Kona recently launched the Libre AL, a 6061 aluminum version of their popular off-road drop-bar bike. But, it’s only going to be available in Europe, for now. Here are all the details and specs…

With a generous stack height, a MTB-esque stature, and good tire clearance, I was a big fan of the carbon Kona Libre DL (read the review here). It certainly checks a lot of boxes and has a likable, long-tall-slack geometry. But, it isn’t cheap. Kona recently released a more wallet-friendly aluminum version that has the same geometry and most of the same features. There’s a catch though. It’s only available in Europe…

Kona Libre AL, aluminum
  • Kona Libre AL, aluminum
  • Kona Libre AL, aluminum
  • Kona Libre AL, aluminum
  • Kona Libre AL, aluminum
  • Kona Libre AL, aluminum

The alloy Libre comes in the same oddly measured five sizes (46, 49, 51, 54, 55). For reference, I’m about 6′ (1.83 meters) tall and rode the size 54cm Libre. And, similar to the carbon version, the Kona Libre AL frame also features flat mount brakes, a 68mm threaded bottom bracket shell, a 31.6mm seatpost, and three pairs of bottle cage mounts within the frame triangle. It also gets a pair on the top tube, but for some reason, Kona ditched the pair under the downtube on the AL. Also like the carbon DL, the AL gets a full-carbon fork with triple cage mounts on both blades and 12mm thru-axles.

Kona Libre AL, aluminum

Kona Libre AL Build Kit

The Kona Libre AL is kitted out with an entry-level Apex 1 drivetrain and mechanical TRP Spyre brakes. Unfortunately, the gearing leaves a lot to be desired; the Apex is limited to a 40 or 42t chainring and the AL is fitted with an 11-42t cassette. A couple highlights in the build include the 45c WTB Riddler tires and 700c WTB KOM Light i25 tubeless-ready rims.

  • FRAME MATERIAL Kona 6061 Aluminum Butted
  • SIZES 46, 49, 51, 54, 55
  • Fork Kona Verso Full Carbon Flat Mount Disc
  • Crankarms SRAM Apex
  • Chainrings 40t
  • B/B SRAM GXP 68mm
  • Chain SRAM PC1110
  • Freewheel SRAM PG1130 11-42t, 11spd
  • R/D SRAM Apex
  • Shifters SRAM Apex
  • Brake Calipers TRP Spyre C
  • Front Brake Rotor TRP TR160 160mm
  • Rear Brake Rotor TRP TR160 160mm
  • Brake Levers SRAM Apex
  • Headset FSA No.57B
  • Handlebar Kona Road
  • Stem Kona Road
  • Seatpost Kona Thumb w/Offset 31.6mm
  • Seat Clamp Kona Clamp
  • Grips Kona Cork Tape
  • Saddle WTB Volt Comp
  • Front Hub Formula 100x12mm
  • Rear Hub Formula 142x12mm
  • Spokes Stainless Black 14g
  • Rims WTB KOM Light Team i25 TCS
  • Front Tire WTB Riddler TCS 700x45c
  • Rear Tire WTB Riddler TCS 700x45c
  • Paint Color Gloss Earth Grey w/ Grey & Mustard Decals

The new Kona Libre AL comes in the same “Earth Gray” color as the new 2020 Sutra LTD and will be available from dealers in Europe sometime this month for £1800/1900€ as specced above. There’s no word whether the AL will hit shops in North America.

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