Ribble Sportive Racing 2012 Review with Shimano 105
The Ribble Sportive Racing 2012 with Shimano 105 has been a popular choice among endurance cyclists, known for its excellent balance between performance, comfort, and value. Here’s a detailed review, including a look at how bike prices have evolved since 2012 and a personal note on retiring this beloved bike after extensive use across the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Brief History of Ribble Bikes
Ribble Cycles is a British bike manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1897. Founded in Preston, Lancashire, Ribble has grown from a small local bike shop into a renowned global brand. The company is known for producing high-quality bicycles that cater to a variety of cycling disciplines, including road, mountain, and hybrid bikes. Ribble’s focus on innovation, craftsmanship, and affordability has earned it a loyal following among cycling enthusiasts.
Frame and Design
•Material: The bike features a full carbon frame and fork, providing an optimal combination of lightweight performance and stiffness, making it well-suited for long rides and varied terrains.
•Geometry: Designed with sportive geometry, it offers a comfortable riding position, ideal for endurance cycling and reducing fatigue over long distances.
Components
•Groupset: Equipped with Shimano 105 components, known for their reliability and performance. The 105 groupset offers smooth and precise shifting, making it a popular choice for mid-range road bikes.
•Brakes: Shimano 105 brakes provide efficient stopping power and control, enhancing safety during rides.
Wheels and Tires
•Wheels: The bike comes with Fulcrum Racing wheels, known for their durability and performance. These wheels are a great addition, providing a good balance of strength and weight.
•Tires: Fitted with quality tires that provide good grip and rolling resistance, suitable for various road conditions.
Ride Quality
•Comfort: The sportive geometry and carbon frame contribute to a smoother ride, reducing road vibrations and increasing comfort on long rides.
•Performance: Performs well on various terrains, from flat roads to hilly climbs. The Shimano 105 groupset ensures responsive shifting, making it efficient for different riding conditions.
Value for Money
•Affordability: When first released, the Ribble Sportive Racing 2012 was priced competitively, offering great value for cyclists seeking a high-performance carbon road bike without breaking the bank.
•Longevity: With proper maintenance, the durable carbon frame and high-quality components can last for several years.
Evolution of Bike Prices (2012 to Now)
Since 2012, the prices of road bikes have seen a significant change due to advancements in technology, materials, and market demand. Here’s a brief overview:
•2012: Mid-range carbon road bikes like the Ribble Sportive Racing with Shimano 105 were typically priced around $1,500 to $2,000.
•2020s: The same tier of bikes now often ranges from $2,500 to $3,500, reflecting improvements in technology, such as more advanced carbon frame designs, hydraulic disc brakes, and electronic shifting systems.
Personal Experience: Retiring the Bike
After more than 5,000 kilometers of use across the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong, I have had to sadly retire my Ribble Sportive Racing 2012. This bike has served me well through countless rides, providing reliable performance and comfort in diverse conditions and terrains. Despite its excellent build quality, the cumulative wear and tear from extensive use have made it necessary to retire it.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
•Comfortable geometry for long-distance rides.
•Reliable Shimano 105 groupset.
•Good balance of performance and value.
•Lightweight and durable full carbon frame and fork for reduced weight and increased comfort.
•Fulcrum Racing wheels offering durability and good performance.
•Versatile performance across different terrains and climates.
Cons:
•Not as lightweight as some higher-end carbon frame bikes.
•Wheels and tires might require upgrading for more competitive cycling.
Conclusion
The Ribble Sportive Racing 2012 with Shimano 105 remains a standout for its era, offering a comfortable and reliable ride for endurance cyclists. While bike prices have risen over the years due to technological advancements, the core value of a well-built road bike remains evident. Despite having to retire my own after 5,000+ kilometers of riding in the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong, it leaves behind a legacy of excellent performance and countless memorable rides.
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