Braze-ons: Cantilever bosses front and rear, fender eyelets front and rear, and dual water-bottle mounts
Tire Clearance: Proprietary FFF™ (Fatties Fit Fine) chainstays and our custom fork give room for tires up to 2.7” with plenty of mud and fender clearance left over.
Fork: Suspension corrected for 3” travel sus fork. 100% cro-moly
Submitted by
Captain Chaos
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotland, UK Date Reviewed: June 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Glentress
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Dales Cycles LTD www
Strengths:
Reasonably inexpensive. Extremely versatile, I can easily switch between slicks and knobblies and feel confident on the road or trails. The quality is high, nice welds, thick paint and nice detailing in the track ends etc. I like the ability to run V-Brakes, something missing from a lot of modern frames. I wanted to build a bike that was cheap to run and easy to maintain so V-Brakes were high on my list.
I like that the rigid fork is included.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Sun Rhyno Lite XLs on Dmr Hubs QR front SS rear
Hope Headset and Stem
Easton EA30 Bars and Seatpost
Avid FR-5/Single Digit V-Brakes
Specialized Saddle
Specialized Fast Trak Tyres
Shimano Octalink Crank, Deore 32T Chainring and Truvativ Bash
Specialized Lo Pro Mag Pedals
KMC Chain
Bottom Line:
Simple, rugged, reliable!
10/10
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SuperCoolBiker
a Weekend Warrior
from Gainesville, FL USA Date Reviewed: February 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Santos Vortex
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$666.00
Purchased At:
Super Cool Bike Shop
Strengths:
The Surly 1×1 is a super rad machine. It can handle any trail and any condition. With fancy parts the bike can be built up as light as 20lbs and with regular parts it can easily be built up to be sub 25lbs. The frame is stout, stiff, and simple…everything I would look for in a mountain bike. The 1×1 can be setup using either the supplied Surly 1×1 rigid fork(or any other suspension corrected rigid fork) or a squishy suspension fork with 80mm of travel such as a Rockshox Reba or Sid. The rider also has the option of running either V, Canti, or Disc Brakes on the frame and fork. The frame-set is affordable in comparison to most other single speed frames and frame-sets on the market… the retail price of a 1×1 frame-set is $430 and a complete bike can be built up starting between 750 and a 1000 dollars.
Weaknesses:
What what? I suppose if you want to use gears the 1×1 would not be your cup of tea. The 1×1 can only be setup single speed, though it can be run with an internal hub such as a Shimano Alfine 8speed if you really need to get your gears on. Some might consider the 5lb frame weight as a weakness but the reality is that a 5lb frame is strong, not weak.
Similar Products Used:
Comparable products I have ridden include: Cannondale 1FG, Sano custom mountain bike w/ gears, and a Villin SS.
Bike Setup:
Surly 1×1 Frame and 1×1 Fork. Mavic 717 Ceramic laced to Paul High Flange front hub/ Mavic 717 laced to Paul WORD single speed rear hub. Paul Motolite V-brakes/ Avid Ultimate Levers. Moots Setback Ti Post. Ritchey WCS stem 90mm/ Answer Protaper 2? rise bar. Shimano XTR Pedals White Industries ENO Crank-set w/ 34t including matching Ti BB. White Industries 17t freewheel. Topped off with Kenda Smallblock 8 Tires and a Tioga Spyder saddle. The bike weighs just under 21lbs.
Bottom Line:
The best way to describe how a 1×1 rides is: it rides like a bike. There is nothing special about its frame geometry or its intended use, it is meant to be ridden on and off road and can handle just about anything you can put under its wheels. If you like to ride… you will like to ride a Surly 1×1. It is very nice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred
a Weekend Warrior
from Lille, France Date Reviewed: January 26, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
second hand
Strengths:
great bike : easy to handle, not heavy, "comfortable" steel frame, very good fork
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
1x1 rigid fork, Mavic Crossride wheels, square tape bottom bracket with Deore crank arms, On-One Mary bar, XT vbrake and Avid Speed Dial SL levers, SDG Bel Air titanum saddle and a tuggnut
Bottom Line:
not expensive and really good : the best singlespeed frame in an entry price level...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron twemlow
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: May 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Capton thomas NZ
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Its Steel & well built. A no bulls..t frame that performs allday. This bike will outlast me.
Just thought I would update my last review from 5YEARS ago which brings me into my 9th year riding a surly 1+1 and competing on it for the last 6 years.I THINK THIS BIKE WILL OUTLAST ME. "Built to last" is what should be stamped on the top tube!!.I will be buried with this bike,no one will get it!HA.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron twemlow
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: May 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Capton thomas NZ
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Its Steel & well built. A no bulls..t frame that performs allday. This bike will outlast me.
Just thought I would update my last review from 5YEARS ago which brings me into my 9th year riding a surly 1+1 and competing on it for the last 6 years.I THINK THIS BIKE WILL OUTLAST ME. "Built to last" is what should be stamped on the top tube!!.I will be buried with this bike,no one will get it!HA.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesse Heath
a Racer
from Birmingham Al USA Date Reviewed: April 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
oak mtn
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Cahaba Cycles
Strengths:
Rides great. Looks good. Handles amazingly. Climbs good descends good.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
My bmx bikes i guess.
Bike Setup:
Surly 1x1 18inch. Surly fork. Mavic Crossride wheels. Easton EA50 bar. Bontrager RaceXlite stem. Shimano DXR brakes. White Industries ENO crank.
Bottom Line:
Every review I read before buying this bike was spot on. Its amazing. Except everyone said it was heavy.. which i haven't seen. Mine weighs in right under 22lbs with pedals and cages. I'm a pro bmx racer and ride mountain mostly to train but this bike is so much fun. Great value. Great bike. This is a great bike for everyone. It's my first endeavor into the world of singlespeed mtn... (I usually trained on a fuelex8) and I love it. I may very well have wasted my money on the full suspension rig as I may never touch it again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Booker T.
a Cross Country Rider
from Norcal Date Reviewed: January 16, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Garage Sale
Strengths:
Great climber, downhiller. Steel is reel.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
First SS bike. It's my 5th mountain bike. Have had: Rigid Stumpjumber, SC Heckler, SC Superlite, Karate Monkey 29er, Surly 1x1 with Marzocchi fork
Bike Setup:
Surly 1x1 rigid fork; disc brake in front, v-brake with ceramic rim in back; 32-18 gear ratio.
Bottom Line:
I just recently replaced my old Marzocchi Marathon (with the cronic air leak) with a Surly 1x1 rigid fork. I rode this bike with the Zocchi for 3 years and it was awesome.
But, the rigid setup has not slowed me down at all. My steering/control is more precise up front on twisty single track downhills than with the Zoochi. It climbs better than before.
Bottom Line: A great bike to have if you can't afford 2 bikes. A great second bike if you can.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Oscar
a
from Anchorage, AK Date Reviewed: August 27, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Great geometry, affordable, strong, fatties fit fine.
Weaknesses:
Well, I guess it ain't light... No hose guides on top tube. Yeah, if you run mechanicals or V's, or cantis you won't need them but I think they should have them. No longer comes in white.
Similar Products Used:
First singlespeed.
Bike Setup:
Discs, wheels with geared hubs and spacers and a suspension fork, rode it rigid for the first year or so.
Bottom Line:
It's a great frame. It's not the lightest out there, it doesn't have the best design for dealing with discs -fork ends with slotted mounts- but it works and it's very versatile.
There's a reason why it has been around so long.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, WA Date Reviewed: August 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Siouxan Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
LBS, FTF
Strengths:
The feel of steel, climbing ability, smooth ride, ability to use large up to 2.7 inch tires, disc brake tabs
Weaknesses:
a little heavy but who cares
Similar Products Used:
1st SS. Litespeed Niota AL
Bike Setup:
Reba SL shock set at 85mm travel, XT Hydro front brake, XT rear V-brake, WTB Dual Duty rims w/Surly hubs, Stylo SS cranks, Shimano freewheel, Easton EC70 straight bar, Thomson stem and seatpost
Bottom Line:
Love this bike, Been on a half dozen trail rides and also use it to exercise my dog. ] '\]The first trail ride was with the Surly rigid fork installed and the bike worked flawlessly but my body just can't take the pounding from a rigid fork so I had the Reba installed (came off one of my other bikes). Not sure how other shocks work with this bike but the Reba seems to be a great match. I can actually clean terrain with this bike that I had problems cleaning with my Litespeed. I'm running a 32:18 gear ratio which for me is perfect for short quick climbs and descents. My legs can't handle the real steep stuff but with more conditioning it should get easier. I have a 16 tooth ACS freewheel that I use for running around town and I use the 18 tooth Shimano freewheel for trail riding. The ACS freewheel is pretty noisy while the Shimano one is nice and quiet. Not sure about either one's durability. Plan to upgrade to a White Industries freewheel when these wear out. Don't hesitate getting a 1x1 and be sure to pick up a tugnut tensioner too, it even opens up your favorite trail beverage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN Date Reviewed: June 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Worth Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Penn Cycle
Strengths:
Durability, Works with anything, Fun ride
Weaknesses:
Weight (of course)
Bike Setup:
Frame with bontrager race light gxp cranks, sid race, race face dues xc handlebar/stem. Could only afford this stuff because i work at a bike shop.
Bottom Line:
Love the bike, works with commuting and mountain biking. Infinite possiblitys.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, Maine, USA Date Reviewed: April 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Bought used. I'm the 3rd owner.
Strengths:
Frame is bullet proof. The rear I weigh 200 lbs and ride my 1x1 hard. In the 3 years I've owned this bike I've bounced it off every rock and root in the Southern Maine area and I've never had any problems. Plus, the Surly Tugnut chain tensioner is a bottle opener!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
I converted an old Diamond Back to single speed prior to getting my hands on the 1x1. The DB has since been collecting dust.
Bike Setup:
1x1 rigid fork, Surly rear hub mated to a Rhyno Lite rim, Mavic Cross Land front rim, Surly Tugnut chain tensioner, Surly 32T chain ring, White Industries 16T ENO freewheel Race Face bar, Easton stem, Titus saddle, Panaracer XC Fire tires,
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike. Can't possibly beat it for the money. Buy one now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alt
a Cross Country Rider
from Bossier City, LA USA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Bodcau, Northshore (Grapevine, TX), Sansom Park (Fort Worth)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Webcyclery
Strengths:
bombproof
Weaknesses:
none thus far
Bike Setup:
salsa bar and stem, raceface cs, surly hubs, wtb dual duty wheels, selle saddle, ritchey comp 2.35 rubber, avid sd 7 v's and levers
Bottom Line:
kickass frame for a great price. buy one
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike D.
a Weekend Warrior
from Atherton, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
UC Santa Cruz
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Used - I think I'm the 3rd owner
Strengths:
The frame is strong and supple. A great frame at a great price.
Weaknesses:
None that I can think of.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first single speed. I've owned 2 Stumpjumpers, a Santa Cruz Heckler, and a Santa Cruz Superlight.
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Marathon fork, Avid BB7 front brake, Mavic Ceramic rim in rear. Carbon handlebars.
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike when I still had a Santa Cruz Superlight. I quit riding the Superlight, and finally sold it after it collected dust for close to 2 years.
The 1x1 rocks. I ride with a bunch of other single speeders, mostly cross country. Over the past 2 summers, I've beaten the crap out of this bike in Lake Tahoe (Mt. Rose Hwy to Marlette Lake loop, Hole in the Ground, ... etc), Santa Cruz (UCSC, Nisene Marks, Soquel Demo, ... etc), and at Skeggs. This frame is indestructible.
