The 2021 Kona Honzo ESD is a 29-inch steel frame hardtail enduro bike designed with aggressive geometry, featuring a 150mm travel Marzocchi Bomber Z1 fork and a 63° head tube angle, which contributes to its slack and stable handling on steep terrain. It is built around a Kona Cromoly Butted steel frame with a 77.5° seat tube angle and 417mm chainstays, promoting a low standover height and agile ride despite its aggressive nature. The bike is available in sizes S, M, L, and XL, with reach measurements ranging from 440mm to 525mm and stack heights from 625mm to 652mm.
The Honzo ESD comes equipped with a 1×12 drivetrain featuring Shimano XT shifters, Shimano SLX rear derailleur, and a 30T wide/narrow chainring paired with a Shimano SLX 11-51T 12-speed cassette, providing a low climbing gear ratio. It uses Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes with 203mm front and 180mm rear rotors for strong stopping power. The wheels are built with Race Face AR 30 rims, paired with Maxxis Minion DHR II EXO TR 3C 29x2.4" rear tires and Maxxis Assegai EXO TR 3C 29x2.5" front tires, offering robust performance on rough trails. A TranzX Dropper +RAD internal dropper post with a Shimano lever is included, allowing for a long 200mm drop on the size large frame.
The bike is available in a Gloss Metallic Red color with silver decals and was priced at $2,699 USD at launch. It features external cable routing, ISCG 05 tabs for a chain guide, and a threaded bottom bracket, appealing to riders who prefer traditional components. The Honzo ESD was designed with a focus on durability and performance, drawing its geometry from the full-suspension Process X model, and is marketed as a "Warrior of the Wasteland" for riders seeking a capable, long-travel hardtail. The model has been discontinued and is no longer listed for sale.