RISGEBACK Arcus 3

Ridgeback Arcus 3 – versatile E-Active e-bike for everyday riding

The Arcus 3 is an E-Active e-bike developed by Ridgeback Bikes, designed to cover a wide range of uses: urban commuting, leisure riding and light off-road routes. While based on a hardtail platform, its overall setup places it firmly in the multi-purpose active e-bike category rather than traditional mountain biking.

The aluminium frame integrates a 500 Wh internal battery and features internal cable routing. 29” wheels with higher-volume tyres contribute to stability and comfort across mixed surfaces.

Electric assist system

The Arcus 3 uses the SportDrive MD250S system, featuring:

• 250 W motor

• 95 Nm maximum torque

• 500 Wh integrated battery

• claimed range up to 100 km, depending on assistance mode and riding conditions

The system allows tuning of power delivery, adapting the response either for stronger initial assistance (e.g. traffic light starts) or for smoother output aimed at extending range.

Independent reviews consistently report strong, immediate assistance, particularly effective on climbs and during acceleration, with predictable power management.

Ride setup and comfort

The RST air-sprung suspension fork with 80 mm travel, equipped with remote lockout, allows adaptation to varying terrain. A suspension seatpost further improves comfort on longer rides.

Overall riding position is described in independent testing as balanced between comfort and control, maintaining stable handling without feeling cumbersome.

Equipment for real-world use

The Arcus 3 comes fully equipped for everyday riding:

• bespoke alloy mudguards

• AXA Blue Line lighting system

• AtranVelo rear rack

• hydraulic disc brakes

This configuration supports both daily commuting and longer recreational rides.

Technical specifications

Frame & suspension

• Frame: Aluminium

• Fork: RST air-sprung, 80 mm, with remote lockout

• Headset: FSA Orbit 1.5E No.57B Zero Stack

Drivetrain

• Shifters: microSHIFT Mezzo TS39, 9-speed

• Rear derailleur: microSHIFT Mezzo RD-M36L, 9-speed

• Cassette: microSHIFT CS-H092, 11–36T

• Chain: KMC X9EPT

Brakes

• Brakes: ALHONGA AHJ-OD07 hydraulic disc

• Brake levers: ALHONGA AHJ-OD07

Wheels & tyres

• Rims: WTB SX19, 32H

• Front hub: Shimano HB-M6010, 15 mm

• Rear hub: Shimano FH-M4050, QR

• Spokes: Steel 14G

• Tyres: WTB Nineline 29×2.25”

Components

• Stem: Ridgeback Alloy, 45 mm, ±3°

• Seatpost: ONE1 Alloy SPS 405 Suspension, 30.9×350 mm

• Pedals: Resin Metro

Electric system

• Motor: SportDrive MD250S, 36 V, 250 W, 95 Nm

• Battery: SportDrive integrated, 500 Wh

• Charger: SportDrive 2 A

Equipment

• Mudguards: fitted

• Lights: AXA Blue Line

• Rack: AtranVelo rear

General

• Category: E-Active / Electric Leisure

• Wheel size: 29”

• Cable routing: internal

• Colour: Grey

Frame geometry (mm)