I've got the bike set up with the Marzocchi Marathon set at about 115 mm of travel, with a 45 degree riser stem. It's a great downhiller. When I lockout the shock, it's a great out of the seat climber as well.
There are plenty of used ones out there. But let's not forget about keeping Surly in business. Buy new based on my review!!! You will not be disappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd Schlemmer
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: November 22, 2006
Kinda like a Model T, basic colors only, but that I never cared about color, and if that bothers YOU, it's cheap enuff to justify a custom respray. Not light, but that's a Product Strength, isn't it?
Similar Products Used:
Old Schwinn clunkers, other converted SS bikes
Bike Setup:
Surly 1X1 SS frame, 20 black Surly Disc Hubs Sun/Ringle singletrack welded rims Truvativ Stylo SS cranks White Brothers ENO freewheels Thompson Elite Seatpost/stem Surly Torsion Bar and bolt-on grips Interloc Racing gDual Bangerh Mech disc brakes Conti Survivor Pro-tection or Hutch Python tires WTB Pure V saddle Shimano SPDfs and XT brake levers Gearing 33~18 / 33~20 one tiny dent that I am still torqued off about...
Bottom Line:
This is my totally, completely, best-in-the-world, favoritest bike (out of all bikes presently and previously owned). I ride this bike everywhere I used to ride suspended bike. I like this bike so much I am building a fixie scorcher with a white frame. But, and this is important, the bike means nothing if you don't ride it. Owning this bike gets you no bragging rights, but becoming a better, stronger, faster rider by virtue of riding this bike will make you happy and improve your life. The bike is a means to enjoyment through simplicity, challenge, and transcendance. endofsermon
Singlespeed Adventure Corps!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a Cross Country Rider
from Lenexa, KS, USA Date Reviewed: November 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$470.00
Strengths:
Very smooth, very responsive. Perfect frame to build up a cheap single speed.
Weaknesses:
Not the lightest thing out there, but who cares? I'm not a weight weanie.
Bike Setup:
Kept it rigid, new LX cranks, cheap wheels and old take off bar, stem, seatpost, saddle. About the only thing I put new on this frame when I got it was cables and housing.
Bottom Line:
This bikes is the SH*T! I ride it way more then my $3000.00 dollar full suspension set up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yosh
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO, USA Date Reviewed: September 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Not telling you
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Boulder Sports Recycler
Strengths:
4130 steel, if that's your thing.
Weaknesses:
4130 steel, if that's not your thing.
Similar Products Used:
Bianchi, Beater cro-mo w/singleator
Bike Setup:
Rigid fork/Manitou Skareb, Truvativ cranks, rings, bashguard, Easton carbon riser, various wheels/cogs to suit terrain.
Bottom Line:
It's a great bike, and this is coming from a guy who just realized tonight that his seatstay is cracked. Darn. I can't complain, however, since i've gotten some awesome rides in on this bike, and it's served me very well. The steel is this bike's greatest pro and con. Its handling is more more reliable and secure than the featherweight Bianchis i've ridden.
Words of warning: if you're a weight conscious rider, look elsewhere bc 4130 steel is chubby. My Surly with a rigid fork was about 1.5 lbs. HEAVIER than my full suspension race rig. Ahhh, but she sure was a sexy one...
The fork is pretty bad in terms of weight and chatter. if the rigid fork is your thing, and it's definitely fun, you might want to consider an upgrade. The steerer tube of the fork rusted out pretty badly after about a year of ownership (it was used...how old???who knows), but again, i can't really be too mad about that. I'm just saying from a safety standpoint that you don't want your steerer tube to fail and have your manhood (or womanhood) have a close encounter with your stem.
I poked around online to see if maybe the good folks at Surly had some sort of ridiculous LL Bean type lifetime warranty for their frames, but, as expected, they didn't. I was kind of surprised by the...ahem...surly wording of the warranty info.
I got my money's worth and then some out of this bike, and i would highly recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark H.
a Cross Country Rider
from Plano, TX, USA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Cameron Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
Super smooth steel ride. Can stand up to a ton of abuse
Weaknesses:
It's a heavy frame - but throw the right components on it and you'll never know.
Bike Setup:
King headset, Thomson stem/seatpost, On One Mary bars, Avid SD-7, Truvativ Stylo 32t crank. DT Swiss 240s wheelset laced to 819s with Supercomps.
Bottom Line:
Absolute great deal for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Obionespeedonly
a
from San Francisco Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: May 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
All of 'em!!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Overall it lives up to the legendary Surly quality these frames are known for. The disc tabs only make them that much more fun!! I use mine for just about everything, and as with the Rat Rod 1x1 I had, then sold years ago, I'm having a great time on it!! The steel handles sooo much nicer and smoother than any Ti or Aluminum frame I've ever ridden. I'm glad I chose to go with Steel again! They're right, Steel is Real!!
Weaknesses:
Not entirely Fox/Rock Shox fork compatible when running a Chris King Headset. (Read: Right Knob was hitting the downtube), not sure who's fault this is ultimately, being that I've seen this with other manufacturer's frames, but is mostly unique to my XS 14" frame. I'd like to hear they've added an extra 1-2mm on the base of their head tube to solve this, but then again, Ventana Cycles in Sacramento, Ca sells the 4mm Chris king Race to solve it, which I'm currently running, without so much as a whimper from it. Any q/a stuff you might have that I havn't covered will be in the cool, new MTBR Surly Forum!!
Surly Rat Rod 1x1 Bontrager Privateer Various other 4130 26" Frames
Bike Setup:
Fox Talas 130 RLC CK Headset/Hubs Truvativ BB/Crankset w/ Salsa 32T Ring Hope Hydros
Bottom Line:
It's a fun, solid bike, that'll last me as long as I need it to, or until I buy another because I'm tired of the color.
Check them out at: http://www.surlybikes.com/1X1.html
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benjamin Lukey
a Weekend Warrior
from Beavercreek, OH USA Date Reviewed: May 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
John Bryan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
webcyclery.com
Strengths:
DISCLAIMER: this review is for the FORK only, available separately at webcyclery.com and some shops.
Great Steel Ride. I got it with the canti bosses, and the flex and shock absorption is wonderful but it doesn't bend like a noodle when you hit the brakes (the rake-out helps with this). I am now racing time trials on it with a 2.35" tire and it feels like a suspension fork. Lighter, too.
Weaknesses:
I would not recommend putting a much heavier person than me (250 lbs) on it. It flexes significantly more for me than for my "little" brother (200 lbs.) Also, if you are a BMX rider looking to build a MTB that feels like your thugged-out trail jumper, look elsewhere. This fork flexes like carbon.
Similar Products Used:
CRMO fork by GT, girvin "chubby" pipeline dual-crown, various susp. forks by RockShox, Marzocchi, RST, etc.
Bike Setup:
NOS 1993 Mongoose Rockadile SX, STX-RC and Deore LX drivetrain, Ride XC Crank by RaceFace, Deore V on the rear and Tektro RBP on the front. Surly 1x1 fork.
Bottom Line:
Fan-Frickin'-Tastic
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia Date Reviewed: April 20, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
It's Pink, frame and fork package-Bargain, plenty strong, simplicity.
Weaknesses:
It didn't survive a black BMW on a commute home from work.
Bottom Line:
A great company to deal with, nice strong simple products. I personally haven't had any problems with their products. The finish of the frame was fine, paint would be the only issue, a little bit brittle. I found when riding, the geometry was nice and stable. Strength of the frame was impressive to me. Surly a great product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen
a
from Harrison, TN, USA Date Reviewed: April 17, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
SIMPLICITY, SIMPLICITY, SIMPLICITY. Who needs gears?
Weaknesses:
Well, I bought an Ellsworth Enlightenment last August. The problem here is that it'll never see the light of day again. It is though a real good clothes hanger.
Bottom Line:
AGAIN, SIMPLICITY, SIMPLICITY, SIMPLICITY. I just got my 1x1 in today. Took it out on a local trail and smiled the whole time. I felt faster and stronger than on my tricked out hardtail. Please, do yourself a favor, get a SS. You'll feel like you did when you were five years old on your first BMX. Anyone out there want an Ellsworth Enlightenment????????????????? I've learned that it has 26 too many gears :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerry
a Weekend Warrior
from Anchorage, AK Date Reviewed: March 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Black Bear, Hillside, Anchorage
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
It's steel, you can run whatever brake system you want on it from retro-geek cantis to post-modern hydro disc, it's steel, you can run tires wider than my fist (okay...almost), it's steel.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
None, but why would I?
Bike Setup:
King headset and hubs, Thompson stem and post, Easton bar, Hope brakes, Fox fork, Truvative crank, Race Face bottom bracket, Tioga tires
Bottom Line:
I lurve this bike. I can ride anything on this bike that I can ride on my geared hard tails. I never bought the "improved efficiency" argument until I actually rode a single speed, but I can honestly say that one gear is muy efficient. Pedaling is almost effortless, until you hit an up-hill grade; then it only becomes slightly more difficult. It tracks well and has the steel ride that I love oh so much.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vee
a Cross Country Rider
from Madison, WI 53703 Date Reviewed: March 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Bike shop
Strengths:
Cheap, simple, tough. Rigid singlespeeds are actually faster than geared suspension bikes on some trails.
Weaknesses:
Chainstay broke after 5 years of riding.
Similar Products Used:
Various steel hardtails.
Bike Setup:
Like a big BMX bike: DH bar, burly wheels, big DH tires, etc.
Bottom Line:
Definitely worth the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott O'Reilly
a Weekend Warrior
from Newton, MA USA Date Reviewed: January 31, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Big River
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
strong and laterally stiff
Weaknesses:
You fall into a clique of bikes geeks once you own it.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Kilaeaha with a singulator
Bike Setup:
80mm Bomber, Race face cranks, Monkey bar risers, avid rim brakes
Bottom Line:
Rode a converted steel single speed for a year or so and loved it. When I switched to the Surly, I noticed huge difference in the lateral stiffness when you're out of the saddle hammering up hills.
If you're a bit of an exhibitionist and love to have people ogle your bike on the side of the trail or in the parking lot, then this is the bike for you. You can also go on mtbr and write some witty little things like how you ride, "a piece of art" and how your bike is, "sexy", and how "people who don't singlespeed just don't understand."
But hey, if that's what you like, then have at it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Rochester Minnesota Date Reviewed: January 29, 2006
I sold my nrs 1 to build this bike and it was worth it. Im just as fast as on my geared bike and I dont miss the suspension at all. It rides sooo smooth. Looks damn good even sitting still and I can open beer with the tuggnutts. I dont worry about suspension setup anymore, I just go out and ride. I can cram huge tires in the frame for riding in the funky minnesota weather. Buy it if you just wanna ride and forget all the other crap. This is a bikers bike, get you one, you wont be dissapointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big Old Man
a Cross Country Rider
from Swathmore, Pennsylvania Date Reviewed: August 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Middle Run
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$390.00
Purchased At:
BUSTLETON BIKES in Phila
Strengths:
Inexpensive, strong, beautiful, unique
Weaknesses:
Only black and white
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000 with a singulator
Bike Setup:
Surly disk hubs laced to salsa delgado rims, Avid V-brakes, Eno freewheel, salsa chain ring, Titec stem and bars, old Zokie Z-4 fork.
