My 2023 Surly DiscTrucker: A Brutally Honest Review

The Surly Disc Trucker is one of the more popular touring bikes on the road today. I purchased a new Disc Trucker in 2023. I modified and upgraded some of the parts to suit my needs and tested it out under a variety of conditions. I took it fully loaded on paved and gravel roads, rail-trails and canal towpaths. I'm not a professional bike mechanic, just a seasoned long-distance bike tourist that knows what he likes. And this is my brutally honest review of the bike.
Wald 1066 Handlebars amzn.to/3fLRHVH
RedShift Shock Absorbing Handlebar Stem amzn.to/3IBu3If
Terry Liberator Y Men's Bike Saddle amzn.to/3FNp0Cq

[@mikeandpaulaclay6605]

That fast cadence, upright riding style is perfect for touring. Although speed seems to run the industry, touring is best at a moderate pace. Well done!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Well said, I agree. I'm definitely not a racer. Stay safe and ride on!

[@Veniguiribici]

If you voiced commercials, I would practically never skip them. You have a naturally great cadence and a great set of pipes.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@jeffdziak6455]

Love your sense of humor, and not acting like a bike nerd. But a good level headed view from someone with experience. Much appreciated!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@ChrisKerel]

I just discovered your channel! I'm a much younger but pretty experienced bicycle tourist from Europe. Very cool to see the US perspective, and your no-bullshit common sense approach is rare to see these days. Thanks a lot for the entertainment and education 🙏

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@bdlii]

First thing I thought was the handle bars are ugly! Then I watched and listened to you explain them. Sometimes you have to ignore aesthetics in the name of comfort. Even if that means your handle bars look like a little girls bike san pink streamers 😂. Haven’t bike toured since I was 15 on my Shogun 18 speed I bought after a summer of mowing lawns in 1984 😊 Enjoy watching your videos. Next summer Paul! Spend this summer dialing in your bike and plans. Next summer Alaska. What a hoot to watch you accomplish this dream. The time is now Sir!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Agreed, I don't care for the look. But comfort is key when touring. Alaska is a goal, something to shoot for. Also agreed, Life is too short, the time is NOW! Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@hejiranyc]

Congrats on your new $7,544 expedition bike.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

And it only cost me $2400 with the new wheel set. Good deal!

[@WiltshireMan]

Paul, You are your own man, that setup works for you and thats what counts. Great job

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@markmartello]

A great deal in a touring bike right now is the REI house brand, Co-Op Cycles ADV 1.1. Overbuilt steel frame, nice mid-range Shimano components, fits up to 50mm tires, and it comes with nice front and rear racks.

[@markmartello]

And, it handles better when loaded.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Sounds like a deal worth checking out. Thanks for the tip. Stay safe and ride on!

[@AmusedDaffodils-mz5rw]

I love this upright setup

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@indoorkangaroo3431]

Always good to sit down and listen to some bike talk Paul. I think the thing I like most about thru axles is not having to line things up, the wheel will be centered every time. Hope to keep pedaling up to and beyond my retirement. For now I’ll get ready for my first trip this year, Sydney to Brisbane. Look forward to the next video Paul

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I also like the thru axles. Stay safe and ride on!

[@Jaaaaaffff]

Thank you, Paul! I always look forward to your videos. Glad you are enjoying your 21st century bike!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. It's a pretty sweet ride. Stay safe and ride on!

[@rafriedman]

Toeclips! I thought I was the last person still using ‘em. Ride safe and happy!

[@pedalingthru2719]

No there are a few of us dinosaurs left.

[@dimitriosfotopoulos3689]

Agreed, I just switched back to them. I patrol a local trail on a volunteer basis, and use an old rigid mountain bike as my workhorse. Lots of start and stop biking when dealing with trash. One day it finally dawned on me just how much of a pain in the keister it was, constantly engaging and disengaging with my clip-in setup. So I switched out to toeclips and loose straps. After some consideration, I switched my LHT back to toeclips as well. IMO, toeclips just make more sense for loaded bike touring.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

You and me both! Comfort is key. With loose toe clips I can move my foot around on the pedal. I hate being locked in. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@seanlynch8339]

Nice shot of Makanda about 17 minutes in! I rode a Panasonic sport 1000 as my daily commuter for over 30 years. It was parked outside every workday and finally rusted through near the bottom bracket. Those 1980's Japanese frames were the best ever made. Thanks for the review.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. You've been to Makanda? Did you see the eclipse down there? Big party. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@kennethkuhl1188]

Your review style and delivery were excellent. Thank you.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@mobilemiall]

47mm is actually 1.85", not 2.4" as mentioned in the video, if that makes a difference for anyone.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Thanks for the pointer. Stay safe and ride on!

