Imagine dedicating four decades of your life to perfecting a single idea. That's exactly what Tom Ritchey has done, and he boldly claims his new Septimer Break-Away is the ultimate bike. But here's where it gets controversial: Can a bike truly be 'ultimate'? Let’s dive into what makes this design so groundbreaking—and whether it lives up to the hype.
The Ritchey Septimer Frameset is the culmination of Tom Ritchey's 40-year quest to create the perfect all-road bike. This isn't just another bike launch; it's a statement. At its heart is Ritchey's innovative Break-Away system, which allows the frame to split into two pieces for hassle-free travel, especially when paired with its custom travel case. And this is the part most people miss: While Ritchey is renowned for steel frames, the Septimer is crafted entirely from carbon fiber, marking a significant departure from tradition. With clearance for up to 48mm wide tires and flat-mount disc brakes, this bike promises to tackle rugged terrain with ease.
But what exactly is an all-road bike? Think of it as a versatile machine designed to handle everything from paved roads to gravel trails, blending speed, comfort, and durability. The Septimer draws its inspiration from the Septimer Pass in the Swiss Alps, a historic stone road once used by the Roman army. During a 1987 trip to Europe, Ritchey discovered these 'unspoiled' routes, sparking his vision for a bike that could conquer such landscapes.
The frameset is built to be both robust and adaptable. It can handle the weight of loaded bags while offering riders the freedom to customize their setup. Compatibility with 1x and 2x cranksets, external cable routing, and modern electronic groupsets make it travel-friendly, though the Shimano Di2 battery still requires unplugging. The frame features multiple mounting points, including two sets of bottle mounts, top tube bag mounts, and fork luggage mounts, ensuring you're ready for any adventure.
Here’s a bold interpretation: By prioritizing travel convenience and versatility, Ritchey might be redefining what an all-road bike can be. But does this come at the cost of performance? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Available in four sizes (S to XL) and a sleek black-and-white colorway, the large frame weighs just 1,360 grams, while the Ritchey WCS Gravel fork adds only 440 grams. The bike includes 12mm thru-axles, though mechanical groupset stops and guides are optional extras. The frameset retails for £2,958, with the Break-Away travel bag adding £331 to the total.
Compared to Ritchey's 2017 Break-Away Carbon frameset, which featured rim brakes and narrower tire clearance, the Septimer is a clear evolution. Disc brakes and wider tire compatibility make it more versatile, whether you're 'pedaling toward a distant destination or climbing an ancient pass,' as Ritchey himself puts it. But is this enough to crown it the 'ultimate bike'? That’s for you to decide. What do you think? Is the Septimer a game-changer, or just another high-end bike? Share your opinions below!