Bottom Line:
I had this built by Mike at BUSTLETON BIKES. He's a single speeder and knows what works. It is a flowing piece of art that will let you do whatever you want with it. I broke it in with a 12 hour race at Roundtop PA. I rode better and faster than with my geared bike. Have used it for communting to Philadelphia. It does not disappoint. Buy it, simple, clean, and fast. Ride one gear, live one life.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bo Olson
a Cross Country Rider
from Winnetka, IL USA Date Reviewed: July 14, 2004
Favorite Trail:
the streets, kettle moraine area
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$399.00
Purchased At:
Cambriabike.com
Strengths:
Strong, fast, sexy.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
schwinn moab 2
Bike Setup:
surly 1x1 fork, surly new disc hubs laced to rhynolite wheels, avid mechanical discs, eno freewheel, deore octalink cranks, 32t chainring, and who really cares about the small stuff.
Bottom Line:
This bike made me get on the bike and just ride again. I ride everywhere i need to go now. my reason in buying this bike was that i wanted something strong, fast, reliable, and cheap. i was sick of braking parts, having to retune parts, and having things fail when im trying to zip around in traffic and get somewhere quick. i use this bike mostly as a commuter, havent taken it off the road yet actually. It's damn fast, damn reliable, and damn menuverable (sp?). I can't say anything bad about it at all. I'm a beleiver.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: May 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
ABS - Santa Cruz, CA
Strengths:
Steel, Low center of gravity, simple, cheap, and a hell of a lot of fun.
Weaknesses:
The frame is so low-priced, I have a hard time just owning one. It would be nice to see a few more colors available. Although, I love mine in black (all black, even down to my BMX Chain).
Similar Products Used:
S.C.Chameleon
Bike Setup:
King HS, Thompson P&S, Answer PT bars, Surly disk hubs laced with DTs to Mavic x3.1 USTs w/Conti Vertical pros, Truvative-Max Ti BB, RF Turbine LP Cranks, BlackSpire ring (32t) ACS Claws freewheel (18t), Avid mechanicals w/7”rotors (for simplicity), and topped it off with a WTB Laser V pro-Gel. (hey, gotta have some suspension for the ride home) :o)
Bottom Line:
OK, here it is. I have a Heckler (sweet bike, w/all the Gucci stuff on it. I love it) I have a Chameleon (sweet bike, w/all the Gucci stuff. I love it). But now, I only ride the Surly 1x1. Ok, now some of this is just my addiction to SSing, which in a nutshell is biking made simple. I don’t have to oil or clean or adjust anything before a ride, I just grab my bike and go ride. I love the challenge of just me and the mountain, no wussing out on anything, it’s either ride it or walk it. The simplicity of the SS gives you more time to enjoy the ride. Ok, so I’m addicted. Now, about the bike; mine is set up full ridged. I personally feel if you have any kind of suspension fork on an SS bike, you are seriously missing the point (On the other hand my Chameleon (aluminum frame) is so stiff, no way would I run that full rigid). :oP The 1x1’s steel frame and the UST tires make you feel at one with the trail. The low BB (lower then most mountain bike frames) give the bike a better center of gravity witch is great for tacking the Single Track. I still jump this bike on the trail (albeit, not as high as my Chameleon) and I never feel concerned about strength. This is a great frame, and the only reason I would change it out would be for something more Gucci (Seven or Dean, or other Ti frame), but I’m betting I’d feel sorry if I did. Sorry, I have to say it: the Steel is Real. :o)
Go Buy this Bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Miker J
a
from Potter Co., PA Date Reviewed: April 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Cheep Steel Fatties Fit Fine 2 color choices keep it simple
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
first and only SS
Bike Setup:
32x18 w/ Race Face 180mm cranks. 02 100mm Marathon up front (best single crown non-thru axel I've ridden). 517/317 hoops with new 2.4 Mutano's (great SS tire). Avid V in rear, Avid mech disc up front. Thompson 120x15. Easton aluminum bar with bar ends. CK bits.
Bottom Line:
Super SS frame. If you are new to SS this is the bike to get cause it's cheap, durable, well thought out, versatile (light enough for xc, strong enough for light FR), and will persevere through cases of "upgradeitis". Why? Because you could pay 3 times the price of a 1x1 and still not get a better ss frame.
Of all the cash I've laid out over my many years of biking none have been as well spent as on the purchase of this frame.
This bike is what mountai biking is all about. Ride it hard 'cause you won't break it (and if you do it's cheap to fix), toss it's steel ass in the back of the pickup with the dogs, oil the chain and it's ready to go again. No muss, no fuss.
Those of you who do not SS you will not understand until you do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from Southampton, NY, USA Date Reviewed: April 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
valley of death
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Webcyclery
Strengths:
rides nice and smooth, plain colors, its not as pretty as your buddies $2500 custom ride so you can leave the dirt on it, eliminating clean up time. tuning = cleaning the chain
Weaknesses:
riding it will make you feel bad about leaving your dualy at home..........at first. People will stare and think you are a hippie type.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
truvative stylo, 32x16, xl white, wide rizers and shimano clipless, no discs yet.
Bottom Line:
I am big for bike riding (6'2' 195-205 depending on breakfast) and lanky so I got the XL. Fits great. Great bike for winter riding. I love the peace and quiet of no shifting and no chain slap. Enjoy everything from a peaceful zen ride to a crazy stand on the pedals leg buster. Keep the rigid fork, it tracks beatifully and rolls over things you never thought it would.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steven chaprnka
a Cross Country Rider
from prescott, AZ Date Reviewed: March 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
51
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
the shop
Strengths:
all the angles are right where they need to be. tuff as a ghetto rat. its black, or white. cheap. a versatile rig. never believe you are better then a surly, cause you aint'
Weaknesses:
the girls a beast but i say cushin' for the pushin'. seat collar is a piece
Similar Products Used:
there's only one 1x1
Bike Setup:
king headset/hubs, race face crank/stem, thompson post, mavic hoops, easton bar, avid disc, platform
Bottom Line:
the 1x1 is a rider's ride. she's not all that pretty, aweful steel and chinese welds. but that just keeps on top of her, roostin' down the trail, not worrying about about lame bull sh**. she rails hard and tough and will go as long as you can. You put her away dirty and do the whole thing again the next day.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Miller
a Racer
from Nazareth, PA Date Reviewed: January 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
has a wierd name...its by the shore in jersey
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Curt's Cyclery
Strengths:
looks sweet, everyone worships singlespeeders
Weaknesses:
i think i need to adjust the rebound
Similar Products Used:
uhh surly instigator converted to ss then back to gears...that one's for sale
Bike Setup:
surly wheels, king headset, xt brakes
Bottom Line:
this bike rules. i have noticed a huge difference in my technical skills after i got this bike. it would have been worth it just for that, then i realized how fun it is...no worries.. just ride! I went to a late season race in october and i was there was only one other singlespeeder, in semi pro. i was the only rigid bike there. it was nice to score a third in the highly contested junior sport on this puppy. if you want your technical and power skills to get better, buy a single speed
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Hart
a Racer
from San Bernardino Date Reviewed: November 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Indian Hill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Built it my self
Strengths:
The frame on this bike Fu!#(ng rocks. It tracks better than any bike I have ever ridden. Unless you hit a huge rut or large hole in the ground you can't tell you are on a hardtail.
Weaknesses:
Yea, right.
Similar Products Used:
2003 Giant NRS 1
Bike Setup:
Sid SL, Race Face DH cranks less the bash guard and 22 ring,Mavic F519 rims with Surly hubs and 15 gauge spokes,Titec seat post, 7 Sette stem and riser bar, Avid TI brakes, Richy ZED Race tires, All to the tune of only 25lbs. I'm also running a 32x16 gear.
Bottom Line:
I JUST LOVE TO BE ON SUCH AN AWSOME BIKE PASSING MOST OF BUDDIES AS WE CLIMB THE LOCAL HILLS WITH ONLY ONE GEAR. ANYONE WANT TO BUY AN NRS-1. I weigh 197 lbs and I think I could even weigh 297 and this thing would handle it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Winona Lake, IN Date Reviewed: November 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Chicago Boys Club Trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$930.00
Purchased At:
Trailhouse/Tarkio Road
Strengths:
Simple to set-up, maintain and ride.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first SS. Have been mtbiking for the past three years
Bike Setup:
Surly 1X1 frame/fork, second generation surly hubs, Rhynolites, Panaracer fire 2.1's, Sun-Ringle Octane pedals, Deore hollowtech crankset, Avid single digit 5 brakes and levers, Raceface riser bar, WTB seat.
Bottom Line:
I purchased this bike with simplicity in mind. I wanted a solid frameset and quality components without spending a ton of cash. I didn't care about weight savings or other issues of that nature. The bike has been excellent for the local trails I ride, lots of rolling singletrack and small hills. I am clearing most of the obstacles that I could with my 8 speed, Rockshox equipped bike. My opinion, SS's are not for everyone, but those that ride them recognize that gears, shocks and saving a few grams of weight are not the important things, enjoying the ride is.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Forks, ND, USA Date Reviewed: September 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Maah Daah Hey
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
MTBR.com Classifieds
Strengths:
Rigid frame, no flex at all, fatties fit fine, simple paint - doesn't make me sad to ride it hard and scratch it.
Weaknesses:
This section shouldn't even be here for this frame.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first SS and will probably stay on to be my last.
Bike Setup:
Surly 1x1 frame, Bontrager Revolt tires, Race Face System Stem, Profile Maniac riser handlebar, Chris King headset (red), Avid V-brakes, Rolf Dolomite front wheel, Mavic SUP rim laced to a Surly 1x1 hub, Shimano 16T Freewheel, Race Face Turbine crankset, Profile 34T chainring, Speedplay Frog pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike, and company for that matter, is doing it right.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Weekend Warrior
from London, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: July 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Wildwood
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
LBS thru QBP
Strengths:
Cost, Shweet factor, company rep, welding and overall finish, frame geometry and features.
Weaknesses:
Weight, colour choices or lack thereof
Similar Products Used:
None ( converted Kona hardtail into SS mode to try out )
Bike Setup:
Ridgid stock fork and frame (small black), sun rhyno lites w first gen surley 1x1 hubs front and rear, panaracer firepro xc kevlar 2.1s frt/rr,34/17 gearing, older xt crank, shimano m424 clip pedals, bontrager stem, specialized wide boy flat bar, syncos seat post, bontrager race seat, old lx cantis and avid break levers.
Bottom Line:
Never weight it but I think its around 23 lbs, only done a few rides on it but it is not a lot slower than riding my geared hardtail. The workout after feels like I did a super set of squats ! much more demanding riding than on a geared bike - really have to keep that momentum going. I bought it because I saw the value of a bike like this to train on and the fact there are no parts to break ! I would recommend converting a bike to SS before buying as it is a very specialized type of riding - some people might not like it. As for me I did like it and wanted a proper frame and SS wheelset. The fork tracks well and soaks up some bigger hits that would rattle my teeth more than my other ridgid bike I have. The frame really hooks up when you put the power down and there is no flex in out of the saddle grinds which really surprised me - it handles way better than more expensive rigs. I think this bike would rock with a really light fork and some lightweight parts to get the weight down. Need to ride it more ....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from wisconsin Date Reviewed: June 10, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Michaels Cycles, Janesville, WI.
Strengths:
I purchased this frame after riding a converted Schwinn Moab 3 for a few months. The frame is super stout, straight, and very well thought out. I like the idea that I can run discs front and back and all of the eye-lets and threaded screw holes for fenders etc. are a nice touch not to mention the price. I have four bikes and I ride this more than all of the others. I primarily built this bike to be a simple winter bike but I find myself riding it all of the time.
