Ribble bikes are a UK-based bicycle company that offers direct-to-consumer sales. This means that they don’t have the same overhead costs as other brands, which results in a lower price for the customer. However, there are some trade-offs to be aware of before purchasing a Ribble bike:
- Pedals and delivery are not included in the initial price
- Poor customer service
- The website is awkward to navigate
- Mavic Aksium wheels are heavy
- The bike is heavier than others in the endurance road bike category
- Poor shipping experience (very few updates)
- Design issues with some small frame models
Despite these potential drawbacks, Ribble bikes offer excellent value for the price and could be a great option for budget-conscious riders. Just be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
1. Pedals and delivery are not included in the initial price
At first glance, Ribble bikes appear to be an excellent value. However, one common problem is that pedals and delivery are not included in the initial price.
This can be a major inconvenience for customers, as it means that they need to either purchase pedals separately or wait for a delivery.
In addition, Pedals can be difficult to find in the correct size and style. As a result, many customers end up being disappointed with their purchases.
2. Poor customer service
There are many problems that can arise when dealing with ribble bikes. One common problem is their customer service.
There have been many reports of people not being able to get ahold of customer service, or of them not being helpful when they do.
This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you’re dealing with a problem with your bike. Another common problem is that the bikes themselves are often very cheaply made and break easily. This can be extremely frustrating, as it can mean that you have to replace your bike more often than you would like.
Additionally, the company has been known to be very slow in responding to warranty claims, which can further add to the frustration of their customers.
Overall, there are many problems that can arise when dealing with ribble bikes.
However, their customer service is often the biggest issue that people have. If you’re considering buying a ribble bike, be sure to take this into consideration.
3. Website is awkward to navigate
One common problem that potential customers have noted about Ribble bikes is that the website can be awkward to navigate. The site isn’t the most user-friendly, and it can be difficult to find the exact bike that you’re looking for.
This can be frustrating for customers who are trying to do their research and make an informed purchase. Additionally, the site doesn’t offer a lot of information about each individual bike.
This can make it hard to compare different models and make a decision about which one is right for you.
If Ribble wants to attract more customers, it will need to work on making its website more user-friendly and informative.
4. Mavic Aksium wheels are heavy compared to some other road bike wheelsets
One of the most common problems that owners of Ribble bikes face is the weight of the Mavic Aksium wheels. Compared to other road bike wheelsets on the market, the Aksiums are quite heavy.
This can make it difficult to get the bike up to speed and can also cause the bike to feel sluggish when pedaling. Additionally, the extra weight can make it more difficult to handle the bike on tight turns.
There are a few ways to address this issue, such as upgrading to lighter wheels or using lower gears when riding.
However, even with these tweaks, many Ribble owners find that the weight of the Aksiums is a significant drawback.
5. The bike is heavier than others in the endurance road bike category
The Ribble bike is on the heavier side when compared to other endurance road bikes. This can be attributed to the bike’s frame being made out of steel instead of aluminum or carbon fiber.
The added weight makes it more difficult to pick up speed and can be a hinderance when climbing hills. Another common problem with Ribble bikes is the wheels.
The wheelset that comes standard with the bike is not as good as otherwheelsets in the same category. This can make it difficult to keep up with lighter and faster bikes on long rides.
While the Ribble bike has some drawbacks, it is still a solid choice for an endurance road bike. It is built to last and can handle long rides with ease.
Just be aware of the added weight and inferior wheelset before making your purchase.
6. Poor shipping experience (very few updates)
When it comes to online shopping, few things are more frustrating than a poor shipping experience. Unfortunately, this is an all-too-common problem with Ribble bikes.
Oftentimes, customers will place an order only to find that their bike arrives damaged or incomplete. In some cases, orders never arrive at all.
This can be extremely frustrating, especially for customers who are eager to hit the road on their new bike.
7. Design issues with some small frame models
One common problem with Ribble bikes is that there are design issues with some small frame models which make them unrideable and unsafe for road use.
The main problem is that the handlebars are too close to the front wheel, which makes it difficult to steer properly.
This can cause the bike to veer off course and possibly lead to an accident. In addition, the pedals are also positioned too close to the front wheel, which makes it difficult to pedal effectively.
As a result, many small frame Ribble bikes are simply unrideable and pose a serious safety hazard for riders.
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Conclusion
The name “Ribble” could sound familiar if you’re looking for a new road bike. By selling directly to customers, UK-based Ribble avoids some of the costs associated with retailing the brand to stores.
As a result, the cost to the consumer is reduced. You should know the trade-offs before you buy a Ribble bike.
Although purchasing a Ribble bike can save you money in the short term, you should be aware of the drawbacks before making your final decision.
