Ridgeback Rapide Meteor

The Ridgeback Rapide Meteor is part of Ridgeback’s popular Hybrid / Commuting Rapide series.

For commuting this kind of bike is the best all rounder. It offers practicality, good value and reliability. Ridgeback’s Rapide range is a competitive option for a very competitive market. The Meteor is in the sub £400 range and comes equipped with panniers and mudguards for an all year round commuting bike.

At nearly 14Kg, the Ridgeback Meteor is not light. Despite a 6061 Aluminimum frame, the bike collects weight through having thick chunky tyres, panniers and alloy suspension.

This means it isn’t the raciest commuting bike, but what it loses in raw speed it gains in stability and reliability. The thick chunky Continental Sport tyres 37c  absorb potholes and rough road surfaces pretty well. In addition, there is front suspension to make a really quite comfortable ride. In fact many town commutes may not need so much suspension and you may end up turning it off. Good for the canal path, but a bit over the top for most of the commuting I do.

With a heavier weight, the meteor isn’t the most responsive bike, but there are plenty of gear choices. The lowest gear of 28*32 will get you up pretty much anything. There’s no need to fear running out of gears. But, you may find this number of gears much more than you need.

The bike looks smart – matte black with neat touches. There are no colour alternatives, so if you don’t like Matt Black you’ll have to look elsewhere.

Reliability over Time

I haven’t had chance to test over time. But, the components should last reasonably well. A tough aluminium frame with standard Shimano gears and chain. The enclosed bottom bracket and sealed headset will minimise maintenance. Though the triple chainring combination will be a source of maintenance needs.

Like many hybrid bikes of this spec, it comes with Tetkro 836L brakes. These do the job, but they are not overwhelming. I guess the assumption is that with a Ridgeback Meteor, you won’t be racing into corners.

The City Comfort saddle is more impressive. The padding is generous and the size good. It really emphasises the strength of this bike is comfort.

Strengths

• Good value at £400
• Easily Adjustable stem and seat gives range of options.
• Will last well
• Comfortable ride. Good at absorbing uneven surfaces
• Comes with essentials for commuting
• It can also double up as a cheap / introductory touring bike. – You could easily take it on cycle paths around the country to get a feel for cycle rides beyond the usual commute

Weaknesses

• Weight makes it a bit on the slow side.
• Width of tyres makes it quite slow

Who will Bike suit?

This bike is really aimed at the commuter who wishes to have a nice stable, comfortable ride. It would be geared at someone not overly concerned at speed.

Alternatives

• Ridgeback Velocity – Very similar to Meteor without panniers and mudguards, 3lbs lighters
• Trek FX hybrid series – very close to the Ridgeback series
• Best Hybrid Bikes
• Best commuting bikes

Manufacturers Specifications

Color – Matte Black

Sizes- 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 in

Frame – 6061 Heat treated Aluminium

Fork -Cro Moly

Headset- Sealed

Hubs -Shimano RM30 rear

Rims -Alex ACE-18 36h

Spokes – Stainless steel

Tyres – Continental Contact 700 x 37c

Brakes -Tektro 836AL

Brake Levers – Shimano

Handlebar – 6061 Aluminium Lo-rise

Stem – Alloy multi position

Grips -Triple Density Lock-on

Saddle – City Comfort 2

Seatpost -Alloy Suspension 27.2mm

Shifters -Shimano EZFire

Rear Derailleur – Shimano Acera

Chainset – Shimano Altus 48/38/28

Bottom Bracket – Cartridge

Chain – HG31

Freewheel – Shimano Cassette 11-32 8sp

Pedals – Nylon Street

Front Derailleur = Shimano TX51

Weight 30.1 lbs (13.6Kg)

Related

• Ridgeback Meteor 2012 at Evans Cycles – £399
• Ridgeback Hybrid Bikes at Evans Cycles
• Ridgeback Meteor at Ridgeback