With the Ignite GTX, Ridley bridges the gap between mountain bikes and gravel bikes. From extreme bikepacking to ultra gravel races, the Ignite GTX combines the technical advantages of a mountain bike with the aerodynamics of drop bars, making it the ultimate racing machine for the most challenging terrains.
“It’s not uncommon to see riders on an alpine gravel bike during a gravel race, while others are on traditional gravel bikes. Similarly, you may spot a rider on an alpine gravel bike in a mountain bike race, while competitors ride mountain bikes. This isn’t done to stand out, but because this bike is the best option in very specific conditions—a well-known phenomenon in ultra off-road competitions. However, professional riders are rarely seen on alpine gravel bikes, often because their sponsors don’t offer them.”
“The Ignite GTX excels in long gravel races over large rocks and through desolate sandpits that resemble mountain bike races in difficulty. The same goes for ultra mountain bike races that are so ‘smooth’ that, if organized today, they would simply be labeled gravel races. A mountain bike is focused purely on mountain biking, while a gravel bike is too limited for rough terrain, and the Ignite GTX fills the gap between these two worlds. Ridley doesn’t compromise or aim for a 99% fit—it strives for absolute perfection.”
Mountain Bike Geometry
“The geometry of this alpine gravel bike is based on the Ignite SLX hardtail mountain bike, Ridley’s model for hardtail cross-country riding. This means a pure mountain bike geometry, featuring a slacker head angle for added stability. The product developers have also added flex-stays for extra comfort. This 100% mountain bike geometry is enhanced with clearance for wide, knobby tires (29 x 2.3).”
“This tire clearance is a crucial feature. The ability to install wider tires with more tread is by no means a drawback. The larger tire volume results in lower resistance, and wide tires reduce the risk of punctures. However, this comes at a cost to aerodynamics, which is where the drop bar comes into play. In these ultra races, the relatively low speeds make aerodynamics less critical.”
Drop Bar
“The Venturemax handlebar by Ritchey has a 24° flare and a short drop. The combination of an aerodynamic position on this bar and the stability of the wide drops ensures optimal control. Additionally, it offers multiple hand positions, allowing for powerful acceleration and better balance in the drops.”
Finish
“Ridley offers the Ignite GTX with SRAM Rival 1, SRAM Apex 1, SRAM Rival-GX AXS mullet setup, and Shimano GRX800 1×12 in a mullet setup. The Ignite GTX is available with either a suspension fork with 100mm of travel or a rigid carbon fork. The suspension fork allows for smoother handling on rougher terrains, making it easier to tackle rocky sections. Additionally, you can fully customize the rest of your bike’s setup.”
The Ignite GTX is available in four sizes: S, M, L, and XL. Prices start from 2.799€.
Application
“This alpine gravel bike can be seen from two perspectives: it either boosts the capabilities of a gravel bike or makes a mountain bike universally adaptable with the addition of a drop bar. So far, many people have built their own alpine gravel bikes, with limited options available on the market. With the Ignite GTX, Ridley aims to provide a standard that lowers the barrier to entry. Expect to see the Ignite GTX soon at ultra-adventures like the Atlas Mountain Race, The Great Divide through the Rocky Mountains, and the Transcordilleras.”
“Some call it a monstercrosser, others call it a dropbar MTB. We know one thing: this bike brings a smile to our face every time we ride it.”
Additional Photos
Learn more at the Ridley Bikes Website