Surly Big Easy Review
- Price: $5,249
- Frame: Steel
- Tires: Surly ExtraTerrestrial 26×2.5″
- Gears: 1×11
What we like about it: It can extend the range with dual battery usage, offering long-distance rides.
What we don’t like about it: Apart from being sold in Canada during the fall of 2019, the Big Easy series is only available in the United States and doesn’t meet the needs of riders in other regions.
Rating: (4.8/5)
If your job requires carrying a lot of items or if you want to do extensive grocery shopping, I believe a steel frame long-tail cargo e-bike can meet your needs. I came across the Surly Big Easy, which has impressive cargo capabilities, and I’m excited to see how it performs.
Now, let’s analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Surly Big Easy. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it to several other top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Recently, I had to transport a lot of things from the supermarket to my friend’s house, so I used the Surly Big Easy for this trip. I have to admit that this e-bike provided unparalleled cargo capacity and convenience.
Cargo Hauling
If you were to use the Surly Big Easy like I did, you would be amazed at its cargo-hauling capabilities. The damping headset ensures smooth operation even under heavy loads, and the Surly Big Easy Frame eliminates concerns about the frame not being able to support significant weight without breaking.
Furthermore, it has a spacious cargo rack that can easily accommodate a large number of items. Whether it’s shopping bags or other large objects, you can effortlessly place them on the rack without worrying about fitting them in properly. My transportation process was hassle-free — just purchase the items and put them on the rack; everything becomes simple.
It’s worth mentioning that this bike features a Bosch PowerPack 500Wh battery, providing long-lasting battery life that was sufficient for my trip. If you have longer journeys planned, this bike can also utilize dual batteries to extend the range, helping you better plan your rides.
Additionally, under heavy loads, braking distances can increase, posing a potential hazard. However, the Tektro Orion 4 Piston HD-M745 Hydraulic Disc brakes effectively prevent such issues. I could feel their responsiveness, allowing me to brake promptly and ensure my safety.
Is that all?
The Bosch 250W 85Nm mid-drive motor equipped on this Surly Big Easy also performs remarkably. It delivers strong 250W power output, making starting easier for me. It provides stable acceleration and cruising speeds during the ride. Especially when carrying cargo, the 85Nm torque effortlessly handles uphill climbs and complex road conditions, providing me with powerful support.
Furthermore, it is equipped with the WTB Volt saddle. The medium-thickness padding offers ample support, and the gel insert in the sit bone contact area provides additional cushioning. My sensitive areas are not compressed, and I feel comfortable during the ride, reducing my fatigue.
Moreover, the Velo single lock-on grips have a textured pattern that effectively absorbs shocks. I don’t experience hand slippage even during high-speed vibrations, and they provide an excellent grip without causing discomfort to my hands. The Surly Terminal Bar handlebar has a 34° sweep angle, allowing for a natural hand position that feels perfect for long rides.
Specifications
The Surly Big Easy is an impressive steel frame long-tail cargo e-bike. It features the Surly Big Easy Frame and Surly Big Easy Fork. Additionally, it has the Surly Terminal Bar handlebar, providing a 34° sweep angle for a natural hand position and durability suitable for long rides.
Furthermore, it is equipped with the Tektro Orion 4 Piston HD-M745 Hydraulic Disc brakes, offering excellent braking performance for rider safety. The SRAM GX rear derailleur provides a wide gear range, ensuring smooth shifting with its 1×11 drivetrain.
Moreover, this bike comes with the Bosch Performance CX 50W 85Nm mid-drive motor, delivering consistent power output for a smooth ride. It is equipped with a Bosch 500Wh battery, offering impressive battery life and the ability to cover long distances.
Learn More: Is Surly Big Dummy a Good Choice? – [Surly Big Dummy Review]
Video
What we like about it
- Ability to extend the range with dual battery usage, providing long-distance rides.
- Surly Bill and Ted trailers integrate with the frame for carrying extremely heavy cargo.
- Increased standover height and internally routed dropper post accommodate riders of different sizes.
- The Damping headset performs smoothly even under high loads.
What we don’t like about it
- Apart from being sold in Canada during the fall of 2019, the Big Easy series is only available in the United States and doesn’t meet the needs of riders in other regions.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
It is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- How long does the battery take to charge?
Using a 4A charger, it takes approximately 1.7 hours to charge to 50% and around 4.5 hours to reach 100%. With a 2A charger, it takes about 3.6 hours to charge to 50% and 7.3 hours to reach 100%.
- What type of fenders can be installed on this bike?
It can accommodate SKS P65 fenders designed to cover 2.5″ ET tires.
- How to choose the right size?
Size chart:
(Note: These sizes are general guidelines, and the best way to find the right size is to try it out as it may vary for each individual.)
