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Proven steel frame concept with modern details
Ritchey is launching an updated version of the P-29 mountain bike frame. The classic steel frame retains its basic features, but has been given some contemporary upgrades. The centrepiece is still the frame made from heat-treated and triple-butted Logic steel tubing, Tom Ritchey himself considers it to be probably the best steel tube set in the world.
The forged tapered head tube accepts tapered forks. A new feature is that the frame has been prepared for the installation of a dropper post. And the hub standard is now Boost - i.e. 148 mm mounting width at the rear. These changes make the P-29 fit for modern mountain bike components without distorting the character of the original.
Geometry & equipment
The geometry of the P-29 is designed for the use of a 100-millimetre suspension fork. In combination with the 29-inch wheels, this results in a bike that is suitable for both cross-country races and trail excursions. The frame offers space for tyres up to 2.3 inches wide. The rear wheel axle uses the Boost standard with an installation width of 148 millimetres. For the gearing, the frame is optimised for 1x drivetrains, whereby chainrings up to 38 teeth can be fitted. The brake callipers are attached using the post-mount standard.
Classic look meets modern functionality
Visually, the P-29 remains true to its heritage. The slim steel tubes and classic frame shape are reminiscent of the early days of mountain biking. At the same time, Ritchey has integrated modern features such as internal cable routing for the Vario seatpost and dropper post.
The guides for the shift and brake cables continue to run on the outside for easy maintenance and are designed to accommodate both mechanical and electronic components. The mounting points for two bottle cages and threaded eyelets for mudguards or pannier racks provide additional versatility.
Four frame sizes
Ritchey offers the P-29 in four frame sizes, from S to XL. The manufacturer wants to cover a broad spectrum from 157 to 191 cm in height. The top tube lengths range from 575 millimetres for size S to 634 millimetres for XL. The head angle varies slightly between the sizes and is 69 and 69.5 degrees. The seat angle is constant across all sizes at 74 degrees. A geometry that promises a balanced mix of agility and smoothness.
Steel frame as an alternative to carbon and aluminium
With the P-29, Ritchey offers an alternative to the carbon and aluminium frames that dominate the cross-country and trail segment. As the most classic frame material, steel has a reputation for being particularly comfortable and at the same time offering a high level of durability.
The P-29 frame weighs 2315 grams in size M without thru axle. This makes it heavier than comparable carbon frames, but still within an acceptable range for ambitious riders. Ritchey emphasises that the steel frame can particularly show its strengths on long, rough trails.
From cross country to gravel - variety is key
The P-29 frame is suitable for various build variants. In addition to the obvious configuration as a cross-country or trail bike with suspension fork, the frame can also be set up as a rigid fork bike for bikepacking adventures.
With a carbon fork and racing handlebars, the P-29 can also be transformed into a fast GravelbikeA drop bar handlebar with extra flare is ideal for setting up as a comfortable long-distance tourer. The numerous mounting points and the option to fit mudguards even make the P-29 an interesting option for commuters who are simply looking for a robust everyday bike.
Technical specifications
Frame
- Material: Heat-treated, triple-butted Ritchey Logic steel tube
- Head tube: Tapered, for tapered forks
- Bottom bracket shell: 73 mm BSA thread
- Rear wheel mount: Boost 148x12 mm
- Tyre clearance: Up to 2.3 inches
- Brake mount: Post-mount for 160 mm discs
- Seat post diameter: 27.2 mm
- Front derailleur mounting: Not compatible (1x-optimised)
- Bottle holder eyelets: 2
- Weight: 2315 g (size M, without thru axle)
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL >> available here
Geometry
- Top tube length (effective): 575-634 mm
- Seat tube length: 380-533 mm
- Steering angle: 69-69.5 degrees
- Seat angle: 74 degrees
- Chainstays: 440 mm
- Wheelbase: 1098-1154 mm
- Protrusion height: 760-847 mm
- Stack: 589-619 mm
- Reach: 406-456 mm
- Bottom bracket height: -60 mm (BB drop)
Equipment
- Fork recommendation: 100 mm suspension travel
- Maximum chainring size: 38 teeth
- Headset: Integrated, top IS42/28.6, bottom IS52/40
Colours
- Team Edition (red-white-blue)
- Dirt in Blood (dark red)
Price
- Ritchey P-29 Team Edition: from 1189.00 Euro (RRP)
- Ritchey P-29 Dirt in Blood: from 990.70 euros (RRP)
Sebastian Brust
Editor
