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Facts
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Surly Krampus. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
14 reasons to buy
- The Krampus is available in three builds: two rigid (British Racing Green, First Loser) and a hardtail with a 120mm suspension fork (Nose Drip Curry).
- Versatility is one of the bike’s biggest draws, with reviewers enjoying it for technical trail rides, singletrack, gravel, bikepacking, and commuting.
- Reviewers agree the Surly Krampus offers good value.
- The frame has thicker steel on the drivetrain side where the bottom bracket meets the chainstay. One reviewer commends how this design improves stiffness.
- Experts and users praise the stock Surly Dirt Wizard tires, highlighting the grip and comfort on varied terrains.
- One tester compliments the bike’s stability when navigating rough surfaces.
- The tires and rims on all builds are tubeless-compatible.
- Testers agree that the 29” wheels and plus-sized tires produce a reassuring ride, increasing confidence over “unfamiliar” terrain.
- According to one expert, the Krampus performs well in slow, technical sections.
- The Krampus features Surly’s Gnot-Boost rear dropout design that supports 12 x 142mm and 12 x 148mm hubs with the included axle and 10 x 135mm with adapter washers (purchased separately).
- Experts say the rigid Krampus excels at cornering.
- An expert appreciates how the Krampus’ “robust” frame carries heavy loads while maintaining stability or comfort.
- The Krampus has mounting points for front (rigid fork) and rear racks, fenders, and four bottle cages.
- The Krampus Nose Drip Curry comes with a dropper seatpost; the other two builds have internal dropper routing.
3 reasons not to buy
- The Krampus hardtail is heavy, weighing almost 31lb.
- Experts bemoan the slow acceleration.
- Testers find the high rolling resistance of the 3” tires (rigid builds) detrimental on climbs.
Bottom line
The Surly Krampus is a steel-framed 29er trail mountain bike available in three builds: two rigid and one hardtail. The Krampus is praised for its versatility and reliability. The generous mounting points and tire clearance, stability while loaded, external cable routing, and hybrid disc brakes make it a keen bikepacking or touring option. Reviewers and users highlight its stability, comfort, and confident cornering, meaning it excels on technical trails. However, the relatively high weight, slow acceleration, and added rolling resistance hinder speed, especially on climbs. Opinions of the Surly Krampus are overwhelmingly positive among experts who deem it a solid choice for long-distance, off-road riding with approachable pricing.Expert Reviews
96/100 based on 1 rated expert review2017 Surly Krampus – Gnot-Boost and Not Bad
Surly Krampus – First Ride and Impressions
Best Bikepacking Bikes of 2024
First Ride: Surly Krampus – A Blast to Ride
Bike Test: Rigid Mountain Bikes
Opinion: Ode to an Oddball – Rediscovering Two-Wheeled Fun
Test: Surly Krampus – Modern Old School [German]
Surly Renewed Krampus 29+ Test Review [Spanish]
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