reach: The reach on the Rove DL varies from 372mm to 400mm, allowing for a tailored riding position. This is unlike some bikes that offer a more standardized reach, limiting customization.
- Stack: The stack height ranges from 532mm to 626mm, providing different handlebar heights to suit various riding styles. This feature differentiates it from bikes with a more fixed stack height.
- Standover Height: The standover height on the Rove DL ranges from 735mm to 834mm, offering ample clearance for riders. This is beneficial compared to bikes with limited standover height options.
- Head Tube Angle: The head tube angle varies from 70.5 to 71.5 degrees, fine-tuned for a balance between agility and stability. This sets it apart from bikes with a more uniform head tube angle.
- Head Tube Length: The head tube length on the Rove DL ranges from 90mm to 190mm, allowing for variations in handlebar height and riding posture. This is unlike bikes with a standard head tube length.
- Seat Tube Angle: The seat tube angle on the Rove DL varies from 75.0 to 72.5 degrees, designed for a more upright riding position. This distinguishes it from more aggressive road bikes with steeper angles.
- Chainstay Length: The Rove DL features a consistent chainstay length of 435mm across all sizes, contributing to stable handling. This is a notable feature compared to bikes with varying chainstay lengths.
- Bottom Bracket Drop: The bottom bracket drop varies from 74 to 70, affecting the bike’s center of gravity and stability. This sets it apart from bikes with a uniform bottom bracket drop.
- Bottom Bracket Height: The bottom bracket height on the Rove DL ranges from 268 to 272, offering different levels of pedal clearance and stability. This distinguishes it from bikes with a fixed bottom bracket height.
- Wheelbase: The wheelbase on the Rove DL varies from 1016mm to 1068mm, designed for a balance between stability and responsiveness. This sets it apart from bikes with a more uniform wheelbase.
- Front Center: The front center distance on the Rove DL ranges from 592mm to 643mm, affecting the bike’s handling and stability during turns. This is a distinguishing feature compared to bikes with a standard front center distance.
- Fork Length: The Rove DL has a consistent fork length of 400mm across all sizes, contributing to the bike’s overall handling characteristics. This is notable compared to bikes with varying fork lengths.
- Fork Offset: The fork offset on the Rove DL is consistent at 50mm across all sizes, affecting the bike’s steering responsiveness. This distinguishes it from bikes with varying fork offsets.
vs. the Kona Libre
The Kona Libre and Kona Rove DL offer distinct ride characteristics. The Libre is designed for a more aggressive and performance-oriented ride, with its geometry favoring speed and agility. Its carbon fork and higher-end components make it relatively lighter and more responsive. On the other hand, the Rove DL focuses on versatility and comfort, with a geometry that supports a more upright riding position, ideal for long journeys and varied terrains. Its aluminium frame and mechanical disc brakes make it a budget-friendly but reliable option.
- Fork
- Kona Libre: Equipped with a Kona Libre Carbon fork for reduced weight and improved shock absorption.
- Kona Rove DL: Features a Kona Project Two Aluminum Disc fork, which is sturdy and reliable.
- Groupset
- Kona Libre: Utilizes a SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain, offering a wide range of gears for versatile riding.
- Kona Rove DL: Comes with a Shimano Claris 8-speed drivetrain, which is reliable for everyday use.
- Brakes
- Kona Libre: Fitted with TRP HDC711C Mechanical / Hydraulic brakes for strong and responsive stopping power.
- Kona Rove DL: Uses Tektro mechanical disc brakes that provide consistent braking in various conditions.
- Tires
- Kona Libre: Equipped with Maxxis Rambler Silkshield TR 700x45c tires, ideal for gravel and off-road riding.
- Kona Rove DL: Features WTB Venture Comp DUAL 650x47c tires that offer good grip and durability.
- Ride Feel
- Kona Libre: Provides a more aggressive and performance-oriented ride, making it suitable for gravel and singletrack terrains.
- Kona Rove DL: Offers a versatile and comfortable ride, ideal for long journeys and a variety of terrains.
- Geometry
- Kona Libre: Designed with a geometry that focuses on speed and agility, making it a performance-oriented choice.
- Kona Rove DL: Features a balanced geometry that supports a more upright and comfortable riding position.
vs. the Surly Straggler 650b
The Surly Straggler 650b and the Kona Rove DL have different geometries. The Straggler 650b is designed for a more rugged, off-road experience with its wider tire clearance and more aggressive geometry. On the other hand, the Kona Rove DL focuses on a balanced and versatile ride, with its geometry supporting a more upright and comfortable riding position, making it ideal for long journeys and varied terrains. While both bikes are versatile, the Straggler leans more towards off-road capabilities, whereas the Rove DL is more of an all-rounder.
- Frame Material
- Surly Straggler 650b: Made from Surly’s proprietary 4130 CroMoly steel, known for its durability and ride-smoothing properties.
