Those climbing the pass from the south benefit from the low weight of the frame and the carbon fiber fork - ideal for reaching the highest points. The road, which has hardly changed for several thousand years, can be conquered with 700 x 48 tires. Thanks to Ritchey's patented break-away system, the bike can be dismantled quickly and easily and stored in the sturdy travel case supplied. At the destination, it can be reassembled just as quickly, so that the ride can continue without wasting time.

The external cable routing reduces the effort involved in preparing for the journey, while the attachment points on the top tube allow quick access to food and other important utensils. The Septimer is compatible with single or double cranksets, ideal for long distance touring or climbing an old mountain pass.

"This bike is the result of forty years of thinking about how to build the ultimate bike," said Tom Ritchey. "It has stainless break-away joints that are virtually indestructible. And most importantly, it's strong enough to mount panniers, carry weight and meet individual needs. It also offers all the clearance you need if you want to ride larger tires."

The idea for the Ritchey Septimer goes back to 1987, when Tom traveled to Europe to find places that were suitable for cycling off motorized roads. Today, exploring by bike is a matter of course, but back then it was still an exception. He discovered a network of old stone roads that were once used by the Roman army to control the Alpine passes of Switzerland. Today, the Septimer Pass is virtually unchanged and still conveys the impression of millennia past.

Technical data

• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Material: carbon fiber with stainless steel connections
• Rear triangle width: 142 millimeters (included 12 millimeter diameter aluminum thru axle)
• Ritchey WCS Carbon Disc Gravel fork
• Compatible with single or double chainrings
• Wheel and tire compatibility: tire clearance up to 700 x 48 (depending on tire and rim manufacturer)
• Front and rear flat mount brake mounts: Minimum size 140 millimeters, maximum 160 millimetres (adapters available separately)
• Fixing points for top tube bag
• External brake cable routing
• Concealed cable routing for semi-wired Shimano Di2 groupsets (only compatible with the Shimano Di2 cable EW-SD300 for twelve-speed systems)
• Guide and bracket set for mechanical groupsets available separately
• Removable rear derailleur hanger
• Removable front derailleur mount
• Transport case included
• Frame weight: 1360 grams (size L)
• Fork weight: 440 grams (with uncut steerer)
• Color: Black and white
• Price: $3499 / €3399 / £2958

ritcheylogic.com