The history of Klunker bikes is documented enough. I even give you the Cole’s Notes here. And a quick search of Facebook forums or Reddit subthreads can inspire you with hundreds of sweet custom builds—from rat bikes to two-wheelers that should be in a showroom.
I’d like to build a custom. But time is not on my side these days—I wanted to ride, not build. I just don’t have time for a project. So I bought my Klunker off the shelf.
As I’ve mentioned in other posts, I discovered my Haro Klunkerson by accident. I didn’t know Haro made a Klunker. So it had me thinking… what are the options for factory Klunkers?
I’ll save you the trouble. Here’s what I found.
KLUNKERS
Factory built Klunkers that need nothing more than your butt on the seat.
State Bicycle Co. Klunker
This is the most popular and most well-known factory Klunker out there. In fact, searching the term “Klunker” will likely just show you retailer after retailer selling the range of State Bicycle Co.’s various Klunker models. (There’s a Bob Marley edition, one that just says “Fuck You” all over it, etc.) At time of posting, they are producing five different styles of the same bike: a high-tensile steel frame, 30-inch-wide handlebars, Vans grips, 27.5-inch wheels and a coaster brake. It’s about as Klunker as it gets, off-the-shelf. Perhaps the slickest looking of the bunch.
Why I Didn’t Buy It: It’s a bit hard to find where I live, but ultimately I prefer a full Chromoly frame and real brakes—not a coaster. (Sorry not sorry.)
Why I Wish I Did: The seven-inch rise and taller handlebars would likely fit me better than the Haro. And the price is excellent.
Haro Klunkerson
I pretty much fell in love with the Klunkerson at first sight. Plus, the fact that it’s a full Chromoly frame and fork, plus it’s spec’d out with quality components throughout—and disc brakes—sealed the deal. I think it looks just awesome, with the kROOKS seat and psychedelic fonts. Ultimately, this is a bike meant to be ridden hard, and since I intend on trail-riding and park-riding my Klunker, that’s what I needed. That price tag though…
Why I Didn’t Buy It: I did! (Finding it for 30% off helped.)
Why I Wish I Didn’t: The fit isn’t great for me. I expect I’ll buy taller handlebars in the future.
We The People Avenger 27.5″
I found this bike when I was launching this site—to be honest, I’d never even heard of the brand. But I’m new to the world of Klunkers (or “clunkers” as they call them). Their whole lineup looks wicked—and the Avenger 27.5″ looks like a worthy contender against by Klunkerson. Geometry is similar, and the Avenger has a full Chro-mo frame and fork, as well as disc brakes and high-spec components. In fact, the two bikes seem almost exactly the same. Anyone know the significant difference?
Why I Didn’t Buy It: If I thought the Klunkerson was pricey, this one’s about another $300 more.
Why I Wish I Did: It looks simply awesome. A bit more of a modern vibe than my Klunkerson. Sick.
KLUNKER ADJACENT
Not exactly a Klunker, but maybe close enough?
Surly Lowside
Marketed as a “single-speed mountain bike,” the Surly Lowside definitely has Klunker DNA. Chromoly frame, disc brakes, either 26-inch or 27.5-inch wheels, 2.8-inch-wide tires. Frankly, I’d be surprised if many people are riding these like true mountain bikes. More like pub cruisers and hooligan rides. It’s really a grown-up BMX, and the geometry backs that up—it’s going to be more comfy for taller riders and probably a more practical bike than the above three.
Why I Didn’t Buy It: Price. I just couldn’t justify $2,100 (CAD) for a new Klunker.
Why I Wish I Did: I’ve loved this bike since I first saw it on the Surly website. It just embodies everything fun about riding. And it looks awesome.
SE Bikes Big Ripper 29
I first spotted this bike about seven years ago. Some kid in my neighbouhood was riding it and it just looked fun and cool. At the time, I kinda figured my days of riding these types of bikes were over. (Nope! Just getting started.) The Big Ripper is based on the legendary PK Ripper from the 1980s, this big-boy ride adding big and cushy 29-inch wheels and 2.4-inch tires. It’s built for speed and stability—lightweight with an aluminium frame and Chro-mo fork. It even comes with rear wheelie bars. Stopping is done via a rear v-brake.
Why I Didn’t Buy It: Ever since Kourtney Kardashian posed with an SE bike on her Insta, it feels like these rides are just skyrocketing in price. I didn’t want to pay the premium for a collector’s bike.
Why I Wish I Did: The 29-inch wheels would be fast and fun—and practical. Though wheelies wouldn’t be any easier.
Redline RL 275
Redline bikes claims this ride is in a “class of its own,” but honestly I think the RL275 pretty much just looks like a modern Klunker. The 27.5-inch wheels and fat-boy three-inch tires back that up. Single speed. Mechanical disc brakes. Cruise the beach or slash a berm. Sound familiar? The alloy frame makes it stand out a bit but otherwise this is a reincarnated Klunker if you ask me.
Why I Didn’t Buy It: No Redline dealers near me. Plus, I don’t love the looks—I prefer that cruiser-style frame.
Why I Wish I Did: Three-inch-wide tires would float in sand and make attacking urban features a breeze.
Any More?
I thought about including a third category, “Spirit of a Klunker,” to expand the category even more—tossing in the Redline Monocog (which they may have discontinued) and other “big BMXs,” but I think I’ll stop here. Did I miss any obvious ones?
New Klunkers—new post. Stay tuned folks!
Curious to know your thoughts on the Mongoose Hooligan 29×3″ Wheels and $870 CAD plus Taxes according to Amazon. Looks sick.
Found your website while doing research on the Klunkerson and kind of motivated to buy it after your review. Plus it’s about $530 CAD all in at the moment.
The Mongoose looks pretty cool—the 29″ wheels and 25/13 gearing is interesting. I personally think the Klunkerson looks better and it’s definitely better spec’d. If you can find the Klunkerson for $530 CAD, I’d jump on it. I feel like Haro isn’t even interested in selling the Klunkerson… they make no effort. And it’s so sick.