Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

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Date: 18 May 2007 15:15:29
From: JesseHattabaugh
Subject: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
namesake.

For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
if it were your touring bike?

Specs can be found here: http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html

Date: 23 May 2007 10:09:30
From:
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

These frames are made in Taiwan by Hodaka (I think).

Date: 22 May 2007 05:38:59
From: Hank Wirtz
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 21, 10:58 pm, Michael Press <rub...@pacbell.net > wrote:
> In article
> <1179583462.242511.37...@p77g2000hsh.googlegroups.com>,
> Hank Wirtz <h...@wirtznet.net> wrote:
>
>
>
> > On May 18, 3:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
> > wrote:
> > > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> > > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> > > namesake.
>
> > > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> > > if it were your touring bike?
>
> > > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> > Most who try to build it up to a similar spec end up spending close to
> > $1500. It's a screaming deal, which is why QBP sold out of all sizes
> > from the first batch within 2 weeks of them going on sale, and why the
> > price is going up $50 when the next batch arrives in July.
>
> > I built up my own LHT last October, using a lot of parts I had lying
> > around.
>
> > Here's how I built it up originally:
>
> [...]
>
> > SR Laprade seatpost
> > Brooks B17 saddle
>
> How do you get the Laprade seat post to hold the seat
> rails? It would not hold the heavily chrom plate steal
> rails of my Brooks Proffessional. The seat always slid
> back. I eventually made extensive modifications of the
> seat post that made it hold.
>
> [...]
>
> > Here's a pic, right after I built it:
> >http://www.bikejournal.com/images/hankamanialhtside.jpg
>
> Fine looking bicycle.
>
> --
> Michael Press

Thanks!

The rails are painted black, not chromed.

Date: 21 May 2007 19:39:30
From: Ozark Bicycle
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 21, 1:28 pm, Gary Young <garyyou...@gmail.com > wrote:
> On Mon, 21 May 2007 09:18:59 -0700, Ozark Bicycle wrote:
>
> <snip>
>
>
>
> > Yep, touring bikes are "working" bikes, not show bikes.
>
> > That's why I just don't 'get' the whole designer bag and designer rack
> > thing, as exemplified by the Riv boys (e.g., Nitto racks and those oh-
> > so-cute Nigel Smith bags).
>
> I agree for the most part. But sometimes there are no equivalents for
> those bags made out of modern materials. I'd gladly give up the leather
> and waxed cotton of my Carradice and Rivendale saddlebags, but no one
> seems to make a similar saddlebag using nylon and quick-release fasteners.

If you are talking about those large, strapped-behind-the-saddle bags
(e.g., Carridice Nelson, etc.), IMO, that is a niche market and the
use of "retro" materials has alot of appeal within that niche. Those
same bags made from modern materials and with modern designs probably
wouldn't sell in sufficient quantities.

Date: 21 May 2007 13:28:11
From: Gary Young
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On Mon, 21 May 2007 09:18:59 -0700, Ozark Bicycle wrote:
<snip >
>
> Yep, touring bikes are "working" bikes, not show bikes.
>
> That's why I just don't 'get' the whole designer bag and designer rack
> thing, as exemplified by the Riv boys (e.g., Nitto racks and those oh-
> so-cute Nigel Smith bags).
>
>

I agree for the most part. But sometimes there are no equivalents for
those bags made out of modern materials. I'd gladly give up the leather
and waxed cotton of my Carradice and Rivendale saddlebags, but no one
seems to make a similar saddlebag using nylon and quick-release fasteners.

Date: 21 May 2007 09:18:59
From: Ozark Bicycle
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 21, 9:55 am, "russellseat...@yahoo.com"
<russellseat...@yahoo.com > wrote:
> On May 18, 5:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
>
>
>
>
> > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> > namesake.
>
> > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> > if it were your touring bike?
>
> > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> Its a good deal and a good bike. It will carry you wherever you want
> to go and carry whatever you want to carry. Its not high dollar parts
> but on a loaded touring bike that you actually tour on, you don't want
> parts you have to worry about their finish. You want basic stuff you
> can scratch up and not care about. Touring bikes get handled rougher
> than your sunny Sunday afternoon bikes.

Yep, touring bikes are "working" bikes, not show bikes.

That's why I just don't 'get' the whole designer bag and designer rack
thing, as exemplified by the Riv boys (e.g., Nitto racks and those oh-
so-cute Nigel Smith bags).

> Only mecahanical change I
> would make immediately would be to change the 26 inner ring for a 24
> tooth. If you are going to have a granny gear, get the lowest granny
> gear you can get. Nashbar sells a 74mm bcd 24 tooth inner ring for
> $9.99.

Not a bad idea, but the diff between a 26/34 (as supplied) and a 24/34
is pretty trivial - 20.6 "gear inches" v. 19. Personally, I'd wait
'til the 26 wore out.And, if the stock 26/34 really did prove to be an
inadequate low, the OP might want to think about a crank with a
different BCD on the inner ring - a 58mm BCD crank with a 20T inner
ring and a 34T rear cog will give a sub-16" low.

