Kona and Brian Berthold stopped by the office to show off their new "Magic Link" CoilAir MTB
Previewed: Kona's New "Magic Link" Bike
The new Kona CoilAir with Magic Link
Brian Berthold, the man behind Therapy Components, which makes custom floating brake arm kits for full-suspension bikes, has teamed up with Kona this year to develop the brand new, highly unorthodox “Magic Link” bike.
The platform appears on new CoilAir models and the premise is simple: When climbing or pedaling on flat ground, the bike performs much like a traditional 6-inch-travel CoilAir. It’s not until you point the bike downhill, or get into aggressive terrain, that the “magic” happens.
The Magic Link itself is positioned in-line with the lower shock mount, and a secondary spring, tuned to rider weight and riding style, keeps the bike in its 6-inch orientation until more travel is called for. On significant impacts or while the force of the chain is not keeping the link in its neutral position, the magic link rotates backward relative to the shock, allowing the frame to open up into a full 7.4 inches of travel. When activated, the link also slackens the bike’s geometry.
So there you have it: a 6-inch travel bike that transforms into a 7.4-inch freeride machine when needed. We only got a quick taste of the new ride, but initial impressions were good. This seems to be one of the better pedaling 7-plus-inch bikes out there, although this is a highly specific bike designed for a highly specific rider. If you’re into drops and steep lines, but still find yourself having to climb back up the hill to access the goods, then this bike is worth checking out.
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It’s a lot to wrap your head around. Click the video window below for a walk-through and quick test-ride of the new rig.
Here are some close-up images of the new "Magic Link"
This CoilAir is also outfitted with Kona's optional Dope System rear floating brake, which Brian Berthold also helped develop.
And to find a Kona Demo at a shop near you, check HERE
What do you think of Kona's new design? Leave a comment below.
Reader Comments
Posted Fri Apr11, 2008, 3:27 PM — By Erik Brown
It looks like an interesting science experiment. There are more pivot and contact points than I can easily count. Keeping this design stiff and the connections free from git looks nearly impossible. Maybe back to the drawing board for now
Posted Fri Apr11, 2008, 3:54 PM — By the gizzle
I thought the 90's were over? Did this individual ever study physics?
Posted Tue Apr22, 2008, 3:50 PM — By Dan
I took the opportunity to ride a proto a few months ago, and whlie it lived up to the promise of on-the-fly adjustable travel, I just don't think anyone looking for a 40+lb bike is really considering pedaling it uphill.
Magic happens when you build a 30 pounder that does this, but doesn't disintegrate on Freight Train!
Also, most yahoos are going to be dissauded by the radical suspension system that they can't explain.
Maybe it will sell well in Canada?
(Confidential to the gizzle: Yes, I think Pat did study physics.)
Posted Thu Apr24, 2008, 12:37 PM — By eric
i have ridden this bike and to much disbelief, it did live up and exceed my high expectations. this bike rode very lightly (felt 34lbs) and felt very smooth. before everyone starts spouting criticism just from looking at it and not riding it, go find a dealer with one and judge for yourself. kona has something very innovative and impressive. i loved it!
Posted Fri Apr25, 2008, 9:59 PM — By kurt himmer durán
es ta pulenta la bici te la compro oye loco porfa '
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