- Kona Rove DL: Features a 6061 Aluminum frame, which offers a balance of lightweight performance and durability.
- Fork
- Surly Straggler 650b: Comes with a 4130 CroMoly steel fork, matching the frame for a cohesive ride feel.
- Kona Rove DL: Equipped with a Kona Project Two Aluminum Disc fork, which is sturdy and reliable.
- Groupset
- Surly Straggler 650b: Typically equipped with a versatile SRAM Apex or Shimano groupset, offering a wide range of gearing options.
- Kona Rove DL: Features a Shimano Claris 8-speed drivetrain, reliable for everyday use.
- Brakes
- Surly Straggler 650b: Usually comes with mechanical disc brakes, offering strong stopping power.
- Kona Rove DL: Equipped with Tektro mechanical disc brakes that provide consistent braking.
- Tires
- Surly Straggler 650b: Designed to accommodate wider tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
- Kona Rove DL: Comes with WTB Venture Comp DUAL 650x47c tires, offering good grip and durability.
- Ride Feel
- Surly Straggler 650b: More rugged and off-road oriented, excelling in challenging terrains like gravel and singletrack.
- Kona Rove DL: Versatile and comfortable, ideal for long journeys and a variety of terrains.
- Geometry
- Surly Straggler 650b: Features a more aggressive geometry, making it well-suited for challenging terrains and off-road adventures.
- Kona Rove DL: Designed with a balanced geometry that supports a more upright and comfortable riding position.
vs. the Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b
The Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b and the Kona Rove DL offer distinct riding experiences influenced by their respective geometries and components. The Journeyer Apex 1 650b is tailored for adventure cycling, featuring a SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain that excels in off-road and challenging terrains, along with a geometry that leans towards stability and control. In contrast, the Kona Rove DL is designed for versatility, featuring a Shimano Claris 8-speed drivetrain and a balanced geometry that accommodates both relaxed and somewhat aggressive riding styles. While both bikes aim for versatility, the Journeyer is more adventure-focused, and the Rove DL is a general all-rounder.
- Fork
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b: Equipped with a carbon fork for reduced weight and improved shock absorption.
- Kona Rove DL: Features a Kona Project Two Aluminum Disc fork, which is sturdy and reliable.
- Groupset
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b: Comes with a SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain, offering a wide range of gears suitable for off-road and challenging terrains.
- Kona Rove DL: Equipped with a Shimano Claris 8-speed drivetrain, reliable for everyday use and varied terrains.
- Brakes
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b: Features SRAM Apex hydraulic disc brakes for strong and responsive stopping power.
- Kona Rove DL: Comes with Tektro mechanical disc brakes that provide consistent braking performance.
- Tires
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b: Designed to accommodate wider tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
- Kona Rove DL: Features WTB Venture Comp DUAL 650x47c tires, offering a good balance of grip and durability.
- Ride Feel
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b: Geared towards adventure cycling, excelling in off-road and challenging terrains with a focus on stability and control.
- Kona Rove DL: Offers a versatile and comfortable ride, ideal for long journeys and a variety of terrains.
- Geometry
- Salsa Journeyer Apex 1 650b: Features a geometry that leans towards stability and control, making it well-suited for adventure cycling.
- Kona Rove DL: Designed with a balanced geometry that supports a more upright and comfortable riding position.
Features
1×11 SRAM Drivetrain: Equipped with a SRAM Rival 1 rear derailleur and SRAM Apex crankset, the bike offers a wide 11-42t 11-speed range, providing versatility for various terrains.
TRP Mechanical/Hydraulic Brakes: Features TRP HDC711C mechanical/hydraulic brakes with TRP 160mm rotors, offering strong and responsive stopping power, a premium feature in this category.
Bag, Rack and Fender Mounting Points
Front and Rear Rack Mounts: These allow you to attach racks for carrying additional gear or luggage, useful for long-distance touring or commuting.
Down Tube Mount: This is the most common location to attach a standard water bottle cage. You can use this mount to hold a water bottle for easy access during your ride.
Seat Tube Mount: This is another common location for a standard water bottle cage. Like the down tube mount, it’s used to hold a water bottle within easy reach.
Under the Down Tube Mount: This mount can be used for an additional water bottle cage, especially useful for long rides. Alternatively, it can be used to attach a small tool or gear box.
Top Tube Mount: This mount is often used for a “bento box” style bag, which provides easy access to snacks, a phone, or other small items while riding. However, some riders may choose to mount a small water bottle cage here.
Fork Leg Mounts: These mounts can be used to attach additional water bottles or gear, such as small bags or cargo cages for carrying camping equipment or other items on bikepacking trips.
Fender Mounts: For protecting you and your bike from water and mud.