> Probably find it even cheaper if you look awhile. Or ask the
> shop to change the part when buying the bike. I would change the stem
> length and bars too but I like certain bars. You may not have a
> preference yet.
>
> But it and go touring. Touring is fun

Date: 21 May 2007 07:55:59
From: russellseaton1@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 5:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com >
wrote:
> Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> namesake.
>
> For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> if it were your touring bike?
>
> Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html

Its a good deal and a good bike. It will carry you wherever you want
to go and carry whatever you want to carry. Its not high dollar parts
but on a loaded touring bike that you actually tour on, you don't want
parts you have to worry about their finish. You want basic stuff you
can scratch up and not care about. Touring bikes get handled rougher
than your sunny Sunday afternoon bikes. Only mecahanical change I
would make immediately would be to change the 26 inner ring for a 24
tooth. If you are going to have a granny gear, get the lowest granny
gear you can get. Nashbar sells a 74mm bcd 24 tooth inner ring for
$9.99. Probably find it even cheaper if you look awhile. Or ask the
shop to change the part when buying the bike. I would change the stem
length and bars too but I like certain bars. You may not have a
preference yet.

But it and go touring. Touring is fun.

Date: 20 May 2007 16:22:57
From: datakoll@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

do yourself a favor: get the frame then build with on sale out of
season shimano deore, CR/alex/DT/spec tubes/wheels mfg. axles/25
bearings/spec split seat- components. This is a big deal, the problems
center. I rebuilt an Ebisu type raleigh, going thru the cheap end
components then thru the internet and Hariis/Brown/Brandt/Gordon et al
the good stuff which I now ride.
The cheap stuff with which the factory equips the frame wears out and
breaks right damn in the middle of the mojave at hi tide midnight with
a sarm of kller bees bearing down on you. You thinl I'm bean funny.
hahahaha. bring a shovel.
the good stuff roooooooolllllssss right down the road without any
hassle with scheduled preventive maintenance.
and buy over the counter stuff MO not Weirdo Machine's BB.
and off course this way you know how and what it takes to repair and
maintain it.
i'd recommend sewing your own bags. Save lotta $$$, goes hi end cheap.
Visit the thrift for parts eg all the pockets and stuff from the
deluxe pack with a hole worn in the bottom for $1 are removed then
sewn back on a new bag. ditto straps and buckles.

Date: 20 May 2007 16:08:29
From: Hank Wirtz
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 20, 2:33 pm, RonSonic <ronso...@tampabay.rr.com > wrote:

> Just a comment on the componentry, the Tektro brakes are pretty much upper shelf
> items - equal or better than any canti that Shimano makes.

In fact, the Cane Creek SCX-5 cantilevers that some view as the best
available, are actually Tektro Oryx arms, but with cartridge pads.

After I wore out the stock pads on mine (it was a very rainy winter,
with lots of sand on the road from the couple of snowstorms we had), I
sprung for a set of the Kool-Stop cartridge holders with included dual-
compound pads, and still came out ahead from if I'd gotten the Cane
Creeks from the get-go.

Date: 20 May 2007 17:33:26
From: RonSonic
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On 18 May 2007 15:15:29 -0700, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattabaugh@gmail.com >
wrote:

>Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
>fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
>better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
>start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
>Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
>Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
>levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
>calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
>Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
>namesake.

Just a comment on the componentry, the Tektro brakes are pretty much upper shelf
items - equal or better than any canti that Shimano makes. Kalloy makes parts at
all price points and has so many lines I can't tell you about them all, but
again, they do good stuff and there's nothing "off-brand" about their better
work. The saddle maker, Velo mostly does OEM work making saddles for the
companies with names you know. IOW, none of the components here are
questionable.

>For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
>under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
>if it were your touring bike?
>
>Specs can be found here: http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html

I don't know that I'd change a thing. Saddles are real personal and I know what
fits me and what I'd put on if the one it came with didn't suit me. I am also
pretty fond of combination brake/shift levers and would probably install Campy
Ergoes if I were building it up from scratch. But that'd cost a good bit more.
Also I live in Florida and would change the gearing, but again your mileage will
vary.

The spec really looks like a solid reliable diesel bike that pound out all the
miles you could pedal. Hell you could put knobbies on it and ride most anywhere
you wanted off road as well.

Ron

Date: 20 May 2007 11:57:19
From: Hank Wirtz
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 20, 6:34 am, daveornee <daveornee.2qv...@no-
mx.forums.cyclingforums.com > wrote:
> Hank Wirtz Wrote:
>
> > On May 18, 3:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
> > wrote:
> > > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my
> > old
> > > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like
> > it's
> > > namesake.
>
> > > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about
> > it
> > > if it were your touring bike?
>
> > > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> > Most who try to build it up to a similar spec end up spending close to
> > $1500. It's a screaming deal, which is why QBP sold out of all sizes
> > from the first batch within 2 weeks of them going on sale, and why the
> > price is going up $50 when the next batch arrives in July.
>
> > I built up my own LHT last October, using a lot of parts I had lying
> > around.
>
> > Here's how I built it up originally:
> > Veloce 9-speed ergos
> > Veloce Triple FD
> > Veloce long cage RD
> > Veloce Triple crank (52-42-30)
> > AC-S BB
> > Tektro Oryx cantis w/Koolstop MTB pads
> > WTB Dual Duty XC 32h rims
> > Shimano Nexus Dynohub
> > Rocky Mountain freehub
> > PG-950 11-32 cassette
> > SR Laprade seatpost
> > Brooks B17 saddle
> > Cinelli Groove stem
> > Nitto Noodle handlebars
> > Shimano dynamo headlamp
> > Blackburn Cross rear rack
> > Michelin Transworld City 700x35
> > SKS P45 fenders
>
> > Since then, I've made the following changes:
> > Sugino XD600 (48-36-24)
> > Tange BB
> > Jandd front & rear racks
> > Panaracer Pasela 700x35
> > Busch und Muller dLumotec Oval LED headlamp
>
> > I've also built a second set of wheels. The first set was great for
> > commuting, but isn't stout enough for carrying a big load.
> > Salsa Delgado Cross 36h rims
> > LX HB-M570 front hub
> > LX FH-M580 rear hub
> > Deore HG-53 cassette (11-34)
> > Panaracer Pasela 700x35
>
> > The bike is incredibly comfortable, like sitting on a sofa.
> > Surprisingly fast on the flats. With the dynohub, lights, seat bag w/
> > tools, pump, racks and fenders, weighs about 35 lbs. Strip that stuff
> > off, it's about 26. It climbs well, but you need to shift down and
> > stay seated, which is normal for a touring bike.
>
> > It's fast becoming my favorite bike.
>
> > Here's a pic, right after I built it:
> >http://www.bikejournal.com/images/hankamanialhtside.jpg
>
> Very nice looking ride!
> I noticed you went Jand racks. Did you look at the Surly racks? If
> so, what did you think of them?
> It also looks like you decided that Panaracer Pasela tires are good all
> around.
> Comments on them Vs whatever else you rode.?
> B & M light Vs. Shimano (other comments)?
> Tour(s) panned this summer? (might want to see you as you pass near
> Chicago, if your route is going near here).
>
> --
> daveornee