[@dinodaniel2237]

Good honest review . Good choices on upgrades.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@garryruggiero3559]

I could listen to for hours on bicycle touring Thanks for all you do, Garry Raleigh NC

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@Mike-vd2qt]

Would have been cheaper to have your shop order the frame, and build the bike to your specs. Then the shop could have built the wheels, or ordered Velocity touring wheels; plus set up all of your cockpit, along with the crankset and gear changes. They basically stripped your original bike down to the frame and started over. I've owned two LHT's, built from frame up, great bikes, but they are dead feeling and overbuilt unless you're carrying a lot of weight. I tour with 25 pounds, so a lighter steel frame like a Black Mountain Cycles Monster Cross rides better, and cost the same when built from frame up with good components. Good review, I agree with your take on cheap components from Surly, especially SRAM Apex junk they use on some bikes.

[@petersouthernboy6327]

Funny, SRAM AXS Rival has been freaking awesome on my new gravel bike / and I have a XC race bike that’s full XTR.

[@pedalingthru2719]

I wish I could get away with just 25 lbs of touring gear. On my trans am last year my bike weighted over 100 lbs

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Surly is one of the few bike makers that will sell you just the frame. Most bike makers won't do that. That's what I did with my Surly Cross Check. Rim brakes, traditional axles. But this Disc Trucker has disc brakes and thru axles which are unfamiliar to me. So I went with the whole bike knowing that I was going to change some things. But as it turned out, there wasn't much original bike left but the frame. In the end I got the bike I wanted for no extra cost except a new wheel set. Thanks again. Stay safe and ride on!

[@petersouthernboy6327]

@@paulsuchecki3985 fantastic build and thanks for sharing 👍

[@Mike-vd2qt]

@@paulsuchecki3985 Thanks Paul, happy trails to you! Have a great summer of riding.☮

[@scottbaker9200]

Thanks for the new video, Paul. I look forward to your videos!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@woodsontr]

Good luck with that Alaska trip! 😉👍 Thanks for the review and great videos.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Alaska is a goal, something to shoot for. Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@eddieloujones2673]

Man I wish I knew what all this means. I am doing 50-60 miles per day on my 12 year old $500 non electric Electra Townie. It's upright, a nice comfy seat, fat tires, fully upright, and the most comfortable bike I've ever ridden. Every time I try to go back to traditional bikes, they feel weird. Good news is I finally did two days in a row with an overnight at a hotel in between. I would upgrade but I haven't a clue. In the meantime, keep on riding Paul. You do a great job with your videos.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@george8214]

This guy is my hero.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@tonystone3397]

Goodman Paul great post she looks like a great bike. I am looking forward to seeing your adventures on her. God bless.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. God Bless you too. Stay safe and ride on!

[@ucanskixc568]

I ride a Surly Moonlander and use it year round. We love bikepacking now. Your changes on the Surly made a lot of sense, though expensive! You have done enough various kinds of riding to know what you are talking about from my perspective. I do have a Miyata 610 with different parts from the last 5.5 decades. However no disc brakes and the rear triangle I am no longer strong enough to spread it for larger cassette, has me not riding it much. Looking at getting special rims around 2.5-3 in. inches etc. for the fatbike instead. I could buy a whole new bike for the just price of a second set of rims for the Surly, hmmm. I have other multiple bikes and frames for other activities which I no longer do. Except for the fatbike wheels, I have built all my wheels for the past 5 decades+. Have FUN stay safe, ride lots.

[@charlespeters1480]

Thanks for the review Paul. It sounds like you know what works for you. Keep riding - you are an inspiration.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@reeceholmes8546]

thanks Paul, nice bike, hopefully you get to do your Alaska tour very soon, I'll be watching, great stuff

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Alaska is a goal, something to shoot for. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@bikechingu]

Great video! "Dependability and simplicity" I couldn't agree more! Ride safe!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@ericcopass7483]

Awesome review! Love your content. I would love to get some detailed maps of some of your rides! Keep riding my friend

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I use either Rand McNally maps or ACA Maps and navigate the old fashioned way. No, not by the stars. Just good old paper maps, nothing special. Thanks again. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@dennisdugger7975]

Love your Surly. Best wheels I own are hand made by my LBS. Have never broken a spoke on them. Great video, perhaps it's time to give some new tech a chance and try the disc trucker with thru axles. I have two Surly Pacers, a LHT and a Cross check. The Cross Check is my every day hop on and go as well as light touring. Rode it on the Katy Trail and may do so on the Ohio to Erie Trail this summer. Whatever bike I ride a bit more upright position is going to be in use. Your videos are chock full of great info. Thank you so much.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I also like my Cross Check. The Troll is and adventure bike that will go anywhere. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@dtbrooks7325]

