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#KonaHeiHei #MTB2025 #XCbike #CarbonFrame #SuspensionUpgrade #TrailRide #MountainBiking #LightweightMTB #FullSuspension #BikeTech #MTBInnovation #RaceReady #TrailPerformance #BikeUpgrades #MTBCommunity
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The 2025 Kona Hei Hei represents the 10th generation of this iconic mountain bike, which has evolved significantly since its debut as a titanium hardtail in 1991. Now a full-suspension, carbon-framed cross-country (XC) bike, the Hei Hei is designed to balance efficiency, speed, and versatility, making it suitable for both podium-chasing racers and long trail rides. Kona has introduced several updates for 2025, including a significant suspension redesign, improved geometry, and enhanced features, all aimed at delivering a well-rounded ride capable of handling technical terrain with ease.
Key Features and Updates
Suspension Redesign
The most notable update for 2025 is the Hei Hei’s rear suspension system, which now features a Swinger linkage with a single upper link integrated into the top tube. This replaces the traditional upper rocker link from previous models and adds a pivot above the rear dropouts, eliminating the need for flexstays. The result is smoother suspension movement with minimal resistance and a negligible weight penalty. The suspension curve has been tuned to offer a consistent feel throughout the travel, with a linear progression that eliminates a perceived “hump” around the sag point. The curve becomes more progressive at the top of the stroke to prevent bottom-outs, while increased anti-squat ensures efficient pedaling by keeping the bike higher in its travel.
Frame Design
The Hei Hei’s carbon frame has been updated with a straighter downtube and seat tube, allowing for longer-travel dropper posts. The frame is exclusively available in carbon, emphasizing its lightweight and efficient design. It provides 120mm of rear travel and is paired with a 130mm fork, rolling on 29-inch wheels for speed and efficiency. The bike is not MX-compatible, as it is optimized for XC performance.
Features and Fitments
The Hei Hei is packed with practical features, including nine bottle bosses in the front triangle for multiple water bottles or cargo accessories. Kona notes that small frames can fit two water bottles, though the rear shock may need to be flipped for clearance. The bike also features fully tubed internal cable routing for easier installation and improved shifting performance, with an option for external routing of a rear shock lockout cable. A P-clamp is included for mounting accessories under the top tube.
The frame uses a PF92 press-fit bottom bracket with ISCG tabs for a chain guide and accommodates up to a 38t chainring, with no front derailleur mount. Dropper posts range from 125-200mm depending on frame size, and the bike features a 12x148mm Boost rear axle with ample clearance for Maxxis WT 29×2.4” tires on 30mm I.D. rims. The Hei Hei also includes SRAM UDH-compatible dropouts and protective guards on the chainstays, seat stays, and downtube.
Geometry
Kona has designed the Hei Hei’s geometry to offer a comfortable, efficient pedaling position for all-day rides. Key specs include a 66° head tube angle and seat tube angles ranging from 76.1° to 75.8° depending on frame size. Reach numbers are moderate, with a medium frame at 449mm and a large at 474mm, while all sizes feature short 435mm chainstays. Standover heights are kept consistent across sizes, allowing riders to choose based on reach preferences.
Model Lineup
The 2025 Hei Hei lineup is streamlined, offering just one complete model and a frameset, both available in a single color:
- Hei Hei CR ($5,299): The complete bike features a Gloss Bone with Charcoal decals color scheme and is equipped with high-end components, including SRAM’s Eagle Transmission drivetrain and Motive 4-piston trail brakes.
- Hei Hei CR Frameset ($2,950): The frameset includes a RockShox Deluxe Ultimate rear shock, rear axle, UDH derailleur hanger, and seat clamp, available in a Metallic Bark color.
Initial Ride Impressions
Early test rides highlight the Hei Hei’s lightweight and efficient pedaling, with a weight of 30.56 lbs (with pedals) making it noticeably responsive on climbs. The bike’s suspension provides reliable traction over roots and rocks, even in open mode, while the firm pedaling support in locked mode sacrifices some bump absorption for efficiency. On descents, the Hei Hei handles rough terrain well, though riders may need to be more selective with line choice due to its shorter travel. The bike feels stable and planted through technical sections, with a suspension setup that avoids harsh bottom-outs.
Conclusion
The 2025 Kona Hei Hei is a versatile and capable XC bike that blends lightweight efficiency with trail-ready performance. Its redesigned suspension, updated geometry, and practical features make it a strong contender for both competitive racing and all-day trail adventures. While it may not be the lightest XC bike on the market, its balanced ride quality and thoughtful design ensure it remains a standout option for riders seeking speed, comfort, and versatility. Stay tuned for a more detailed review later this summer. For more information, visit konaworld.com.