Jandd racks were much sturdier than the Blackburns, but were still
about half the price of the Nice Racks. Nice Racks look, well, nice,
but I just wanted a low-rider up front.

Paselas are my all-time favorite tire in the universe. I have 28s on
my PX-10, 35s on my Surly (both sets of wheels) and 559-42s on the
Nexus8 cruiser I'm building out of my old '84 Peugeot Orient Express
MTB frame (those are the spokes I got from you last week). They're
tough, have supple casings, and are still using tanwalls, which just
look better than blackwalls, IMO. The Michelins I had on there
initially had kind of a deep diagonal tread with a center ridge. They
picked up a ton of gravel, which was great during the winter when I'd
hit an occasional patch of ice, but they were just too heavy for my
attempts at fast commuting in the spring. Between the Michelins and
the Paselas, I'd tried the Panaracer Urban Max 32s, but their casings
were heavy and stiff, and were simultaneously slower and less
comfortable than the Paselas. Nashbar had the 35's on sale for like
$12 apiece, so I bought a half-dozen and haven't looked back.

As for lighting, The Shimano headlight was just crap, out of the box.
I'd had a Schmidt on my PX10, with the dLumotec that I'd had great
luck with. I got the Shimano headlamp because I'd found it cheap (like
$30?) and gave it a try. It was much dimmer all-around, and
dangerously so on hill climbs. The B&M LED I was used to is at full
strength at about 6 mph, and if it drops below that, doesn't dim, but
strobes. I used the Shimano lamp about three times before stealing the
B&M off the PX-10, then getting another one to replace it.

My tour for the summer will be to cross the state of Washington along
the North Cascades Highway (SR20), which is the first map of Adventure
Cycling's Northern Tier TransAm route. It's 420-something miles, and
I'm aiming for 7 days (tentatively July 12-18). If I can do it in 6,
I'll be elated.

Wish me luck!

Date: 19 May 2007 22:48:21
From: Hank Wirtz
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 19, 1:40 pm, John Forrest Tomlinson <usenetrem...@jt10000.com >
wrote:
> On 19 May 2007 13:20:42 -0700, Hank Wirtz <h...@wirtznet.net> wrote:
>
> >My Peugeot has parallel 74deg angles, so switching to
> >parallel 72s felt a bit odd at first - like my seat's too low, but I
> >still get correct leg extension.
>
> You know, it's often possible to put the saddle in the same position
> relative to the pedals despite differering seat tube angles.
>
> Just sayin
>
I see what you're saying, but a) I use Brooks saddles, which have
notoriously short rails; and b) I figure I should let my race bike be
a race bike and my touring bike be a touring bike, with the
characteristics of their own geometry.

Variety is the spice of life, and all.

Date: 19 May 2007 13:20:42
From: Hank Wirtz
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 19, 10:48 am, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com >
wrote:
> > Here's a pic, right after I built it:http://www.bikejournal.com/images/hankamanialhtside.jpg
>
> **JEALOUS**
>
> Killer setup man. I did notice it kinda steered like a sofa. Also it
> seemed like my feet were much further forward than normal, but then
> I'm used to more race-like geometry.

Same here...My Peugeot has parallel 74deg angles, so switching to
parallel 72s felt a bit odd at first - like my seat's too low, but I
still get correct leg extension.

But, man, it's comfy.

Date: 19 May 2007 16:40:15
From: John Forrest Tomlinson
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On 19 May 2007 13:20:42 -0700, Hank Wirtz <hank@wirtznet.net > wrote:

>My Peugeot has parallel 74deg angles, so switching to
>parallel 72s felt a bit odd at first - like my seat's too low, but I
>still get correct leg extension.

You know, it's often possible to put the saddle in the same position
relative to the pedals despite differering seat tube angles.

Just sayin

--
JT
****************************
Remove "remove" to reply
Visit http://www.jt10000.com
****************************

Date: 20 May 2007 10:26:05
From: Peter Cole
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

John Forrest Tomlinson wrote:
> On 19 May 2007 13:20:42 -0700, Hank Wirtz <hank@wirtznet.net> wrote:
>
>> My Peugeot has parallel 74deg angles, so switching to
>> parallel 72s felt a bit odd at first - like my seat's too low, but I
>> still get correct leg extension.
>
> You know, it's often possible to put the saddle in the same position
> relative to the pedals despite differering seat tube angles.
>
> Just sayin
>

I kind of look at it the other way, it's been my experience that varying
the effective seat tube angle is one of the tweaks I wind up doing that
reflects the kind of riding I do. For fast, relatively short rides (like
weekly club rides) I like the seat tube steep, for all day riding
(brevets, etc.) I like it more relaxed. Most other adjustments I tend to
leave alone after getting dialed in, whereas seat position is something
I change a bit. It's nice to have a range of adjustment.

