Updated: 17th March 2024
The battle of the Surly trail bikes!
Krampus or Karate Monkey?
On the surface, they look identical!
But, what’s the difference?
We will compare these two iconic trail bikes side by side and see what the difference is between each.
When it comes to price they vary slightly with the Krampus at $2,599 and the Karate Monkey at $2,649
Check out current deals online for both of these bikes here.
Which one is best for you and your riding goals?
Surly classifies the Krampus as their “dedicated 29+ trail bike,” while the Karate Monkey is considered more versatile at home as both a 29er and 27.5+ trail bike.
But there are more differences than just that.
Let’s take a closer look.
Both of these bikes have been available in front suspension and rigid fork options in the past.
Surly Krampus or Karate Monkey?
(Save time reading the whole article and see what bike we recommend)
Our Verdict
Krampus: The Surly Krampus is a prime choice for those seeking a bike tailored to the rigors of adventure cycling.
Its design features, including a longer chainstay and wheelbase, contribute to its stability, making it particularly suitable for touring.
This bike stands out as the go-to option for those embarking on expedition tours around the globe, prioritizing endurance and reliability over the versatility of terrain handling.
Karate Monkey: On the flip side, the Karate Monkey excels in delivering a more agile and exhilarating trail-riding experience.
It strikes a harmonious balance between being a thrilling trail companion and a capable bikepacking ally.
This balance makes it exceptionally suited for trail-packing adventures where the thrill of the ride is just as important as the journey itself.
Furthermore, its longer travel fork not only enhances comfort but also promotes a more upright riding position, a boon for those long days on the saddle exploring uncharted paths.
Surly Krampus Vs Karate Monkey Bikepacking
If your heart is set on a bikepacking adventure and you’re deciding between the two, I’d lean towards the Krampus for its superior comfort.
However, I’ve encountered plenty of bikepackers happily traversing trails on the Karate Monkey, faring just fine.
For those who dream of the flexibility to switch between 29er or 27.5+ wheels, the Karate Monkey stands out as a top pick.
Difference Between Krampus and Karate Monkey
| Bike | Krampus | Karate Monkey |
|---|---|---|
| Where to Buy | $2,599 USD | $2,649 USD (Deal $1,999.99) |
| Category | Dedicated 29er+ Trail Bike | Hardtail Mountain Bike for All Trails |
| Spec Level | Mid-Range ⭐️⭐️ | Mid-Range ⭐️⭐️ |
| Weight | Approx 14kg (30.8 lbs) | Approx 12.7 kg (28 lbs) |
| Wheels | 29er | 29er / 27.5″ |
| Frame/Fork | Steel/Suspension (120 mm Travel) | Steel/Suspension (140 mm travel) |
| Tires | Surly Dirt Wizard 29 x 3″ | Surly Dirt Wizard 27.5 x 3″ |
| Tire Clearance | 29″ x 3″ tires | 29” x 2.5” or 27.5” x 3” tires |
| Brakes | Mechanical Disc | Mechanical Disc |
| Groupset | Deore | Deore |
| Drivetrain | 1 x 12 | 1 x 12 |
| Gear Inches | 18” to 83” ** | 18” to 83” ** |
| Stack/Reach Ratio (58cm) | 1.45 (Average for trail bikes) | 1.475 (Average to Upright for trail bikes) |
| Chainstay (58cm) | 435 mm | 423 mm |
| Wheelbase (58cm) | 1121 mm | 1103 mm |
| Trail (58cm) | 94.4mm (very high) | 91mm (very high) |
What kind of bike is a Surly Krampus?
A dedicated 29er trail bike, one of the first ever!
The Surly Krampus redefines the trail experience with its pioneering 29+ platform, blending the momentum of a 29er with the comfort and grip of plus-sized tires.
As the trailblazer for “plus” bikes, the Krampus showcases how high volume, large diameter tires can transform the ride experience, challenging the misconception that bigger tires slow you down.
Its unique geometry – long in the front and compact at the back – empowers riders with unparalleled trail-shredding capabilities.
What kind of bike is a Surly Karate Monkey?
The Surly Karate Monkey is a versatile, hardtail mountain bike that excels in a wide range of cycling adventures, from trail riding and bikepacking to urban commuting.
Known for its adaptability, it supports various tire sizes, allowing riders to customize the bike for different terrains and uses.
Despite its slightly heavier build, the Karate Monkey offers a playful ride, with its wider tires providing comfort and traction on diverse surfaces.
It’s designed for those who value simplicity in maintenance without sacrificing performance.
While some riders might find the ride stiff on extremely rough terrain, its reliability, capability to handle singletrack, and potential for customization make it a favored choice among adventure cyclists and those seeking a multi-use bicycle.
