Ribble electric bikes - What do they offer?

Ever since electric bikes first burst onto the scene, they have revolutionised the sport of cycling. In this blog, we explore the Ribble e-bike range and highlight the key features and benefits each model brings.

E-bikes are opening up cycling to a new generation of cyclists, introducing riders of all ages to a more eco-friendly mode of transport. One that also provides you with the additional benefit of you to keep fit whilst providing a welcome boost to mental and physical well-being. Then there's the extra savings counted in terms of petrol costs, motor insurance etc. In fact, e-bikes have now established themselves as a viable alternative to other forms of transport for short to medium-distance journeys. As technology continues to improve and evolve, we can fully expect e-bikes of the future to become even lighter and capable of travelling ever greater distances than they do already. Here, we explore the Ribble electric bike range.

Electric bikes are brimful of infinite possibilities. They take you places you wouldn't ordinarily dare venture, leaving you feeling fresher for longer and able to extend your rides beyond your typical limits. Thanks in no small part due to the extra kick of naturally smooth power assistance they deliver to each pedal stroke. However, it's not quite as simple as pressing a button to be propelled up climbs like Alpe D'Huez at speeds that would leave World Tour pros wheezing like overworked bellows.

Far from it. No matter which Ribble electric bike you plump for, you can still be sure of a great workout. These pedelecs (pedal-assisted) don't take over your ride but instead blend invisibly into the background. They let you put as much, or as little, of yourself into the ride as you like. Only ever amplifying your pedalling efforts. Stop pedalling; you can expect to find yourself going nowhere fast and in pretty short order, exactly as you would if riding a conventional non-assisted bike.

In short, everybody from beginners to seasoned roadies or off-road enthusiasts can discover a new way of riding thanks to the advent of the electric bike.

• People from all walks of life may want to take up cycling for active travel, recreational riding, or fitness. Electric bikes allow you to build up stamina and fitness at a pace that suits you. As a result of the extra boost of assistance, you needn't restrict your rides to avoid hillier routes in the fledgling stages of your new hobby.
• As an aid to recovery after severe illness or injury. Riding an e-bike lets you take it easy at first and build up fitness progressively. An awe-inspiring tech feature of our e-bikes is the ability to set heart rate limits. When a heart rate limit is reached, the assistance automatically kicks in. Clever stuff, we think you will agree!
• Anyone looking to prolong their love of cycling but finds themselves being dropped on hilly group rides. Riding an e-bike, you're likely to find yourself waiting for the group at the summit, not vice versa.
• They allow riders to extend their road or off-road rides, amp up the fun factor, and ride faster and further than ever before.

Ribble unveiled its first-ever electric bike back in 2019. At its launch, the Endurance SL e represented the lightest e-road bike range in the world. Equipping this carbon endurance electric road bike with the LEVEL 5 integrated handlebar system, we created the first ever 'cable-less' e-bike for a UK bike brand. Of course, it wasn't cable-free. All the cables were instead routed through the handlebars and fully hidden, giving the bike a sleek, cable-free look while offering protection from the elements.

Since the Endurance SL e's launch, our e-bike portfolio has expanded into other genres meaning you can now find an e-bike to match your cycling needs regardless of the terrain or your riding style. So, on the assumption you are considering an e-bike purchase - which should you choose and why?

In this guide, we take you through the various models in the Ribble electric bike range, highlighting the key features of each and what type of riding each one is suited to.

But first, we should probably start by highlighting the key features of the Ribble electric bike range as a whole.

Whether the bike is manufactured from carbon or aluminium, our electric bikes have one thing in common - weight. Or, more specifically, the lack thereof. During research and development, we prioritised what we wanted our e-bikes to offer. We were shocked to discover that many contemporary e-bikes often weighed as much as 20-30kgs. This meant the bike would perform reasonably as expected when using assistance. However, should you ever try to ride it without assistance, it would be akin to riding a brick, with the ride feeling incredibly sluggish and unresponsive. Riding the bike with the assistance switched off to preserve battery range or simply riding under your own steam would be nigh on impossible. So, we opted to go a different direction and developed the lightest range of electric bikes on the market today.