Kona Rove DL Featured in the Wild
Kona Rove DL Review: Versatile Adventure and Commuting Capabilities
In a detailed review by road.cc, the Kona Rove DL shines as a versatile bike that excels in both adventure riding and daily commuting. The author explores the bike’s features, performance, and practicality. They praise the Rove DL’s comfortable geometry and robust construction, stating, “The Kona Rove DL is a comfortable and versatile machine that is happy on the road, on gravel tracks, and even exploring some singletrack.” The review highlights the bike’s ability to handle different terrains and its suitability for carrying cargo with its rack and fender mounts. With its reliable drivetrain and capable braking system, the Kona Rove DL proves itself as a reliable and adaptable option for riders seeking adventure and practicality in their cycling endeavors.
Kona Rove DL Video Review: Exploring the Versatile All-Rounder
In an engaging video review on YouTube by Path Less Pedaled, the Kona Rove DL takes the spotlight as a versatile all-rounder. The reviewer takes an in-depth look at the bike’s features and performance, highlighting its ability to handle various riding styles. They mention, “The Kona Rove DL is a bike that blurs the lines between road, gravel, and adventure. It’s a true all-rounder.” The video showcases the bike’s smooth and comfortable ride, as well as its practicality for commuting and longer rides. The reviewer also emphasizes the Rove DL’s stability and durability, making it suitable for off-road adventures. With its reliable components and versatile nature, the Kona Rove DL proves to be a go-to option for riders seeking a bike that can conquer diverse terrains and provide an enjoyable riding experience.
Specs
Build Kit
The Kona Rove DL build kit features a SRAM Rival 1 drivetrain that offers reliable shifting with its rear derailleur and shifter, coupled with the wide-ranging SRAM PG1130 11-42t cassette. The SRAM Apex crankset ensures efficient power transfer. The TRP HDC711C Mechanical / Hydraulic brakes with TRP TR160mm rotors deliver reliable stopping power. The Kona Road Deluxe stem and handlebar, along with the Kona Cork Tape grips, offer comfort and control. The WTB Volt saddle and Maxxis Rambler EXO TR 650x47c tires complete the package, enhancing the bike’s ride quality and versatility.
Frameset
- Frame: Kona Cromoly Butted
- Fork: Kona Project Two Cromoly Disc Touring
Drivetrain
- Front Derailleur: N/A
- Rear Derailleur: SRAM Rival 1
- Cassette: SRAM PG1130 11-42t 11spd
- Crankset: SRAM Apex
- Shifter: SRAM Rival 1
- Brakes: TRP HDC711C Mechanical / Hydraulic
- Rotors: TRP TR160mm
Components
- Headset: FSA No.1/No.10
- Stem: Kona Road Deluxe
- Handlebar: Kona Road
- Grips / Bar Tape: Kona Cork Tape
- Seatpost: Kona Deluxe Thumb w/Offset 27.2mm
- Saddle: WTB Volt
- Seatclamp: Kona Clamp
Wheels
- Front Wheel: WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0, Formula 100x12mm
- Rear Wheel: WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0, Formula 142x12mm
- Tires: Maxxis Rambler EXO TR 650x47c
Frame Construction
The Kona Rove DL’s frame is constructed from Kona Cromoly steel, a material renowned for its excellent shock absorption, durability, and supple ride characteristics. Kona has continuously innovated and refined its Cromoly framesets to meet the evolving demands of riders. The bike features a tapered head tube design, which enhances steering strength and balance, providing riders with more control in rough terrain. This design also helps distribute shock force more effectively, prolonging the headset’s bearing life and eliminating brake shudder. The bike employs a 12x142mm rear axle standard, ensuring a stiff interface between the rear hub and frame. This design also allows for quick and accurate wheel positioning in the frame before the rear axle is inserted. The Kona Rove DL is designed for 650b wheels, which offer the same overall diameter as traditional 700c gravel or commuting tires but with a smaller rim diameter and a wider, taller tire.
