Riding Impressions:

I have a couple rides on the Ritchey Break Away now and wanted to share some first impressions. The best thing I can say about it is that I did not notice it's a travel/folding bike. It just rode like a bike with no flex, no squeaks, no fuss. I was a little bit concerned that the lightweight coupler on the downtube would affect the ride but it and the seat tube were as solid as normal tubes.

The build is insanely light and it came in at a hair under 20 lbs with Candy SL pedals. With this setup and rigid carbon fork, the head tube and riding position is pretty steep. It takes some getting used to and is a touch retro. The bike comes with XT v-brakes to save weight and to avoid hydraulic brake cables. When travel bikes are dismantled in half, it's easiest when the all the cables can be separated with each frame half. The Ritchey Break Away accomplishes this with big aluminum brake couplers. They are easy to assemble but they make a big racket during riding as they hit the frame. They definitely need to be wrapped with some sound deadening material.

This bike is a climber. With the sub 20 lb. weight and the aggressive XC position, it is easy to translate leg power to uphill motion. It climbs with ease and has good traction. The titanium material is not only comfortable but seems to aid traction as well.

Descending is solid but I need to put some time on this bike to get a valid feel for it. The steep riding position and v-brakes are different from my normal setup. The bike steers nicely though and the frame is laterally stable. I'll post an update as I ride this bike more.

Specifications for Break Away WCS MTN Titanium Frame Kit
  • Custom drawn and mitered 3/2.5 Ti tubing
  • Does not include fork - designed around 80mm travel
  • 5 sizes 14-21"
  • Includes travel case + WCS headset
  • Disc or V-brake compatible
  • Case size: 8.5" W x 26.5"H x 31"L w/ wheels
  • Ritchey does not guarantee Airlines will not charge
  • 3.6 lbs Frame only (large)
Price: $2495

Size: 18" or Large

Top Tube: 22.85 inches

Seat Tube Angle: 74 degrees

Head Tube Angle: 71 degrees

More Info: http://www.ritcheylogic.com/dyn_prodfamily.php?k=114351