Which Surly Should You Buy? Karate Monkey or Krampus? Rigid or Suspension?

Summary

In this video, the Surly Karate Monkey and Krampus are compared, focusing on key differences like wheel sizes (27.5-inch for the Karate Monkey vs 29-inch for the Krampus) and their impact on ride feel. The Karate Monkey is more agile, making it ideal for technical trails, while the Krampus offers better stability over rough terrain. Both bikes share similar pricing and frame designs, though the Krampus accommodates larger wheels. The video highlights that your choice depends on riding style and personal preference, with both bikes offering customization options. Ultimately, test riding both is encouraged to make the best decision.

Takeaways

• 😀 Surly's Karate Monkey and Krampus are two popular bikes with different wheel sizes and features.
• 😀 The Karate Monkey is marketed as a 27.5-inch wheel size bike, while the Krampus is a 29-inch wheel size bike.
• 😀 Both bikes have a rigid and suspension version, with a significant price difference between them.
• 😀 The Karate Monkey was introduced in 2002, while the Krampus was released in 2012, marking a decade gap between the two.
• 😀 Surly introduced the 29-inch wheel for both bikes, but the Krampus was designed to accommodate wider tires (3-inch) compared to the Karate Monkey (2.3-inch).
• 😀 Both bikes are flexible with wheel sizes—although they come with specific sizes, the frames are adaptable to fit both 27.5-inch and 29-inch wheels.
• 😀 The Karate Monkey weighs slightly less (32 lbs 4 oz) compared to the Krampus (32 lbs 2 oz), making them nearly identical in weight.
• 😀 The fully rigid versions of both bikes are equipped with similar components, including Shimano Dior 12-speed drivetrains and Avid BB5 brakes.
• 😀 The suspension version of the Karate Monkey comes with a RockShox 35 fork and a dropper post, offering upgraded components compared to the rigid version.
• 😀 Ultimately, the choice between the Karate Monkey and Krampus depends on factors such as wheel size preference, riding style, and rider height, with test riding recommended for the best decision.

Q & A

What are the key differences between the Surly Karate Monkey and Surly Krampus?

The main difference between the Surly Karate Monkey and the Surly Krampus is their wheel size. The Karate Monkey uses 27.5-inch wheels, while the Krampus uses 29-inch wheels. Additionally, there are variations in frame design, with the Krampus being tailored to handle larger wheels, though both bikes can accommodate both wheel sizes under certain conditions.

What pricing options are available for the Karate Monkey and Krampus?

Both the Surly Karate Monkey and Krampus are priced similarly. The fully rigid version costs $1,849, while the suspension version (hardtail) is priced at $2,599.

How has the history of the Karate Monkey influenced its design today?

The Karate Monkey, introduced in 2002, is one of the earliest 29er production bikes and is credited with helping popularize the 29-inch wheel size. Over time, the Karate Monkey evolved to offer a 27.5-inch version to appeal to those who prefer a more agile ride. Its history reflects Surly's commitment to innovation in bike design.

What types of riding are best suited for the 27.5-inch and 29-inch wheels of the Karate Monkey and Krampus?

The 27.5-inch wheels of the Karate Monkey are ideal for singletrack, tight turns, and switchbacks due to their agility. The 29-inch wheels of the Krampus are better suited for riders who encounter rocks and roots and prefer to ride faster in a straight line, offering more stability.

Are the frames of the Karate Monkey and Krampus interchangeable?

While the frames of both bikes are very similar, the key difference lies in the fork size. The Krampus frame can accommodate a 29-inch wheel, but the Karate Monkey frame, when paired with a suspension fork, may not easily accommodate a 29-inch wheel due to the fork's specific size requirements.

Can you swap the wheels between the Karate Monkey and Krampus?

Yes, both the Karate Monkey and Krampus can accept either a 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheel, provided that the bike is set up with the appropriate fork. However, if you have a Karate Monkey with a suspension fork, it may not be possible to swap to a 29-inch wheel due to the specific clearance requirements of the suspension fork.

What are the key features of the fully rigid versions of the Karate Monkey and Krampus?

Both fully rigid bikes feature Surly Dirt Wizard tires, Shimano Dior 12-speed drivetrains, and Avid BB5 disc brakes. The Karate Monkey comes in a fermented plum color, while the Krampus is available in British Racing Green. Both models are designed with versatility in mind, with numerous mounting points for racks and accessories.

How does the suspension version of the Karate Monkey differ from the fully rigid version?

The suspension version of the Karate Monkey features a RockShox 35 fork with 140mm of travel, a dropper post, Shimano Dior XT components, and a wider 27.5x2.8-inch tire compared to the fully rigid version. The suspension version also comes with upgraded brakes (Tektro Gemini SL hydraulic disc brakes) and a slightly higher price point.

What is the significance of the 'sliding dropout' feature on both the Karate Monkey and Krampus?

The sliding dropout on both the Karate Monkey and Krampus allows for easy adjustment of the bike’s wheelbase and chain tension, making it possible to set up the bikes as single speed or adjust for different gear setups. This feature adds flexibility for riders who want to customize their bikes.

What type of riders might prefer the Karate Monkey or Krampus based on wheel size?

Riders who prefer a more agile, responsive ride may favor the Karate Monkey with its 27.5-inch wheels, especially for smaller frame sizes. Conversely, riders who want a more stable ride over rough terrain, or who are taller, may find the Krampus with its 29-inch wheels better suited to their needs.