The bikes we love
Maybe there's something in the air, but we thought this February we'd ask the team here at Ribble HQ which Ribble bikes they love the most. It could be a classic, one of our latest designs, their own or just the one they've always admired.
Each day we'll be posting the nominated Ribble bikes and what it is they love about them... feel free to share yours on social, just tag us with #ribblelove #myribble and of course there can only be one winner, so we'll let you be the judge...
Part 1:
"My first #ribblelove was a bright neon pink Columbus SL and it was my first modern road bike. My father used to race on it and passed it down to me as soon I eventually caught up to his height as a junior. I always used to watch Dad race, longing to be out there in his shoes, so it was special to finally be able to ride Dad's Ribble... luckily I didn't need to borrow his shoes though!
It was never short of admirers and I loved the statement the bike made and the fond memories it holds of the start of my cycling career. Ribble has always been involved with talented riders and as child I recall them supporting some of my childhood heroes – everyone was riding Ribble! I remember just feeling so proud to have one of my own. A lot of British cycling legends have ridden a Ribble during their career from Sir Brad Wiggins, Geraint Thomas OBE and Chris Boardman MBE!
Importantly, the Ribble bike I rode as a child now sits above my desk at Ribble HQ where I proudly design bikes for the very same brand. It's been there looking down on every design and detail thats gone into the making of our current bikes, ridden by the champions of today too! That feels pretty special to me."
Jamie Burrow - Head of Product
Part 2: ULTRA SL R
Unsurprisingly the Ribble Ultra SL R was inundated with admirers - we couldn't pick one favourite, can you?
- Ultra SL R - Tour 21 Alumni Edition for Cure Leukaemia - A true Superbike designed for Superhuman Endeavours Having worked alongside Geoff Thomas, Cure Leukaemia and the Tour 21 team for a number of years now, for Sasha Castling, this bike held a special place in her heart. "It was fabulous to see this bike designed to pay homage to Geoff and his story after his relentless challenges. With the proceeds from this special design going towards the incredible work Cure Leukaemia do"
- Ultra SL R - CustomColour - Azure Flip
- Ultra SL R - Commonwealth Edition as ridden by @Finn Crocket representing Scotland at the 2022 Commonwealth games in Birmingham
- Ultra SL R - CustomColour - Voodoo Flip
- Ultra SL R - The Tour Edition - CustomColour - Maillot Jaune
- Ultra SL R - Rouleur'22 - CustomColour - Purpleberry / Pink Blossom Metallic Gradient Angle 115
- Ultra SL R - The Forces Edition - One speed machine, taking inspiration from another - the iconic Spitfire fighter plane of WWII
- Ultra SL R - CustomColour - Candy Red Metallic / Blue Charm Metallic Gradient Angle 115 - This was a real headturner during its build at Ribble HQ, so much so we just had to get it into the studio for capture. Nathan Rowan - Workshop Manager
- Ultra SL R - CustomColour - Purple Twilight with Orange Chrome Decals
- Ultra SL R - Ribble Team Re-chrg Edition
Part 3: Artist's Collaborations
Fusing art with bikes is a match made in heaven, where the freedom of artistic expression marries the open road, the exploration and experience of freedom that cycling brings. #ribblelove
1 - The ultimate urban e-bike hand-painted by Vic Lee. Vic drew inspiration from the journey from the site of Ribble’s original shop on Water Lane, Preston, to @trumanbrewery when the bike debuted for Rouleur 23.
2 - Visual artist Craig Black created a bespoke Acrylic Fusion colourway on the Endurance SL R bike. The final design was bold, exciting and engaging whilst being a truly one-of-a-kind piece.
3 - Our Leeds pop-up showroom saw a stunning collab with local artist Nic Dixon using his recognisable biomorphic shapes and vivid colours to create a truly eye-catching, one-off creation of the Eliminator AL.Get creative with CustomColour!
Part 4: Ribble Collective colourway
When we introduced the Ribble Collective in 2023, we collaborated with a very select group of privateer racers and adventurers to create a distinctive and exclusive design featuring an abstract paint flicker over metallic teal for the forks and bars, which was in stark contrast against the black to dark green fade of the frame. This remarkable design was specifically crafted for their extraordinary journeys, both within the UK and across the globe.
We may be biased but job well done, it's been a head turner at every event since launch ✨
The Ribble Collective - "Riding as one."Part 5: Ribble Reynolds
Built by racers, ridden by racers, and supporting racers, since 1897.
Riding a heritage bike isn't just about transportation; it's an experience that takes you back in time. It allows you to connect with the roots of cycling and appreciate the simplicity and elegance of the bike's traditional design.
Yes, there are technological advancements, material enhancements, gains a plenty, but it's not about comparing old with new. This #ribblelove is purely appreciating where we came from, what got us here and just how beautiful a quality classic is.
- Video >
Part 6 : 125 Year Anniversary Edition
It's incredible to think that Ribble has been designing and hand-crafting bicycles here in the UK for over 125 years - not far off the earliest invention of the safety bicycle itself. So it seemed fitting to celebrate this momentous occasion, for our 125th anniversary doing what we do best...designing world-class, bikes of beauty.
We introduced three exquisite designs exclusively for our customers which showcased the perfect blend of elegance and sophistication; Sapphire blue, Emerald green and Ruby red stunning marble paint finishes added a touch of luxury to the overall aesthetic.
To further enhance the exclusivity of these editions, we included a bespoke finishing kit that truly sets them apart. The finishing kit included intricate detailing made from a 24-carat gold leaf frameset, adding a regal touch to the overall design. This exquisite gold leaf detailing meticulously applied to various parts of the bicycle, such as the head badge and wheel detailing, creating a truly mesmerizing visual effect.
