NEW Surly Krampus Frameset - 29", Steel, Prickly Pear - 210000065712
The Krampus is the bike that started it all — the plus-size movement that is. For 2017, the Krampus features Surly’s Gnot-Boost rear hub spacing of 145mm; compatible with Boost 148 x 12mm thru-axle, 142 x 12mm thru-axle and 135mm quick-release hubs.
Features
- 100% Surly 4130 CroMoly steel frame and fork; double-butted main triangle and 44mm headtube
- New tube-set uses the same trumpet tubes found on 2017 Karate Monkey frame
- Gnot-Boost adjustable rear dropouts
- Internal dropper seatpost routing
- 30.9mm seat tube
- Designed to fit up to 29 x 3.0” tires
What our Experts Think
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A pioneering “plus-hardtail” trail platform, the Surly Krampus Frameset is designed for aggressive trail riding, off-road exploration, and all-terrain versatility.
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Built from durable 4130 Chromoly steel, it delivers a smooth, confidence-inspiring ride feel with exceptional strength for demanding singletrack use.
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29+ wheel concept (29" x wide tires) provides outstanding traction, rollover capability, and stability on technical trails, roots, and rocky terrain.
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Trail-focused geometry prioritizes control, descending confidence, and playful handling over pure cross-country efficiency.
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Highly capable off-road platform, ideal for riders who want a rigid trail bike that can still absorb chatter and maintain grip in loose conditions.
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Bikepacking-ready design, with mounts for racks and accessories, making it equally capable as a rugged expedition or backcountry setup.
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Wide tire clearance flexibility allows riders to tune the bike for speed, cushioning, or maximum grip depending on terrain and riding style.
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Prickly Pear finish adds bold visual character while keeping the signature Surly utilitarian aesthetic intact.
- A long-time favorite in the trail and bikepacking community, the Krampus is often praised for its ability to turn rough, technical terrain into a more controlled and enjoyable ride experience.
- Best suited for riders seeking a fun-first, confidence-heavy trail bike that excels on singletrack, forest
Q&A
Q: What is the Surly Krampus Frameset designed for?
A: The Surly Krampus Frameset is a “29+” trail and adventure frameset built for aggressive off-road riding, bikepacking, and technical singletrack.
Q: What makes the Krampus different from a standard mountain bike?
A: It uses 29+ geometry designed for extra-wide tires, giving more traction, comfort, and stability on rough and loose terrain.
Q: What frame material is used?
A: It is built from Surly 4130 Chromoly steel, offering durability, flexibility, and a smooth ride feel on long trail days.
Q: What type of riding is it best for?
A: It excels on singletrack, forest trails, gravel, and backcountry routes where control and grip matter more than speed.
Q: Is it suitable for bikepacking?
A: Yes. It includes multiple mounts for racks, bottles, and cargo systems, making it a strong platform for off-road bikepacking setups.
Q: Why choose the Surly Krampus Frameset?
A: Riders choose it for its monster-truck tire clearance, playful trail handling, and rugged steel construction built for demanding terrain.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean the frame after trail, mud, or wet rides to prevent corrosion and preserve the steel finish.
- Inspect chromoly frame and fork regularly for paint chips, rust spots, dents, or stress damage; touch up exposed steel quickly.
- Apply internal frame rust inhibitor annually, especially in wet, snowy, or coastal environments.
- Grease all threaded interfaces (bottom bracket, headset, thru-axles, bottle/rack mounts) to prevent seizing over time.
- Check suspension-corrected fork, headset, and dropouts frequently for tightness and alignment after aggressive trail riding.
- Ensure disc brake mounts and rotor bolts stay clean, tight, and properly torqued for consistent stopping power.
- Maintain drivetrain (chain, cassette, chainring) with frequent cleaning and lubrication, especially after muddy rides.
- Clear tire and frame space of packed mud or debris, especially with high-volume 29+ tires.
- Avoid high-pressure washing to protect bearings and frame seals from water intrusion.
- Store indoors in a dry place to extend frame life and protect finish durability.