RIDGEBACK Expedition

Ridgeback Expedition – 26” touring bike built for comfort and loaded travel

The Ridgeback Expedition is a purpose-built cycle touring bike, designed for riders who prioritise comfort, stability and reliability over long distances. It is equally suited to daily riding and multi-day tours on rough roads, broken tarmac and mixed surfaces.

Riding position and comfort

The Expedition features a relaxed, upright riding position, ideal for extended days in the saddle:

• riser handlebar

• positive-rise stem

• ergonomic grips with palm support

• integrated bar ends to vary hand position

This setup reduces fatigue in the back, shoulders and wrists, while improving control when riding fully loaded.

26” wheels: a functional choice for touring

While uncommon in modern urban bikes, 26-inch wheels remain highly relevant for travel and expedition touring:

• increased structural strength under load

• predictable handling with front and rear panniers

• wide availability of tyres and spares worldwide

• lower centre of gravity when carrying luggage

The Expedition runs Schwalbe Marathon 26×1.75 tyres, chosen for durability, puncture resistance and reflective sidewalls for added visibility.

Drivetrain and gearing

The triple Shimano drivetrain delivers a wide gear range, ideal for:

• steep climbs with heavy luggage

• efficient cadence management over long distances

• low mechanical stress during extended use

Setup:

• Shimano FC-T4010 48-36-26T chainset

• Shimano CS-HG400 11–36T cassette

• Shimano Alivio rear derailleur

• Shimano Alivio shifters

Braking and control

Promax DSK-300 mechanical disc brakes provide consistent and reliable braking in all weather conditions, with straightforward maintenance — an advantage for long-distance touring.

Fully touring-ready

The Ridgeback Expedition is supplied ready for travel:

• full-length mudguards fitted as standard

• rear rack compatibility

• compatibility with front low-rider pannier racks

• frame and fork designed for stable load carrying

Press feedback

Independent reviews describe the Expedition as:

• stable whether unloaded or fully laden

• comfort-focused rather than performance-driven

• well suited to year-round touring and commuting on poor surfaces

Technical specifications

Frame & fork

• Frame: Steel

• Fork: Chromoly steel

• Cable routing: External

Drivetrain

• Shifters: Shimano Alivio SL-M3100

• Rear derailleur: Shimano Alivio RD-M3100-SGS

• Front derailleur: Shimano Alivio FD-T4000

• Chainset: Shimano FC-T4010 48-36-26T

• Bottom bracket: Shimano BB-ES300

• Cassette: Shimano CS-HG400 11–36T

• Chain: KMC X9

Brakes

• Brakes: Promax DSK-300 mechanical disc

• Brake levers: Shimano Deore BL-T610

Wheels & tyres

• Rims: Jalco DM25

• Hubs: Shimano M475

• Spokes: Steel 14g

• Tyres: Schwalbe Marathon GG 26×1.75

Components

• Handlebar: Ridgeback (620–640 mm depending on size)

• Stem: Ridgeback AS-007

• Saddle: Ridgeback Custom

• Seatpost: Alloy 27.2×350 mm

• Pedals: FPD Road with toe clips

General

• Category: Touring

• Wheel size: 26”

• Brake type: Mechanical disc

• Weight: 14.59 kg

Frame geometry (mm)

Size guide (indicative)

• XS: 156–164 cm

• S: 164–172 cm

• M: 171–179 cm

• L: 178–186 cm

• XL: 185–193 cm

Personalised sizing advice is available based on riding style and intended load.