To deliver the lightest range of e-bikes possible, we had to factor in a compact system that still provided enough of a kick to help dial down gravity a little. Reliability was another critical factor, so we chose the MAHLE X35 system. This compact hub drive motor system was already a proven performer. It delivers up to 250W of assistance smoothly to each pedal stroke while blending invisibly into the background when you want it to. Just as significantly, it weighs just 3.5kg for the entire system. This includes the motor, battery and associated componentry.

Every e-bike model in the Ribble lineup is equipped with a control button. Depending upon the bike collection, this control unit is on either the top tube or handlebars. A single press of the button is enough to activate the system. This provides you with ready access to three assistance modes; low, medium, and high. Each assistance mode offers a set percentage of the total power available, so you can choose the right one to suit the terrain or your mood. LEDs set within the control unit indicate the current assist level selected. Additionally, the available battery charge is also displayed via a simple traffic light system. White indicates 75 to 100%, and then it cycles down through Green, Amber, Red, and Red flash as the battery nears depletion.

Another benefit of choosing the X35 motor system is its incredibly minimalist design. This has enabled us to create a range of 'stealth' e-bikes that, at first glance, resemble an ordinary bike. Many people struggle to tell them apart from their non-electric counterparts, even when placed side by side. Such a super-clean, sleek look is achieved through the battery being hidden within the frame's downtube and the motor on the rear hub. All in all, it makes for an elegant solution to big, ugly and heavy e-bikes.

Everything you love about cycling and more! Our cutting-edge electric road bikes are amongst the lightest to be found worldwide. They provide a welcome boost of natural feeling power assistance to help you keep up on hilly group rides or smash that bucket list climb you've always dreamed of conquering.

The Endurance SL e is the high-performance endurance carbon road bike in our e-bike range. Regarding frame design, it's almost identical in every way to the best-selling Endurance SL. It shares the same exact blend of Toray T1000 and T800 carbon fibre, each layered to an exact specification to enhance the structural integrity without adding weight. This combination enhances torsional stiffness and power transfer, making the SL e our lightest, fastest and perhaps most imporant of all, lightest eelctric bike ever. In keeping with the aerodynamic philosophy of the SL series, the frame's sculpted tube shapes make it extremely slippery. The Endurance SL e slices the air with incredible efficieny, which equates to mroe speed for less effort.

Builds start from as little as 10.5 kg, making it not just the lightest in our line-up but one of the lightest e-bikes available worldwide.

Features

• A frameset constructed from Toray T800/T1000 carbon fibres with an EPS inner core system offers class-leading stiffness and power transfer.
• Our road-optimised endurance geometry offers all-day-in-the-saddle comfort yet can also be optimised to provide a slightly more aggressive position to suit rider preference.
• As a pure road bike, the SL e is only ever intended to be ridden on paved surfaces and, consequently only comes specced with road-specific groupsets. These groupsets all feature two chainrings at the front and a wide-range cassette to provide a little extra assistance on the climbs.
• Clearance for 32 mm tyres without mudguards or 25 mm with full length mudguards fitted. Thus, expanding the contact patch with the road to provide you with better traction and grip while enhancing mroe of the road buzz, keeping the ride smooth and comfortable.
• There are no pannier rack mounts.
• Drop handlebars offer multiple hand positions, making it easeir to change position while maintaining full control of the bike.
• Discreet mudguard mounts allow full-length mudguards to be fitted for improved wet weather protection.

As its name suggests, a hybrid bike is a mixture of two bikes. It takes an MTB's more upright riding position and combines it with the extra efficiency offered by road bike componentry. As a result, the electric hybrid bike is fast and comfortable on the roads yet comfortably composed when it comes to tackling off-road routes such as bridleways, towpaths, and unkept cycle paths. For these reasons alone, the hybrid bike has consistently proved to be the most popular choice for beginners and urban leisure cyclists.

