AERO RANGE:

When developing the aero range we fused together the innovations from our strength and stiffness to weight ranges in combination with the water droplet shape. Utilizing the very natural shape of the water droplet, renowned for its aerodynamic properties, gave us an opportunity to push the boundaries of aero frame technology. Our goals were:

• To build the fastest bikes in the world.
• Not to compromise our high standards of stiffness, stability, and durability.
• To optimize the aerodynamics, frame structure and weight without diminishing the performance.
• To follow the guidelines for frame construction as set out by the International Cyclist Union (UCI).

We spent months in the wind tunnel, meticulously modifying the frame shapes to achieve a smooth air flow. Every tube shape is engineered to have the lowest possible drag measurement. Test results showed that there was additional turbulence around the wheels. To reduce this turbulence, we developed and patented the R-Flow jet foil technology in the fork and seat stays. R-Flow jet foils draw the air away from the wheels and reduce the drag by 7.5%. The razor sharp edges on the jet foils were achieved thanks to a new and advanced foam-core molding technology for bicycles. This highly accurate molding and bonding technology enables us to ensure that the R-Flow jet foils have the maximum positive effect. It also minimizes excess material on unseen internal surfaces of the tubes. To increase the air flow in areas of high resistance, our engineers developed and patented R-Surface aerodynamic paint which re-establishes the laminar flow. From our testing, R-Surface reduces the drag on the frame by up to 4%. Our obsession with aerodynamics is evident in the details.
THE FASTEST BIKE IN THE WORLD: RIDLEY.

  STIFNESS TO WEIGHT RANGE:

After the development of the Damocles, a new challenge was at hand: maintaining the Ridley standard for stiffness and stability while reducing the frame weight. Since form follows function, nature tells us that the circle is the strongest shape while using the least material. To maximize side stiffness and stability, some areas of the round tubes had to be tapered and deformed. Thanks to the evolution in frame construction techniques, Ridley’s next step was to build a monocoque front triangle to the same quality as their tube-to-tube frames. In our quest to reduce weight we changed very small but important details in the frame construction on the Helium and Excalibur for example. We added a full carbon head tube to decrease the weight by eliminating all metal sections. Hollow molding technology in the bottom bracket area enabled us to remove a large amount of excess material, and allowed us to re-shape the tubes to maximize the lateral stiffness. On the Helium frame, we use a blend of our highest strength carbon fiber to ensure that we can keep the weight and unwanted flex to a minimum. Lastly, full carbon rear dropouts with a one-piece connection to the chain stay lower the weight by 30g per drop out on both the Helium and Excalibur. A frame from this category meets our high strength and stability standard, with a lower total weight.

STRENGTH RANGE:

In 2000, we started the development of the first Ridley carbon frame with one vision – to offer superior stiffness, stability and handling. These values became the core formula for our strength range and are still employed today. Keeping form follows function in mind; we came to the conclusion that the diamond shape was the only shape that would meet the demands. Ridley’s Sharp Edge Design was born. In earlier days of carbon frame production, most carbon frames where built out of lugs and tubes. Monocoque construction had not yet become a stable and reliable process. The tube-to-tube technology of constructing these frames allowed us to control the wall thickness of the tubes and add reinforcements where needed. This resulted in a much stiffer and more impact resistant frame. Our first carbon frame, the Damocles, was tested by our local teams in 2001. In 2002 our professional riders took the frame to victory with 2 national championship wins; Geert Omloop (BE) and Roger Hammond (GBR). To increase the stability, particularly under acceleration and fast descents, Ridley was the first to introduce an oversized head tube connection between the frame and fork. This is an innovation that has now become an industry standard.

Reference to Procycling 18/08/06: Weighing less than the Damocles despite the extended seattube, the Super Damocles was ready to be unveiled at Eurobike 2005 in Friedrichshafen. A few days earlier, Jochim Aerts became a father. Someone suggested that Super Damocles didn’t sound so great; why not name the machine after his new son? The Super Damocles graphics were taped over, new ones made up, and the Ridley Noah was shown to the public for the first time. When the first examples were tested by Davitamon-Lotto, McEwen liked the frame so much he adopted it immediately. Others were slower to come around, believing it too stiff. The feeling soon passed when those riders on the Noah began to praise its responsiveness and, more importantly, desirability within the peloton, and even climber Cadel Evans eventually became a fan. To ensure the smoothest shifting performance whilst changing gear under force, Ridley developed fully replaceable CNC rear dropouts that provide the stiffness of fixed dropouts but can be changed if damaged. And finally, for those riders who desire the ultimate in power transfer, we designed our integrated seat post technology which strengthens the lateral stiffness of the seat tube. 

  FITNESS RANGE:

Being a Belgian company, cycling pulses through our veins. Riding a bicycle has always been an essential part of daily routine here at Ridley. Our fitness range is perfect for those looking for a healthier and environmentally friendly way to travel. These models are designed to get you to your destination in comfort and without compromising speed. Why take the car when you can take your Ridley?

 WOMEN'S BICYCLES:

Our women’s range is designed to fit you, not the other way around. Based on research from Bikefitting.com and feedback from our Red Sun team, we adapted our race geometry for a more natural position. The end result is that our women’s geometry is much more in proportion for female riders. This places you in a much more comfortable and balanced riding position for optimal power transfer and controlled handling. Our Red Sun team, including Olympic silver medalist Emma Johansson have had many victories this season on the Asteria frame.

TRIATHLON & TIME TRIAL:

Our triathlon and TT range features state of the art aerodynamic technology that is exclusive to Ridley. We believe that every rider should have the opportunity to benefit from these innovations. Our 2010 collection sees the introduction of this technology on a wider range of models. To eliminate as much drag as possible, we utilize Ridley R-Surface technology for a smooth airflow and jet foil forks to reduce the wheel turbulence. Our signature geometries ensure maximum power transfer and superior handling. We are bound by the daemons of speed. RIDLEY - THE FASTEST BIKES IN THE WORLD.

 CYCLOCROSS BICYCLES:

The Flemish addiction to the black art of cycling stems back to Belgium being one of the first countries to host its own national championship. This fervor continues to grow in Flanders with weekly attendance to cross races in the thousands. Collaborating with our champions has enabled us to be the first to introduce a full carbon cross frame and integrated seat post in our range. For 2010 we improved the handling even more with a 1.5” head tube design. All of our models, as standard, feature cross–specific geometry for world–class handling, top routed cables for a cable–free grip on the down tube, and flat shoulder spots for easy carrying.

  MOUNTAIN BIKES:

The hellish climbs of Belgium’s spring classics define us, so it should come as no surprise that our mountain bike range can surmount challenges from any region in the world. The fact that our designs issue forth from a wellspring of racing heritage dictates that speed can be an essential component of every off–road journey.