AERO:
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 F-Splitfork technology in the fork and seat stays the F-Splitfork draws the air away from the wheels and reduces the drag up to 8,2%. To increase the air flow in areas of high resistance, our engineers developed and patented F-Surface aerodynamic paint which re-establishes the laminar flow. From our testing, F-Surface reduces the drag on the frame by up to 4,1%. Finally since this year we added the first "real" integrated brake to our Noah. Beside aerodynamic advantages our F-Brake offers numerous advantages and is the FIRST break that makes you FASTER.
STIFNESS TO WEIGHT:
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:
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.
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.
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 Topsport Vlaanderen 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. In 2010 our Red Sun team, including 2010 Swedish National Champion Emma Johansson and 2009 Belgian National Champion Ludivine Henrion, has had many victories on the Asteria frame, while since 2011 Topsport Vlaanderen is running in the front of the peloton with our bikes.
FITNESS BICYCLES:
Being a Belgian company, cycling pulses through our veins. Riding a bicycle is 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?
TRIATHLON & TIME TRIAL / TRACK:
Our triathlon and TT range features state of the art aerodynamic technology that is exclusive to Ridley, check out our FAST-concept on p 11 - 18 for more details. As we believe that every rider should have the opportunity to benefit from these innovations, our 2012 collection sees the introduction of this technology on a wider range of models. To eliminate as much drag as possible, we utilize Ridley F-Surface technology for the smoothest airflow and F-Splitfork technology to reduce the wheel turbulence. Our signature geometries ensure maximum power transfer and superior handling. We are bound by the demons of speed. RIDLEY - THE FASTEST BIKES IN THE WORLD !
CYCLOCROSS BICYCLES:
Ridley, rooted deep in the heart of Flanders, Belgium, has one important goal – to have the best cross frames in the world. 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.
Since 2002, Ridley riders have won 7 world championships and many national championships – Belgian, Dutch, American, British and Czech to name a few. The countless titles and victories are the benefits of a close partnership with all of our champions. We were the first to introduce a full carbon cross frame, the first to have integrated seat posts and now we are the first to introduce 1-1/8 1-1/2 tapered head tubes in our cross range. As standard, all of our models 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.
Our engineers are continually working with our pro riders to ensure we have the best cross range in the world. Cyclocross is Flanders, cyclocross is Belgium, we are Belgium. This is Ridley. The 4za Oryx fork, victor of countless world cup, superprestige and world championship races, takes its heritage from the Python fork and is completely overhauled since 2010. A massive 1-1/8 1-1/2 tapered fork crown eliminates front brake chatter. Oversized fork legs make the Oryx one of the most laterally stiff fork ever constructed. To shed off excess dirt, the Oryx has a specially constructed shape that reduces the surface areas where mud exposure is high.
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 must be an essential component of every off–road journey.