Part 7: The CGR Hero Range
The efficiently fast and ruggedly durable CGR range sets a new standard for all-day, all-rounder versatility. It can take you anywhere, from the highest mountain pass to distant trails or your most imaginative commute.
1 – CGR Ti - this custom build was all about the details, made extra special with its custom finishing kit.
2 – CGR SL - the master of all trades. Lightweight, versatile and seriously fun to ride, finished in a CustomColour orange-to-orange gradient with hero-spec componentry
Part 8: The Endurance SL R Superlight
When our Special Projects Team was given the task of creating the lightest bike we have ever made, they exceeded all expectations with the stunning Endurance SL R Series Lightweight. This remarkable bicycle weighs an astonishingly low 5.4kg, showcasing the team's exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to pushing boundaries in bike design. The meticulous attention to detail and innovative engineering techniques employed in its construction have resulted in a truly jaw-dropping masterpiece. This extraordinary achievement demonstrates our commitment to continuously pushing the limits of what is possible in bicycle manufacturing, delivering unparalleled performance and aesthetics for cycling enthusiasts around the world.
Part 9: Ribble Reynolds 531
"Having worked at Ribble for the last 11 years, I’ve seen most ideas within the industry during that time. Innovation and technology continue to push the envelope and the latest trends are ever changing.
There are high-performance bikes I’ve owned, lighter, and faster. Different categories Road, Gravel, MTB. However, there’s one bike that’s been with me for years that every time I ride, it puts a grin on my face.
Pure simplicity… A slim Ribble Reynolds steel frame that shouts retro appeal from the archives of Ribble’s heritage. One gear which removes so many complexities and creates a pure riding experience. Puncture-proof fast tyres, who knows where you’ll end up and no cyclist likes punctures. The bike is always sat there ready to roll at the drop of a hat.
I’ve taught my 3 kids to ride whilst next to them on this bike. It’s there when I nip to the shop, swing by a café, ride back from the garage or catch sunset cruising along the seafront on a warm summer evening. It’s a simple eye-catching lifestyle machine that just does what it’s meant to without a fuss.
It’s one Ribble I’d struggle to part with."
Joe Davenport - Commercial Product Manager
Part 10: Ribble Team Bikes
Designed to perform, proven to turn heads!!
Throughout the years, we have gained a reputation for pushing the limits and competing with the top cyclists in the UK and around the globe. When given the chance to sponsor these exceptional teams, it is only fitting that we design a unique bicycle for them to ride and make a statement in the peloton.
Lifeplus-Wahoo, Ribble Weldtite Pro Racing, Ribble Verge Sport Cyclocross Team, Ribble rechrg Raceteam
Part 11: Custom Colour
Our BikeBuilder tool gives you the ultimate expression of creativity with CustomColour.
You can modify the colours, incorporate gradients, or blend fades to create a custom design that reflects your style. Whether you prefer a vibrant and eye-catching look or a more subtle and understated appearance, you can customise your bike exactly the way you want it.
Forever catching admirers as they pass through the workshop, here's a selection of some of our mechanics' favourite.
Part 12: Ribble X Zwift
From a Hybrid AL e for Zwift co-founder and CEO Eric Min to the Worlds editions; Endurance SL R and Ultra SL R. Debuted at Drygate Brewery, Glasgow ahead of the Worlds, these CustomColour bikes were designed especially for a silent auction ly to raise money for World Bicycle Relief.
Choose your favourite... we couldn't!
Part 13: E-Bikes
Having been designing beautiful bikes since 1897, in 2019 we decided to show the world how we believed an e-bike could look... just like our other beautiful bikes, with a little extra fast-paced fun at the push of a button.
We created the world's lightest electric road bike - the Endurance SL e, with builds starting at just 10.5kg. And just like our rider's journeys our range of lightweight e-bikes expanded.
The seamless integration of advanced technology and sleek design in our e-bikes has truly transformed the cycling experience, making it more accessible and enjoyable for riders of all skill levels. With their powerful electric motors and efficient battery systems, our e-bikes provide an effortless and exhilarating ride, allowing cyclists to effortlessly conquer challenging terrains and cover greater distances. As a result, individuals are now able to explore new routes, discover hidden gems, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature like never before.
Moreover, the increased popularity of our e-bikes has also fostered a sense of community among riders, as they come together to share their experiences, exchange tips and tricks, and inspire one another to push their limits further. The positive impact that these super stealthy e-bikes have had on individuals' cycling habits is truly remarkable, as they continue to motivate more people to embrace an active lifestyle and explore the world on two wheels.
Part 14: The Endurance SL R
Proven to perform, the Endurance SL R has been tested at the highest levels by our team riders across the globe.
Designed by racers, for racers, this bike was born to deliver race-level performance with the comfort of all-day endurance geometry. Mission accomplished.
With weights frame from as little as 900g, this machine can be personalised to suit riders of all levels and customised using CustomColour to truly deliver your bike, your way.
1 - Pearl White Metallic with outline sterling silver metallic decal
2 - Original Matte Black with Victory Gold Metallic decals
3 - The Dream Build - Cyan D'Azur with Seville Orange Solid decals
Part 15: The Stone Collection
MARBLE WHITE | GRANITE GREY | SLATE BLACK
The Stone Collection* is a set of three custom colour paint schemes designed in-house, and hand-painted by our team of master painters. Bringing gravel to life, each marble, slate, and granite colourway is a work of art. Every finish is unique, representing the ultimate expression of bicycle customisation. The complexity of each design ensures no two bikes will ever be the same, and your new dream ride will always be the only one in existence.
*available to choose when you customise any Gravel 725, Gravel SL, Gravel AL or Gravel AL e-bike in BikeBuilder.