In late 2011, we took a ride on the Ritte Steeplechase Disc, a frame with an eclectic mix of steel and carbon that appeared to defy convention: A bike that wanted to push the envelope for cyclocross riders across the United States.
Over three years later, Ritte is back at it again with their aluminum Crossberg, and today we offer Clifford Lee's full review of the frame and build from Issue 28. For extensive reviews just like this one, be sure to order your backcopy today, which is also available on Uberflip, in the App Store on iTunes, and on Google Play for Android.
Use the slider below for impressions and detailed specs on the frame, build and ride, as well as our final verdict. More Info: rittecycles.com
The Verdict:
At $1250 for the frame, fork and headset, the Crossberg is a good value. It’s not handmade in the USA, but it is well-engineered, beautifully made and finished, and most importantly, it provides an excellent cyclocross ride for your hard-earned dollars. We can long for appurtenances to add greater versatility, but with dual bottle bosses, it is a versatile race machine—and beautifully painted to match.
The Ritte’s painted head badge offers a modern, digital look compared to their metal badges of old. © Clifford Lee / Cyclocross Magazine
Stoked:
Mudders
Value hunters
Chocolate lovers
Bummed:
Patriotic purchasers
Aluminum haters
Thru-axle converts
The Ritte Crossberg Cyclocross Bike Specs:
MSRP: $1250 Frame, fork and headset
Frame: 7005 aluminum, TIG welded
Fork: Carbon disc, tapered 1 1/8”-1 ½” carbon steerer
Weight: 18.6 lbs. as tested, 11.75 lbs. without wheels
Shifters: SRAM Force 22 Hydro 11-speed
Crankset: SRAM Force 22, 46/36 chainrings
Brakes: SRAM Force Hydro, 160mm/140mm f/r steel rotors
Cockpit: Ritchey 4-axis aluminum stem, Ritchey WCS Curve aluminum handlebar
Seatpost: Ritchey WCS carbon 327.2mm diameter
Saddle: Fizik Antares Versus
Wheels: Stan’s NoTubes Iron Cross Comp, 32 black DT spokes X3, front and rear
Tires: Kenda Small Slant 6 SCT, 32C
Warranty: Three years against manufacturer’s defects, 1 year crash-replacement program
Country of origin: Taiwan
More Info: rittecycles.com
