Question 1

What is Ritchey Logic® tubing and why is it used in these framesets?

Accepted Answer

Ritchey Logic® tubing is Ritchey's proprietary, heat-treated, triple-butted steel tubing specifically designed for TIG welding. It's used in the construction of the Ascent, Outback, and Outback TandM framesets to provide the balance of lightweight performance, strength, and ride quality that Ritchey frames are known for. Logic tubing uses force directional triple-butting strategically placed for strength where it's needed most while minimizing weight in other areas.

Question 2

What are the key differences between the Ritchey Outback and Ascent framesets?

Accepted Answer

They are both gravel framesets, yet the Ascent has a steel fork; the Outback has a carbon fiber fork with internal dynamo routing. Other differences: the Ascent's stack is greater than the Outback's, resulting in a slightly more upright position. The Ascent’s reach is only 3mm shorter than the Outback (size small for each), which doesn’t seem like much but a 3-millimeter difference on a multi-day bikepacking trip can matter after a while. The Ascent is highly adaptable and can fit both 27.5" and 29" wheels, plus accommodate tires up to 66mm/2.6"; the Outback's tire clearance can fit 48mm/1.8" tires. The Ascent also features Boost spacing.

Question 3

What are the benefits of the Ritchey Break-Away design, and which framesets offer it?

Accepted Answer

The Ritchey Break-Away design allows the frame to be easily disassembled and packed into a travel case, making it convenient for traveling. The Outback Break-Away and the Outback TandM Break-Away, utilize this design.

Question 4

What type of brakes are compatible with Ritchey framesets?

Accepted Answer

The Outback frameset uses flat-mount brakes, while the Ascent uses post-mount brakes. The Outback TandM uses IS51 brake mounts. Rotor size compatibility varies, so it is important to check each frameset's specifications.

Question 5

What is the maximum tire size that can be accommodated by the Ritchey Outback?

Accepted Answer

The Ritchey Outback is designed to accommodate either 700c x 48mm tires or 650b x 2.0" tires, depending on the tire and rim manufacturer.

Question 6

What are the multi-purpose mounts on the Ritchey framesets used for?

Accepted Answer

The multi-purpose mounts — primarily found on the fork legs of the Ascent and Outback framesets — are designed to allow riders to carry additional gear, such as bottle cages, fork packs, or other essential items. These mounts enhance the framesets' bikepacking and adventure capabilities.

Question 7

What type of headset do the Ritchey framesets use?

Accepted Answer

Ritchey framesets primarily use an integrated headset with IS42/28.6 (upper) and IS42/30 (lower) standards. The WCS integrated headset is typically included with the frameset.

Gravel Bike Frames

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