Date: 19 May 2007 10:48:38
From: JesseHattabaugh
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

> Here's a pic, right after I built it:http://www.bikejournal.com/images/hankamanialhtside.jpg

**JEALOUS**

Killer setup man. I did notice it kinda steered like a sofa. Also it
seemed like my feet were much further forward than normal, but then
I'm used to more race-like geometry.

Date: 19 May 2007 10:43:36
From: JesseHattabaugh
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

> The only other thing I'd be picky about would be frame & fork
> clearances

Those seem more than enough. Surly prides themselves on that one.

Thanks for the input!

Date: 19 May 2007 10:38:47
From: JesseHattabaugh
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 10:55 pm, Michael Press <rub...@pacbell.net > wrote:
> In article
> <1179527317.651880.58...@q75g2000hsh.googlegroups.com>,
>
>
>
> landotter <landot...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > On May 18, 5:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
> > wrote:
> > > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> > > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> > > namesake.
>
> > > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> > > if it were your touring bike?
>
> > > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> >http://www.surlybikes.com/lht_comp.html
>
> > TBH, it's specced pretty much how I would build something up. Good
> > price. Only thing I'm shocked at are the WTB tires. They are the
> > cheesiest junk I've ever had the misfortune to use. But that's a
> > nitpick. Replace them with something that's not going to flat every
> > other ride, like Schwalbe Marathons or IRC Tandems. The pump peg and
> > spoke holder are nice classy touches to a complete touring rig. Surly
> > did well with this one.
>
> For all the gears it has they are rather widely spaced, and too
> many duplicates to achieve some kind of half step gearing. I found
> that kind of spacing a burden on a utility bicycle. On long rides
> I definitely prefer a set of closer gears in the cruising range.
> Is the 34/26 called for? I am not a tourer.
>
> 26 36 48
> 11 63.8 88.4 117.8
> 13 54.0 74.8 99.7
> 15 46.8 64.8 86.4
> 17 41.3 57.2 76.2
> 20 35.1 48.6 64.8
> 23 30.5 42.3 56.3
> 26 27.0 37.4 49.8
> 30 23.4 32.4 43.2
> 33 20.6 28.6 38.1
>
> Seems like a 12-27 cassette would server very well.
>
> 26 36 48
> 12 58.5 81.0 108.0
> 13 54.0 74.8 99.7
> 14 50.1 69.4 92.6
> 15 46.8 64.8 86.4
> 17 41.3 57.2 76.2
> 19 36.9 51.2 68.2
> 21 33.4 46.3 61.7
> 24 29.2 40.5 54.0
> 27 26.0 36.0 48.0
>
> --
> Michael Press

Thanks Michael. Good point about the gearing. But yeah when you've got
all your belonging in the world strapped to a bicycle and you're
pedaling it out of this awesome hidden cove on a steep gravel road,
yes 34/26 is a godsend.

Date: 19 May 2007 08:01:03
From: datakoll@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

nice bike henry

'In the beginning, Surly made frames, and they were good. Then we made
parts. Those were good too. One day we offered a complete bike built
around our Cross Check frame. It was good and lots of people bought
one and rode it and told others. Surly grew strong like ox! One day we
said "Hey Vern! What if we did us a nuther complete bike er two! Guh-
huh!" And so we did. And here they are.'

in the beginning but not now despite the photo of a large self
contained brick factory

hey vern "knee how mah"
you take the stand on monday

Date: 19 May 2007 07:04:22
From: Hank Wirtz
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 3:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com >
wrote:
> Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> namesake.
>
> For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> if it were your touring bike?
>
> Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html

Most who try to build it up to a similar spec end up spending close to
$1500. It's a screaming deal, which is why QBP sold out of all sizes
from the first batch within 2 weeks of them going on sale, and why the
price is going up $50 when the next batch arrives in July.

I built up my own LHT last October, using a lot of parts I had lying
around.

Here's how I built it up originally:
Veloce 9-speed ergos
Veloce Triple FD
Veloce long cage RD
Veloce Triple crank (52-42-30)
AC-S BB
Tektro Oryx cantis w/Koolstop MTB pads
WTB Dual Duty XC 32h rims
Shimano Nexus Dynohub
Rocky Mountain freehub
PG-950 11-32 cassette
SR Laprade seatpost
Brooks B17 saddle
Cinelli Groove stem
Nitto Noodle handlebars
Shimano dynamo headlamp
Blackburn Cross rear rack
Michelin Transworld City 700x35
SKS P45 fenders

Since then, I've made the following changes:
Sugino XD600 (48-36-24)
Tange BB
Jandd front & rear racks
Panaracer Pasela 700x35
Busch und Muller dLumotec Oval LED headlamp

I've also built a second set of wheels. The first set was great for
commuting, but isn't stout enough for carrying a big load.
Salsa Delgado Cross 36h rims
LX HB-M570 front hub
LX FH-M580 rear hub
Deore HG-53 cassette (11-34)
Panaracer Pasela 700x35

The bike is incredibly comfortable, like sitting on a sofa.
Surprisingly fast on the flats. With the dynohub, lights, seat bag w/
tools, pump, racks and fenders, weighs about 35 lbs. Strip that stuff
off, it's about 26. It climbs well, but you need to shift down and
stay seated, which is normal for a touring bike.

