To those who are about to build a Surly Cross-Check from the frame up.
The Cross-Check, once popular in our shop, has unfortunately been discontinued. However, I believe many people will continue to acquire it second-hand. This article was originally posted on our old blog in March 2018, but it's still frequently read, so I hope it can be of some use.
The Surly Cross-Check is a popular classic bike at our shop.
A complete bike starts from 148,500 yen, and a frame costs 86,900 yen.
While buying a complete bike is certainly a good option, we'd love for you to ride a custom-built bike that perfectly suits you.
If you're building from a frame, please use the following as a price guide:
・To maximize the good qualities of the Cross-Check while keeping costs down: around 220,000 yen.
・To include desired parts like Chris King or Brooks as a focal point: around 300,000 yen.
・To build a perfect bike with all your dream parts, a flawless build you'll want to own someday: around 500,000 yen.
Of course, the parts we recommend will vary depending on your intended use, and the final price will also change.
If you let us know your intended use for the Cross-Check (e.g., commuting, cycling, touring?) and your budget in advance via email or phone, we can provide a quick parts estimate.
Now, if you're building from a frame, grumpy has some recommended parts.
How about incorporating some of these parts?
●Headset
Chris King is a parts manufacturer that, once you use their products, you become a fan due to their high durability and the beauty of the individual parts themselves.
A wide variety of colors are available.
You can match the frame color or choose a flashy color to express your individuality. Make it your own.
Chrisking NoThreadSet 1-1/8 Price: 29,700 yen
●Handlebar
Although not yet introduced on our blog, this handlebar is very popular with the Cross-Check.
The top of the handlebar curves inward, making it easy to grip.
It's incredibly comfortable to hold when you want to ride in a relaxed posture, such as uphill, or leisurely around town.
As its name suggests, you can't go wrong with this handlebar for everyday use.
FAIRWEATHER mod174 All Road Bar Price: 6,600-7,260 yen
●Saddle
For a bike with character, choose leather.
A design unchanged for over 100 years is a sign of high perfection.
When new, the surface is stiff, but as you break it in, it becomes as comfortable as a sofa.
Brooks B17, synonymous with leather saddles.
Paired with matching leather bar tape, your bike will look even more refined.
●Brakes
Lightweight, sturdy, and with excellent stopping power.
The smooth installation of a rear rack is also a good point.
These brakes are a perfect match for the Cross-Check, which is used for riding on rough terrain or carrying luggage.
●Rim
Narrow-tube chromoly frames pair well with traditional low-profile rims.
Available in polish, gray, black, and gold, they also add a touch of accent around the wheels.
Beyond style, they offer excellent braking power and rim durability.
When in doubt, choose these.
H Plus Son The BOX Price: 8,800-9,350 yen
●Tires
Soma's Japanese-made tires, available in a wide range from 700x23 to 42c.
They offer surprisingly good grip for their appearance and can easily handle a bit of gravel.
If you want a comfortable ride on paved roads like Etajima or Shimanami Kaido, choose 23 or 28c.
If you want to ride without worrying about bumps and steps in the city, choose 33 or 38c.
If you're an off-road enthusiast who can't resist riding on gravel when you see it, choose 42c.
SOMA Shikoro Tire Price: 7,480 yen
●Pedals
Whether you're wearing thin-soled sandals or sneakers for walking around town.
The unique octopus-suction-cup-shaped spikes provide moderate grip without damaging shoe soles.
They're slip-resistant even on rainy days, so you don't have to worry about your feet slipping off, and they're great for riding on slightly uneven surfaces.
These are our shop's standard pedals, perfect for everyday use.
A versatile bike that can be freely customized to suit the rider: Introducing the Surly Cross-Check.
We've built many unique Cross-Checks. Please refer to them for inspiration.
If you build with a Shimano Tiagra derailleur as the core, the total cost will be around 220,000 yen.
Compared to the price of a complete bike, building from a frame is certainly more expensive,
but it allows you to choose parts tailored to your specific needs, creating a bike that's truly unique to you.
Our shop can assist you with any questions about parts compatibility or standards, so whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider looking for a Surly Cross-Check, please feel free to ask us.