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Surly Midnight Special Custom Build Complete Parts List

Name: Custom Bicycle Build Consultation/Deposit
Brand: Ottawa Bike and Trail
SKU: 210000009315
Price: 250.0 USD
Availability: InStock

Sep 28, 2025

Surly Midnight Special — Custom Build Parts List

When I started this Surly Midnight Special project, I wasn’t just looking for another bike to add to my collection—I was filling a gap that had been there for a long time. Ever since the gravel and big-tire bug bit me, I had written off traditional road bikes. None of the bikes in my lineup were really suited for faster rides on pavement. My Surly Pack Rat handled most of my city and pavement riding just fine, and I could ride it all day. But when the pace picks up on a group ride, that bike just isn’t built to keep up. I wanted something faster, smoother, and more at home on open roads.

My first real road bike was a Bridgestone RB-2. It rolled on 32c—maybe even 35c—tires, which was unheard of at the time, and it completely changed how I thought about road bikes. That memory came back to me as I built this Midnight Special. With its 40c tires, the ride quality is incredible: plush and confident, but still quick. It feels like the best of both worlds.

I also wanted this bike to turn heads, so I leaned hard into shiny parts. I used silver wherever possible, paired with gold accents that pop against the frame. I kept a few black components too, because I like bikes that look balanced without being overmatched.

One of the key features of this build is the Gevenalle shifters. I run them on most of my bikes because I love their high-end tactile feel compared to standard brifters. Normally, I go with their indexed versions, but this time I used the OM (“One-Mount”) levers paired with friction shifters. It’s been a while since I rode friction, but after spending time with these, consider me a convert. I matched them with Yokozuna cable-pull brakes, which deliver super responsive stopping power.

Like most of my builds, I went with the classic look of a Brooks leather saddle and bar tape. Combined with the silver drivetrain, seatpost, and cockpit, the whole setup feels polished and timeless.

This bike is flashy without going overboard—and it’s as fast as I want it to be. The balance feels right: refined, but not forced. The first time I stepped back and saw it gleaming in the sun, I couldn’t help but grin.

And the ride? It’s everything I hoped for. Smooth on the straights, confident in the corners, and snappy when the pace kicks up. This is the bike I’ll reach for when I want long miles, fast company, and the chance to stretch out on open roads.

Frame & Fork