Useful comments on spokes and wheels; thanks. There seems to be a movement toward shorter cranks, so it's good to hear a contrasting view. It is difficult to get arguments with measurable data; I'm still waiting for the dust to settle on that. Best wishes on the Alaska thing.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@RyanJardina]

Heart your videos, keep them coming!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@billcolville]

I am looking to get a new touring bike, this was very helpful. Thank you

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@PumpkinVillage]

What a great review and upgrades. Nice to hear from someone who knows touring bikes. There were no Surly touring bikes here in Vermont so I went with a Trek 520 in 2017. Sadly they have stopped making the bike now. Love the bike but would like the ability to go with a wider tire. At 64 I think it's time to go with the more upright position. Thank you for an outstanding review and sharing you knowledge. Take care, AL

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Trek 520 is a fine touring machine. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@nrs7846]

Nice honest review, thank you.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@picard5134]

Good looking bike and as always I like your unique style. Always inspiring to see how people make their bike their own.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Comfort is the key. Stay safe and ride on!

[@klassinator]

Ordered that saddle from Terry as soon as you showed it and now I can't wait to try it out. I hope they sponsor you.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@thellester]

Really clever handlebar setup. That’s a slick rig.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@timt148]

Dude... I looooove my disc trucker. Ive been touring since 1981 and this is my forever tour ride. I did the Nevada loop with Irene (my bikes name) and couldnt believe the comfort factor. This bike is truely the finest bike Ive ever toured on. Great review.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Very cool! Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Say hi to Irene for me. LOL! Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@DocksideCurmudgeon]

A well thought out rig! ✔️🚴

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@nathanielkhoom6043]

Another Disk Trucker owner here! I brought a 2017 frame/fork in a 58cm size. What a solid touring machine! My bike has quick release wheels and butterfly bars. I usually run a low front end, this one I took aboit an inch off the steerer tube and it's perfect. With 700x38c tires, it's more than good enough for 120+ mile days in the saddle. Aside from the stickers that aren't the best, I really can't fault it. Good review!

[@user-sf7bh8md3w]

Hey Paul! Excellent review of the Disc Trucker bike. The Disc Trucker I was riding in 2019, when I met you, was gifted to a new rider I met in New Jersey after finishing my Portland (OR) to Portland (ME) ride. This new rider was just starting to plan his first cross-country trip after finishing college and was in need of good equipment. I did love that Disc Trucker bike, but am happy that someone else is using it to create their own memories and adventures with it now. I remember your Miyata bike; a true classic indeed. Your handlebar setup on the new Disc Trucker looks similar to what I remember from your Miyata. You have certainly found what works best for you. I totally agree with your 'build good wheels' over provide spare spokes approach :-) Being a bike mechanic myself I've always gone with the proven parts, simplicity, and durability approach. It helps while touring in the USA and especially in far-flung countries where bike shops (and parts) are more sparse. I shy away from 'new' and 'improved' and 'lightweight' options until they've been around for 10+ years. Shimano XT or Deore at a minimum, along with 36h wheelset built with double-butted spokes. I thought it was interesting that you went with 105 hubs, nice choice. Schwalbe tires are my 'go to' touring tire on every trip. I've made a few recent trips on Continental tires and like a few of their offerings, when Schwalbe isn't readily available. Enjoy your upcoming ride plans, and I do look forward to the chance that our cycling paths may cross in '24.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I've been through several handle bar setups and this is my most recent. It's comfortable and allows me to see better. But if something better comes along, it might change again. I getting ready to take off soon. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@benjaminmack7567]

Interesting review, I definitely agree with you as regards the wheels! Personally the lower end drive train is less of a problem for me, I find Shimano's entry level kit to be pretty bomb proof!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Alivio gets the job done. XT gives me peace of mind. Priceless. Stay safe and ride on!