Geometry
| SIZE | 48 | 50 | 52 | 54 | 56 | 58 | |
| 1 | ST LENGTH | 480 | 500 | 520 | 540 | 560 | 580 |
| 2 | TT LENGTH | 515 | 531 | 546 | 562 | 578 | 598 |
| 3 | REACH | 372 | 378 | 383 | 388 | 392 | 400 |
| 4 | STACK | 532 | 551 | 570 | 588 | 607 | 626 |
| 5 | STANDOVER | 735 | 754 | 775 | 794 | 815 | 834 |
| 6 | HT ANGLE | 70.5 | 70.5 | 71.0 | 71.0 | 71.5 | 71.5 |
| 7 | HT LENGTH | 90 | 110 | 130 | 150 | 170 | 190 |
| 8 | ST ANGLE | 75.0 | 74.5 | 74.0 | 73.5 | 73.0 | 72.5 |
| 9 | CS LENGTH | 435 | 435 | 435 | 435 | 435 | 435 |
| 10 | BB DROP | 74 | 74 | 72 | 72 | 70 | 70 |
| 11 | BB HEIGHT | 268 | 268 | 270 | 270 | 272 | 272 |
| 12 | WHEELBASE | 1016 | 1029 | 1036 | 1048 | 1054 | 1068 |
| 13 | FRONT CENTER | 592 | 604 | 612 | 623 | 628 | 643 |
| 14 | FORK LENGTH | 400 | 400 | 400 | 400 | 400 | 400 |
| 15 | FORK OFFSET | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
Warranty
WARRANTY REGISTRATIONS
Registration is no longer necessary for your Kona warranty to be valid.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Kona Bicycle Company ( “Kona” ) makes the following limited Warranty:
ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON COMPLETE BICYCLE (USA, UK & CANADA)
Kona warrants to the original owner that this new Kona bicycle shall be free of defective materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original purchase in the United States or Canada and operated under normal conditions and use. During this one-year period, Kona shall repair or replace, at its sole option, all parts that are found by Kona to be defective and subject to this limited warranty. The original owner shall pay all labor charges connected with the repair or replacement of all parts. On Kona electric pedal-assist bikes, the electronic system is covered by a two-year warranty, whereby accidents or consumer mistakes like shorting polarity are not covered. Warranty on the battery is for one year, at the end of that period, the battery is guaranteed to retain at least 70% of its original capacity.
TWO YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON COMPLETE BICYCLE (EUROPE)
Kona warrants to the original owner that this newly purchased Kona bicycle shall be free of defective materials and workmanship for the two-year period stated under EU consumer protection laws, dated from the original purchase and subject to normal conditions and use. During this two-year period, Kona shall repair or replace, at its sole option, all parts that are found by Kona to be defective and therein subject to this limited warranty.
THREE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON KONA BRANDED BICYCLE FORKS.
LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY ON BICYCLE FRAME (USA, CANADA, UK & EUROPE ONLY)*
Kona further warrants to the original owner that the frame of this new Kona bicycle purchased from an authorized Kona dealer shall be free of defective materials or workmanship for the lifetime of the product. This is ONLY VALID ON NON-CARBON FRAMES. During this warranty period, Kona shall repair or replace, at its sole option, the bicycle frame if Kona determines the frame is defective and subject to this limited warranty. The color on the warranty frame may vary from the color of the original frame. The original owner shall pay all labor and shipping charges connected with the repair or replacement of the bicycle frame. This warranty is only valid in the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe.
*This is valid on all non-carbon Kona bicycle frames. CARBON FRAMES receive 3-year warranty.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
This limited warranty is made only to the original owner of this Kona bicycle purchased from an authorized Kona dealer, and it shall remain in force only as long as the original owner retains ownership of the Kona bicycle. This limited warranty is not transferable. In order to obtain service under this Limited Warranty, the original owner must deliver the Kona bicycle, and the bill of sale or other dated proof of purchase document identifying the Kona bicycle by frame number/serial number, to an authorized Kona dealer. This Limited Warranty does not apply to normal wear and tear, nor to defects, malfunctions or failures that result from the abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, alteration, modification, accident, or misuse (including without limitation bicycle racing, bicycle motocross, stunt bicycling, commercial use or rental use) of the Kona bicycle. Damage caused by transporting bicycle, especially across the tailgate of a pickup truck – even when a pad is used – voids warranty.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE ONLY EXPRESS OR LIMITED WARRANTY APPLICABLE TO KONA BICYCLES. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, SHALL BE LIMITED IN SCOPE AND DURATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. KONA SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES SUFFERED BY ANY PARTY. THE FOREGOING STATEMENTS OF WARRANTY ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER REMEDIES.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS; YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE OR PROVINCE TO PROVINCE. SOME STATES OR PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES; SO, THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS SET FORTH IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THE LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH HEREIN MAY NOT BE EXTENDED, ENLARGED OR OTHERWISE MODIFIED BY ANY KONA DEALER, AGENT OR EMPLOYEE, AND KONA DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY OR MAKE ANY WARRANTY EXCEPT AS STATED IN THE LIMITED WARRANTY.
WARRANTY ONLY APPLIES IN USA, CANADA, UK AND EUROPE. PLEASE SEE YOUR DEALER OR DISTRIBUTOR FOR THE SPECIFIC WARRANTY IN YOUR COUNTRY. WARRANTY VALID ONLY IF BICYCLE IS ASSEMBLED BY AN AUTHORIZED KONA DEALER.
NOTE:
Warranty is made only to the original owner of this Kona bicycle purchased from an authorized Kona dealer, and it shall remain in force only as long as the original owner retains ownership of the Kona bicycle. This limited warranty is not transferable.