Ridley

X-Bow Disc - 2014

From its beginning, cyclocross bikes have been uncomplicated. And, while riders on factory teams pilot frames that make our hearts go "thump-thump", there is still something delightfully uncomplicated about them. They're clean and free of go-fast gimmicks. Ridley Bicycles, from Belgium, kept that simplicity with the X-Bow frame. This frame is perfect for anyone from the newest cyclocross addict to the old hat looking for a well-proportioned pit bike.

The X-Bow's 7005 aluminum frame forgoes the aggressively butted tubing and tapered head tube of the X-Ride, but borrows heavily from its geometry. It maintains the relaxed head angle and higher bottom bracket of classic 'cross bikes for more aggressive cornering. Due to the more mellow steering geometry, the handling is the most relaxed out of Ridley's lineup. But, a short wheelbase keeps the handling lively and you won't have any issues with full leans in the turns.

While the straight gauge tubeset won’t win any awards for revolutionary design, it does get external tube forming that helps it cope with the stresses of cyclocross. Specifically, the down tube is heavily formed, with a horizontal squash giving it greater weld surface at the head tube, and manipulation on the vertical plane to provide maximum weld surface at the bottom bracket shell. When you factor in the slightly flattened portion at the bottom of the top tube, which enhances carrying comfort, it becomes clear that the X-Bow has racing written all over it. But since it will likely do double-duty for commuting, training, and just generally messing around, it gets dual water bottle mounts to enhance the versatility.

Now, even though we love simplicity, once in a while something is added for the best. In the case of the X-Bow, the Belgian 'cross gurus added disc brakes. Now you'll have consistent braking no matter what circuit you race.

The Ridley X-Bow Frame comes in six sizes from XX-Small to X-Large and in the color White/orange.