2020 Kona Libre DL Goes 650b and 2×11 GRX!

Kona’s initially released the Libre and Libre DL gravel bikes back in 2018 to much fanfare. Both models fit in perfectly with the demands of the gravel crowd, offering a good selection of components, mounts, and a riding position somewhere between comfort and performance. Logan reviewed the higher end Kona Libre DL and had a hard time putting his finger on any aspects he truly didn’t like, besides a few component choices. Last year’s Libre DL was specced with a SRAM Force 1×11 drivetrain, an Easton 70AX wheelset, and WTB Riddler 700x45c tires.

For 2020, some of the shortcomings that Logan commented on have been addressed, in one way or another. The 2020 Kona Libre DL is now kitted out with 24mm internal width Easton 70AX wheels with WTB Venture 650b x 47c tires. While it might have been nice to see slightly beefier rims and 2.1″ tires (the Libre’s max), it seems like a step in the right direction. Kona also swapped out the 1x drivetrain in favor of Shimano’s new 2×11 GRX gravel-specific group. The Libre DL still represents Kona’s most adventurous gravel offering, featuring numerous bottle mounts, fork mounts, and rack compatibility, not to mention a slick new paint job which Kona refers to as “Gloss Prism Rust-Purple”. The retail price hasn’t changed though, putting the Kona Libre DL right at $3,999 USD. Check out a few detail shots and the complete component list below.

2020 Kona Libre DL Build Kit

• Frame: Kona Race Light Carbon
• Fork: Kona Verso Full Carbon Flat Mount Disc
• Seatpost: RaceFace Next Carbon
• Headset: FSA No.42ACB
• Bottom Bracket: Shimano Press Fit
• Brakes: Shimano GRX 810 160mm front / 160mm rear
• Shifter: Shimano GRX 810
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano GRX 810
• Front Derailleur: Shimano GRX 810
• Cassette: Shimano 105 11-34t 11spd
• Crankset: Shimano GRX 810, 31/48t
• Chain: Shimano Ultegra
• Front Hub: Easton EA 70AX 100x12mm
• Rear Hub: Easton EA 70AX 142x12mm
• Rims: Easton EA 70AX
• Tires: WTB Venture TCS DUAL 650x47c
• Handlebar: Easton EC70AX
• Saddle: WTB SL8 Pro
• Stem: Easton EA90

The 2020 Kona Libre also got a fresh coat of paint and a new component list, shaving off a fair chunk of change over the DL version above. What you get is the same lightweight carbon frame, but slightly more affordable components, including WTB KOM Light Team i25 wheels, SRAM Rival drivetrain, and 700x45c WTB Riddler tires. All for $2,999 USD.

For all the details on both the Libre DL and Libre, or to purchase one of your own, head over to KonaWorld.com.

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