Ribble Cycles has introduced two new hardtail mountain bikes into its lineup of bikes, including a 29er and a 27.5-inch model. With a variety of build kits at multiple price points, these new bikes may be some of the best budget mountain bikes released this year.
The HT Trail AL 29 uses a 6061-T6 heat-treated aluminum frame and 130mm of fork travel to create a versatile hardtail. A 64-degree head angle and long wheelbase offer control and stability out on the trails.
The frame is compatible with up to 2.5-inch tires, bringing even more control and grip. Another neat feature is internal cable routing, making for a clean look and the ability to run an internally-routed dropper seat post.
Built kits start with the Sport model with a SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain and RockShox Recon RL fork, and go up to the Pro model that features a GX drivetrain and RockShox Revelation RC fork. Build kits and colorways can also be customized through Ribble's website.
The HT AL bike features similar frame characteristics but is built around 27.5-inch wheels and a 150mm fork for full-gas all-mountain hardtail riding. It also includes clearance for up to 2.6-inch tires.
The build kits are the same, with the exception that the forks have been swapped to the longer travel, 27.5-inch variations.
Ribble Cycles HT Trail AL 29 and HT AL pricing
- Sport: $1600.58 / £1,399
- Enthusiast: $1,943.80 / £1,699
- Pro: $2,287.03 / £1,999
- Frameset: £599