[@scottrok13]

Excellent explanations and info🎉

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@geoffreyhoney122]

Loved this video Paul! And that you made it your own with the modifications! Couldn't agree more about a more upright position! I modified the stem and handlebars on my 2017 Kona Sutra Tourning bike and now it finally fits and feels right. So right about quality components!!! Deore at least! Same with spokes. Every bike tourer knows it and Surly should too!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The Kona Sutra just might be my next new bike. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@tonyorme6446]

Very well said Paul…good video!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@Tdbike3]

Great bike! I’m currently riding a 650b Trucker with SRAM 2x10. I agree about the entry level components. I just build them up from a frame set. May cost a little more but you get exactly what you want. Enjoy your videos.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Right on! Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@cjfetters]

Your video's are great!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@camloh]

As always I enjoy your video. I suppose that since the front panniers on the Surly were mounted much lower than your other bike that it would give a more stable feel as well. My bikepacking bike has a Sora derailleur and at first I was concerned but it has been a good one. I love the idea of how you mounted your front pack off of the stem. Great idea! I am planning on a cross country trek next year and have pretty much decided on a Kona Sutra. We'll see. Also in 6000+ miles of riding, I have never broken a spoke! I'll probably freak out when that happens.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. If you have good wheels, you should never break spokes. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@ClintDowd]

Can't wait to see the Alaska video! Thanks for the review on this one. I'm very attracted to surly and I use their moloko handlebars on my adventure bike but I think for the price I may go a different route... I don't want to have to upgrade components at that price point. Thanks again and safe travels!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@george8214]

Great review!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching. Stay safe and ride on!

[@gsnyder2007]

lol, I bought the same bike. Have kept it stock for now except I upgraded the pedals to Shimano dual-sided and the saddle to a Brooks Canbium C19. I have about 2000 miles on the bike and love it. Thanks for the vid. I really love your perspective and dry wit.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@johncostelloe743]

Watching in Ireland great review happy touring

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@kitchencarvings4621]

I love the through axels on my Surly Wednesday.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I like the thru axels too. Stay safe and ride on!

[@davidburgess741]

Not how I'd do it, but to each his own! Basically got Bombtrack touring wheels with triple butted spokes, offset, asymmetric rims, through axle disks for $450. They must be hurting a lot to unload these at that price. Labled Seido, these are Bombtrack's housebrand wheels. I would have built my own, but the rear wheel components would have cost more than the built pair. I too adopt only trends that suit me. An older aging racer, compromises in position are the way to go. Hips usually benefit from an upright position, but longer cranks normally not. Low gearing is a priority, and can be taken further still.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@followcamdad4952]

Great video! This is my second time watching it!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks again for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@pedalingthru2719]

I love the video and review when I built my long haul trucker the only thing I did different was I went with 48 spoke tandem wheels and Jones h bars

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. People love their Jones bars. The 48 spoke tandem wheel is pretty bombproof! Stay safe and ride on!

[@kristidubois8400]

Awesome bike and build! I sold my drop-bar Giant OCR touring bike and ordered up a Bike Friday New World Tourist with higher handlebars. With arthritis I needed to get the weight off my hands. I also need a step-through frame and I don't think Surley makes such a frame. I'm short with short legs and had trouble swinging my leg over the bike even when I was younger. The NWT gives me an 18 inch step over, and I can run it with fairly wide tires. I mostly use the NWT for hauling lighter loads around town, and it works super well for me. One of my friends teased me about putting streamers on the handlebars and a card in the spokes, but I don't care. I love my bike. Looking forward to your 2024 adventures.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. For touring, upright is the way to go. Much more comfort and you see the scenery better. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@AbnerCarruthers]

Thanks for sharing how you made this bike your own. I've been touring on my 1980s Fuji racing bike with upright handlebars on paved and packed gavel. Then there is my Jones love it. There's really not one setup for all.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Right on! Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@giffordious01]

Nice video. I just bought a disc trucker for commuting to work, in Alaska.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. One day I'd like to ride my Disc Trucker to Alaska. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@robertjsmith]

I agree ,when you get older the upright position is much more comfortable .

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Agreed! Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@helidude3502]

I bought a bike I replaced everything It’s a great bike I fully recommend it 😁 I’m hoping to do a long distance tour sometime soon. Probably on a cheaper box store bike. They have pink tassels there. Nice review. 👍😎

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. You're right. There wasn't much left of the original bike. I might get some black tassels, they would look cooler. LOL! Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@joshsimonds653]

Terry Saddle goes with the little girl’s bike! Ha! You are great really enjoy the content and your style. Thanks.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. True, Terry specializes in women's saddles. My wife likes hers. She rides with pink streamers. Just kidding. LOL! They also make a great guy's saddle too. Stay safe and ride on!😁

[@jimotten6206]

Great video, I think you were right on.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@user-uk7qr7rb5q]

from your comments, I would buy the frame set and build with my choice of components. Odd for a bike with that price tag..and entended use..

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. That's another nice thing about Surly bikes, you can buy just the frame and build it yourself. Most bike makers won't do that. Stay safe and ride on!

