Want Some Movement Back Into Your Life? Check Out These Budget Bikes From America's Kona

Folks, Kona Bikes has been around for 35 years, time in which they've grown to be just as respected as other major names like Trek, Specialized, and Giant. Well, as if to show the world that a bicycle doesn't need to be expensive to give us a good old ride, here Kona has four new machines that they claim are perfect for any commuting activities your town or city may require.

First on our rather short list is the Coco, a European-infused two-wheeler designed to be safe, comfortable, and rocking some pretty good components for its $830 (€780 at current exchange rates) price tag. With the possibility to also add an array of extra gear like fenders and cargo racks, this option is sure to attract the attention of those of us who like cruising around with an old-school feeling.

This version starts off with an aluminum frame with a massively dropped top tube, allowing us to easily mount, dismount, and plant our feet on the ground in case of an emergency. Best of all, Kona decided to drop that frame on top of a pair of 650x47c tires.

In short, they're large enough to easily cruise over any obstacles your city throws at you. Furthermore, the width of these tires also ensures that they can even handle a little light trail action, which is a plus. Just remember to keep your wheels on the ground at all times.

The rest of the Coco has been equipped with gear to provide a smooth, safe, and hassle-free experience. A 1x9-speed Shimano Acera/Alivio drivetrain is present, and a pair of hydraulic brakes provide stopping power. The rest of this puppy is completed with a proprietary handlebar, stem, saddle, and grips.

Now, that's the Coco, but the remaining three machines are part of the Dew lineup, which is available in three variations: the standard, the Plus, and the Deluxe, the latter of which is the full-option setup and costs $950 (€900). So, again, within that $1,000 mark that pushes most new riders away from a bicycle.

To kick things off for this class, we're looking at an aluminum frame once again, but this time around, it appears as though Kona built upon their existing MTB and gravel know-how. Why do I say this? Well, just take a nice long look at the images in the gallery.

For instance, those three frames are built around butted tubes, but the main ticket aspect here is the rather XC MTB design to the Dew class. Heck, if you were to throw on a front fork with some suspension travel, we'd be looking at a rather banging bike with the ability to handle a bit more than we think.

I'm talking about taking your Dew, whichever model, and transforming it into an adventure bike. Just like the Coco, the Dews are built upon 650x47c tires, ensuring a smooth ride even though there's no suspension, and because the frames are covered in mounts, there seems to be no limit as to how much cargo you can bring along.

This means long trips to the edge of town and beyond, and once you get there, you'll be able to take a one to two-day camping trip. Just unload your food, gas stove, water, tent, sleeping bag, and go nuts! Are you worried you won't have cash left over from your purchase? If you go for the standard Dew, just $660 (€620) is all you'll dish out. That'll leave you with more than enough for any extra items you may need, and you'll still fall under $1,000 to join the bike-packing wave currently sweeping across the globe.

Now, suppose you're wondering which of these four bikes to choose from. In that case, you need to think about the sort of riding you'd typically embark upon and whether or not you want to ride further and further in time. If you're looking for a bike just to ride around town, the Coco and standard Dew are your best budget options.

But, if you're looking to go the distance, exploring wild and hidden paths along the way, the Dew Plus and Deluxe are the way to go. Personally, I'd go for the Deluxe because it boasts an 11-51t 1x11-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain and hydraulic Tektro brakes. Again, this version is going to run you $950, but it comes in with gear seen on MTBs three times its price.

Looking to put some movement back into your life? These four machines from Kona are sure to give you something to think about these days. Don't forget, Christmas is just around the corner, and these babies could be considered for your list.