Geometry – Krampus vs Karate Monkey
Geometry can significantly affect the way a bike rides and feels. It is something to consider when buying a bike.
Also, it’s important to note that our geometry comparisons were based on the specific bike builds available to us, which included a rigid Karate Monkey and not the longer 140mm travel suspension fork version.
This is in contrast to the Krampus model we reviewed, which featured a 120mm fork and was a 2022 model.
Therefore, expect some minor variations in the comparison.
Surly Krampus Geometry
The Krampus positions the rider more aggressively than the Karate Monkey, largely due to its 120mm travel fork, which leans towards a less upright posture. This setup may reduce comfort on extended rides.
Its trail measurement, notably high at 94.4mm, enhances front-end stability. This characteristic and the bike’s slower steering make it well-suited for front-loaded touring or daily commuting tasks.
Moreover, the Krampus features a slightly longer chainstay, though it falls within the shorter to mid-range spectrum. This extension allows for greater clearance, which is particularly beneficial when using rear panniers.
The longer front centre also means the Krampus is long in the front compared to the Karate Monkey also.
The extended wheelbase further contributes to stability, making the Krampus a solid choice for bikepacking enthusiasts looking to tackle adventures with a loaded bike.
Surly Karate Monkey Geometry
On the flip side, the Karate Monkey delivers a more agile experience. Its elongated suspension fork, boasting 140mm of travel, grants a slightly more upright position, enhancing rider comfort for various terrains.
However, with its shorter chainstay and wheelbase, the Karate Monkey is tuned for quick, responsive riding, ideal for navigating trails with zest and zeal. This setup promises a lively ride, though, in theory, it might sacrifice a bit of comfort for bikepacking ventures.
The trail measurement, while still substantial, is not quite as pronounced as on the Krampus. This difference yields a snappier steering response, allowing for immediate direction changes and a more dynamic handling experience.
| Karate Monkey | Krampus | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stack | 597mm | 607mm | +10mm |
| Reach | 427mm | 419mm | -8mm |
| Stack to Reach Ratio | 1.475 | 1.45 | |
| Seat Tube Length, C-T | 419mm | 419mm | 0mm |
| Top Tube Length, Effective/Horizontal HT Top | 610mm | 610mm | 0mm |
| Top Tube Length, Actual C-C | 575mm | 573mm | -2mm |
| Top Tube Slope | 19.7deg | 20.8deg | +1.1deg |
| Head Tube Angle | 69deg | 68.4deg | -0.6deg |
| Seat Tube Angle | 73deg | 72.4deg | -0.6deg |
| Head Tube Length | 100mm | 100mm | +0mm |
| Bottom Bracket Drop | 55mm | 60mm | +5mm |
| Bottom Bracket Height | 313.2mm | 317mm | +3.8mm |
| Chainstay Length | 423mm | 435mm | +12mm |
| Chainstay Length Horizontal | 419.4mm | 430.8mm | +11.4mm |
| Front-Center | 685.8mm | 692.8mm | +7mm |
| Front-Center Horizontal | 683.6mm | 690.2mm | +6.6mm |
| Wheelbase | 1103mm | 1121mm | +18mm |
| Fork Offset/Rake | 47mm | 51mm | +4mm |
| Fork Length (Axle-To-Crown) | 483mm | 498mm | +15mm |
| Trail | 91mm (very high) | 94.4mm (very high) | +3.4mm |
| Mechanical Trail | 85mm | 87.8mm | +2.8mm |
| Wheel Flop | 30.4mm | 32.3mm | +1.9mm |
| Standover Height | 783mm | 803mm | +20mm |
| Tire to Pedal Spindle | 147.6mm (170 mm cranks) | 140.7mm (175 mm cranks) | -6.9mm |
| Pedal Spindle to Ground Clearance | 143.2mm | 142mm | -1.2mm |
Surly Krampus
Pros
- Offers the best balance of both trail riding and comfortable long-distance touring
- More suited geometry for loaded touring and bikepacking – adding more stability
- More affordable – Retail price
Cons
- Limited to only 29er tires and wheel sizes
- Heavier than the Karate Monkey *
- Not as nimble as the Karate Monkey
A trailblazing 29er that redefined what trail riding could be.
As the pioneering “plus” bike, it introduced riders to the game-changing benefits of high-volume, large-diameter tires, proving that bigger can indeed be faster and more fun.
The Krampus debunks the old myth that large tires slow you down, instead showing that they enhance the ride by providing better grip, comfort, and stability on diverse terrains.
The design of the Krampus is unique, adopting a “long in the front, short in the rear” structure.
This configuration, featuring a lengthy toptube and compact chainstays, elevates its trail-riding capabilities to new heights, enabling agile handling and responsive turning.