However, you're not just limited to the road, not by a long chalk. Fit a Hybrid bike with slick tyres, and it fairly flies on paved surfaces. However, opt for a tyre with a little more tread and you will be exploring towpaths and bridleways before you know it. A hybrid is a highly capable all-rounder with a gear range wide enough to cope with steep inclines and light enough to make your off-road excursions more enjoyable.

Whether you're looking for a bike to improve fitness, work commutes, or family weekend rides, the award-winning Hybrid AL e offers a super smooth ride. It perfectly blends classic British styling with naturally smooth power assistance and industry-leading e-bike technology.

Features

• Material - Constructed from 6061- T6 Aluminium with full carbon forks, the frame is lightweight yet robust enough to handle multiple terrains. Carbon forks better absorb the vibrations from bumpy surfaces whilst keeping the steering light and precise.
• Weight - Builds start from approximately 13kg.
• Geometry - The upright riding position of the Hybrid AL e doesn't deliver the outright speed of a road bike. However, it does provide a more relaxed riding position that affords more ride comfort and a head-up view of the road and surrounding scenery.
• Control Button - The easy-to-use, handlebar-mounted control button allows the rider to switch between assistance levels whilst on the move. Additionally, it also displays the available battery charge by way of a simple traffic LED light system.
• Gearing - We spec the bike with an SRAM NX 1x11-speed groupset that combines single-ring simplicity with easy-to-use one-handed gear shifting. Upfront, there is a single chainring, and at the rear, a wide-range cassette that allows you to take on hillier routes or explore the roads less travelled.
• Tyre Clearance - With ample clearance for large volume tyres up to a maximum of 45mm (40mm if mudguards are fitted), a vast choice of tyres becomes available. You can tailor the tyres to provide more comfort, traction, and grip on-road, off-it, or a combination of both.
• Luggage - Built-in pannier rack mounts allow you to carry luggage for the daily commute or enjoy a day trip out with family or friends. Our fully loaded build includes the everyday essentials of a pannier rack, mudguards, lights, a bell, and pedals (pedals not fitted).
• Handlebars - Flat handlebars provide confidence-inspired stability and control. Perfect for navigating traffic-choked city streets or exploring off-the-beaten path.
• Versatility - Built-in mudguard mounts enable the fitting of full-length mudguards, so you can enjoy riding the Hybrid AL, whether rain or shine.

In all respects, the Hybrid AL e Step Through offers all the same benefits as the Hybrid AL e listed above: the same comfortable upright riding position and all-terrain versatility. However, where it diverges is in its low top tube 'step through' design. This enables the rider to hop on/off the bike more easily. Thus making the bike supremely suited to riders whose flexibility may be restricted .

• Material - Constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminium with full carbon forks, the frame is lightweight yet robust enough to handle multiple terrains. Carbon forks damp vibrations from rough surfaces while keeping the steering light and precise.
• Weight - Weighing as little as 15kg, it's supremely light for a hybrid bike, let alone one equipped with a battery and motor system.
• Geometry - An inspiring, confidence-inspiring, easy-access hop-on/off design allows you to step through the bike to mount it without the necessity of swinging your leg over the saddle and any luggage that might be present.
• Control Button- Keep both hands on the bars and your eyes on the road whilst having the option to choose between three assistance levels with the conveniently positioned iWoc Trio handlebar control unit.
• Gearing - SRAM's 1x gear system is simple and efficient, with a single gear shifter giving you access to all the gears you need for riding uphill or down.
• Tyre Clearance - A vast choice of tyres becomes available with ample clearance for large air volume tyres up to a maximum width of 45mm (40mm if mudguards are fitted). You can tailor the tyres to provide more comfort, traction, and grip on the road, off-road, or a combination of both.
• Luggage - Mounting points for a rear pannier rack address any luggage-carrying needs.
• Handlebars - Flat handlebars provide confidence-inspired stability and control, mainly when riding in traffic or over rough terrain.
• Versatility - Built-in mounts for mudguards improve wet weather protection. A fully loaded edition is also available and provides everything you need to get around town and beyond. A rear pannier rack for luggage carrying duties, mudguards to fend off the dirt, light and a bell all contribute to your ride comfort, safety, and enjoyment.