It's fast becoming my favorite bike.

Here's a pic, right after I built it:
http://www.bikejournal.com/images/hankamanialhtside.jpg

Date: 21 May 2007 22:58:06
From: Michael Press
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

In article
<1179583462.242511.37030@p77g2000hsh.googlegroups.com >,
Hank Wirtz <hank@wirtznet.net > wrote:

> On May 18, 3:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
> > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> > namesake.
> >
> > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> > if it were your touring bike?
> >
> > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> Most who try to build it up to a similar spec end up spending close to
> $1500. It's a screaming deal, which is why QBP sold out of all sizes
> from the first batch within 2 weeks of them going on sale, and why the
> price is going up $50 when the next batch arrives in July.
>
> I built up my own LHT last October, using a lot of parts I had lying
> around.
>
> Here's how I built it up originally:

[...]

> SR Laprade seatpost
> Brooks B17 saddle

How do you get the Laprade seat post to hold the seat
rails? It would not hold the heavily chrom plate steal
rails of my Brooks Proffessional. The seat always slid
back. I eventually made extensive modifications of the
seat post that made it hold.

[...]

> Here's a pic, right after I built it:
> http://www.bikejournal.com/images/hankamanialhtside.jpg

Fine looking bicycle.

--
Michael Press

Date: 20 May 2007 23:34:44
From: daveornee
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

Hank Wirtz Wrote:
> On May 18, 3:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
> > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under m
> old
> > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers lik
> it's
> > namesake.
> >
> > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change abou
> it
> > if it were your touring bike?
> >
> > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> Most who try to build it up to a similar spec end up spending close to
> $1500. It's a screaming deal, which is why QBP sold out of all sizes
> from the first batch within 2 weeks of them going on sale, and why the
> price is going up $50 when the next batch arrives in July.
>
> I built up my own LHT last October, using a lot of parts I had lying
> around.
>
> Here's how I built it up originally:
> Veloce 9-speed ergos
> Veloce Triple FD
> Veloce long cage RD
> Veloce Triple crank (52-42-30)
> AC-S BB
> Tektro Oryx cantis w/Koolstop MTB pads
> WTB Dual Duty XC 32h rims
> Shimano Nexus Dynohub
> Rocky Mountain freehub
> PG-950 11-32 cassette
> SR Laprade seatpost
> Brooks B17 saddle
> Cinelli Groove stem
> Nitto Noodle handlebars
> Shimano dynamo headlamp
> Blackburn Cross rear rack
> Michelin Transworld City 700x35
> SKS P45 fenders
>
> Since then, I've made the following changes:
> Sugino XD600 (48-36-24)
> Tange BB
> Jandd front & rear racks
> Panaracer Pasela 700x35
> Busch und Muller dLumotec Oval LED headlamp
>
> I've also built a second set of wheels. The first set was great for
> commuting, but isn't stout enough for carrying a big load.
> Salsa Delgado Cross 36h rims
> LX HB-M570 front hub
> LX FH-M580 rear hub
> Deore HG-53 cassette (11-34)
> Panaracer Pasela 700x35
>
> The bike is incredibly comfortable, like sitting on a sofa.
> Surprisingly fast on the flats. With the dynohub, lights, seat bag w/
> tools, pump, racks and fenders, weighs about 35 lbs. Strip that stuff
> off, it's about 26. It climbs well, but you need to shift down and
> stay seated, which is normal for a touring bike.
>
> It's fast becoming my favorite bike.
>
> Here's a pic, right after I built it:
> http://www.bikejournal.com/images/hankamanialhtside.jpg
Very nice looking ride!
I noticed you went Jand racks. Did you look at the Surly racks? I
so, what did you think of them?
It also looks like you decided that Panaracer Pasela tires are good al
around.
Comments on them Vs whatever else you rode.?
B & M light Vs. Shimano (other comments)?
Tour(s) panned this summer? (might want to see you as you pass nea
Chicago, if your route is going near here)

--
daveornee

Date: 20 May 2007 11:25:41
From: Tim McNamara
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

In article <daveornee.2qvwjb@no-mx.forums.cyclingforums.com >,
daveornee <daveornee.2qvwjb@no-mx.forums.cyclingforums.com > wrote:

> It also looks like you decided that Panaracer Pasela tires are good
> all around. Comments on them Vs whatever else you rode.?

I'll chime in on this, if I may. One of my bikes has 26" wheels (which
looks a little odd when the rider is 6'4") and I have had trouble
finding good road tires for it. For a while I used Ritchey Tom Slicks
26 x 1.25, but quality control problems (separating casings in the
middle of the tread) made them troublesome. Avocet 1.25 slicks felt
nice but are not stocked in any LBSs and I'd really rather have tires I
can replace immediately. I used Primo 20 x 1.25 for a while, but the
casings were incredibly fragile.

I'd avoided the Paselas due to a the decorative tread imprint, but the
design has changed a bit and the tread is not as thick as it was. I
bought a pair and was very pleased by them. They're quite and seem to
roll as well as any tires I have ever used. Descending up to 45 mph
yesterday I was always passing everyone else. When the roads were wet
they felt secure, no slipping in corners. The ride is smooth, although
I am not sure that the tires themselves really contribute to ride feel.

I bought a pair of 700 x 25 Paselas to put on my road bike and have been
very pleased with those as well. A few weeks ago I put them through
their paces on a 94 mile ride around Lake Pepin on the Mississippi
River, which included climbing up to the ridge away from the river and
riding on gravel roads. They felt very secure on all surfaces.

