NewTandem

Hi All, I can't decide between the following two bikes, which are identically priced and sized just right for me:

2015 Kona Dew Deluxe vs 90s Schwinn Paramount Series 50 PDG

The Kona is newer and has an alloy fork and disc brakes

The Paramount Series 50 PDG has a steel fork, rim brakes and some nice upgrades

I'm not sure which is lighter, which is better, etc, but I've seen a lot of references that the steel forks are more sturdy. I plan on riding on pavement around the neighborhood, bike trails, so no bumpy terrain really.
Both have been serviced and are in very good shape.

Which one is more appealing to you, any comments are appreciated, thanks in advance!

Paul Waque 

Both bikes are attractive.

I would go with the Kona. It appears to have less wear. The riding position is more adjustable due to the threadless stem. There are more tire choices with 700c/29" wheels. The hydraulic disc brakes are stronger. Kona makes good bikes, I would not worry about the alloy fork especially on easier terrain.

t2p

The Kona - is that the OEM fork ?

looks kinda small if it is an aluminum fork

???

jolly_codger

Good catch - I believe that is a Kona Project 2 steel fork.
John

boozergut

Get the Kona!

bboy314

I do like the Schwinn, but the Kona is more versatile, and will be easier to customize/make comfortable. Pretty sure that’s a steel fork on the Kona too, not that I’d sweat it either way.

himespau 

There's a big part of me that wants to say go for the Schwinn, but the Kona is 20 years newer, and has 20 years less wear. I'd guess (don't know for sure), that 2015 Deore is probably as good as 1995 Deore DX due to tech trickle down. The Schwinn is prettier (to my eye) and has that magical "Paramount" name on it (and a saddle that would work with my butt better than the Kona's), but I'd probably go with the Kona (even though I have lots of experience with rim brakes and none with disk).

plonz 

For basic pedaling around, I’m all about that Paramount. One of my fave mtb paint jobs from the 90s. I think it has serious cool factor. The Kona is just too ordinary IMO.

Then again, I unloaded my Specialized Tarmac carbon road racer and have gone 100% vintage steel. I may be biased…

habes78023 

I agree with Paul above, but thought I'd emphasis that if you're asking us for our opinion, you might be a newer rider and the riding position on the Kona is going to feel much more comfortable and upright.

You can customize either with bar and stem combos to get the riding position dialed in exactly later down the road. But for newer riders. the Kona is going to be better.

Edit: Just saw your other post about the kona, and it confirms my suspicions of how you'll use the bike. I hope you already bought it and are getting some miles in!

DMC707

Yes -

NewTandem

Thanks for everyone's feedback. The Paramount does have a sweet paint job, but it's also about 90 mins away. Another bike has entered the conversation for me, so as opposed to starting a new thread (which I might do if this post gets lost in the shuffle, lol), I would love to hear thoughts on this matchup: Kona Dew Deluxe w disc brakes ($225) vs Fuji Crosstown 2.1 rim brakes ($180). They both fit me and are apparently tuned up by the owners. I also would use to ride while running errands and riding around the neighborhood.

basic pictures below:

himespau 

Assuming everything works on both (and they're both still there) and they both fit you, I'd go with the Kona over the Fuji, though I get it's a 20% more expensive, so, if price is a factor, get the one you're going to ride.

bboy314

Kona over the Fuji all day.

t2p

Kona over the Fuji

if that Paramount was priced around $200 - that is a sweet deal - the frame / fork alone are worth that (and more)

the Paramount is the best bike of the three - but the Kona would probably suit your needs much better