Merlin and Ridley Bikes go hand-in-hand. With a long association of producing top quality bicycles, and the choice of many pro-riders, it is no surprise that the Staff Bike Locker here at our HQ is full of a mix of impressive Belgian machinery.
There are a lot of comparisons between Merlin and Ridley – both formed in the 1990’s and family-owned for many years. Both brands are driven for a passion for cycling, striving for the best and performing at the top of their field. With employees from both companies being extremely passionate about the sport in it’s many disciplines, it is no surprise that Ridley is our top-selling bike brand, and putting us as the best place to purchase your next Ridley bike.
Cyclocross Legacy
Ridley are strongly associated in cyclocross and watching any National or International race you will no doubt see one of their bikes at the front of the field. Mud-clearance, shouldering comfort and geometry all play a key part in the design of a cyclocross bike and Ridley have this nailed. It is for this reason that our very own Andy Brindle who races in the UK National Trophy Series chose the brand for his own bikes (2 of course as is the norm for cyclocross riders!).
Racing Pedigree
With a focus on innovation and performance, and with multiple stage wins in Grand Tours and One Day Classics, Ridley know what they are doing when it comes to their road racing bikes, and increasingly so with the gravel range. With continual development, wind-tunnel testing and pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved, Ridley produce some of the fastest bikes in the world. Whilst not competing at the same level, Merlin staff, including our Managing Director, Andy (pictured above) who races for the newly established Merlin Cycles Rivington Brew Co Racing Team, have chosen Ridley for their own bikes.
Another racer here at Merlin, Gemma rides for FTP-Fulfil The Potential-Racing and this season has changed from another brand and moved over to Ridley. She is pictured below with her newly built Helium SLX with Ultegra Di2. When asked why she made the switch, Gemma said she ‘always aspired to have a Ridley and that the Helium suits her riding style perfectly‘.
To see the full range of Ridley Bikes available at Merlin Cycles click here
Need help choosing the best Ridley for you? Pop in store, or get in touch with our Cycling Experts – you may even speak to someone mentioned in this Blog!
