Ridley

Orion/Shimano 105 Complete Road Bike - 2011

We all go into the bike-research process looking for that ideal blend of low weight, stiffness, and responsive handling, but we quickly realize that these all-important characteristics are usually accompanied by a hefty price tag. The good news is that this aspect was factored into Ridley's Orion/Shimano 105 Complete Road Bike - 2011, as its proven build kit and high-end materials deliver a ride quality usually reserved for carbon race machines priced twice as high.

In order to maximize stiffness and power transfer, the Orion features an oversized, semi-round/semi-square down tube with a reinforced bottom bracket. In our minds, it's reminiscent of the Cervelo R3's "Squoval" tubing, with its rounded, boxy shape. And while it's difficult to explain in words, the shape is directly correlated to its resistance to torsional and lateral flex. In fact, you'll see this design shared throughout the Ridley line, and accordingly, like the Helium and Damocles, the Orion is a pure race bike that's at home in any condition. However, not unlike the Excalibur, Ridley built the Orion to deliver the same sort of compliant ride that's accommodating on sub-two hour rides, but absolutely necessary when you're out for on a century. So, you can rest assured that its stiffness under power doesn't make it feel like a jackhammer on chip and seal roads.

Also, like other Ridley frames in the peloton, the Orion uses a monocoque carbon construction. This one-piece construction method allows greater quality control and a lighter final structure. Even more surprisingly, Ridley used a high-end, 24-ton carbon fiber. By definition, it has a tensile strength that can withstand 24 tons of pressure per square millimeter. For a comparison, you'll find 30- and 40-ton carbon used in the Damocles and Noah. So, what's the difference? We'll because the strength-to-weight ratio of higher tonnage carbon is greater, less material needs to be used. Whereas with the Orion, a little more carbon is needed to match the strength of its older brothers. This is where the weight disparity originates from. However, unlike the top-tier Ridleys, the Orion foregoes a 3K weave cosmetic layer of carbon. Instead, it features a solely unidirectional fabric that's simply painted. And with all of that said, the Orion weighs in within 100 grams of the Damocles, yet it costs roughly 40% less.

Shimano's venerable 105 group handles all of the drivetrain duties, with the exception of an FSA Gossamer 50/34t compact crankset and a Tiagra 12-25t cassette out back. For the rest of the build, Ridley's own 4ZA components make up the bulk of it. The 4ZA Stratos alloy bar and stem are a great complement to the 4ZA R-Blade carbon/aluminum fork. Together, they create a steering quality that inspires confidence at speed. And in keeping with that theme, the Fulcrum Racing 7 wheels are light enough to race on, yet tough enough to handle any roads that you'll encounter. Casing the wheels are Continental's Ultra Sport clincher tires, and for the saddle, you'll find a Prologo Kappa.

The Ridley Orion/Shimano 105 Complete Road Bike - 2011 is available in the size X-Large and in the color Black/white. Given its sloping geometry, we strongly suggest that you focus on the virtual top tube length as you make a determination of the proper size.