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Get ready for another round of “fastest bike ever,” but this time, it’s Ridley’s turn, and they have a pretty convincing argument. The all-new Ridley Noah Fast uses the UCI’s updated 8:1 Rule for maximum aero tube shapes. They updated the geometry and gave it a 36cm wide integrated cockpit, and it can fit up to 34mm tires. Is this the new norm for Aero bikes?
What’s New? Ridley Noah Fast
Ridley claims its new Noah Fast is the fastest bike it has ever produced, boasting 8.5-watt savings over its predecessor at a blistering 50kph World Tour pace. Unveiled after months of speculation, the redesigned aero bike brings cutting-edge features and a fresh design inspired by recent UCI rule changes.
Ridley’s 2025 design philosophy is simple: “Aerodynamics is everything.” (where have I heard that before?). Leveraging its in-house wind tunnel and the latest UCI regulations, Ridley has created a bike that’s faster, stiffer, and more integrated than ever before.
Redefining Aero with UCI’s 8:1 Rule
The most notable change shaping the Noah Fast is Ridley’s embrace of UCI’s updated 8:1 tube ratio rule. Previously, the UCI restricted tube dimensions to a 3:1 ratio, limiting aero optimization. However, with the rule change in 2023, Ridley has drawn inspiration from its Dean Fast time trial bike, implementing longer, narrower tube profiles in the fork, seat stays, and down tube.
Check the full details from Ridley on how the new Noah Fast was conceived
The oversized down tube is precisely shaped to manage airflow around water bottles. The elongated head tube takes full advantage of UCI compensation triangles for improved aerodynamics. These refinements make the Noah Fast 8.5 watts faster than its predecessor and 7 watts quicker than Ridley’s all-rounder, the Falcn RC.
Cockpit Innovation | Aero Integration
The new Noah Fast introduces a fully integrated cockpit, aligning with Ridley’s focus on combining aerodynamic gains with rider comfort. The Nimbus Aero cockpit features a strikingly narrow 36cm handlebar width at the shifters, optimized for an aggressive, aerodynamic position.
Ridley’s design integrates the cockpit into the top tube, hoping to reduce turbulence compared to traditional setups. Flared handlebars enhance handling, while inward-angled shifters comply with UCI regulations while maintaining a sleek profile. The bar is aggressive on paper but very on trend for the pointy end of the world tour, looking for every advantage.
Steeper Geometry
A steeper 76-degree seat tube angle sets the Noah Fast apart from typical road race bikes. Ridley says this geometry reflects the growing preference for forward bike fits among pro riders. A fit that helps improve hip angle and power transfer.
Ridley Noah Fast Geometry
The Noah Fast is available in five sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, and L.
Additionally, the bike accommodates 34mm tires for improved comfort and grip, while a lower bottom bracket compensates for the increased tire volume. The lower head tube complements the integrated cockpit for a more aggressive aero position.
Two Fast Models
The new Noah Fast is available in five sizes, starting at €5,499 for a frameset and €8,799 for a complete Shimano Ultegra build. Riders looking for similar aero advantages at a lower price point can opt for the new Noah aero bike., which retains the same geometry but features a different carbon lay-up and cockpit design.
Ridley-bikes.com