Contrary to the business upfront, party in the back ethos of a mullet, the Krampus is all about making the party its business.
Equipped with modern trail features such as dropper post compatibility, a 44mm headtube, Gnot-Boost rear spacing, thru-axles, and a suspension-corrected fork, the Krampus is ready to tackle any adventure.
It’s designed to work with most mountain bike standards, making it an ideal project bike for those who love to tinker and optimize.
Plus, with clearance for up to 29″ x 3″ tires, the Krampus ensures riders can conquer even the most challenging trails with confidence and style.
Is Surly Krampus a fat bike?
The Surly Krampus is not a fat bike in the traditional sense, as it doesn’t use the oversized tires that define fat bikes, typically 4 inches wide or larger.
Instead, the Krampus is recognized as a trail bike or a “plus” bike, equipped with 29″ x 3″ wide tires.
These tires are larger than those found on standard mountain bikes but not as large as those on a true fat bike.
The Krampus is designed for trail riding, offering a blend of speed, traction, and stability that bridges the gap between traditional mountain bikes and the larger-tired fat bikes.
Surly Karate Monkey
Pros
- Wheel Size Flexibility: Accommodates a broad range of wheel and tire sizes, primarily focusing on 27.5+ but with declared throughput at 29×2.5, offering flexibility for different riding preferences and conditions.
- Trailpacking Geometry: The Karate Monkey strikes a balance between playful trail bike geometry and comfort for long distances, equipped with numerous mounting points for bikepacking essentials.
- Performance: Some users have achieved personal records on familiar trails, indicating the bike’s capability in improving ride times.
- Customizable: Offers flexibility in tire size, allowing for easy conversion into a off-road gravel bike (drop bar mountain bike) with alternative handlebars for varied riding experiences.
Cons
- Weight: Not the lightest bike on the market, which might be a drawback for those prioritizing speed and agility.
- Price Considerations: At full MSRP, some believe there are more competitively priced options available that offer similar or better value.
- Front Wheel Lift: In steep climbs, there’s a tendency for the front wheel to lift, which can be challenging to manage.
- Not Ideal for Constant Rough Terrain: On trails laden with rocks and roots, the ride can become unpleasantly harsh.
- Stiff Ride: Some users found the ride too stiff for their liking, affecting long-term comfort.
The Karate Monkey is a jack-of-all-trails mountain bike that thrives on being a chameleon in the biking world. This bike seamlessly transitions between being a classic 29er to a modern 27.5+ machine, offering riders the flexibility to navigate through rough and varied terrains with ease and a constant grin on their faces.
As a multipurpose hardtail mountain bike, the Karate Monkey is designed to bring durability and vivacity to every ride, whether it’s on rocky paths, muddy trails, or steep descents. Its adaptable frame invites you to unleash your creativity in building your dream ride, with the capability to morph into nearly 487 different configurations, according to Surly’s trusty calculations.
Originally at the forefront of the 29” wheel revolution, the latest incarnation of the Karate Monkey embraces both its roots and the future by excelling with 27.5+ wheels as well. It’s all about maximizing fun and adventure, whatever your wheel preference may be.
Equipped with modern trail features like dropper post compatibility, a 44mm headtube, Gnot-Boost rear spacing, thru-axles, and a suspension-corrected fork. With clearance for up to 29” x 2.5” or 27.5” x 3” tires, the Karate Monkey ensures you have the traction and comfort needed for the wildest of rides.
Is the Karate Monkey good for bikepacking?
Yes, the Surly Karate Monkey is well-suited for bikepacking.
A bike better suited for trail bikepacking adventurers, where it mostly shines. Its durable frame, versatile tire compatibility, and numerous mounting points for racks and accessories make it a reliable choice for long-distance adventures over varied terrains.
The bike’s geometry balances playfulness and comfort, which is essential for the demands of bikepacking. While its slightly heavier build compared to some bikepacking-specific models may be seen as a drawback, the Karate Monkey compensates with robustness and the ability to carry heavy loads without compromising stability.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for cyclists looking to explore off-road trails and undertake multi-day journeys.
Is Karate Monkey a trail bike?
Yes, the Surly Karate Monkey can be classified as a trail bike.
It’s designed with a geometry that balances efficiency on climbs and confidence on descents, making it well-suited for a variety of trail conditions.
The Karate Monkey’s capability to accommodate both rigid and suspension forks, along with its tire versatility (capable of running both 29-inch and 27.5+ wheels), allows riders to tailor the bike to their specific trail riding needs.
While it may not have the full suspension of dedicated trail bikes, it’s robust frame and adaptable setup ensure it performs admirably on singletracks, technical descents, and climbs, which are characteristic of trail riding.
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