It’s a long-distance hauler that also performs well when bombing MTB trails.
The Bridge Club was affordable, but still very reliable and well kit-out.
Five frame sizes offer something for most heights of rider.
Handling was lively and spirited on trails.
ED (Electro-Deposition) coating on the frame fended off corrosion.
This rig served all-weather commuters, whilst hauling shopping and supplies.
WTB Riddler tires provided maximal traction and speed, reassuring on corners.
The 2x10 SRAM drivetrain offered a capable gear range, in varying situations.
The Salsa Bend handlebar had a comfortable 17-degree backsweep.
Irreverent colors include ‘Diving-Board’, ‘Grandma’s Lipstick’, and ‘Illegal Smile’.
The rigid frame’s main triangle sports ample room for a large frame-bag.
A great number of eyelets cater for bottles and cargo aplenty.
Promax brakes performed well for some, though pad adjustment was tricky.
Tektro M275 hydraulic brakes struck one reviewer as superior to other brands.
Drivetrain components lasted a winter of riding, without any concerns.
WTB rims were tubeless compatible, even though tires weren’t.

4 reasons not to buy

For commuting and city use, slicker tire alternatives were recommended.
Promax brakes were underwhelming and noisy for one reviewer.
Some testers would have preferred sealed hub bearings, over cup and cones.
A straight 1-⅛” steerer and non-suspension corrected frame limits fork replacement options.

Bottom line

The Bridge Club sheds a number of the ‘frills’ that feature on more expensive Surly touring bikes. In doing so, it cuts down the cost significantly. Even with these simplifications, testers and owners found the Bridge Club to be very versatile. It’s definitely at home hauling weight, on long treks or commutes. At the same time, reviewers described it as ‘confidence-inspiring’ on trails, urging you to push it when unladen. The 700c version was popular with commuters. A corrosion-resistant chromoly-steel frame comes festooned with braze-on mount points for more luggage than you could poke a rack at. Some compromises were made (ie cup and cone hub bearings were serviceable, but sealed bearings may be better for the average rider). But all-in-all, reviewers and owners alike were delighted with the practicality and versatility of this rig.

Expert Reviews

80/100 based on 2 scored reviews (7 reviews in total)

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BikeRadar

Level 5 expert

Surly Bridge Club Long-Term Review

Level 5 expert

I appreciate simplicity and multi-use wherever possible, so it’s no wonder that I was drawn to this bike, which essentially bridges the gap between paved and off-road exploration.

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ADVNTR

Level 3 expert

Surly Bridge Club

Level 3 expert

…we took the Bridge Club on city centre roads, tow paths, gravel tracks and Peak District single track descents… The Bridge Club took them all in it’s stride with no cause for complaint.

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The Psychic Derailleur

Level 1 expert

Bridge Club vs Clem Smith Jr

Level 1 expert

If you do find that you like to “play” a little more on the bike, the Surly may be a better fit.

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Bikepacking.com

Level 5 expert

Surly Bridge Club Review: Versatility and Inclusivity

Level 5 expert

…can handle almost anything… general riding, dirt road touring, mellow bikepacking… far more inclusive, cost-wise, than almost anything else of a comparable calibre… there’s absolutely nothing I’d rush to upgrade…

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Adventure Cycling Association

Level 3 expert

Road Test: Surly Bridge Club

Level 3 expert

…budget bikes are getting better all the time. Considering the Bridge Club’s capability and versatility, I’d call it a fair price. The Surly Bridge Club is a great little bike. Don’t overthink it.

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BikecheckPH

Level 1 expert

Surly: 2019 Bridge Club – Bike Check [English and Filipino]

Level 1 expert

It’s not just a touring and backpacking bike – and it comes at a very affordable price.

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Velomotion

Level 5 expert

First Ride: Surly Bridge Club 2018 – Versatile Touring Bike for Everyone [German]

Level 5 expert

For the price, you get very solid equipment with the Bridge Club; a steel frame that offers a lot of fastening options for panniers, luggage racks or bottle holders.

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