[@shadyyyyVR]

Thanks for the review Paul! I always look forward to your videos! But I do have to chuckle that you probably could’ve saved a lot of money just buying the frame itself without any components 😂

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I agree. Surly is one of the few bike makers that will sell you just the frame. Most bike makers won't do that. That's what I did with my Surly Cross Check. Rim brakes, traditional axles. But this Disc Trucker has disc brakes and thru axles which are unfamiliar to me. So I went with the whole bike knowing that I was going to change some things. But as it turned out, there wasn't much original bike left but the frame. In the end I got the bike I wanted for no extra cost except a new wheel set. Thanks again. Stay safe and ride on!

[@TheRedSweater]

Dude, your cockpit is so sick. I'm legit envious.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Lots of trial and error. Stay safe and ride on!

[@dimitriosfotopoulos3689]

Paul, if you want an integrated kickstand for your new Disc Trucker, it is possible. I bought the KI0010 Kickstand Plates from Surly for my 2007 LHT, and a Pletscher Twin Leg Kickstand on Amazon. I tossed out the bracketry that came with the kickstand. There is a raised ridge running across the flat top of the kickstand's mounting surface, so I modified one of Surly's mounting plates by machining a corresponding receiving channel across it. I also applied a little bit of Park Tool's Supergrip Carbon Assembly Compound (SCA-2) between the plate and top of the kickstand. These mods help the pieces mate, and also increases the friction between the components when you tighten the bolt, and prevent the kickstand from rotating and or loosening when you operate it. It probably goes without saying, but you REALLY want to keep this stuff from getting between the mounting plates, and and bicycles chainstays... You may also have to change the fixing bolt the kickstand came with to a shorter one, with a hex head and throw in a lockwasher for good measure. I torqued to 15Nm as directed. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN. Unless you want to crush your chainstays. Surly is not kidding about this. After 2 years, the assembly has not slipped or loosened in the slightest. Surley makes an updated version of the plate specifically for your newer generation Disc Trucker (KI0011 Surly Disc Trucker Kickstand Plate Set). I bring the bike inside, so I also bought a set of Pletscher's Unisex Rubber Feet to protect my floors. These feet have the added benefit of keeping the bare aluminum legs from digging or sinking into the ground. When is all said and done, you will also want to shorten the kickstand legs until the tips, or feet, and both tires contact the ground roughly together. There are other feet out there, but the angles are wrong, and they don't fit the peculiar cross section of the kickstand legs, making them very hard to find. So when that was completed, I epoxied them into place.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Lots of good tips. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@avagadroa4065]

This was awesome. Genuine.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@tomreingold4024]

All of your weird choices are well considered and completely appropriate to your needs. They all make sense. I strongly agree with you about good wheels. Shimano makes very good hubs, and I might have chosen Ultegra or Dura Ace for the rear hub. Maybe it's overkill, but that's OK since you know you might respoke or re-rim the wheel, but you don't want to re-hub it. Hand built wheels really are great, but you can't expect them to come on a $2,000 bike. You did the right thing.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. It seems like any bike you buy on the floor comes with cheap wheels. You almost have to get better hand built wheels. Thanks again. Stay safe and ride on!

[@tomreingold4024]

@@paulsuchecki3985 yes, if you're going to use them heavily. Not everyone is as demanding of a bike as you are.

[@johnbrumbaugh83]

Have a 2017 version. It's gotten me from Pittsburgh to DC, DC to Pittsburgh, Cumberland to Pittsburgh and back, across Missouri, and many places in between. One flat tire and one broken chain (my fault). Also found that the decals come off easily. Interesting experience pedaling fully loaded all day and then pedaling into town for dinner unloaded. Overall, love the bike.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@richardreiter66]

I have a LHT , a great bike . Thought about going to a Disc trucker but am happy with my LHT.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. They're basically the same bike, except disc brakes and thru axels. They discontinued the LHT. Stay safe and ride on!

[@MrCyfriend]

Paul, I totally enjoy your content and really like your comfortable rapport with the camera. The #1 most important thing, in my mind is that you are out there using and enjoying this equipment. Hey, just a few days ago I was “down the street” from you on Lick Creek Rd watching the eclipse up on my buddy’s cliff top. I’m from Metropolis but been in suburban Chitcago 35yrs. Boy I miss that area. I’d love to meet up with you sometime in your area or Tunnel Hill trail or??? I’m just starting but I’ve got sooooo much content inventory to edit and narrate and publish (about bicycles and motorcycles). Would love to talk about bikes and trails and touring and your start in KZbin content creation. Again love your work. Keep up to good work. Cyril KZbin newb “CyCycles”

