![]() The Ritchey only requires a hex key that's on every multi-tool. On the tandem, I always stop and check the couplers after a few minutes of riding post-setup as I find a couple of them loosen a bit- this may be less of an issue with a single bike though as the tandem torques a lot more. Setup/pack up- it's a draw, both are pretty easy, but maybe a nudge to the Ritchey for user-friendly as it doesn't require a special S&S wrench (although a BB tool will work in a pinch if you lost it and you find a nearby shop). I think the longevity argument is a moot point- both systems are solid if you RTFM. S&S look and feel more robust, but in theory the threads could get banged up in transit and the manufacturer is very strident that you must (very occasionally) use an expensive fluoro lubricant- the grease in your tool box could damage the threads- caveat emptor I guess. Longevity- I don't think it makes a difference, I carry an extra coupler with my Ritchey that has seen dozens of trips and is a regularly used gravel bike, but I use a (5NM) Ritchey torque wrench on the coupler as recommended and I still have the original, no problems- I couldn't tell the diff with a non-coupled steel frame. If you're looking for a custom frame, you'll find a few builders who have built with the Ritchey system/lugset, and many more who have worked with S&S. As mentioned, the Ritchey system is elegant (in a different way) and light(er) than S&S. I have both a factory Ritchey Breakaway steel cross bike and a tandem with 6(!) S&S couplers so I can sort of talk about both. For infrequent to moderate use the Breakaway design saves a few grams and is less noticeable visually. ![]() WRT robustness and longevity over frequent and repeated use I'd give the nod to S&S. The S&S has the weight 'penalty' and an aesthetic element to consider, depending on your personal preferences. The Ritchey system adds less weight if that's important to you. It also relies on the seatpost as a structural element so not sure if a weight weenie carbon post would be the best choice? Just may require a bit more care with frequent use. While the latter can easily be replaced, the former does see more use cycles the more you travel and would require brazing or oversize tapping to repair if stripped. The Breakaway relies on threaded bosses at the ST joint and at the DT clamp. One other consideration is how often you plan to travel. Still, that DT connection is flange-to-flange and retention relies on friction fit so again, the integrity of the clamp and its installation is critical. Beyond that I've never heard of problems. For that reason I'd always carry a spare clamp if traveling. ![]() I do worry a bit about the DT connection as failure of the bolt or pivot on the retention clamp would render the bike unrideable. The Ritchey system is simple and elegant and has been around long enough that I suspect it is proven reliable enough. The only downside is approx 8oz added weight. Carry a wrench, lube the threads and check the tightness periodically. The couplers are machined such that there simply cannot be any movement at the joint once properly tightened. It has been bulletproof after numerous domestic and international trips. Also an extra handlebar stem and new brake pads.I have an S&S frame built by Steve Rex and that is my only experiential point of reference. INCLUDES: Custom Ritchey travel wheeled, padded, and reinforced bag with custom cut tube padding. Saddle: Ritchey Streem Carbon reinforced with CrNiTi rails Stem: 100mm ITM Millenium (120 mm ITM stem also included) Pedals: PEDALS AVAILABLE FOR ADDITIONAL CHARGEīrakes: Avid Shorty Ultimate with SRAM Swiss Stop pads Tires: Ritchey Speedmax Comp 700 x 35 rear & 700 x 40 frontģ5mm maximum is recommended however Ritchey states you could probably go 38 as long as mud doesn't become an issue.Ĭrank: SRAM Red carbon 50/34 172.5mm crank arm length. ![]() The bike is 17lb, immaculate with very low miles.įrame: Titanium (light, no paint to chip or scratch, and will never rust) Race it in cyclecross, use as a lightweight road bike, or tour on it (rear rack mounts on bike) This bike excels for travelling as the case dimensions allow it to FLY AS A REGULAR CHECKED BAG (under 50lbs). 52cm frame fits like a 54cm ( I am 5'9 1/2" )īreakaways have two joints (1) at the seat post/top tube, and (2) on the down tube near the bottom bracket that allow the frame to be separated into two pieces and packed in its own wheeled and padded travel case.
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