Weaknesses:
Short top tube- I had to purchase a 22" frame to get the desired top tube length without going to a seriously long stem. Other than that, I have no complaints.
Similar Products Used:
A converted Schwinn Moab 3
Bike Setup:
LX brakes and levers, LX splined crank, Salsa 32 ring, Shimano 16 freewheel, new Surly rear hub, Deore front hub on Ryno-lite rims with 14G spokes with brass nipples, Titec bar, stem, and seatpost, Shimano nickel 8-speed chain, Mars comp coil fork with extra firm spring kit, Michelin tires. Weight 27 lbs.
Bottom Line:
I tried to build this bike to last without spending a ton and it is a bit heavy. I plan to keep this bike for a long time and I really enjoy riding it. A preferred buyer would be someone looking for a sturdy, do-it-all bike with some single speed experience. There are other lighter frames out there that may be preferable for racing but it is hard to beat the price, quality, customer service (I called Surly twice when setting the bike up and actually got a live body willing to help), and versatility of this frameset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aaron twemlow
a Cross Country Rider
from new zealand Date Reviewed: June 5, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
supa strong and a tad heavy but I ride a 20inch so whats five pounds of frame anyway.
Weaknesses:
None, nadda ,nuttin ,knot a thing If you think the paint fades then try some silicone or car polish... Brand new again just like that.
Similar Products Used:
home made s.s bikes
Bike Setup:
Syncros anniversary cranks,seatpost and 32-16 rings, easton monkeybars,chris king hdset,xtr bb, hope ti rear s.s hub,and p2 kona forks, avid breaks. Ritchey rims
Bottom Line:
I ride s.s all the time better than my other mtbs. I built the surly up to be reliable and strong first and light second. But I just had it weighed recently at 22.3lbs.pretty happy with that. SUPA STRONG MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mr1spd@yahoo.com
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellevue, NE USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
swanson, LC
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000000.00
Purchased At:
Ep thruogh shop I work at
Strengths:
Fast, 4130 is real, Can fit big ass tires, NINJA QUIET, Stiff as hell, awesome fork holds up and tracks awesome.
Weaknesses:
hmmmmmmmmm? None
Similar Products Used:
This is my first single speed so I haven't had anything similiar.
Bike Setup:
Med frame, Shimano bb, bontrager comp cranks 32t, shimano 8 spd chain, shimano 16t freewheel, Surly new rear hub built on nos mavic 217, kalloy seatpost, selle italia "El Diablo" saddle, fsa headset, salsa moto ace stem, race face bar, wtb front wheel, hutchinson airlite tires, kenda ultralight tubes. lx levers and xt brakes.
22 1/2 lbs
Bottom Line:
This bike is the only bike you will ride if you buy it. I have other high dollar xc bikes and this is my weapon of choice...........Buy it if you want to get back to the roots of riding. Your skills will improve and you will be faster on your road bike. The price is right and it can built up with used parts or stuff you have lying around. Take a chance you may just have fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john holpuch
a Weekend Warrior
from damascus, maryland, usa Date Reviewed: January 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
shaffer farm park and the u of md campus
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
all american bicycles www.aabikes.com
Strengths:
no major complaints on the frame. bottom bracket maybe a little weak.
Weaknesses:
cheapest, weakest fork ive ever ridden. "hardcore" chromoly steel bent in half after five months of cross country/to,from,on campus commuting/light urban assult. five month useful life is a little ridiculous. what a poorly made piece of equipment.
race face diabolus stem and dh riser bars. avid single digit seven brakes. salsa carbon fiber brake boosters. chris king headset. surly "new" (high flange) 1x1 hubs on rhyno lite rims. nokian gazzaloddi core 2.3" tires. truvativ downhill bottom bracket. truvativ stylo singlespeed 180mm 32t crankset. highly modified primo tensioners. thomson seatpost. selle italia xo seat. surly constrictor seatpost clamp. shimano 16t freewheel. salsa pepperjack grips. primo barends.
Bottom Line:
i got this bike because i thought it was suppsoed to be a good stout all around mountin bike ripper. the fork is the most horrible bike part ive ever purchased. five months and its done. the only reason it stopped bending where it did was that the brake booster was touching the fork at the bottom of the steer tube. the brake posts bent also. all this from a few measly stairs. its no good. anyone larger than your "typical" mountin biker (150 lb+) looking for an xc bike they can take to the street sometimes should look elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Chavez
a Cross Country Rider
from Gilbert, AZ. USA Date Reviewed: December 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Desert Classic, TRW/Hawes, McDowell race course any fast XC course.
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Bike Chalet
Strengths:
Steel frame, compliant yet a great climbing bike, supports my 215 pound pounding. Durable strong SingleSpeed (one word) steel frame, great climbing frame, descends beautifully.
Weaknesses:
I haven't had any complaints I haven't seen any yet.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale; nicley spec'd Jykell & Bad Boy.
Bike Setup:
Easton monkey lite bar, Canecreek headset, race face stem,Rockshox Race, Avid 7.0 levers/brakes, Tru-vativ SS stylo isis cranket (34x16)and ISIS bottom bracket, Thompson seatpost, Serfas saddle, Surly 1x1 hub, Mavic 517 wheels.
Bottom Line:
This is my second review on this frame (read the first) this is also my second Surly frame. I rode the first frame very hard and it's still in great shape, the reason I bought another frame is because I wanted a large my first is a medium (it's for sale).
My new frame is white and I switched all of my parts from my black frame onto the white one.
Riding this bike is always a challange that I love to take.
One thing that I did change was to run a 34x16 gear instead of a 32x16, it's a bit harder on the climbs but also a bit faster on the flats.
This frame is just beautiful to look at and enjoyable to ride, it brings out the kid in me. The first time that I rode this bike I was a bit apprehensive about riding a single speed, but after the ride I realized that one SPEED is all you need! Momentum is the key! I can keep up with my riding buddies and it's great passing other multi-speed bikes, especially on climbs. People are always looking over their shoulder to see if they've dropped me, usually not - I'm just waiting for a place to pass. Momentum is the key! The frame soaks up the rough stuff just fine, I roll over harsh stutter bumps soooo smoooothly. The frame is equipped with a ridged fork I'm forty one years and had to install a suspension fork, I don't think my neck could handle the beating, I get enough pain in my neck from life’s other adventures. My complete Surly bike weighs in at about 24 lbs., I weigh in at 210 lbs. so this bike feels pretty light to me. I ride pretty hard and am always wearing out parts on my geared bikes. It will be great not to have to worry about all those little parts. This bike climbs great and descends just fine, just the right amount of compliance in the frame. I've read many reviews on SS bikes and one thing that is mentioned frequently is how quite they are. I didn't understand what they meant until I rode mine the first time - no annoying chain slap. I traded parts that I had, sold my GT and bartered parts for this bike and it was worth the entire hassle. If you’re considering a SS bike the Surly frameset is terrific. Do the wheeling and dealing necessary and build up A SingleSpeed (one word). I believe the retail value of my bike is over $1200, I built it for approximately $700. If your just going through the motions and ready for a new way to ride or another challenge and aren't afraid of a little pain, BUILD UP A SINGLESPEED!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ernest
a Cross Country Rider
from SC Date Reviewed: October 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the one I am riding
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
used online, built
Strengths:
The ride. very smooth.
Weaknesses:
none, except buddies call it the beach cruiser.
Similar Products Used:
none, first singlespeed
Bike Setup:
FSA stuff, brakes, time pedals, etc. 36/18 gears. 2.1 panasports, judy shock, surly hubs.
Bottom Line:
I hate to admit it but I enjoy riding this bike as much if not more than my silk ti. Simple fun. Not as hard as I thought it would be to go to a SSpeed, it seems much more efficient and responsive. The bike does exactly what it is supposed to do. it is the best 500 bucks I have spent in cycling. I did put a suspension fork on it --- I know most dont like that but I am not that much of a purist. I looked at a lot of frames to use as a SS and kept coming back to the Surly. Hard to beat the value and the ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Barry
a Weekend Warrior
from Homewood, IL Date Reviewed: October 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$255.00
Purchased At:
Alfred E. Bikes
Strengths:
Great price. Room for really big tires. Really cool looking seat and chain stays. Great support from Surly. Other than that, it just works right.
Weaknesses:
Poor paint quality, but so what.
Similar Products Used:
My 10 year old Schwinn. (Weighs alot more, can't fit big tires though.)
Bike Setup:
Size small frame. Surly hubs and Sun Ryno Lite rims. Some Deore, some Titec parts. Coda crank with cheap 32T Bike Nashbar chainring (good for single speed because it has no ramps or pins, all the teeth are the same). 2.2 Specialized tires (550 grams), 20T Freewheel. With this setup the bike weighs 23.2 lbs. I'm going to try an 18T freewheel, and the new Kenda Kenetics Stick-E 2.6 tires when they're available.
Bottom Line:
This thing is a blast. I can't wait to try the big tires out. How else can you build a bike that weighs 24 lbs. (with the big tires) and fits 2.6 tires. Unlike some of the other reviewers though, I'm still keeping my i-drive FS. My old body can't take the beating everytime out.
One of the things I really like is that it's almost like riding a new trail. Contrary to popular opinion, we have some nice technical trails in Illinois, but unfortunately only a few of them. Having a bike so different from my FS doubles the amount of available trails. I also find myself shifting way less on the geared bike now.
Surly support is great. I asked a question about what size bottom bracket to use, given the Coda crank, and got a prompt and accurate reply. I also had a small problem with the front Surly hub. Both of the supplied axle nuts were real sloppy threading on. One skipped a thread with very little pressure on the wrench, although the threads looked fine. (If you have a Surly hub, I'd recommend double checking.) Whether the wrong size nuts were provided, or whether they were machined out of tolerance, and whether they came that way from Surly or maybe the wheel manufacture substituted, I don't know. But Surly sent me 2 replacement axle nuts when I informed them of the problem.
One more plug. I bought my frame frome Alfed E. Bikes. They gave me a $20 discount because they don't usually carry these in inventory and had one by mistake. Still, their normal price is $275, which is the cheapest I've found. (I've seen them go for more than that on ebay.) Nice folks to deal with too. Here's the link:
Submitted by
edzo
a Racer
from acton Date Reviewed: October 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
PR
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Allspeed in Portland ME
Strengths:
it rides like a bike should. no kidding, you do not think it is a hefty bike at all. it runs awesome
Weaknesses:
zero and I mean it
Similar Products Used:
bikes
Bike Setup:
Judy up front, rockshox seat post, 2.2 tires, blowerdrive, brakes, CF handlebars
Bottom Line:
OK now peeps. This thing is a cro-mo singlespeed. My bike built up is 27 lbs, but it rides like my 21 lb ti-bike. You just pedal the thing and it tracks perfect and takes huge hits and keeps on going. It does not feel heavy, you do not know anything other than you are riding and it feels great ! this bike felt great from day one (except I was not used to the singlespeed aspect) now 1 year later this is my FAVORITE bike of all time. I can run with the geared bikes no problem except downhill when I cannot spin past 140rpm. and if there is a steep grunt I can't pedal I jump off and run(but I usually just HAMMER like hell). I cannot describe this bike other than to say, it rides like a bike should and it is responsive and forgiving all in one. no frame flex when pedaling hjard, and no body bashing when on the bumps. MAN this is sweetness defined ! no shifting no hassle just jump on it, ride it, and put it away wet. you are always in the right gear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Somerville, MA, USA Date Reviewed: July 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hodges Village Dam
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Alley
Strengths:
Steel doesn't break if you are fat.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Bianchi BuSS, Bianchi BaSS
Bike Setup:
It has parts on it that make it roll over things.