I have used just the standard Paselas, not the TourGuard versions with
some kind of anti-puncture belt. IME those add little or nothing in
terms of puncture resistance and just increase weight and rolling
resistance. I've had one puncture in 1500 miles on the two bikes, about
the same rate as any other tires.

Date: 20 May 2007 13:20:17
From: Tim McNamara
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

In article <timmcn-520D31.11254120052007@news.iphouse.com >,
Tim McNamara <timmcn@bitstream.net > wrote:

> In article <daveornee.2qvwjb@no-mx.forums.cyclingforums.com>,
> daveornee <daveornee.2qvwjb@no-mx.forums.cyclingforums.com> wrote:
>
> > It also looks like you decided that Panaracer Pasela tires are good
> > all around. Comments on them Vs whatever else you rode.?
>
> I'll chime in on this, if I may. One of my bikes has 26" wheels (which
> looks a little odd when the rider is 6'4") and I have had trouble
> finding good road tires for it. For a while I used Ritchey Tom Slicks
> 26 x 1.25, but quality control problems (separating casings in the
> middle of the tread) made them troublesome. Avocet 1.25 slicks felt
> nice but are not stocked in any LBSs and I'd really rather have tires I
> can replace immediately. I used Primo 20 x 1.25 for a while, but the
> casings were incredibly fragile.

Oops, have to proofread better: 26 x1.25 ^^^^^^^ not 20 x 1.25.

> I'd avoided the Paselas due to a the decorative tread imprint, but the
> design has changed a bit and the tread is not as thick as it was. I
> bought a pair and was very pleased by them. They're quite and seem to
> roll as well as any tires I have ever used. Descending up to 45 mph
> yesterday I was always passing everyone else. When the roads were wet
> they felt secure, no slipping in corners. The ride is smooth, although
> I am not sure that the tires themselves really contribute to ride feel.
>
> I bought a pair of 700 x 25 Paselas to put on my road bike and have been
> very pleased with those as well. A few weeks ago I put them through
> their paces on a 94 mile ride around Lake Pepin on the Mississippi
> River, which included climbing up to the ridge away from the river and
> riding on gravel roads. They felt very secure on all surfaces.
>
> I have used just the standard Paselas, not the TourGuard versions with
> some kind of anti-puncture belt. IME those add little or nothing in
> terms of puncture resistance and just increase weight and rolling
> resistance. I've had one puncture in 1500 miles on the two bikes, about
> the same rate as any other tires.

Date: 19 May 2007 07:05:26
From: Peter Cole
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

JesseHattabaugh wrote:
> Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> namesake.
>
> For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> if it were your touring bike?
>
> Specs can be found here: http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>

I built a nearly identical bike for ~$500. That was after perhaps 2
years of scouring the net for bargains. My initial aim was not to build
a bike, but just to accumulate spare parts until I realized I had enough
to build a bike...

It's time vs. money. You might be able to beat Surly's price, but it
might take a while. If you had to buy the stuff immediately, you'd
probably be lucky to get close to their price.

I like the specs -- XT hubs & Alex rims, Tektro brakes, Shimano barends
etc. -- all stuff I use and have had good luck with, even the 11-34
cassette, which would also be my choice. Personally, I like laterally
stiffer frames, so I favor aluminum over steel, but that's a quibble.
The only other thing I'd be picky about would be frame & fork
clearances, I'd want to be sure I could run fat tires and fenders.

It's a very nice bike, I think it's worth the price.

Date: 20 May 2007 23:26:48
From: daveornee
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

Peter Cole Wrote:
> JesseHattabaugh wrote:
> > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under m
> old
> > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers lik
> it's
> > namesake.
> >
> > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change abou
> it
> > if it were your touring bike?
> >
> > Specs can be found here: http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
> >
>
> I built a nearly identical bike for ~$500. That was after perhaps 2
> years of scouring the net for bargains. My initial aim was not t
> build
> a bike, but just to accumulate spare parts until I realized I ha
> enough
> to build a bike...
>
> It's time vs. money. You might be able to beat Surly's price, but it
> might take a while. If you had to buy the stuff immediately, you'd
> probably be lucky to get close to their price.
>
> I like the specs -- XT hubs & Alex rims, Tektro brakes, Shiman
> barends
> etc. -- all stuff I use and have had good luck with, even the 11-34
> cassette, which would also be my choice. Personally, I like laterally
> stiffer frames, so I favor aluminum over steel, but that's a quibble.
> The only other thing I'd be picky about would be frame & fork
> clearances, I'd want to be sure I could run fat tires and fenders.
>
> It's a very nice bike, I think it's worth the price.
Max. tire size: 700c: w/o fenders: 45mm;
w/fenders:42mm
26": 2.1" with or without fenders
Shorter riders get 26" MTB wheels and taller riders get 700C.
The package is a great combination and rides very well in any size.
QBP has huge buying power and can select price/performance points tha
most of us only dream about

--
daveornee

Date: 19 May 2007 23:43:20
From: Tim McNamara
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

In article <DuadnTQOMrZqRNPbnZ2dnUVZ_qupnZ2d@comcast.com >,
Peter Cole <peter_cole@comcast.net > wrote:

> JesseHattabaugh wrote:
> > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my
> > old fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that
> > fits better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like
> > to start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm
> > Surly Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike
> > made by Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of
> > off-brand levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and
> > brake calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer
> > frame. Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers
> > like it's namesake.
> >
> > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about
> > it if it were your touring bike?
> >
> > Specs can be found here: http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
> >
>
> I built a nearly identical bike for ~$500. That was after perhaps 2
> years of scouring the net for bargains. My initial aim was not to
> build a bike, but just to accumulate spare parts until I realized I
> had enough to build a bike...
>
> It's time vs. money. You might be able to beat Surly's price, but it
> might take a while. If you had to buy the stuff immediately, you'd
> probably be lucky to get close to their price.
>
> I like the specs -- XT hubs & Alex rims, Tektro brakes, Shimano
> barends etc. -- all stuff I use and have had good luck with, even the
> 11-34 cassette, which would also be my choice. Personally, I like
> laterally stiffer frames, so I favor aluminum over steel, but that's
> a quibble. The only other thing I'd be picky about would be frame &
> fork clearances, I'd want to be sure I could run fat tires and
> fenders.
>
> It's a very nice bike, I think it's worth the price.