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Cyril, You really were right down the road from me on Lick Creek rd. We had some people over for the eclipse as well. I ride the Tunnel Hill trail pretty regularly. People stop me all the time to talk. KZbin is an amazing platform for us amateur video makers. Anyone with a camera and an idea has a world wide audience. Crazy! Touring season is almost here and I'm getting ready to head out soon. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@johnhickie1107]

Love your easygoing style - your narration is great. Seems slow, but then poof the video is done. Very relaxing to watch and listen - keep up the good work. It's all about getting out there - whatever rig it takes to get you there. 1200 miles is no slouch of a test! I have a Redshift stem as well. I love the way it prevents ulnar nerve numbness from road buzz. Not so much a shock absorber as a buzz absorber. My stem has a 30 degree up angle. I'm probably in your age group but I still use drop bars. They're Redshift Kitchen Sink bars that have a bit of a rise and a nice flare that makes for easy shoulder positioning when on the drops. With the rise of the stem and bars I can be quite upright on the bars, but going into a wind I can get a bit aerodynamic. The drops are much higher than they are on my old racing frame - the point is that I can actually reach them as my own frame isn't as quite as bendable as it used to be! I may be riding between Washington DC or Raleigh NC to Des Moines Idaho (I know it's Iowa, but it bugs my cousins when I say - close enough). Would it be Ok to pick your brains on nice routes in your neck of the woods should my plans come to fruition?

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I like my Red shift stem. Smooths out some of the road vibration and buzz. There's plenty of biking in Southern Illinois. We've got the Tunnel Hill trail. The Adventure Cycling Trans America route goes through Carbondale. plus lots of gravel roads in the Shawnee Forest. Touring season is just around the corner and I'm getting ready to get on the road. If you need some help just let me know. Hope to see you down the road, maybe somewhere in Idaho or Iowa. LOL! Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@goportables8952]

Nice ride!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@tyleroranger2771]

Paul you've got the bike of Theseus over there! Goodonya!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@BicycleTouringExplorer]

I had the Surly LHT 2008 52cm 26in wheels and I now have the Soma Saga Disc 52cm 26in wheelset

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Sounds like a great bike. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@sevoak]

Your comments about expensive bikes with lower tier components was right on target.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@onestep4me]

You have a well set up bike now! I debated between the disc trucker and a bridge club. I went with the Bridge club. My only complaint is the bike came from Surly with the fork cut! Too low for me. I tried 40 mm high-rise bars and it's almost where I want it to be. Almost. I've considered just buying and uncut fork for it. But seeing your handlebar setup has me reconsidering. Sometimes #Surey does strange things.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The Bridge Club is also a good choice. Uncut fork makes it easier to go upright. Stay safe and ride on!

[@mray8519]

Paul, thank you for your time and effort making these professional videos, I’ve enjoyed them and learn something from every one. The Surly, well it seems like all you really get is a basic frame and low end parts. A mountain bike with full suspension fitted out for touring might be the perfect ride.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I think you nailed it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@garyfirmin8054]

Nice bike Paul!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@UnhingedHarry]

I've got a disc 1x1 and love it. Pretty sure you can get an adapter to run a larger disc if you want to; at least on the front anyway, which is probably where you'd want it. And I just got back from riding my bike.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. If the bike suits you, ride it! Stay safe and ride on!

[@kimrice394]

Nice! HUGE Surly fan here. No doubt in their quality! You’re gonna get some great mileage outta that puppy! Set up wise, you do you. 95% of the haters couldn’t hang with you through a tour.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Bike touring is all about freedom, including the rig underneath you. Customize to one's own liking. hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@zer0kelvin212]

Nice upgrade. Congrats on your new ride. Everything about your touring bike seems reliable and nuke proof. 4:00, if I may add my personal experience as a bike mechanic and cyclist. yes, disc brakes do warp under heat, use and unilateral piston compression. It is not much of an issue and noise doesn't bother me. One solution is to install hydraulic brakes with symmetrical piston compression. I use Hope Tech hydraulic disc brakes, they run on DOT 5.1, automative oil. Highly temperature resistant, viscosity does not fluctuate significantly with changes in temperature. Did not need to bleed for 5 years and still going ... It is a myth that brakes need to be bled. They are in a closed cylinder, with seals on both ends, they should not leak, nor be contaminated with air if seals are torques properly. High quality hydraulic brakes rarely fail. Most mountain bike crashes will destroy the frame and other components before damaging the hydraulic because it is a supple and resilient housing. It is simply to add more reliability and bomb proofness to your bike, also to stop disc warp.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Great tip. I'm not ready for Hydraulic brakes on my bike yet. Maybe someday. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@vincentpinlac3606]

Nice bike! I was skeptical about the cheap components and wheelset when I saw it at my LBS. I wondered if I could buy the frame separately. Lo and behold a LBS in Brooklyn NY sells just the frame and can custom install the parts I choose. Hope to save up some money soon and get a custom built Surly Disc Trucker.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. That's the nice thing about Surly. They are one of the few bike makers that will sell you just the frame. Stay safe and ride on!

