【BIKE of the WEEK】 KONA / Unit X Drop Bar Version

We built a bike that isn't fast, but is worry-free on any terrain—a machine you can pack with whatever you need and ride off to your dream destination.

We delivered this bike just as spring was arriving, and I heard the owner took it out to challenge Japan’s longest forest road, the "Tsurugi-san Super Forest Road," during the big holidays.
I’m so envious.

Based on the KONA UNIT X, which is primarily built for touring, we swapped in drop bars to provide more hand positions, resulting in a bike that can take you through even more roads.

KONA / Unit X Drop Bar Version

Converting an MTB Drivetrain to Drop Bars

In the realm of MTBs—especially for trail riding and touring—you need an incredibly low gear ratio.

Compared to road bikes, MTBs are heavier and tend to have a rear-biased weight distribution for stability on descents, making low gears a necessity.
However, the desire to run drop bars is actually quite common.

The bottleneck here is the compatibility between the shift lever and the derailleur.
Road bike levers cannot operate MTB-line derailleurs.
But if you still want those drop bars, I have one word for you: MICRO SHIFT.

It feels a bit analog and takes some getting used to, but you’ll find it’s actually quite convenient in certain situations.

If you’re thinking, "Shimano drivetrain, SRAM levers, plus MICRO SHIFT? What kind of Frankenstein build is that?"—just wait until you try the combo of SRAM single brake levers and GROWTAC brake calipers.
The light pull of both parts is exceptional, which helps keep fatigue at bay.

A bike like this, where all you need is courage, grit, and a spark of an idea to go anywhere—owning one might just change your life.

The Tsurugi-san Super Forest Road is currently partially closed, so he couldn't complete the whole route...
I was born in Kochi, so if you're heading down the mountain, make sure to head toward the Kochi side.
I’ll tell you all the best spots for some delicious refueling (eats).