Bottom Line:
Buy this frame and fork. Put parts on it. I don't care which ones you choose. Go out and ride it on the same trails your friends ride their Trek Fuel 90s and Santa Cruz Bullits. Pass them. Huck it off a rock. Land on the rubber side. Roll away. Watch as your friends replace derailleurs and shock bushings. Enjoy the relaxed seat tube angle and fat tires. Jump off of stuff when you feel like it. Climb a hill. Ride down. Get a drink. Get another drink. Ride in the mud. Ride over a bridge in the woods. Have too much fun. Create a relationship with your local bicycle shop. They know where the good trails are. Ride a singlespeed where others won't ride their $3000 Ti garage art. Mostly, have fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken Williams
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington, DC Date Reviewed: July 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Fountainhead, a Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
University Bicycle Center in Tampa, FL
Strengths:
Steel (the touch, the feel, the material of our lives). Price. Super wide tire clearance (Fatties Fit Fine) so muddy days pose no problem. Geometry feels good. Indy rocks! Did I mention how nice steel is?
Weaknesses:
Decals flaked off immediately and the paint sucks, but I think (seriously) that this only adds to the charm of this extremely affordable bike.
Chris King Headset, Chris King Hubs, Chris King Steel King Cog (16T), DT Straight Guage (14G) Spokes, DT brass nipples, Velocity Aeroheat Rims, Hutchinson Python Air Lights (usually), Salsa Ti front skewer, Salsa Lip Lock seat post clamp, Thomson seat post, Thomson stem, Terry Fly Ti saddle, TruVativ ISIS Drive SL bottom bracket, TruVativ Stylo SingleSpeed Crankset, Easton Flat Boy platform pedals, Easton EC70 Monkeylite Composite XC mid-rise handlebars, ODI Hard Core Lock-On grips and clamps, Cane Creek Ergo Bar Ends, Avid Speed Dial Ultimate brake levers, Avid Single Digit Ultimate brake calipers, Ride-on Gore-Tex Cables, Wippermann Connex stainless steel chain, Elite water bottle cages
Bottom Line:
Despite having an extremely well-equipped S-Works, the Surly is by far my favorite bike to ride. Absolute simplicity. It is what biking is all about. City commuting is no problem. It is absolutely unbreakable. I seriously believe that one (meaning the frame) could get run over by a truck and still be fine. I sit at work all day long and count the minutes until I can get back on my Surly. I will never buy from a big company again. Who should buy it: 1) anyone who wants a great bike at a great price, 2) anyone wanting to try the singlespeed thing without spending a whole lot of cash on a custom job (for this, see Independent Fabrication), 3) anyone wanting to get back to the basics of biking (this is, perhaps, though not strictly, a reiteration of 2), or 4) anyone wanting to support small biking companies Who should avoid it: 1) those who wish to merely look at their bikes rather than ride them (the decals and paint will flake off and you will be disappointed), 2) those who cannot imagine owning a bike from a non-major company, or 3) those with small legs (the singlespeeding thing can be brutal)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mensacyclist
a Cross Country Rider
from Clermont Fl. Date Reviewed: July 7, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$560.00
Purchased At:
e-bay
Strengths:
reasonable price, quality.
Weaknesses:
bottom bracket height seems to be a bit low....my pedals keep catching on roots. Hardly a tradgedy. The stickers scrape off easy. They should be UNDER the clearcoat. Duh!
I just finished my first long ride on my new Surly. I wanted to comment on the Surly and the Singlespeed experience as well.
Surly: What can I say...it's great. If you read other reviews on the 1x1 they all sound the same. It's true, once you ride a single speed you'll have no interest in riding a geared ATB bike again. It's like rediscovering mountain biking only this time it's twice as cool.
Singlespeed riding: I can't say enough about going low tech and getting on a single speed. There are so many advantages that i don't know where to start. The first thing I would stress is that if you are going to go low tech go all the way. Don't get a singlespeed and then put a suspension fork and clip-in pedals on it. The rigid fork is even better than not having to think about shifting. With a fat tire and a rigid fork you roll right over stuff that you might otherwise dab on. You also roll right over sand without cutting into it. With a fat tire and a bit of pulling up on the bars you won't miss having a suspension fork for a minute. A rigid fork allows you to track so much more precisely. The action of the fork is 100% consistant, you know exactlly how it is going to respond. Big platform pedals round out the singlespeed experience. My calves are covered with ugly scars from times when i hit a big root and my Marzocchi decided to stop me dead in my tracks instead of rolling over it. Being locked into pedals has left me bloody more times than not. My ride on the Surly today was one of the only times I came home from an ATB ride without bloody legs.
It's also pretty cool to not have to worry about trashing expensive deraileurs and stuff. My last bike was XTR top to bottom and it seemed insane to ride it through sand and dirt. None of the parts on a singlespeed are that expensive so you can just ride and forget about it.
To recap: Forget the suspension fork...rigid is awesome, platform pedals...less stress. No thinking, just pleasure.
p.s. I'm not as fast on a singlespeed as I was on my $3000 suspension bike. I'm FASTER!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yosemite Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Your Mom Date Reviewed: May 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Where ever the grass parts
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$280.00
Purchased At:
Dirt King (long since defunct)
Strengths:
Steel is Real! The frame has held up well to 2 years of heavy (230 lbs) use. Superb value.
Weaknesses:
The finish is getting dull and worn in some places (chain stays) and the decals have a few cracks in them.
Similar Products Used:
'99 Klein Attitude Comp, '97 Mongoose 7.1
Bike Setup:
Stock? Seriously, surly hubs, rhyno lite rims, motoraptors, Truvativ Stylo SS cranks, Marzocchi Z2 Atom, Titec cockpit.
Bottom Line:
This bike has become my only mtn bike. One speed is truely all you need. I haven't touched my geared Klein in the 2 years I've had my Surly. I just cant imagine screwing with gears ever again. Or listening to chain/cable slap. As long as I have some momemtum, I can climb, sometimes even without it I can eek my way to the top. No bother, its the most fun I can have on 2 wheels.
PS save yourself some headaches, and buy shimano freewheels, they're silent!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Newark, DE USA Date Reviewed: May 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
rittenhouse park to the gay hangout at iron hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Wooden Wheels in Newark Shopping Center go there and buy stuff or I will be very unhappy
Strengths:
Extremely stiff frame that never fatigues. Accelerates well. Has a cult following. Duct tape (hydraulic line guides) adhere very well to the frame. Price. Is named after a funny adjective. Surly Definition: *(1) irritably sullen and churlish in mood or manner : crabbed (2) menacing or threatening in appearance
(* Indicates the sense illustrated in the example sentence.)
Example sentence: Leah almost reported the surly cashier to the store manager, but then thought better of it, deciding that he was probably just having a bad day.
In its very earliest uses in the 16th century, surly meant "majestic" or "lordly." These early meanings make sense when you know that this word is an alteration of sirly, which comes from sir, the title of knights and baronets and other men of honor. So how did a word with such lofty beginnings come to be associated with grumbling rudeness? Arrogant and domineering behavior is sometimes associated with men of rank or position, and surly soon meant "haughty" or "imperious." These meanings (which are now obsolete) led to the "rude" sense that is very common today.
Weaknesses:
Extremely stiff frame. The ascending traction I enjoyed with my first bike (trek 930) isn't here with this frame, almost rides like a beer can frame. I cracked the seat tube while using a titec 1.5" setback seatpost. It was entirely my fault (overtightened the clamp, flipped the bike all the way over onto the post). Part of QBP.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 930: much more resilient.
Bike Setup:
oury grips, duct tape, riser bar w/ carbon fiber bar ends
Bottom Line:
cult styling tank
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a
from OC, CA Date Reviewed: May 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
The Path
Strengths:
Killer ride and geometry. Steel. Coating quality.
Weaknesses:
None.
Bottom Line:
Darned, if I haven't become one of the freaks. I have been riding my Surly 1x1 for about three weeks now and love it. The ride is very compliant for a full rigid and find myself only slowing slightly from the break neck pace of my FS ride on the same downhills. It tracks more true than any other bike I have ridden, although, I am sure the front being rigid helps that. The build up was easy and painless, even I can I do it. Just be sure to put on some chain tugs or strip the drop-outs of paint if you stomp on the pedals or the rear axle will move.
Why a freak now? I was working on my FS bike yesterday and after reassembling it, I took it for a spin. Too much darned monkey motion on that thing. It just doesn't feel natural after riding the Surly.
I love this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lordofthe(ring)
a
from IL Date Reviewed: April 11, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
cheap, strong, black
Weaknesses:
none....really none
Similar Products Used:
geared steel srames
Bike Setup:
surly frame, fork and R hub. good cheap crap and full rigid
Bottom Line:
I have owned many bikes and currently have four. I ride one almost exclusively (guess). Trying to sell the others. Serious fun and a whole new outlook. Great company, great 1 speed ride. I beat this thing silly. what more ya need
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reen Machine
a
from here and there Date Reviewed: April 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
snail trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Sinagua Cycles Flagstaff, Thanks Garro!!
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
Causes dust to collect on my $3k+ dual susp. rig.
Similar Products Used:
Ecstasy, PCP
Bike Setup:
34/18, RaceFace 180mm cranks, Time, Z1 (yep, you heard me)
Bottom Line:
Well, it's been 2 years on this thing now, and no looking back. It's getting pretty beat but still rides like a dream. People think I'm a freak, but oh well. Now I live in Southern CA, so there are always lots of cats on 3,4,5 thousand dollar XC bikes to grind past on the climbs and smoke on the descents. Yes, that sounds mighty shallow, but ride a SS for a while and you'll see...
Anyway, I've been through a few chains & rings and several tires, but other than normal stuff like that the thing's been totally bomber. I recommend it most highly.
I can't believe how perfectly this frame rides on the singletrack. Jesus H. Christ in a chicken basket.
Peace out
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marshal
a
from Boulder, CO USA Date Reviewed: March 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
White Ranch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Boulder Sports
Strengths:
Excellent frame both climbs and decends well.
Weaknesses:
Lack of compatible chain tensioners (this is literally the ONLY weakness of this bike).
Similar Products Used:
IndieFab (too much $) Bianchi Diss (not a great climber)
This bike rules. I could not be more pleased. I literally beat the crap out of this thing every day, and it is always ready for more. Decends way better than most bikes I have ridden, and climbs quite well. I weigh 195 lbs and ride aggresively, and the rear is stiff enough for me.
GO BUY THIS FRAME.
If you are a front range singlespeeder drop me a line!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bradley Toth
a Racer
from Tempe, Az USA Date Reviewed: January 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
S. MTN, Hawes, anything
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
South Mountain Cycles
Strengths:
Riding a Surly has made me enjoy mountain biking again, it is just so much fun. The best color in the world, Black.
