Finally buying the new bike -- but where?

[ZoneFive]

The fact that today is the 17th and ZoneFive started this on the 8th and I am just now chiming in points out how misdirected my life has become! Congrats on what should be a very fun bike! Also as an Intergalatic Surly Dealer - Thanks for buying from the shop that fit you, discussed the bike and assisted in finding the best size for you. While many shops can order a Surly, few understand them. Do look at the Jones Website and note the placement of the brake levers. For some reason, Surly places the levers farther back than Jones does. I place my levers where Jones recommends and find that more comfortable. One quick plug for me - we carry the entire line of Revelate. Your bike is small so feel free to PM me with questions as you'll be loading it differently than those who can ride a medium or bigger I ride a Surly ECR - small and ended up putting an Old Man Mountain rack on for better bike packing options. Congrats!!!

Thanks, SkyKing! I'm really looking forward to this purchase, and will be entertaining myself for the next six weeks by planning out every variable of riding that I can think of. I was looking at the Revelate bags, but found myself drawn more to the Frost River bags. Do you think they compare favorably?

[Sky King]

Both are great options and I had to attach these photos as I am sure it will bring a smile to your face. I have ridden with a Frost River gunflint on the front of my ecr (although not this trip, this is an Ostrich) The Bike Hermit always has his Frost River Gunflint. You can see I also have a Revelate Pika Happy to give you ideas when you are ready

Thanks, SkyKing! I'm really looking forward to this purchase, and will be entertaining myself for the next six weeks by planning out every variable of riding that I can think of. I was looking at the Revelate bags, but found myself drawn more to the Frost River bags. Do you think they compare favorably?