Not Another Bike Thread - Ribble Allroad SL

[Zoglug83]

Afternoon all, sorry for another one of these threads!

Currently looking to replace my trusty Voodoo Limba via my works CycleScheme. Reason for wanting to upgrade, its only 8 speed, id like internal cable routing (within reason) and a better spec all round to be fair. The voodoo has been great for me, but think its time for something a little better.

Being an 'older' rider and definitely overweight currently, I am looking for something a little more endurance orientated. It will be used for commuting via canal paths, and for longer road rides and audax's, where comfort and a relaxed riding position is key.

Ive spotted the Ribble Allroad SL, currently reduced to £1,650 in the Winter sale, seems a lot of bike for the money and ticks a lot of the boxes I am looking for. Not sure if CF is the best frame material, being on the 'chunky' side of things, but the weight is coming off slowly. Are there any other bikes which offer as good value as the Ribble seems to offer? Any suggestions greatly appreciated, particularly if they represent great value.

Cheers, Andy

 

[oxoman]

You could look at Spa Elan ot Fairlight Faran. Both steel bikes and very comfortable. I ditched my carbon bike as got fed up with creaking when pushing hard. Both the above are what I call lifetime bikes to be modified as you change uses. You could look at Boardman CXR or Adventure at lower budget. Nothing wrong with Ribblenby the way, they seem to be getting a revival.

 

[geocycle]

The Ribble looks pretty good value with 12 speed 105 Gears. If it’s going to be doing a lot of commuting on tow paths I’d be wanting full mudguards. I’d second @oxoman in looking at the spa and fairlight steel offerings with the commute in mind as well as flexibility for the other riding you mention. Note spa do not do cycle to work.

 

[Zoglug83]

Thanks both, I will definitely take a look at the Fairlight, as Spa do not accept any cycle to work vouchers it is sadly off the table.
Plan is to commute 2/3 times a week in to Manchester City Centre, the canal tow path is the easiest way to get there. The main road is a nightmare at rush hour.

Ribble also have the CGR 725 which caught my eye at £1,600. Has the ability for full mudguards etc, again with a 105 groupset seems great value.

 

[Sharky]

Are you near one of the Ribble high street shops?
If buying online without seeing or trying, always a risk.

 

[raleighnut]

Thanks both, I will definitely take a look at the Fairlight, as Spa do not accept any cycle to work vouchers it is sadly off the table.
Plan is to commute 2/3 times a week in to Manchester City Centre, the canal tow path is the easiest way to get there. The main road is a nightmare at rush hour.

Ribble also have the CGR 725 which caught my eye at £1,600. Has the ability for full mudguards etc, again with a 105 groupset seems great value.

The CGR 725 is a Reynolds steel frame, much more suitable for riding on a towpath.

 

[oxoman]

Firstly don't discount the Spa, yes they don't do C2W directly however thats not to say the C2W provider doesn't deal with them. Given your using it for comutting and looking at getting it on C2W scheme, what are your storage facilities like. Most C2W schemes insist on certain level of lock / maybe insurance etc.

 

[Jameshow]

Look at canyon, decathlon van rysel, boardman, all be about the same vfm.

Just be aware that 12 speed is 4x? more expensive in consumables than humble 10spd parts

 

[sevenfourate]

Thanks both, I will definitely take a look at the Fairlight, as Spa do not accept any cycle to work vouchers it is sadly off the table.
Plan is to commute 2/3 times a week in to Manchester City Centre, the canal tow path is the easiest way to get there. The main road is a nightmare at rush hour.

Ribble also have the CGR 725 which caught my eye at £1,600. Has the ability for full mudguards etc, again with a 105 groupset seems great value.

If you’re only planning on one bike right now; buying something to give you as many options as possible goes without saying….👍

 

[teeonethousand]

I bought a Giant Revolt CF 2 spec bike last year for similar money as end of year deal...pretty sure there are similar deals this year. I use it for everything and it does everything as well as I need it to. Bolts everywhere for everything and a joy to ride all packed for multi day tour. I live in the country, the roads are crap , the tracks are brilliant and it works fine for all.

My thought is that 2x12 speed is overkill and given my time again I would stick with 2x10. Oh..and I would not get a Matt colour again.

I think my next bike will be stainless steel....for no other reason than I really like the look of them.

Good luck.....shopping and choosing is almost the best bit😂

 

[sevenfourate]

Oh..and I would not get a Matt colour again.

It’s a fashion in BMX too. And is equally appalling. To own, to clean, to maintain etc. And your chances of a paint touch-in looking any good are right around zero.

Any avid detailer, owner with an OCD about looking good - or with an understanding of why a paint finish is gloss, satin or matte - would avoid like a dose of the clap 😉 🤣