Looking at these in person, they seem like a very good deal. My LBS- a
decent straight-shooting guy- had been building up LHTs for months with
a coincidentally very similar spec. But he had to charge about $500
bucks than Surly more between paying more for parts than QBP does and
labor. So now he stocks the cheaper but well-spec'd LHT. It's very
hard for the average bike geek or the average bike shop to compete with
QBP on prices!

Date: 19 May 2007 03:35:36
From: datakoll@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 19, 3:13 am, Chalo <chalo.col...@gmail.com > wrote:
> JeffWills wrote:
>
> > datak...@yahoo.com wrote:
>
> > > welded in china now?
>
> > When were they not?
>
> Surlies were, to the best of my knowledge, made in ROC. If what Gene
> is suggesting is that they are now made in PROC, well, I think that
> would come along with some attendant quality issues. I have only my
> previous experience of bikes and components made in those two places
> to guide me.
>
> Chalo

I read Surely's material following the wide tire bike intro, i needed
a longer frame. My memory told me that the LHT price dropped $1000?
thus the question.

Date: 19 May 2007 00:29:22
From: Chalo
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

Michael Press wrote:
>
> For all the gears it has they are rather widely spaced, and too
> many duplicates to achieve some kind of half step gearing. I found
> that kind of spacing a burden on a utility bicycle. On long rides
> I definitely prefer a set of closer gears in the cruising range.
> Is the 34/26 called for? I am not a tourer.

Homeboy (that is to say, the OP) said that he wanted a better granny
gear. He didn't mention anything about closer gearing, which is a
quibble I think it's best not to cultivate without a good reason.
When we had just one, we got by with one. When we had three, three
was fine. When we had ten, man, that seemed like enough for anybody.
(Etc., etc., twelve through twenty-four.)

My point is that the "widely spaced" cruising gears you are talking
about run something like 65"-69.5"-75"-81", and so forth. Hardly
insurmountable gaps there. No sense in giving he guy a neurosis he
hasn't seen fit to develop yet.

> Seems like a 12-27 cassette would server very well.

While I like a 100" to 108" jump better than a 100" to 118" jump,
that's a largely hypothetical gear range anyway. And a 21" gear will
definitely do things for you that a 26" gear won't, when the chips are
down. Most of us avoid those sorts of situations, though.

Other options would include 13-30 and 12-34 cassettes, with attendant
minor benefits and tradeoffs. Given the cost of such things these
days, it seems like keeping the stock gearing would be far and away
the best bang for the buck.

Chalo

Date: 19 May 2007 00:13:33
From: Chalo
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

JeffWills wrote:
>
> datak...@yahoo.com wrote:
> >
> > welded in china now?
>
> When were they not?

Surlies were, to the best of my knowledge, made in ROC. If what Gene
is suggesting is that they are now made in PROC, well, I think that
would come along with some attendant quality issues. I have only my
previous experience of bikes and components made in those two places
to guide me.

Chalo

Date: 18 May 2007 22:38:40
From: JeffWills
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 3:31 pm, "datak...@yahoo.com" <datak...@yahoo.com > wrote:
> welded in china now?

When were they not?

Jeff

Date: 18 May 2007 18:27:07
From: landotter
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 7:35 pm, R Brickston <rb20170REMOVE.yahoo.com@ > wrote:
> On 18 May 2007 15:15:29 -0700, JesseHattabaugh
>
>
>
> <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com> wrote:
> >Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> >fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> >better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> >start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> >Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> >Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> >levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> >calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> >Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> >namesake.
>
> >For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> >under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> >if it were your touring bike?
>
> >Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> You can buy the frameset and build your own with decent used parts.

If you've got them. If you sourced all the parts that are specced, on
sale, you might be able to build it for the same price. That's if you
built your own wheels.

It's still specced better than a Trek, with a list price that's 2-300
less.

Date: 19 May 2007 00:35:07
From: R Brickston
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

Date: 18 May 2007 16:31:14
From: datakoll@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

welded in china now?

Date: 18 May 2007 18:55:04
From: landotter
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 8:39 pm, "datak...@yahoo.com" <datak...@yahoo.com > wrote:

> LO- you're last surley LHT was welded in china?

Nope, my Redline fixie. It's not fancy, but everything's nice and
neat. I thought Surly was still sourcing from Taiwan?

Date: 18 May 2007 18:39:46
From: datakoll@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 8:13 pm, landotter <landot...@gmail.com > wrote:
> On May 18, 6:31 pm, "datak...@yahoo.com" <datak...@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> > welded in china now?
>
> My last bike was. Surprised me when I brought it home and saw the
> sticker on the BB. Can't complain about the quality, but I'd like to
> know that it came from a factory with decent labor practices and
> environmental records. The welds and powder coat are very nice at the
> price point.

LO- you're last surley LHT was welded in china?

