The State Bicycle Co. Klunker immediately sparks curiosity. It’s a bike that harks back to the early days of mountain biking, those grainy photos of pioneers bombing down hills on rudimentary machines. I, like many, have wondered what that raw, unfiltered riding experience was truly like. Could the State Bike Co. Klunker reveal just how far mountain bike technology has come, and perhaps, remind us of the simple joy of riding? I took it to the trails to find out.
Decoding the State Bike Co. Klunker: Specs and Features
- Price: $420.69 (a playful nod to 420 culture)
- Available: Directly from State Bicycle Co.
Simplicity is the name of the game with the State Bike Co. Klunker. It’s a single-speed machine featuring a coaster brake, a robust steel frame, and no suspension in sight. Yet, in its simplicity, there’s an undeniable aesthetic appeal.
Upon closer inspection, the Klunker reveals a blend of retro charm and modern touches. The 27.5-inch wheels are decidedly contemporary, shod with substantial 2.4-inch wide CST Patrol mountain bike tires. These aren’t your grandpa’s balloon tires; they are legitimate mountain bike tires ready for some dirt. The BMX-style handlebars are another nod to durability and control, measuring a modern 760mm in width, offering a familiar trail bike hand position.
Close up of CST Patrol tire on State Klunker bike, highlighting tread pattern and width
State Klunker bike handlebar and front brake detail, showcasing BMX style and simple design
The drivetrain features a 42t chainring upfront and a 22t cog in the rear, a gearing setup that suggests versatility for both cruising and climbing. The frame’s large front triangle provides ample space for two water bottle cages, a practical touch. State Bicycle Co. even includes a bottle opener mounted to one of the cages – a fun detail for post-ride refreshments.
The frame incorporates straightforward rear dropouts for chain tensioning and a rigid steel fork, keeping with the bike’s simple and robust design ethos. A 5-year warranty on the frame and fork underscores State Bike Co.’s confidence in the Klunker’s durability.
True to its minimalist nature, you won’t find quick-release levers anywhere on this bike. The saddle, while visually appealing, is basic in its construction. It’s worth noting that the tires and wheels are not tubeless-ready, so riders will need to rely on Schrader valves and potentially higher tire pressures for aggressive riding.
Rider Profile:
- Height: 6’3″ (190cm)
- Weight: 165lb (75kg)
- Testing Location: Southeast, USA
My initial customization involved swapping the stock black grips and pedals for brighter, more colorful options. While the all-black aesthetic is classic, the Klunker’s playful nature seemed to demand a splash of personality. State Bicycle Co. also offers Klunker models with vibrant paint schemes inspired by cultural icons like the Grateful Dead, Wu-Tang Clan, and Corona beer, for those wanting even more visual flair.
State Klunker bike in Grateful Dead color scheme, showcasing vibrant frame and fork
State Klunker bike in Wu-Tang Clan color scheme, highlighting black and yellow design elements
State Klunker bike in Corona beer inspired color scheme, featuring beach and beer themed graphics
State Bicycle Co. claims the Klunker accommodates riders from 5’5″ to 6’3″. At the upper end of that range, the bike felt comfortably sized. With my personal grip and pedal upgrades, the bike weighed in at 31.58lb.
Trail Time with the State Bike Co. Klunker
Anticipation built as I awaited the arrival of the State Bike Co. Klunker. Visions of effortlessly drifting through trails, one foot out, mirroring the legendary riders of mountain biking’s genesis filled my thoughts. I’d subconsciously focused on the “rip a trail” part of State’s description of the Klunker as “The perfect ‘DGAF’ bike, for neighborhood cruises, trips to the corner store, and walking the dog….OR… if you’re feeling audacious, mount up and rip a trail.” Having decades of mountain biking experience, audacity was certainly on the menu.
However, 25 years of riding modern mountain bikes had undeniably softened me.
Rider on State Klunker bike navigating a wooded trail, demonstrating bike's off-road capability
Photo: Leah Barber
Modern mountain bike technology – clipless pedals, hydraulic disc brakes, and suspension – allows for a significant margin of error. Want to bunny hop? Just jump, and the bike comes along for the ride. Overcook a corner? A tap of a finger on powerful brakes rectifies the situation. Missed spotting an obstacle ahead? Suspension absorbs the impact and maintains your line.
These thoughts raced through my mind as I scanned the trailside for the softest possible landing spot, approaching a corner with a bit too much speed on the Klunker. My feet weren’t optimally positioned to engage the coaster brake, and correcting their position would require pedaling forward, exacerbating my off-course trajectory. My fingers instinctively reached for brake levers that simply weren’t there. Instead, I guided the bike towards a cluster of saplings, their flex and give providing enough resistance to scrub speed and regain my footing. Minor scrapes and a humbled ego were the takeaways.
Front view of State Klunker bike on a dirt trail, showcasing bike's rugged aesthetic and environment
Photo: Leah Barber
While the State Bike Co. Klunker visually resembles a mountain bike and offers a taste of that spirit, it’s fundamentally a party bike. Perhaps not exclusively a “woods party” bike, but more of an urban explorer with a mountain biker’s soul. One evening, en route to a brewery to interview someone for a bikerafting story, I discovered a flat tire on my gravel bike. The Klunker became the impromptu substitute, and it felt surprisingly perfect for the task. This is the bike for around-town errands, especially brewery-bound missions. The upright riding posture is remarkably comfortable, and the wide tires offer reassuring stability, even if you’re a bit unsteady on your feet.
Historical images of Repack downhill racers pushing their klunkers uphill highlight the bikes’ inherent climbing limitations. I anticipated significant hike-a-bike sections, particularly on trails. However, the State Bike Co. Klunker’s stock gearing proved surprisingly capable. While steep inclines necessitate standing and muscling the bike, and the most severe climbs require walking, the gearing is more versatile than initially expected. Perhaps modern mountain biking has indeed made me soft when it comes to climbing too.
Action shot of State Klunker bike riding on a trail, emphasizing bike's movement and outdoor setting
Photo: Leah Barber
State Bicycle Co. Klunker: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Visually Appealing: The Klunker boasts a classic, eye-catching aesthetic.
- Urban Comfort and Durability: Well-built and comfortable for city riding and everyday use.
- Skill Refreshment: Retro technology forces riders to adapt and rediscover fundamental bike handling skills.
Cons
- Trail Limitations: Pushing its limits on trails may result in crashes, though often entertaining ones.
- Monochromatic Option: The all-black model lacks the vibrant personality expected of a “party bike.”
The Bottom Line on the State Bike Co. Klunker
The State Bicycle Co. Klunker is fundamentally about embracing fun, which is, after all, the essence of mountain biking’s origins. It’s not a replacement for a modern trail bike, but rather a special occasion machine, like a tuxedo reserved for celebratory moments. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more, and that the simple act of riding can be its own reward.
- Price: $420.69 (still amused by the price point)
- Purchase: Available at State Bicycle Co.
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