As a bike enthusiast I would recommend the Marin BOGO deal if you need 2 bikes.
1. That's a mountain bike.
2. It's only available in one size.
If both of those "fit" your needs, great. Otherwise, getting a cross/hybrid bike in a size that actually fits from a full service shop isn't a bad deal at all.
I bought two of these bikes last Christmas. Both have been in at least three times for adjustments because they couldn't be ridden. I'm not sure if it is an assembly issue, a component issue, or just bad luck, but I would not buy again. I have had less trouble with much cheaper bikes. Comfort-wise, I find that my arms hurt pretty quickly riding this bike too due to handlebar placement. Probably just a weird arm length thing with me, but again, never had this issue with other bikes. I'm no bike expert...but I would guess most people buying these entry level bikes are similar.
When you figure in the added cost of doing a conversion, it would be a better deal just getting a inexpensive gravel bike. Poseiden offers good bikes for the money. www.poseidonbike.com
1: if you're thinking a bike you can ride on easy dirt trails - yes this could be done with this bike. It's good enough for relatively smooth trails. Ideal? Probably not due to the drivetrain not being suited for rough roads. Will likely drop a chain while shifting.
2: if you're thinking to convert it to a drop bar bike - you'll have to change quite a few things. Handle bar, stem (since the existing stem length is suited to mtb), new shifters/brake levers, rear and front derailleurs. Cable based drop bar brakes aren't exactly great either.
I don't own a Kona bike but they're a pretty respected brand. I believe they fund some trails and are involved with MTB advocacy groups also. It feels like I see them more in budget hardtail comparisons but I know they have some fairly built up more expensive full suspension bikes also.
Noob question: Are these basic bikes for a young family to go out on trail rides together? Or should I get something from, say, a Walmart/Target? I have the REI membership and like REI in general.
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It practically is one, i.e. a "flat bar", more relaxed geo bike (than road race types) with decent tire clearance.
2. It's only available in one size.
If both of those "fit" your needs, great. Otherwise, getting a cross/hybrid bike in a size that actually fits from a full service shop isn't a bad deal at all.
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1: if you're thinking a bike you can ride on easy dirt trails - yes this could be done with this bike. It's good enough for relatively smooth trails. Ideal? Probably not due to the drivetrain not being suited for rough roads. Will likely drop a chain while shifting.
2: if you're thinking to convert it to a drop bar bike - you'll have to change quite a few things. Handle bar, stem (since the existing stem length is suited to mtb), new shifters/brake levers, rear and front derailleurs. Cable based drop bar brakes aren't exactly great either.
I'm also noticing they don't have XL sizes and I'm 6'2" so I'm not sure how bad a L size would feel.