Surly Preamble Drop Bar Bike – Red Hot Cheddar
Available in XS–XL at Ottawa Bike and Trail
The Surly Preamble is Surly at its most approachable: durable, versatile, and built around the essentials that make riding enjoyable day after day. Designed to welcome new riders into Surly’s pavement and gravel lineup—while still appealing to seasoned commuters—the Preamble delivers classic steel ride quality with modern, practical features.
Built from 100% Surly Chromoly steel, the Preamble offers a smooth, confident ride that feels equally at home on pavement, gravel roads, and mixed-surface routes. The drop-bar configuration favors longer rides and efficiency, while thoughtful mounting options make it easy to turn this bike into a commuter, all-road explorer, or everyday workhorse.
Finished in Surly’s unmistakable Red Hot Cheddar, the Preamble keeps things simple, tough, and ready for real-world riding.
Wheel Sizes & Tire Clearance by Frame Size
Surly sizes the Preamble around different wheel standards to ensure proper fit, handling, and comfort for every rider:
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XS & S frames:
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650b wheels
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Tire clearance up to 41mm
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M, L & XL frames:
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700c wheels
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Tire clearance up to 41mm
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This size-specific approach provides excellent stability, comfort, and traction regardless of rider height or riding style.
Key Features
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Frame & Fork: 100% Surly Chromoly steel with a double-butted main triangle for durability and comfort
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Brake Type: Disc-brake specific for reliable stopping power in all conditions
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Drivetrain Compatibility: Works with both 1x and 2x setups
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Mounts: Rack, fender, and two bottle cage mounts for commuting or touring builds
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Dropouts: Vertical rear dropout shared with the Surly Bridge Club
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Axles:
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Front: QR x 100mm
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Rear: QR x 138mm
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Sizes Available: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Color: Red Hot Cheddar
Who It’s For
The Preamble is ideal for riders who want one bike that can handle daily commuting, weekend gravel rides, and everything in between. Whether you’re new to drop bars or a longtime steel-bike fan, the Preamble offers comfort, simplicity, and versatility without unnecessary complication.
Stop by Ottawa Bike and Trail to see the Surly Preamble in Red Hot Cheddar, get properly fitted, and build it up to match how—and where—you ride.
If you don't see exactly what you need or have questions about any product, contact us and we'll do our best to answer your questions and help you find what you need.
