Why I Chose the Ritchey Ultra Chromoly MTB

In an era dominated by carbon, why deliberately choose a steel MTB?
As a bicycle shop staff member who handles the latest bikes every day, today I'd like to seriously write about why I chose Ritchey's Ultra, a chromoly MTB.

If I had to describe this bike in one sentence, it would be: "An unadorned bike, stripped down to its essence." I want to race, commute, ride in the satoyama (foothills), and travel far. The Ultra felt like it could really respond to all these demands.

But a "feeling" alone isn't convincing. So, I decided to borrow a test bike for a month and ride it to death.

My first impression when I rode it was honestly, "Hmm, it's pretty normal."
It doesn't have outstanding acceleration, nor is it ultra-lightweight. World champions don't ride it, and there are no flashy special features. Yet, somehow, it feels strangely natural to my body. It felt as if I had been riding it forever.

Having ridden various bikes, I understand the greatness of this "normalcy." The more I rode it, the more its true value gradually became apparent.

Around that time, I started thinking, "I want to race again." About 10 years ago, I used to compete in MTB cross-country races, but due to work and family circumstances, and then the COVID-19 pandemic, I had been away from it for a long time.

However, recently, riding Japan's premier MTB course "Fujimi Panorama," assisting with Shimano races, and speaking with international cyclists during a business trip to Taiwan, my mindset shifted to "racing might be fun again."

The Ritchey Ultra was the perfect partner for this new challenge. Commuting, leisurely satoyama rides, weekend trails, and even races. It has a depth that allows you to enjoy all of them naturally.

Above all, this bike felt like a companion I could "spend my entire life with."
If something happens, steel can be repaired, and the frame is easy to customize. And decades from now, when I'm an old man with gray hair, I feel like I'll still be riding this bike briskly.

"Something that isn't influenced by trends and can be cherished for a long time."
That's my motto for choosing a bicycle. There are various trends in the world, and they're fun in their own way, but I think my core principle remains this idea.

For now, I'm assembling it with parts I have on hand, and I plan to finalize the detailed specifications later. Once it's complete, I'll have it at the shop, so if you're interested, please come by and try it out.

And with this Ultra, I intend to take the first step in a new challenge.

My first goal is "to participate in a race again and build up the 'body' to fully enjoy it at that time."

I plan to gradually build up my stamina through my daily rides so that I can reliably complete even tough races.

Currently, I'm just adding a few more hills to my commute, but I'll slowly prepare for upcoming events.

Ritchey ULTRA Frame Only

Color: Honey Mustard

Price: 181,500 yen (tax included)

Unfortunately, the Sierra Slate color I purchased is sold out. Currently, this Honey Mustard color is available.

We have domestic stock, so all sizes can be ordered immediately.

If you're interested, please feel free to inquire.