Originally Posted by
fietsbob
Externalizing a cost is a way to sell for less .. Or make More without raising the cost .. Econ 101.
Factory is not in the same country as the frame saver is, or the QBP Warehouse
If they wished to treat it with paint, or varnish, zinc electroplate it, or acquire the frame saver (US Exports to China shouldn't be a problem), they could do it.
And the cost of factory treatment would be a fraction of what people pay retail. And, as people have mentioned, it is easier to do when all the tubes are accessible.
Perhaps it is a bit like undercoating. It isn't needed in the wet northwest, or dry southwest, but may help in marine environments, or where road salt is used.
Surly is trying to carve out a niche of decent mid-level bikes. Telling a person to strip the bike to paint the inside sounds odd.
In the OP's environment & use, I might consider some treatment.