If you're looking for a gravel bike that can carry your gear, handle any road, and stay with you for the long haul, the 2026 KONA ROVE ST DL leaves no room for doubt.
There are no flashy model changes, but that's because it's so well-designed that there's no need to change it.
It offers the reliability unique to chromoly, the versatility of a touring bike, and a surprisingly nimble and balanced ride that simply makes riding enjoyable.
The ROVE ST DL lets you choose neither road nor off-road, attack nor defense, daily life nor travel.
- "About Models, Pricing, and Sizing"
- "Touring Gravel with an Excellent Balance of Lightness and Stability"
- "The Philosophy of ROVE ST DL as a 'FREE RANGE BIKE'"
- "Specifications and Reasons for Part Choices"
- "Versatility to Handle Everything from Touring to Daily Use"
- "Summary | The 'Reason to Keep Riding' the ROVE ST DL"
2026 KONA ROVE ST DL

【Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price】¥248,600 (tax included)
【Color (all colors)】Gloss Earth Grey
【Sizes (approximate height range)】48 (158-163cm), 50 (163-168cm), 52 (168-173cm), 54 (173-178cm), 56 (178-183cm)
Touring Gravel with an Excellent Balance of Lightness and Stability

"Pack your gear, go anywhere, go everywhere."
The ROVE ST DL is a touring-oriented gravel bike that perfectly fits that description.
Generally, touring bikes might evoke an image of "leisurely cruising" while enjoying the scenery. However, it's also true that they often carry the impression of being "heavy" and "not nimble."

However, the ROVE ST DL pleasantly defies that image. It offers the reassuring feel of a sturdy yet flexible chromoly frame, combined with a sprightliness that propels you forward when you push the pedals. It's never sluggish, whether on-road or off-road.
The Philosophy of ROVE ST DL as a “FREE RANGE BIKE”

The ROVE series first appeared in 2013. In an era when the term "gravel bike" was not yet common, KONA called this bike a "FREE RANGE BIKE."
This was because it wasn't a bike for choosing between paved or unpaved roads, speed or comfort, but rather a bike centered on "having a blast riding."

Even in the 2026 model, that philosophy remains unchanged. The infrequent model changes are proof of its high level of perfection. The true essence of the ROVE ST DL is the "excitement of riding" that goes beyond what the spec sheet can convey.
The fact that it's the beloved bike of Iwashisan, owner of HIKER TRASH, who is a long-trail hiker and master of outdoor recreation, eloquently speaks to the character of this bike.
Specifications and Reasons for Part Choices

The main component group is SRAM RIVAL 1. The simple 1x drivetrain configuration offers the advantages of fewer troubles and nimble performance.

The wide gear ratio of 40T front and 11-42T rear provides ample range for bikepacking and mountain passes. Combined with the light lever action, the comfortable rhythm when climbing out of the saddle directly translates into riding enjoyment.

The bike is equipped with MAXXIS RAMBLER 650x47c tires. They roll smoothly on paved roads and offer reliable traction off-road, a choice that accurately reflects the character of the ROVE ST DL.

Another consideration typical of a touring bike is the adoption of TRP HY/RD hydraulic calipers actuated by mechanical levers. This makes it easier to recover from unexpected troubles, increasing peace of mind during a journey.
Versatility to Handle Everything from Touring to Daily Use

With numerous eyelets for cargo, a stable geometry with a low center of gravity, and the comfortable ride unique to 650B,
the ROVE ST DL is surprisingly easy to handle not only for long tours but also for everyday use. The comfortable, upright riding position provides confidence on rough roads and is well-suited for Japan's hilly cycling routes.

The ability to customize it to 700c or an off-road specific setup with fatter tires, without any "must-ride-it-this-way" rules, is also part of this bike's appeal.
Summary | The "Reason to Keep Riding" the ROVE ST DL
- A long-selling model that achieves a high-level balance of touring and gravel capabilities.
- The reassuring feel of chromoly, combined with surprising nimbleness.
- Highly versatile design for cargo and customization.
- A balanced feel that makes riding "fun" on both on-road and off-road.
- Infrequent model changes = a testament to its high level of perfection.

The name ROVE means to "wander" or "stray."
The ROVE ST DL is a bicycle that encourages detours and taking the long way around, whether it's venturing onto a path slightly off the map without a specific destination or being drawn into an interesting side road.
If you're only looking for speed or efficiency, there are more specialized options. But if you want to load up your gear, enjoy the scenery, and make the most of your day, this bike will always be "just right."

The infrequent model changes are because it's already perfected. The 2026 ROVE ST DL is also a bike for quietly accumulating the rider's time and experience.
It handles any road, sets no pace, and simply goes in the direction you want. The ROVE ST DL consistently supports that freedom.