[@marksadventures3889]

Say that's a nice bike. If I had the cash, I'd buy one. And yes, I'm riding my bike. I'm currently set up for tent, tarp and hammock where the ground's too wet, we've had a lot of rain this side of the pond and more than enough storms, so while there's a few breaks in those clouds, I'm going out. I'm on a Trek 3700 MTB. I have Ortlieb style panniers, front roll bag and two front panniers and tube bags. I'm all set, my only quandary, what to take. One set of clothes and water proofs. Trangia kitchen set, although I'm tempted to use my Pathfinder Ranger kit. Water straw and 3 litres to take with. Food is fast and dry and 2 MRE's and part of a UK Army ration pack. As this is the first of the year, I'm probably not doing more than 30 miles.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Sounds like a grand adventure. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@SonnyDarvishzadeh]

That double stem is smart :)

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@bikeyclown4669]

Great review. For a touring bike, at least mid-level components, or better, are a must. I'm glad you brought that up. The people at Surly aren't going to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a broken and wonky wheel or a broken derailleur, so they don't care. They should be called out on that shortcoming.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@francisblackwell7597]

wonderful video, as always. You seemed to have invested quite a bit in your new bike, both @ purchase and w/add-ons. 1) **Any thoughts about bike w/internal gearing and carbon fiber belt, vs. derailleur & chain??** Seems like a lot less maintenance. 2) Love the fact you're using toe clips; after watching your videos, I've gone the same route. Thanks, and keep those videos coming!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I like your mix of old and new. I've never tried a bike with an internal gear or carbon fiber belt. But I do like toeclips. I've seen too many people get stuck in their clipless pedals and fall over. LOL! Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@viralprimenetwork]

Looking forward to your honest review! It's always helpful to hear real experiences with gear. We sent you an email, take a look.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@tzk121]

I enjoyed this really good thorough review.👍🏽

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@alanc6752]

Good review and lots of well thought out mods. You made so many changes would it have been better to buy a frameset and build it up yourself. I always wanted a 26" wheel LHT. A bit odd looking nowadays but I really like that it could fit fat mtb tyres. I hope to come across a secondhand one.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I did that with my Surly Cross Check. Just bought the frame and built it up myself with components I had laying around. The disc brakes and thru axels are new to me. Lucky to have a local bike dealer that worked with me. Stay safe and ride on!

[@johngrossbohlin7582]

I'm a veteran touring cyclist.. April 11th was the 38th anniversary of the conclusion of my first trip... 3,142 solo miles. For the past 12 years I've used a Long Haul Trucker with Surly racks. It came with Deore LX rear and Soro front derailleurs. They have worked just fine. I wrenched on bikes in a shop back in the late '70s and early '80s. That said, the only time I haven't been able to deal with a mechanical problem on the road was when my son took a bad crash in Frisco, CO. This while we were riding the Transamerica route from La Junta, CO to Pasco, WA. We needed a shop with a skilled tech. Working together we literally bent things back into shape and repaired what was broken. From listening to your story on the evolution of your DT I think it would have made sense to buy a bare DT frame and build it up from there. I've built a few bikes for myself over the years. I even built the wheels--with DT Swiss spokes--and assembled the parts into a bicycle. It was fun to get what I wanted at the time. Today... I wouldn't recreate any of them as my riding interests have changed! Me... I got away from my tech junky roots. If it wasn't a Reynolds 531 frame with Campy and tubulars I wasn't interested 40-50 years ago. 😉 Now... reliability and being able to find parts on the road in remote places are the priority. That means staying with readily available, reliable, plain vanilla, components. I've toured on 700C from 32-40, and 26" from 1.5 to 2.2... all with tubes. I've encountered people touring on tubeless tires who were living nightmares. Something easily dealt with at home, or with ready access to urban areas, can be a huge problem in remote and rural areas. For example, I rode with a woman for a few days a couple years ago who had tubeless tires. I happened upon her while sorting out a new route as the chosen route wasn't available due to a bridge closure. Someone else had "helped" her by over inflating her tubeless tires and ruining them. She installed tubes but couldn't get them to seat with the pump she had... she rode for days on lumpy tires. I used every tire seating trick in the book I learned while wrenching and did manage to get them to seat. However, it was a time consuming and unfun experience. Now speed is secondary to the experience. When I tour it's mostly solo. I'm never lonely, I have spoken with literally 1,000s of people while on my tours. Back in '86 I literally attracted a crowd at Shark Valley in the Everglades. Compared to now there were not many bicycle tourists in the U.S. back then and certainly not in the Everglades. Even fewer of us went into the Everglades Back Country on an NPS permit.🤪 The crowd was made up of people who just got off the tram ride where they got to see gators, snakes, etc., and here is a guy on a bicycle. He must be nuts. LOL It's those encounters and seeing different areas of the country up close that I value. Speed is of little import these days.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. When I built my Surly Cross Check, That's what I did. Surly is one of the only bike makers that will sell you just the frame. Then build it uop any way you want. I had some spare parts laying around the garage. With the new Disc Trucker, I was new to disc brakes and thru axels, So I just bought the whole bike and made the necessary changes. Luckily my local bike shop was willing to work with me and swap out some parts for no extra charge. I'm not ready for tubeless yet. Keep it simple. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@AlanJohnsonSunbird]