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’2″ – 5’7″ | SM |
| 5’6″ – 5’11” | MD |
| 5’9″ – 6’2″ | LG |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Surly Big Easy Frame for Bosch Mid Drive BB Standard: Bosch, Press Fit Colors: Forest Green; Tan Cargo Shorts |
| Fork | Surly Big Easy Fork |
| Bottom Bracket | included in Bosch Unit |
| Headset | Cane Creek ViscoSet [tuned for Surly Big Easy] upper. 40 series lower |
| Stem | ProMax 4-bolt 31.8mm clamp |
| Handlebar | Surly Terminal Bar 34 degree. No logo |
| Saddle | WTB Volt |
| Seatpost | ProMax 2-Bolt. 30.9mm |
| Grips | Velo single lock-on |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM GX |
| Front Derailleur | N/A |
| Crank | Miranda for Big Easy |
| Shifters | SRAM NX 11 speed |
| Cassette | SunRace CSMS7 11-42 |
| Chain | KMC X11e |
| Brakes | Tektro Orion 4 Piston HD-M745 |
| Brake Levers | Tektro |
Wheels
| Rims | WTB STS i29 TCS |
| Front Hub | Shimano M525, 32h, QR |
| Rear Hub | Shimano M525, 32h, QR |
| Tires | Surly ExtraTerrestrial 26×2.5″ Tubeless Ready |
| Disk Rotors | Tektro 6-Bolt 180mm |
Electric Components
| Motor | Bosch Performance CX [20m/h] |
| Battery | Bosch PowerPack 500 |
| Remote | Bosch Purion |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click View | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Tern GSD S10 | Click View | F:Schwalbe Big Ben Plusm,R: Tern x Schwalbe Super Moto-X | 1×10 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| Yuba Spicy Curry AT | Click View | Front: Schwalbe Smart Sam Plus, 26 x 2.25 in.; rear: Schwalbe Smart Sam K Guard, 20 x 2.3 in. | 1×10 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| Trek Fetch+ 2 | Click View | Schwalbe Pick-Up | 1×10 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| Momentum Pakyak E+ | Click View | Maxxis Hook Worm, 24×2.5″ | Internally Geared Hub | Aluminum | Shimano Nexus |
Surly Big Easy vs Tern GSD S10
The Tern GSD S10 is equipped with an aluminum frame, while the Surly Big Easy features a steel frame. Additionally, the GSD S10 has a smaller 400Wh battery, providing less range compared to the Surly Big Easy’s 500Wh battery. The Surly Big Easy has 26″ wheels, which offer better all-around performance, while the Tern GSD S10’s 20″ wheels provide greater maneuverability.
Moreover, the Surly Big Easy is equipped with a 1×11 drivetrain. Compared to the Tern GSD S10’s 1×10 drivetrain, the 1×11 drivetrain offers smoother shifting and a wider gear range. However, the Tern GSD S10 is a hardtail bike with 70mm of front travel, providing decent suspension.
Therefore, if you prioritize a superior drivetrain, I would recommend the Surly Big Easy. If you value suspension performance, the Tern GSD S10 would be the ideal choice for you.
Surly Big Easy vs Yuba Spicy Curry AT
The Yuba Spicy Curry AT offers both 26″ and 20″ wheel options, providing riders with more choices. Additionally, it has 80mm of front travel, offering good suspension performance. However, the 1×10 drivetrain on the Yuba Spicy Curry AT is not as smooth-shifting as the 1×11 drivetrain on the Surly Big Easy, and it has a smaller gear range.
Furthermore, the Yuba Spicy Curry AT comes with VP-501 Alloy pedals, while the Surly Big Easy provides Velo single lock-on grips.
So, if you value more wheel options, the Yuba Spicy Curry AT would be a good fit for you. If you prioritize a superior drivetrain system, the Surly Big Easy would be the better choice.
Surly Big Easy vs Trek Fetch+ 2
The Trek Fetch+ 2 has a stack/reach ratio of 1.946, which is greater than the stack/reach ratio of the Surly Big Easy (1.38). A larger stack/reach ratio allows riders to have a better extension, resulting in a more comfortable riding experience. However, the Surly Big Easy has a smaller head tube angle, which provides a relatively smoother ride compared to the Trek Fetch+ 2.
Furthermore, the Surly Big Easy has strong off-road capabilities with its 26″ wheels, while the 20″ wheels on the Trek Fetch+ 2 offer more agility during rides. Additionally, the Surly Big Easy is equipped with a 1×11 drivetrain, which offers smoother shifting and a wider gear range compared to the 1×10 drivetrain on the Trek Fetch+ 2.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, the Trek Fetch+ 2 is a great fit for you. If you seek a bike with stronger off-road capabilities, the Surly Big Easy can meet your needs.
Surly Big Easy vs Momentum Pakyak E+
The Momentum Pakyak E+ is equipped with a Yamaha 250W 80Nm mid-drive motor, while the Surly Big Easy features a Bosch 250W 85Nm mid-drive motor. The larger 85Nm torque of the Surly Big Easy allows for carrying more weight and provides more powerful assistance when riding uphill. Additionally, the Surly Big Easy has stronger off-road capabilities with its 26″ wheels, while the Momentum Pakyak E+ offers more agility with its 24″ wheels.
Furthermore, the Surly Big Easy has a 1×11 drivetrain, while the Momentum Pakyak E+ is equipped with an Internally Geared Hub. Although an Internally Geared Hub appears clean on the outside, its internal mechanism is quite complex. Once damaged, it can be challenging to repair.
Moreover, the Momentum Pakyak E+ has a stack/reach ratio of 1.62, which is larger than the stack/reach ratio of the Surly Big Easy (1.38). This provides better extension and a more comfortable riding experience. Therefore, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, I would recommend the Momentum Pakyak E+. If you seek greater torque, the Surly Big Easy would be the preferred choice.
Summary
Above is our complete evaluation of the Surly Big Easy. This excellent steel frame long-tail cargo e-bike can carry a significant amount of cargo while being environmentally friendly. Considering all factors, we have given it a high rating of 4.8. If you want more bike information, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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