When I first saw the Surly Ice Cream Truck, I couldn’t help but notice how massive it looked. The fat tires stood out right away, and I was curious how they would feel on different types of terrain. This bike is built for adventures in tough conditions, and I could tell it wasn’t meant for smooth roads or light trails. It’s a bike that feels like it belongs somewhere wild.
The frame is made from 4130 Chromoly steel, which feels solid and durable. Lifting the bike, I noticed it was a bit heavy, but that’s expected for something designed to tackle snow, sand, and rough trails. It weighed almost 35 pounds in the medium size, so it’s not a lightweight option. However, that weight adds to its stability and ability to power through obstacles.
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Riding on Trails
When I took the Ice Cream Truck to the trails, the first thing I noticed was how the geometry worked in my favor. The long toptube and short seatstays made it easy to handle, even on technical sections. I rode through areas with roots and rocks, and the bike stayed steady without bouncing me around too much.
The headtube angle, at 68 degrees, gives the bike a relaxed feel, which helped me keep control on the descents. Steering was smooth, even with those wide tires. I thought the large tires might make the bike harder to turn, but they didn’t. The traction they provided was impressive, especially when the trail got loose or muddy.
On fast sections, the bike felt surprisingly nimble. It’s not as quick as a regular mountain bike, but for something this big, it handled well. I could see myself using it for snow-covered trails in winter or sandy trails in the summer. It’s a bike that adapts to different surfaces easily.
Performance on Sand and Snow
I wanted to test how this bike performed on sand and snow since it’s designed for those conditions. On sandy terrain, the fat tires floated over the surface instead of sinking. I was able to ride through deep sand that would normally stop other bikes. It felt like the bike was gliding, and I didn’t have to work as hard to keep moving.
In the snow, it was a similar experience. The tires provided enough grip to keep me stable, even when the surface was soft. I didn’t slide around or lose control, which made riding more enjoyable. The ability to run the tires tubeless is a nice feature, as it helps reduce the risk of flats and makes the ride feel smoother.
Climbing and Descending
Climbing with the Ice Cream Truck takes some effort because of its weight. On steep hills, I had to work harder than I would with a lighter bike. However, the wide range of gears on the Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain made it easier to find the right gear for climbing. The 30-tooth chainring and 10-51t cassette provided plenty of options for steep terrain.
Descending, on the other hand, was a lot of fun. The bike felt stable and predictable, even on loose or rocky sections. The Tektro hydraulic brakes worked well, giving me enough stopping power to feel in control. They didn’t fade, even on longer descents, which is always a plus.
Components and Build Quality
The components on the Ice Cream Truck are solid and well-chosen. The Shimano SLX drivetrain shifted smoothly, even when I was riding through mud or sand. The Race Face crankset felt sturdy, and I didn’t notice any flex when pedaling hard.
The Tektro Gemini brakes are reliable and provided consistent stopping power. With 180mm and 160mm rotors, they could handle the bike’s weight on steep descents. I didn’t feel like I needed anything more powerful.
The handlebars, stem, and seatpost are basic but functional. The Salsa Rustler handlebars gave me a comfortable grip, and the WTB Volt saddle was supportive enough for longer rides. I didn’t experience any discomfort, even after a few hours on the bike.
Handling and Comfort
Despite its size, the Ice Cream Truck handles better than I expected. The frame geometry and wide tires work together to give it a stable but responsive feel. It’s not a fast bike, but it’s not sluggish either. It’s built for control, not speed.
Comfort-wise, the steel frame does a good job of absorbing vibrations. Riding over rough terrain didn’t feel harsh, and the tires added to the cushioning effect. I didn’t feel beat up after riding on rocky trails, which is something I appreciate in a bike like this.
Versatility and Who It’s For
One thing I like about the Ice Cream Truck is its versatility. It’s not just a winter bike or a sand bike—it can handle almost any terrain. Whether you’re riding on snow, sand, mud, or rocky trails, it performs well.
This bike is for riders who want to explore tough, unpredictable terrain. It’s not for someone looking for speed or a lightweight bike. It’s for those who prioritize stability, traction, and durability. If you’re into bikepacking or exploring remote trails, this could be a great choice.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive tire clearance for 26” x 5” tires
- Stable and confident on rough terrain
- Durable steel frame
- Wide range of gears for climbing
Cons:
- Heavy compared to other mountain bikes
- Slower on smooth trails
- Requires more effort on steep climbs
Final Thoughts
The Surly Ice Cream Truck isn’t a bike for everyone, but it’s perfect for the right rider. If you want a bike that can handle snow, sand, and technical trails, this is a solid choice. It’s not the fastest or lightest bike out there, but it’s built to tackle the toughest conditions without breaking a sweat.
For me, riding the Ice Cream Truck was a unique experience. It’s not a bike I would use for everyday rides, but for adventures in challenging terrain, it’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for a dependable fat bike that can go almost anywhere, this one is worth considering.