Weaknesses:
there aren't any
Similar Products Used:
1995 Voodoo Wanga Hardtail
Bike Setup:
02 Duke Sl, Raceface cranks 34-16, time pedals, Sulry rear hub laced to a black 519 with black spokes and nipples, xt front hub, laced to 517, raceface stem, monkey lite carbon bars, WTB headset, Easton post, Flite saddle Kenda Kinetics 2.35 front and rear, XTR brakes and levers
Bottom Line:
THis is the most possible fun that I've ever had on a bike. You are forced to become a better rider and keep your speed. Climbing is actually fun and I'm passing friends on geared bikes. Buy a Surly, it will make you a better rider
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Spudmeister
a Cross Country Rider
from Kentucky Date Reviewed: November 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Capitol View, Frankfort KY
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Solid, inexpensive ride. Predictable ride - no flash, no fail. It's BLACK.
Weaknesses:
Heavy? I'm 30 pounds overweight. I don't care what my bike weighs.
This bike is the most fun I've had in a long time! I've never ridden a bike that felt so normal under me. Don't cheat yourself - keep the rigid fork. You'll discover if you're not racing, you don't need the springs. The rigid fork sharpens your steering & helps on the climbs.
BUY THIS FRAME
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Chavez
a Cross Country Rider
from Gilbert, AZ. USA Date Reviewed: October 3, 2001
Cannondale; F2000, Super v2000, Bad Boy Ultra ;GT Timberline, Avalanche
Bike Setup:
Easton monkey lite bar, Canecreek headset, race face stem,Rockshox Race, Avid 7.0 levers/brakes, Tru-vativ SS stylo isis cranket (32X16)and ISIS bottom bracket, Ultimate ti seatpost, Serfas saddle, Surly 1x1 hub, Mavic 517 wheels.
Bottom Line:
This frame is just beautiful to look at and enjoyable to ride, it brings out the kid in me. The first time that I rode this bike I was a bit apprehensive about riding a single speed, but after the ride I realized that one SPEED is all you need! Momentem is the key! I can keep up with my riding buddies and it's great passing other multi-speed bikes. People are always looking over there shoulder to see if they've dropped me, usually not - I'm just waiting for a place to pass. Momentem is the key! The frame soaks up the rough stuff just fine, I roll over harsh stutter bumps soooo smoooothly. The frame is equiped with a ridged fork I'm forty one years and had to install a suspension fork, I don't think my neck could handle the beating, I get enough pain in my neck from lifes other adventures. My complete Surly bike weighs in at about 24 lbs, I weigh in at 210 lbs so this bike feels pretty light to me. I ride pretty hard and am always wearing out parts on my geared bikes, it will be great not to have to worry about all those little parts. This bike climbs great and desends just fine, just the right amount of compliance in the frame. I've read many reviews on SS bikes and one thing that is mentioned frequently is how quite they are. I didn't understand what they meant until I rode mine the first time - no annoying chain slap. I traded parts that I had, sold my GT and barterd parts for this bike and it was worth all the hassle. If your considering a SS bike the Surly frameset is terrific. Do the wheeling and dealing necessary and build up A SingleSpeed (one word). I believe the retail value of my bike is over $1200, I built it for approximately $700. If your just going through the motions and ready for a new way to ride or another challange and aren't afraid of a little pain, BUILD UP A SINGLESPEED!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
#%$!#$!!
a Cross Country Rider
from Ballwin, MO Date Reviewed: September 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Two Elk...so far
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$210.00
Purchased At:
The shop I work at.
Strengths:
Great ride of steel. Nice welds. Big Tires. Rigid fork. center pull brake compatable. BLACK. Durable. Inexpensive.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Salsa Ala Carte, KHS Team Cromo, Stumpjumper M2 (hated it) Fuji Titanium Hardtail, Stumpjumper steel Hardtail.
Bike Setup:
Profile risers, Azonic 90mil ORC, King headset, Avid mag brakes, Truvativ Stylo crank 32 isis, shimano 16 freewheel, 1x1hubs and mavic rims, Syncros post, sdg seat, Salsa flip lock, Fire xc pros. 21.5 lbs.
Bottom Line:
I have been riding bikes for a long time. This is the best one. This bike has an unbelievable ride. Its nimble, light, solid, reliable, rigid, and versatle. I dont miss suspension because you dont need it, gears either. I'll be buried with my 1x1.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
General Chaos
a Weekend Warrior
from St Paul,Minnesota Date Reviewed: September 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$390.00
Purchased At:
Airbomb
Strengths:
This review is for the new SURLY INSTIGATOR.Damn,this bike kicks ass!4130 cro-moly baby,lotsa' gussets,can take a 5-in stoke fork,single-speed convertible.Flickable,handles awesome--and did I mention burly?Cheap too--$390 at Airbomb.
Weaknesses:
A bit weighty,but what the hell did you expect?Welds aren't Moots-quality,but this is a workhorse,not some mamby-pamby lightweight bike.Comes in only one or two colors(mine's yellow like the one on MTBR's home page)
Similar Products Used:
I own the following bikes: '90 Bridgestone MB-1(singlespeed) '94 Fat City Bro-Eddy!(singlespeed) '99 Surly 1x1(singlespeed,DUH!) '00 Surly Cross-Check(singlespeed 'cross bike) Have demoed a Bianchi B.U.S.S,Spot single-speed,and a Kona Kaboom.As you can see I got a thing for singlespeeds! Also demo'd:Azonic DS-1,Spooky Metalhead,Specialized P.3,Kona Roast and Scab
Bike Setup:
Small,yellow:XT rear derailler/cogset,Truvativ Hussefelt 36t single ring crank,Z1 Drop-off(4 in. travel),Avid Mech. discs,Sun Mammoth/XT hubs,Bontrager Crowbar,Kore post slid all the way down for urban assault,beat-up ol' Titec Berserker saddle,Redline Flight pedals.Soon I will convert to a singlespeed and ride the way nature intended.
Bottom Line:
I was searching everywhere for an urban assault hardtail that can easily be converted into a singlespeed.I rode bikes from Azonic,Specialized,Kona,and Spooky,but as soon as my peeps at Surly came out with the Instigator,I wasted no time putting an order on a small frame. 3 MONTHS LATER--now I'm riding this kickass machine.This thing is the ultimate!!Flights of stairs,retaining walls,big curbs--this bike takes more hits than a drunken porn star.Yeah it's heavy BUT WHO THE HELL CARES?!IT FLAT OUT RIPS DAMMIT!!!I can't wait to see how cool this bike is with one speed!!!Expect to pay about 2k for the setup I have. Wanna have a good time?If you're ever around St. Paul,meet me and the "Minnesota Mafia" in the city park around 11 pm. Bring your singlespeed and your favorite pint mug!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
The Stranger
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland,Oregon Date Reviewed: September 6, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Strengths:
Cheap($200 is a drop in the bucket compared to most dedicated single-speed frames),tough,and nicely built considering the low price tag.No fiddling with deraillers--just ride.The geometry is perfect.If you dig steel this is the best value and the finest S.S ride you are likely to find anywhere,period.
Weaknesses:
Not the lightest frame out there,but that's to be expected.And to recall Henry Ford,you can have your 1x1 in any color as long as it's black..
Similar Products Used:
This is the only singlespeed.I owned a '95 Fat City Yo-Eddy! prior to this,and now I have a new Kona Explosif in my stable.
Bike Setup:
Medium frame,'00 SID XC,Avid SD 2.5 brakes and levers,Shimano DX/Sun Rhyno Lite wheels,Answer Hyperlite bar,Easton EA50 stem,Kore post,Raceface Turbine crank w/36t chainring,Time Alium pedals,Selle Italia Flite saddle,Panaracer Fire-XC Pro 2.1" tires
Bottom Line:
This is the cheapest boutique S.S frame out there,no question.What's surprising is that it's also one of the best ones out there.If you are new to single-speed biking and want to get your foot in the door,this is the way to do it.I paid around $1100-$1200 total to build this bike,which is very reasonable for a solid,reliable,and fun ride that will last you give or take half a century.Although there are aluminum and even titanium single-speeds out there,nothing works better than good old-fashioned steel tubing--really adds to the all-important "retro" feel.As you can see,my setup is general XC/racing with a beefy wheelset.The converted DX hubs require 36 spokes,thus adding a small weight penalty,but I'll accept that for the added strength--I weigh only 175 and I'll likely never need to true this wheelset.Altogether my bike weighs 24.4 pounds.Of course you can also go the super-light route and get it down to about 21 pounds if you're really fanatical about weight(and don't mind riding rigid).I'm not,and my bike works fine,so I'll leave it at that. Riding a S.S is a totally new experience.You quickly learn how to attack every hill and how to pick good lines so you don't waste energy traversing obstacles.Pedal hard and weight the bike correctly and the Surly will climb like an absolute fiend.Nothing feels better than beating your geared buddies to the top of a long,grinding climb.It forces you to ride at the best of your ability.Ever since I started riding my Surly I noticed that my skills have drastically improved.This is a great training machine that will put heart and lungs to the test almost immediately.S.S riding is also so enjoyable you'll wonder how you ever lived without one.The pain is worth it!Get yourself a Surly and experience single-speed riding without draining you dry(of cash,that is--the energy is up to you).Enjoy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Weekend Warrior
from Allendale, MI Date Reviewed: August 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ft. Custer, Highland Rec. Area
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$330.00
Purchased At:
Alger Schwinn - Grand Rapids, MI
Strengths:
- price - ride quality - simplicity - aesthetics (nice welds/finish work, especially for this $) - basic black paint (easy to match when touching up) - did I mention price?
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
No other singlespeeds, but I've owned a Seven Sola hardtail, Seven Teres softtail, Cannondale F700, and two Cannondale mountain tandems (pretty good variety of bikes for a comparison)
Bike Setup:
Surly 1x1 (medium frame), Surly 1x1/RhynoLite wheels (pre-builts from Quality), TruVativ Stylo SS cranks, Avid SD7 brakes/levers, Chris King headset, Thomson stem, Easton MonkeyLites (low-rise), RaceFace XY seatpost
Bottom Line:
I switched from riding high-end Seven Cycles ti frames to the Surly 1x1, and I can honestly say that I'm happier riding the Surly. It's inexpensive, it rides nice, and it's simple. I've actually been riding better/faster on the Surly than I did on my geared bikes. I think that I'm willing to push myself more because I know that if I crash *really* big and damage the frame, I can replace it for a few hundred bucks (vs. a few thousand for the bikes I had been riding). Single-speeding is also a better workout than I've ever had before. I feel like I'm a much stronger rider because of it.
If you split hairs over weight, then the Surly might not be a good option for you. Mine weighs in around 23lbs. with a fairly stout wheelset. Not bad, in my opinion...and I'll take durability over a little weight any day.
Surly has a new loyal customer! I'm now saving to build up a Surly CrossCheck 'cross bike next Spring. Surly offers a great bike at a reasonable price, and my 1x1 has made biking a lot more fun all of a sudden!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Donutman
a Cross Country Rider
from El Segundo, CA USA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Bikeman in Portland, ME
Strengths:
The 1x1 is light enough, fast, and kicks some serious ass. This is the best bike I have owned because it's simple and loves to be thrashed.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Spot Frame, Bianchi...
Bike Setup:
My 1x1 has a Bomber Z3, Bontrager seat and post, Ritchey bars and stem, and Mavic wheels with 1x1 hubs, and a Truvative Singlespeed Crank. It also has Avid brakes which stop on a dime.
Bottom Line:
If you want to get a singlespeed, buy this frame and build it up. You will never want to ride your other bikes. I have an old road bike and a FS, and I almost never touch them now. The FS is still great for epic rides, but the 1x1 eats up everything else. The best thing about it is the maintenance. There is none! Just pick up the thing and ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim
a Cross Country Rider
from waterford, michigan usa Date Reviewed: August 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
pontiac lake
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
mountains of bikes
Strengths:
price, price, price. looks
Weaknesses:
only the rider
Similar Products Used:
converted raliegh single
Bike Setup:
chris king headset and hubs,mars fork, Hey I am an old guy!thomson post and stem, monkey lite bars, truvativ ss cranks, shimano deore brakes,(thet were all black)tioga xc tires.
