I find writing about the Durolux tricky because it's a really good platform (both the previous gen. and even more so the EQ) by any measure and, like the new Deore 6100 drivetrain, it shouldn't just be measured as a pricepoint product.
For example, the [**Honzo ESD**](https://www.konaworld.com/honzo_esd.cfm) looks like a rad frameset but 3600 CAD seems like a lot of money for the complete package given that for a lot of riders a hardtail will be a second bike. It has some great spec choices like the Aeffect R crankset, some choices I personally wouldn't make like the Shimano hubs w/ Center Lock rotors, and some 'did you guys ride this before you chose to spec it?' choices like the Shimano dropper post remote and all in all it's totally safe but a bit pricey.
I imagine a creative min-max build with a Durolux RC2, full Deore M6100 drivetrain instead of SLX/XT, Code R or Magura MT-5 brakes, some J-Bend Race Face Aeffect R wheels (Micro Spline driver is no problem), PNW Rainier Gen 3 dropper (200mm on the XL - travel adjustable for the shorter inseam rider sizing up), and I can go for days. You're correct though, this kind of thing is probably destined to be the realm of the smaller builder. But smaller with enough purchasing power to still compete for value builds?!
Aug. 24, 2020, 6:17 p.m. - Andrew Major
I find writing about the Durolux tricky because it's a really good platform (both the previous gen. and even more so the EQ) by any measure and, like the new Deore 6100 drivetrain, it shouldn't just be measured as a pricepoint product. For example, the [**Honzo ESD**](https://www.konaworld.com/honzo_esd.cfm) looks like a rad frameset but 3600 CAD seems like a lot of money for the complete package given that for a lot of riders a hardtail will be a second bike. It has some great spec choices like the Aeffect R crankset, some choices I personally wouldn't make like the Shimano hubs w/ Center Lock rotors, and some 'did you guys ride this before you chose to spec it?' choices like the Shimano dropper post remote and all in all it's totally safe but a bit pricey. I imagine a creative min-max build with a Durolux RC2, full Deore M6100 drivetrain instead of SLX/XT, Code R or Magura MT-5 brakes, some J-Bend Race Face Aeffect R wheels (Micro Spline driver is no problem), PNW Rainier Gen 3 dropper (200mm on the XL - travel adjustable for the shorter inseam rider sizing up), and I can go for days. You're correct though, this kind of thing is probably destined to be the realm of the smaller builder. But smaller with enough purchasing power to still compete for value builds?!