Belgian bike company Ridley have unveiled their cyclo-cross range for 2009.
All bikes have a large front triangle with a flat shoulder spot so they can be carried comfortably, and cables are routed along the top tube to give a cable-free grip on the down tube. Other neat features include a higher bottom bracket for clearance over obstacles and a shortened top tube for more nimble handling and descending. All bikes have replaceable mech hangers.
The bikes
X-Night Shimano Ultegra
The X-Night Shimano Ultegra sits at the top of the range. The frame is the same as used by the World Championship winning Fidea team, and features Ridley's very stiff Sharp Edge tubing. The integrated seatpost saves weight and increases the overall stiffness of the bike. SRP: £2499, full bike £1699
X-Fire Shimano Ultegra
Ex-professional rider Marcel Wust reviewed the 08 version of the X-Fire, and judging by his response, the new model should be a hit. The carbon frame bike has had geometry changes to increase stability at high speeds, and is kitted out with components from FSA, Fulcrum Racing and 4ZA. SRP £1599, frame only £1099
Crosswind Sram Rival
The Crosswind is Ridley’s high-end alloy cross bike, complete with a full carbon fork, sculpted chainstays for increased mud clearance and is finished with the Sram Rival groupset. SRP £1299, frame £699
Crossbow Shimano Tiagra
Ridley are targeting (geddit) the budget market with the Crossbow Tiagra bike (the Crossbow Shimano 105 is also available with a higher spec at £999). Ridley have got commuters in mind with the bottle cage mount, mudguard eyes and rear rack braze ons included on this double butted alloy machine. The carbon fork legs should reduce vibration and increase comfort, and this model will be available in a range of sizes from 41 to 58 – all for £699. Frame only £399.