Bottom Line:
This bike rejuvinated My spirit to ride again! My lap times are better than most guys with gears(really!)It will make You like a rocket when You get back on your geared bike again. (if you ever do!)MY two top end geared bikes just set now, except for my cross check, it is WAY fun also.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Farkas
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix AZ Date Reviewed: July 31, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$330.00
Purchased At:
web cyclery
Strengths:
Steel frames are strong,they have a great damping quality and surly offer's a rigid fork that makes the bike nimble and very responsive to power transfer.
Weaknesses:
There are none. it is what it is. I ride in arizona and have had no problems on any trail.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose steel frame mtb. (rigid)
Bike Setup:
bontrager pro comp crank, primo freestyle pedals, profile carbon fiber riser bars, shimono deore v-brakes,2.1 velosa raptor rear meat/continental 2.3 front tire, wtb ssx saddle,sun tour alm rims.
Bottom Line:
I have never ridden a bike with shocks that responds to power transfer and steering like a rigid. Big tires and carbon fiber bars or ti bars will absorb alot of shock. My bike was 23 lbs after it was all done so I dont know why anyone says surly's are tanks. all the bikes (that had shocks)with comparable components were $1200-$1400.00 and I paid $700.00 to build mine. surly is a great product at a reasonable price. surly's for anyone who wants a high end frame set that rides well for a reasonable price.You may not want a rigid for high speeds on very rough terrain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Donjoian
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: July 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Berryman
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$280.00
Purchased At:
Momentum Cycles, St. Peters, MO
Strengths:
Strong, Simple, Fun
Weaknesses:
What?
Similar Products Used:
Bikes, lots of 'em
Bike Setup:
BIG tires (Tioga 2.3DH), Rigid Fork. Cheap Brakes
Bottom Line:
This bike rules. I have a full suspension rig, and a sweet steel hardtail, and I ride this bike more that those. After 14 years of mountain biking, it's all new again.
Get One! Ride It! Love It!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Madison, WI Date Reviewed: April 7, 2001
Submitted by
Brian
a Racer
from SpringMO Date Reviewed: April 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Berryman
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$230.00
Purchased At:
QBP
Strengths:
Mud Clearance (capital M, capital C) Smoooooooth ride! Understated style Unique! It takes sacrifice to ride a singlespeed at all, so they're kinda rare.
Weaknesses:
Paint is already showing scuffs 4.8 lbs, if you're counting
Similar Products Used:
An old converted Trek 7000 that got heisted at school. (I can picture the thief getting it home... "What the... where's the dang gears?!")
Bike Setup:
Paul/Bontrager rear wheel, 32/16, Superfly, Titec Hellbent (full 27"!), Pythons (is there another tire worth riding?)
Bottom Line:
Ok. I love racing, but I wasn't ready to move to Expert this year and get spat out the back at every race. So I thought, why not try racing a onespeed? Everyone pretty much thought I was an idiot, since I didn't exactly dominate every race last year. But two races into the season, I've already racked up 6/16 and 5/14 finishes in the same class I raced last year. As another reviewer mentioned, it really is sweet passing 27 geared bikes on the singletrack! I've got a big name FS bike of my own that I use for other purposes, but I've been VERY impressed by the Surly. Even with the nearly 5lb frame, 3.2lb fork and Slime light tubes, my bike is 22.9 lbs. That's pretty darn respectable for a racing bike, and if I threw more money at it, it could get even lighter.
It's been a long time since I rode a steel bike, and I must say, the ride is great. It's not as rock-hard-efficient as an aluminum frame would be, but you don't hate it after a 24 mile ride, either. I've found the handling to be a little damped, but it really excels in fast winding singletrack, and is extremely stable when pointed downhill. Just wind up that gear as fast as you can, and cruise!
I suppose this would be true of any singlespeed, but I've found that my handling skills, line-picking, leg strength and smoothness have improved. Momemtum is key, so you're more likely to stay off the brakes, which teaches you to corner at higher speed (which the bike seems to love doing anyway). This requires optimum line choice, because regaining momentum after losing speed on a bad line costs a lot of energy. Confidence at speed is gained as handling skills improve. Lastly, there is only ONE speed you can climb hills at, so if you don't stand up and hammer, you're only going to be walking that much farther. This is as effective as weight training, and I've noticed a difference already.
I was going to try racing the Surly a couple of times to see what happened, but I love it so much, I think I'll try to finish the whole series (16 races) on it. If I knew it would ride like this, I would have paid much more. One more thing... NO MAINTENANCE!!!!! In my opinion, that alone is worth the extra work.
Enjoy, and kick some geared butt!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Crazy Bit$#
a Weekend Warrior
from NY Date Reviewed: March 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Strengths:
-ONE SPEED! -Resilient steel frame -Awesome value -Comes in black
Weaknesses:
NONE...it is DOPE
Similar Products Used:
Kona Kaboom
Bike Setup:
Z2 Atom 80(okay,so I wimped out),Truvativ Stylo SS cranks w/Spot chainguard,34x16 gearing,Sram chain,Kore stem,Koski riser bar,Thompson seatpost,Avid SD 2.5 brakes and Speed Dial levers,Nokian Gazzoloddi 2.1 tires,Tank headset,and a Specialized BG Comp saddle to top it off
Bottom Line:
Sweet SS.Climbs about as well as any geared bike I have ever owned.Yes,I wimped out and installed a Z2 Atom,but still the ride is great even without a suspension fork.And it is affordable enough for even a college pauper like me.
FIVE CHILIES ALL AROUND for this bad mutha!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Connell
a Weekend Warrior
from Fredricksburg, Va Date Reviewed: January 4, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Inexpensive, great ride, mud clearance, the rear canti hanger was a plus. It climbed better than my multi-speed. Good customer service from Surly/QBP.
Weaknesses:
Same problem as R. Hamilton, wallowed out headtubes. Probbaly could have been shimmed with a beer can, but with a frame that is sold on its durability, that should not be necessary.
Similar Products Used:
various rigid steel mtb frames.
Bike Setup:
Large 1x1 with stock rigid fork, assorted headsets.
Bottom Line:
I loved the way that this bike felt on singletrack, and I used it for everything from commuting to enduro-racing. The headset cups were installed properly on each frame, and while the bike was ridden often and hard, it was not abused (no DH or Trials, just xc and commuting use by a 180 pound roadie.) The guys at QBP were great about frame replacement and an eventual refund, but a 5 pound steel frame ought to hold up better than this. 5 stars for the ride and customer service, but it only gets two because it didn't last.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Les
a Racer
from Philadelphia Date Reviewed: December 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Underwear Trail - Orono, ME
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Bike Addicts
Strengths:
costs just a few clams, strong as hell, rides like a dream.
Weaknesses:
absolutly nothing
Similar Products Used:
Homemade single speeds, a buttload of geared bikes
Bike Setup:
Manitou Mars C, XT cranks, 32x16 drivetrain, 1x1 rear hub, XTR brakes...other stuff that works.
Bottom Line:
This bike is the best value on the market. The bike handles like a dream, as strong as f%^&, and faster than most geared bikes I have ridden (I have ridden many). The real bottom line is the satifaction you get when you see the look on the face of the "serious" racer when you blow by them with a big 'ol grin on yo' face. Also makes a heckuva bar cruzer...chix dig it. It also comes in my favorite color, black.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd Downs
a
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: September 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
International Bicycle Center
Strengths:
It's a well built frame made out of metal. It handles well and big, fat tires fit easily between the stays (this is especially important if you ride rough, technical trails without suspension). It's very durable. I weigh about 180 lbs and have done several 5ft dropoffs with no signs of weakening!
Weaknesses:
I guess weight might be a problem to some if you're into that sort of thing. I never had a problem with it. In fact, I'll take durability at the expense of a couple of ounces any day.
Bike Setup:
34:20 or roughly a 44 inch gear. High enough to get you moving, but low enough for the technical singletracks I like to ride. Parts? Yeah it has parts. Bikes are hard to ride without 'em.
Bottom Line:
Single speed bikes put fun back into riding. It brings you back to your childhood when you used to ride your BMX bike through the woods and you didn't need to "gett dressed" to do it. You didn't need gears or suspension or lycra then, why would you now? "Let's go ride bikes!"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martini
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, IdaHO Date Reviewed: September 3, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Cheaper than your weekend fix and rides like the tuff muther it is
Weaknesses:
I was too much of a girlie man to take the rigid fork
Similar Products Used:
first SS
Bike Setup:
Brand new White Bro's XC-3, Syncros and Raceface stuff,Paul LUV levers, avid brakes, flat pedals, flite saddle, converted bolt-on XT hub.
Bottom Line:
This is the greatest bike I've ridden. First nite I had it built up I shot up into the hills and kicked my ace around with a huge ol' grin. However, my grin turned to a grimace the next day when I awoke with pain in my shoulders, neck, wrists, and back. Yeah, I succumbed to suspension. Just slapped the WB fork on today. I went with it because I felt it would at least track the same as the rigid(OVERSIZED stanctions) I love my bike though. Hell, everyone can throw out about six-hundred bones to rediscover the joys of mountain biking. Everytime you put the pedal down you can feel the energy tranfer directly to the tire and it just about to slip, but it doesn't. It's a reason to go on and not end it all
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Burke Hollow, VT Date Reviewed: August 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Kingdom Trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
East Burke Sports
Strengths:
Steel, and it's a steal!
Weaknesses:
...as long as that color's black.
Similar Products Used:
My first SS
Bike Setup:
Surly fork, Truvative crank, Control Tech stem, X-C riser bar, light wheels w/ Surly hubs, XTR brakeset, U.S.E. XCR post, Bontrager RE-1 pedles, Bontrager Revolt SS tires.
Bottom Line:
Owww! After 2 rides, I think I'm a convert. There's nothing like a new steel frame. I'm digging the stiffy fork on the home trails too! Riminds me of the old days on my MB-1. The Surly frame lives up to it's name. She's all there! This frameset does things to smooth singletrack that no suspended bike can. It makes my Litespeed feel like a worn-out moccasin, at < 1/2 the price. And it's really black!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reen Machine
a Weekend Warrior
from your sister's place Date Reviewed: August 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Kill me, thrill me
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Price, geometry, ride
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
1st SS
Bike Setup:
RaceFace 180's, Ring God, Avid brakes & levers (dope), Syncros bar, Mavic 521 rims, not much else -- that's the beauty of it!
Bottom Line:
Laugh if you will, but I got a deal on a used '99 Z1 BAM & put it on there! 100mm of travel on a 1-spd is kind of an odd combination I know, but damn does it ride sweeeeeet! I'm running 34/18 gears.
This is the best handling frame I've ever ridden on singletrack. I actually have a stupid grin on my face the whole time I'm on this bike (minus some climbing moments, but what doesn't kill me makes me stronger). Like everyone says, I spend way more time on this thing than my dually what cost three times as much.
Seriously, buy one of these frames, build it up with middle-of-the-road parts, and you'll soon know mountain biking as you never knew it before. Also, I can't help but admit that it's mad fun to pass Y-bikers on the climb.
