Inexpensive, but ride well and can handle bigger stuff?

on-one, the company, or one of the frames in particular?

The frames/bikes.

Surly?

🙄

which one? The scandal and whippet might be a bit different to say, the 456, or the SS.

Specifically then, a 456.

Are you asking for the US equivalent?

Yes. A bike or frame like say a 456 but made/designed in the US.

Surly Instigator?

I like my old Surly 1×1 but it's a generation behind the On-One IMO.

Chameleon would be the first thing that springs to mind.

Is this an academic exercise? You cna buy on-ones over there

If you're referring to the Santa Cruz Chameleon (and I presume that you are), that's the other end of the market, surely?

Is there a prize?

I'm not aware of anything specifically comparable, you might try Jamis on Jenson for cheapness.

Zion?

banshee viento?
http://www.bansheebikes.com/viento.html