ABOUT

Since 1983 and the earliest days of the mountain bike boom, Ridgeback has been a keen observer of cycle transport culture in the UK. We were the first UK brand to offer mountain bikes here and ever since we’ve offered innovative, stylish and durable bikes that are designed with you in mind. 

What makes Ridgeback special?

We were there amongst the commuters in London in the Eighties, a time when the first mountain bikes were changing city cycling and 25 years or more before the capital saw a rapid increase in cycling for transport. We adapted bikes to work for us there and saw how creative minds modified their own bikes. From the stop lights and the cafes of the city we saw how bikes were used and we were inspired to maximise the value of this effective and flexible means of transport. 

Innovation and Design Values: Ridgeback has a long history of innovation, from that first UK production mountain bike to the original flat-bar road bike concept, the Genesis Day One. More recently we were early adopters of electric assist with our Flight series of e-bikes.  
We’ve always put the travel and transport rider first in our design priorities. For us it’s never been about racing teams and the World Series, it’s always about how bikes change our own world, every day. 

Sustainability and Community: Ridgeback bikes have always been made to last well. We make touring bikes that can travel the world (and we’re still not sure whether that’s a harder life for a bike than daily, year-round commuting in the UK’s cities). We’ve always prioritised durable frames and quality components that are serviceable at your local bike shop, Ridgeback retailers who are at the heart of local cycling communities. 

Our Range: 

Our bikes are designed to move you and the things you need for the day (or in the case of our tourers, the things you need for months on end!)

We offer 

• Electric bikes – the greatest innovation in cycling in the last decade has been the ability of the bike to make hills disappear. With our electric bikes you can carry more, go further or take that scenic but hilly route. True cycling freedom awaits! Not tried one yet? Just call your local Ridgeback dealer to arrange a test ride and prepare to be amazed. 
• Hybrid bikes – This type of bike is where Ridgeback made it name, by expertly blending ideas and influences. It’s a cross between the efficiency of a road bike and the comfort of a mountain bike. Lighter to ride than a mountain bike and ideal for leisure and commuting use, this format offers versatility and comfort over a range of terrain.
• Kid’s bikes – Because learning to ride a bike is such a positive part of a child’s growth we recognise the importance of children’s bikes. It’s all about having a great introduction to the freedom bikes can bring. Our children’s bikes are made with a wide fit range, for now and for their future, and the future of younger siblings. Grow with Ridgeback kid’s bikes!
• Touring bikes – designed to go far, these are bikes built for the needs of the long-distance traveller. Their comfortable fit and ability to carry both light and heavy loads makes them a wise choice for regular local use. Plus, they’re always ready if you feel the road calling – our tourers are seen regularly from Land’s End to John O’Groats and between here and the far end of the Silk Road. Where better to put our reputation for comfort and durability to the test?

Supporting Local Bike Shops: The Value of a Real Bike Shop:

Ridgeback has always believed in the importance of the local bike shop. Bike shops are often the heart of a local cycling community and many are still independent businesses, a vibrant part of the high street. They give you access to face-to-face advice and service and will support your journey with us, from test rides to servicing or the accessories that make a bike truly your own. 

Test rides are one of the greatest benefits a local bike shop can offer - whether it’s a first bike for a growing 4-year-old or a commuter for you, a test ride (or just a closer look and checking the fit) means you’ll make an informed decision through the conversations with the shop staff. 

You can 

• Check the fit is right for you and get advice on alterations that can be made (many will be free of charge simply using the adjustability within the parts fitted to the bike).
• Know how a bike type feels to ride and be sure it’s the one for you.
• Get advice on parts and accessories that can tailor the bike to your needs, now or later on.

We only sell our bikes through shops that have the expertise to support you and our bikes and in turn, we support them – our aim is to make bicycle ownership easy. 

Freewheel.co.uk – 

If you don’t have a local shop, Ridgeback is available through our partner business Freewheel.co.uk. Freewheel began as a bike shop in London. That shop became a mail order business, the mail order business grew and became Madison, the UK’s largest distributor of cycling products. Ridgeback is a brand owned by Madison. 

If you buy a Ridgeback bike through Freewheel.co.uk we’ll deliver your bike to you fully assembled (or to your nearest Ridgeback retailer). We support your nearest Ridgeback retailer in this process so any work needing bike shop support can be done there – this isn’t a website-only sales channel, you’re not ‘on your own’ once the bike is delivered. This unique way of getting your bike to you and maintaining the support of a bike shop is part of our commitment to the full service chain. 

Ridgeback is committed to making bikes that move you. Our commitment to support and service aims to keep you happily in motion.