Kudos to Surly for actually selling a superb Cr-Mo frame for the price of a Moots stem. What a concept -- excellent product for a reasonable price. I love you guys.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Hamlin
a Racer
from Bozeman, MT Date Reviewed: July 29, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
steel, strong, great on any trail, great climbing
Weaknesses:
I have had two frames with wallowed out head tubes in the past eight months. Quality quickly replaced or refunded my money. I love this bike so much, I'm tempted to go for a third frame. What to do, what to do?
Bike Setup:
ridgid
Bottom Line:
Did I just get two bad frames in a bad batch of frames? I love the way this bike rides. Simply beautiful, and beautifuly simple. But, I do not want to replace a frame every four months. Has anyone else had this problem?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stephe marshall
a Downhiller
from foxboro Ma USA Date Reviewed: June 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
vietnam
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
price,price,price love the feel of the cromoly tubing
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
homemade 1x1's
Bike Setup:
sxr fork(mango),oury grips(mango),bontrager crowbar,azonic 135 x 5 stem, fsa pig headset,xt crank with surly blowerdrive,xt front hub,paul rear hub laced to 32 hole rhino lites,tioga factory DH 2.35,32thooth race ring with 16 thooth acs claw freewheel,xs flat pedals,xt v-brakes and levers
Bottom Line:
the bike is a lot of fun to ride and its always fun when you pass someone with gears. It handels great,looks great and does wonders for whipping to in to shape. I bought one now all my friends either want one or have bought one.
buy one and make a few days a week 1x1 only nights
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yosemite Sam
a Cross Country Rider
from J.P. Wiegle Date Reviewed: May 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wherever the grass parts
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Saves your favorite steel steed from the ravages of Dr. Oxygen and Mr. Water
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
NA
Bike Setup:
Surly 1x1 w/Truvativ Stylo SS cranks, 1x1 hubs, rhyno lite rims w/Pyros, Avid brakes, Titec stuff and a Fizik Cowhide saddle
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that I'm a surly dude but you cannot imagine my chagrin when I pulled my BB out the other day to find a whole lotta rust in the shell. Well, that was it. I bought some JP Wiegle's frame saver and sprayed and sprayed. Now the inside is all sticky and brown, but there's no more rust in this steel town.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aron
a Cross Country Rider
from Canal Fulton, Ohio Date Reviewed: May 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ohio & Erie Canal Corridor @ Butterbridge Rd.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Strong, strong, strong and will take any tires you want to run on. Seat and head tube angles work perfect for me. Cost is the lowest you will find for a single speed (I paid $250 for F/F).
Weaknesses:
Stickers scrape off easily. They should've been under a clearcote or something. They're more like water transfer decals than stickers really.
Similar Products Used:
First SingleSpeed!
Bike Setup:
Salsa Moto Ace stem, Bontrager race Crowbar, TruVativ Stylo SS crankset (32), ACS claw (16), Sun RhynoLite rims on 1x1 hubs, Avid brakes, Deore levers, Tioga pedals (don't bother with clipless or straps!), Continental rubber (2.0).
Bottom Line:
This is a great frame and you don't even have to use expensive parts to make it ride sweet! My other bikes now gather dust in the garage. It's true that you'll love SS so much you'll never go back. I say stick with the rigid fork, cuz that is the only way you will get the true feeling of riding a 26" BMX, which is just what this bike is like! Handles and steers great, rides nice, and climbs well too! Buy this bike if you're a little bit of a rebel and you want to give it to those "look at my fancy expensive dual suspension that I don't even know how to ride" types. You can eat them up with this bike, and they won't even realize what happened. And you'll be proud that you paid less than they did too!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jose Quervo
a
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: May 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bobs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Strong - big honking 4130 chro-mo tubes Inexpensive - $295 retail Nice looking - good black powdercoat, cool decals/headbadge FFF - fatties fit fine, tyres that is
Weaknesses:
Decals. It would be nice if they could be clear coated.
Similar Products Used:
No other SS's
Bike Setup:
Race Face System stem, Easton ML CT2 bars, Sram levers, Avid 25's, Mavic 519's w/ Surly 1X1 rear and Superfly front, Race Face BB, Surly Blower Drive on XT 180's, USE SX shockpost, Flite seat, old Team Control and Team Master 127tpi tyres and Frogs.
Bottom Line:
At > 22lbs it climbs well in a 32/18. What people say about not riding their other MTB's is true. It hurts but I cant stop riding it. The rigid fork is okay and definitely precise but remember to check your speed going into the rough. With a handful of front brake your eyes will be bouncing around in your skull you wont be able to see strait. Do yourself a favor don't convert an old MTB get a Surly. Your local dealer can get one from Quality. Everyone should try one of these. Keep in mind that it will take a couple of rides to figure out whats going on. It is not like riding a geared bike. It is, however, better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
craig
a Racer
from fayettenom Date Reviewed: April 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
uhwarrie
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
strong frame, inexpensive, good ride qualities, fits whatever tires u want,
Weaknesses:
none, just make sure u get the right size
Similar Products Used:
converted geared bike frames
Bike Setup:
lx brakes(cantelevers), cranks(hollowtech), hubs with 517s, thompson seatpost, 737s(yeah baby) stock rigid fork with KING headset.
Bottom Line:
killer bike, just be prepared to sell all your other bikes because you'll never ride them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carmelo Martinez
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento Date Reviewed: April 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Georgetown/Bald Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Cheap, durable, and cheap. Tons of tire clearance.
If you want an inexpensive introduction to the world of single speeding, this is your ticket. I am having a blast. I have not touched my Litespeed since I bought the Surly. I wish all the bikes I've purchased over the years handled like this one. It's quick and agile, yet stable. For some reason, even with the rigid fork, I'm more aggressive on the downhills than I've been in years.
Keep the rigid fork; don't be a sissy and use suspension. You will spend half of your time standing to crank up the hills anyway, and you'll realize how good a bike handler you used to be ten years ago when we used rigid forks. If the ride is too harsh for you, a three-inch tire will easily fit, front or rear. I'm riding 2.35s and the ride is very tolerable. Get one and have fun!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Heck
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff, AZ Date Reviewed: March 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Little Bear
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Damn tough. This is the WWF Champ of all frames.
Weaknesses:
Anyone who says the weight quityurwhinin'
Similar Products Used:
Old GT frame with horizontal dropouts
Bike Setup:
Cheap. Canti brakes. Fork that came with it. Old top line cranks. BMX pedals. 2:1 gear ratio
Bottom Line:
This bike is solid. You can't find a tougher bike. In the end it will be cockroaches and Surly bikes - be prepared. People talk about the weight. I set it up with strength not weight in mind (cheap down hill bars and used parts) it still came in at 23 pounds. This thing is nimble and long. Feels like you're making GS turns going down hills. Great climber (the bike, not me). I didn't put suspension or clipless on it. Kind of went for the "no lycra, no fancy stuff in my way simple roots ride". Enjoy. PS It doesn't matter how high gas prices get as long as you just say no!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Silver Spring,MD Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Schaeffer farm
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Full double butted Cro-mo. Steel is REAL. Suspension corrected. excellent tire clearance. Medium frame weighs in at 4.25lbs. (my bontrager race is 4.5lbs) 71deg ht/73deg st angles. Any color choice, as long as it's black. fender eyelets!! How MUCH for this bike???? Loved by all wives (chief financial officers).
Weaknesses:
Gear selection is critical.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Race
Bike Setup:
Y2K BLACK Manitou SX-R with the anti-bob lok-out, Bontrager crow bar, Altek brake levers with XT-V, paul WORD hub, Conti Comp Pro 1 rear tire, Thompson post, WTB ti saddle. 32t chainring with an 18t shimano bmx fw.
Bottom Line:
If you decide to ride the single speed way of life, take a picture of your old mountain bike before it becomes a full blown dust collecter and clothes rack. I have yet to ride my bontrager since the 24 hrs of Caanan -Jun '99. My 1X1 is so much fun to ride. I'd suggest replacing the rigid fork with a Manitou SX-r w/ a lok-out. When you're climbing up the steep stuff, out of the saddle, it's nice to have the lok-out. The bike is simple and efficient. No worries or hassles about a part getting ripped off by a stick, rock, etc. Use framesaver to ward off rust inside the tubes. Choose the correct gear for your favorite trail or you'll be sorry. Bontrager For Sale....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yosemite Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Your Mom Date Reviewed: February 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything with dirt/mud
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Simple, durable, stiff, beautiful
Weaknesses:
Steel eventually will rust
Bike Setup:
King headset, Truvative SS Stylo cranks, Avid 2.0L and 1.0 brakes, Titec Lil'Al stem, Titec seatpost, Giro Fi'zik cow-hide saddle, Conti Bajas on surly wheels
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that this SS is just about perfect. It is stiff and carries my 230 lb butt through all sorts of mud and gunk. For a steel steed, the surly 1x1 is quite stiff. I haven't gotten any significant flex out of the frame.
The weight could be an issue for some; mine weighs 24 lbs. If you have really light components, you could build up a 20 lb rocket. It all depends on how much money you want to put into it. This frame is a great deal and a wonderful way to experience the simplicity of one speed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
norm hansen
a Cross Country Rider
from wauconda,il,usa Date Reviewed: February 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
BULLFROG POND@PALOS IL
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
INEXPENSIVE,STRONG,MEGA MUD CLEARANCE,DECENT RIDE
Weaknesses:
LITTLE PORKY
Similar Products Used:
NA
Bike Setup:
99 ROCK SHOX SID XC 80mm,RACE FACE TURBINE LP CRANKARMS STD 180mm,RACE FACE RING 34t W/RACE FACE DH STABLIZER,RACE FACE TAPERLOCK CrMo BB,ACS CLAWS 16t FREEWHEEL,KORE ELITE 120x10^ STEM,CANE CREEK C2 HEADSET,RACE FACE LOW RISER BAR, SURLY 1X1 HUBS LACED TO SUN RHYNO LITE RIMS, AND YETI FACTOR TIRES
Bottom Line:
ITS FUN!!!!! BEAT THE HELL OUT OF IT. IT WILL TAKE IT. GREAT SINGLETRACK BIKE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Flying Pig
a Cross-Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: January 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
National Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Strong Lots of tire clearance Long track drop-outs Inexpensive All Black
Weaknesses:
A little heavy, but it's strong
Similar Products Used:
Bianchi BOSS Ibis Single Speed
Bike Setup:
Rigid
Bottom Line:
This bike is very cool. It has the features necessay for simple, no worry riding. The S-bend stays let you run a huge tire in back. The wide fork lets you run a huge tire in front. Put on two huge tires, fill them with 30 psi, and now you have suspension. Use the fork that comes with it, don't give in to suspension forks. Keep it simple and efficient. When you pedal, it'll go.It rides great. And it is a great value. I paid $250 for frame and fork. It has butted cromoly tubes. And long drop-outs that you will appreciate when you change your gears.If you are looking for a good single frame, get this one. Don't spend twice as much for a Spot or something else. Single Speed Rule!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto ON Date Reviewed: June 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
I have lots of favourites
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Strong. Very strong.
Weaknesses:
Not exactly a lightwight.
Bike Setup:
I just got the frame and threw on whatever extras I had lying around (including a thermoplastic bar and a Ti seatpost). I built the wheels using 1x1 hubs. Nice hubs. I had a 98 Judy XC kicking around so I put that oninstead of the rigid fork.
Bottom Line:
This bike is the most fun I've had in ages. Quick, strong, a total blast. It rides like a big BMX. Very fun. Cheap too.
$ 460.00
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
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