The Hybrid AL e Trail's natural feeling pedal assistance, distance-shrinking range and handy features are designed to make your daily rides quicker and more accessible in every way possible. A low step-over design for ease of use and bump-smoothing suspension delivers a comfortable ride, no matter where the road or trail may take you.

• Material - Constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminium with full carbon forks, the frame is lightweight yet robust enough to handle challenging off-road terrain. Suspension forks provide 60mm of travel to smooth out the bumps for a enhanced ride comfort, no matter the surface or terrain.
• Weight - The Hybrid AL e Trail weighs 19.5kg, including a computer, pannier rack, mudguards, integrated lights, and kickstand.
• Geometry - The low step-over design makes it easier to mount and dismount while providing a head-up view of your surroundings.
• Control Button - Keep both hands on the bars and your eyes on the road whilst having the option to choose between three assistance levels with the conveniently positioned iWoc Trio handlebar control button.
• Gearing - SRAM's 1x gear system is simple and efficient, with a single gear shifter giving you access to all the gears you need for riding uphill or down.
• Tyre Clearance - A vast choice of tyres becomes available with ample clearance for large volume tyres up to a maximum width of 45mm (40mm if mudguards are fitted). You can tailor the tyres to provide more comfort, traction, and grip on the road, off-road, or a combination of both.
• Luggage - Mounting points for a rear pannier rack address any luggage-carrying needs.
• Handlebars - Ergonomically designed handlebars deliver a comfortable and upright riding position for a commanding view of your surroundings. An integrated computer mount enables a Miche Pulsar One head unit to be fitted, letting you keep track of the e-bike system and ride information in one convenient location.
• Versatility - Built-in mounts for mudguards improve wet weather protection. The Hybrid AL e Trail is fully equipped with everything you need to get around town and beyond. A rear pannier rack for luggage carrying duties, mudguards to fend off the dirt, powerful integrated lights, and a bell all contribute to your ride's comfort, safety, and enjoyment.

The Urban AL e's contemporary style and easy-to-use power assistance will quickly make it your ideal companion as you zip around town, run errands, shop for groceries, or commute to work. Every aspect has been carefully considered to make your everyday ride easier. A refined hop-on/off design provides easy access, and its low weight makes carrying it onto public transport or up and down the stairs a simple task. Beat the traffic through the city streets or take the long route for fitness or fun.

• Material - Constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminium with full carbon forks, the frame is lightweight yet robust enough to meet the demands of the city environment. Carbon forks absorb the vibrations from uneven road surfaces while keeping the steering light and providing pinpoint handling.
• Geometry - A confidence-inspiring, easy-access hop-on/off design allows you to step through the bike to mount it without the necessity of swinging your leg over the saddle and any luggage that might be present.
• Control Button - Keep both hands on the bars and your eyes on the road whilst having the option to choose between 3 assistance levels with the conveniently positioned Trio handlebar control button.
• Gearing - Easy-to-use and dependable gears get you where you need to be at your own pace and with complete peace of mind of having the gears to tackle any obstacles that come your way.
• Tyre Clearance - A vast choice of tyres becomes available with ample clearance for large volume tyres up to a width of 45mm (40mm if mudguards are fitted). You can tailor the tyres to provide more comfort, traction, and grip on the road, off-road, or a mix of both.
• Luggage - Front and rear racks carry everything you need to get around town. Pop to the store for groceries or take your kit to the gym, work, university, or college.
• Handlebars - Ergonomically designed handlebars deliver a comfortable and upright riding position with a commanding view of the scenery and the road ahead. An integrated computer mount allows easy installation of the Pulsar One head unit to display all the information you need on one screen.
• Versatility - Perfect for the every day, the Urban AL comes equipped with robust alloy mudguards to fend off the dirt, front and rear racks, powerful integrated lights to announce your presence and a kickstand for easy parking.