Paul , this is another extremely informative and well done video. And from an ex Kentucky neighbor now living in Florida, I enjoy literally each and every one of your videos. I do agree with you 100% that I too am also surprised how the industry builds and sells somewhat expensive bikes yet equips them with lower end and mediocre components. One question. For someone who does not have an inside track with a bike store, what bike, or bikes are available currently that would fit the parameters of the bike that you have now customized? Also, what price range bike would it take to buy off the shelf now that would meet those requirements? Thanks so much, sir. Continue enjoying riding and being safe, and I look forward to your next video.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The nice thing about Surly bikes is they are one of the only bike companies that will sell you just the frame, and then you can build it up any way you want. Try www.surlybikes.com I did that with my Surly Cross Check. This is one of the only new bikes I have ever purchased. I agree, new bikes are way too expensive these days. Thanks again. Stay safe and ride on!

[@sklegg]

The drivetrain upgrades you did make a lot of sense and make this an awesome bike. But, I agree that the bike should be shipped with better components.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@shane4176]

Another great video Paul been waiting for you to release some new material. One thing about your bike I cannot figure out is. How can you ride that bike with the nose of the saddle that high? I actually had one of these bikes years ago and used it for touring. I thought it was an amazing touring bike.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Because of the upright position, my lower back stays pretty straight up. I tried various tilt angles on the seat and that position is the only one that doesn't put torque on my lumbars. Plus, my hip bones rest on the meatiest part of the saddle. Looks weird, but for me it's comfortable. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!

[@michaelheaton5469]

Totally agree about the specification it is very much low budget for the price, these guys must be making a fortune, very much enjoyed your review.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@eddieloujones2673]

I'm going touring this summer on the Erie Canal on my $800 non motorized Electra Townie. Upright and comfy. Slow as molasses but what do I care. I would try one of these Surlys but I fear my behind will pay the price. I can go 50-60 miles on my townie and rarely feel any discomfort whatsoever. I know comfort bikes are not made to go distances, but so far, I have been fine. If I can do the same with an upright Surly and go a little faster, I'm in! Just got to find a place where I can go try one out.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Sounds like a great trip. Stay safe and ride on!

[@robjay5419]

Love your videos. I have to wonder…do you really like Surly bikes. You ended up changing everything but the frame, headset and brakes.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Surly is one of the few bike makers that will sell you just the frame. Most bike makers won't do that. That's what I did with my Surly Cross Check. Rim brakes, traditional axles. But this Disc Trucker has disc brakes and thru axles which are unfamiliar to me. So I went with the whole bike knowing that I was going to change some things. But as it turned out, there wasn't much original bike left but the frame. In the end I got the bike I wanted for no extra cost except a new wheel set. Thanks again. Stay safe and ride on!

[@cheezy-rider]

I've just gotten back into bicycling and can't get over the prices. Many are more than I gave for my automobile! I'm sure the miyata had components and a rear wheel with equivalent quality to the frame. Do you remember how much you had to give for the Miyata in the 80's?

[@paulsuchecki3985]

In the early 80s I paid about $600 for my Miyata 1000. By the mid-80s they were about $850. That's about what they cost on e-bay now.

[@cheezy-rider]

Prices today don't seem that bad then. Thanks for the info and best wishes.

[@zer0kelvin212]

For extra comfort, you can try these ergonomic handlebar grips, especially the ones made with cork which reduces vibrations

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Another great idea. Thanks again.