Date: 18 May 2007 15:28:37
From: landotter
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On May 18, 5:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com >
wrote:
> Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> namesake.
>
> For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> if it were your touring bike?
>
> Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html

http://www.surlybikes.com/lht_comp.html

TBH, it's specced pretty much how I would build something up. Good
price. Only thing I'm shocked at are the WTB tires. They are the
cheesiest junk I've ever had the misfortune to use. But that's a
nitpick. Replace them with something that's not going to flat every
other ride, like Schwalbe Marathons or IRC Tandems. The pump peg and
spoke holder are nice classy touches to a complete touring rig. Surly
did well with this one.

Date: 19 May 2007 05:55:41
From: Michael Press
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

In article
<1179527317.651880.58080@q75g2000hsh.googlegroups.com >,
landotter <landotter@gmail.com > wrote:

> On May 18, 5:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
> > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
> > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
> > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
> > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
> > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
> > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
> > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
> > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
> > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
> > namesake.
> >
> > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
> > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
> > if it were your touring bike?
> >
> > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>
> http://www.surlybikes.com/lht_comp.html
>
> TBH, it's specced pretty much how I would build something up. Good
> price. Only thing I'm shocked at are the WTB tires. They are the
> cheesiest junk I've ever had the misfortune to use. But that's a
> nitpick. Replace them with something that's not going to flat every
> other ride, like Schwalbe Marathons or IRC Tandems. The pump peg and
> spoke holder are nice classy touches to a complete touring rig. Surly
> did well with this one.

For all the gears it has they are rather widely spaced, and too
many duplicates to achieve some kind of half step gearing. I found
that kind of spacing a burden on a utility bicycle. On long rides
I definitely prefer a set of closer gears in the cruising range.
Is the 34/26 called for? I am not a tourer.

26 36 48
11 63.8 88.4 117.8
13 54.0 74.8 99.7
15 46.8 64.8 86.4
17 41.3 57.2 76.2
20 35.1 48.6 64.8
23 30.5 42.3 56.3
26 27.0 37.4 49.8
30 23.4 32.4 43.2
33 20.6 28.6 38.1

Seems like a 12-27 cassette would server very well.

26 36 48
12 58.5 81.0 108.0
13 54.0 74.8 99.7
14 50.1 69.4 92.6
15 46.8 64.8 86.4
17 41.3 57.2 76.2
19 36.9 51.2 68.2
21 33.4 46.3 61.7
24 29.2 40.5 54.0
27 26.0 36.0 48.0

--
Michael Press

Date: 19 May 2007 07:41:12
From: R Brickston
Subject: Re: Surly "Long Haul Trucker" factory bike, worth $950?

On Sat, 19 May 2007 05:55:41 GMT, Michael Press <rubrum@pacbell.net >
wrote:

>In article
><1179527317.651880.58080@q75g2000hsh.googlegroups.com>,
> landotter <landotter@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> On May 18, 5:15 pm, JesseHattabaugh <Jesse.Hattaba...@gmail.com>
>> wrote:
>> > Well I've started touring, and after a few hundred miles under my old
>> > fix'er up, my aching body is compelling me to find a bike that fits
>> > better and has a better granny gear. This time around I'd like to
>> > start with a frame that I can be proud of. I just took a 60cm Surly
>> > Long Haul Trucker out for a spin. This is a complete bike made by
>> > Surly. It was decently equipped with the exception of off-brand
>> > levers, seat, seat post, handlebars, steering neck and brake
>> > calipers. It feels much different than my old wanna-be racer frame.
>> > Very long and loose as opposed to tight and light. It steers like it's
>> > namesake.
>> >
>> > For just under a grand it's not a bad bike at all, but... it's just
>> > under a grand. What do you guys think? What would you change about it
>> > if it were your touring bike?
>> >
>> > Specs can be found here:http://www.surlybikes.com/longhaul.html
>>
>> http://www.surlybikes.com/lht_comp.html
>>
>> TBH, it's specced pretty much how I would build something up. Good
>> price. Only thing I'm shocked at are the WTB tires. They are the
>> cheesiest junk I've ever had the misfortune to use. But that's a
>> nitpick. Replace them with something that's not going to flat every
>> other ride, like Schwalbe Marathons or IRC Tandems. The pump peg and
>> spoke holder are nice classy touches to a complete touring rig. Surly
>> did well with this one.
>
>For all the gears it has they are rather widely spaced, and too
>many duplicates to achieve some kind of half step gearing. I found
>that kind of spacing a burden on a utility bicycle. On long rides
>I definitely prefer a set of closer gears in the cruising range.
>Is the 34/26 called for? I am not a tourer.
>
> 26 36 48
>11 63.8 88.4 117.8
>13 54.0 74.8 99.7
>15 46.8 64.8 86.4
>17 41.3 57.2 76.2
>20 35.1 48.6 64.8
>23 30.5 42.3 56.3
>26 27.0 37.4 49.8
>30 23.4 32.4 43.2
>33 20.6 28.6 38.1
>
>Seems like a 12-27 cassette would server very well.
>
> 26 36 48
>12 58.5 81.0 108.0
>13 54.0 74.8 99.7
>14 50.1 69.4 92.6
>15 46.8 64.8 86.4
>17 41.3 57.2 76.2
>19 36.9 51.2 68.2
>21 33.4 46.3 61.7
>24 29.2 40.5 54.0
>27 26.0 36.0 48.0

Depends on the combined weight of the rider/bike + contents of the
panniers. My total rider+rig is currently near 275 lbs and in certain
terrain a 26/34 can come in handy after 5 hours of riding