An e-bike version of our best-selling and popular all-road CGR range. The CGR acronym stands for commute/gravel/road, which gives you some indication as to how versatile this electric all-rounder is. Where it differs from, say, a bike like the Hybrid AL e is in the geometry and handlebars. The CGR's geometry is more akin to that of an endurance road bike, albeit with a few adjustments to enhance stability and control when tackling varied terrain.

Features

• Material - Constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminium with full carbon forks, the frame is lightweight yet robust enough to handle the most challenging terrain. Carbon forks damp vibrations from rough surfaces, keeping the steering light, precise, and predictable.
• Geometry - The endurance-based geometry provides a more relaxed upright riding position, improving stability and handling when tackling rough and rutted terrain. Dropped seat stays improve vertical compliance, enhancing the frame's ability to soak up the lumps and bumps.
• Control Button - The easy-to-use, top-tube mounted control button allows the rider to cycle through assistance levels and view battery charge at a glance.
• Gearing - Available with a range of double chainring gear systems from Shimano. These are intended for road use, however the lower geared options are also suited to riding off the beaten track.
• Tyre Clearance - The CGR AL e offers compatibility with 650b and 700c wheels, opening up a vast choice of tyre options. The tyre/wheel combo can be fine-tuned to suit your choice of terrains, with clearance for 47mm tyres on 650b and 45mm on 700c wheels.
• Luggage - Built-in mounts for a rear pannier rack enable you to carry those essentials for the daily commute or indulge in some bikepacking exploration.
• Handlebars - Standard road drop bars provide multiple hand positions for comfort and efficiency when climbing, on the flats, and descending.
• Versatility - Built-in mudguard mounts allow the fitting of full coverage mudguards to fend off the dirt. This makes the CGR AL ideally suited to the more adventurous all-weather commute.

Where the road ends and the off-road adventure begins is where our electric gravel bikes explode into life. Lightweight frames, stable off-road geometry, and mammoth tyre clearance make for a range of gravel bikes that will help you ride further and faster than you could ever possibly imagine.

Power your gravel adventure on an e-gravel machine that setes the benchmark for power-assisted, all-terrain performance. Lightweight, elegant, and composed over loose, technical terrain, the Gravel AL e is the ideal riding partner for off-road rides of any distance.

• Material - Constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminium with full carbon forks, the frame is lightweight yet robust enough to handle the most challenging terrain. Full carbon forks damp vibrations from rough surfaces, keeping the steering light, precise, and predictable. Carryall mounts enable oversized cages to be fitted for carrying rolled-up luggage such as ground mats, sleeping bags, etc.
• Geometry - Designed for extreme gravel tracks, a long and low geometry offers a planted feel over even the most challenging and technical of terrains.
• Control Button - The easy-to-use, top-tube mounted control button enables the power assistance to be selected whilst on the move. Additionally, it also indicates the amount of battery charge remaining.
• Gearing - With its gravel-specific ergonomics, optimised gearing options and rugged reliability, Shimano GRX helps you to explore beyond the paved and predictable . Available in various double or single-ring gear configurations to suit your riding needs.
• Tyre Clearance - The Gravel AL e offers compatibility with 650b and 700c wheels, opening up a vast choice of tyre options. The tyre/wheel combo can be fine-tuned to suit your choice of terrains, with clearance for 47mm tyres on 650b and 45mm on 700c wheels.
• Luggage - Multiple frame mounts ensure ample luggage capacity for even extreme bikepacking adventures.
• Handlebars - Gravel riser bars offer more space on the bars when running a barbag. Flared drops provide a wider, more stable stance when navigating technical descents.
• Versatility - Integrated mudguard mounts enable the fitting of full-coverage mudguards to fend off the worst dirt. They are making the Gravel AL e suited to year-round gravel riding.

Unsure of what gear sizes you need? Read our gearing explained blog here.

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