Ridley has unveiled its latest offering, the Noah Fast, a cutting-edge aero bike that promises to be the fastest yet, capitalizing on changes in UCI regulations and the brand’s rigorous design innovations. The Belgian manufacturer claims the new model is 8.5 watts faster than its predecessor, building on the legacy of the original Noah, which was first introduced in 2006.
The Noah series has a rich history, with the original model helping Robbie McEwen secure a green jersey in the Tour de France. The subsequent versions, piloted by prominent cyclists like Andre Greipel and Caleb Ewan, proved successful in both professional and competitive circuits. The third-generation Noah Fast now faces the challenge of continuing that tradition of excellence, aided by technological and regulatory advances.
Aero Innovations Tailored for Speed
The Noah Fast is designed to fully leverage the 2023 updates to UCI’s aerodynamic and bike geometry rules, particularly the 8:1 aspect ratio for tube shapes. This revision allows for longer, narrower profiles, which Ridley’s engineers have embraced, drawing inspiration from the Dean Fast time trial bike. As a result, the new Noah Fast features a frame with elongated profiles in the fork and seat stays, alongside an oversized downtube designed to guide airflow around water bottles, effectively reducing drag.
One of the most visually striking elements of the Noah Fast is its extended head tube. This design maximizes the compensating triangles allowed by UCI regulations and contributes to the bike’s overall aerodynamic performance. Additionally, symmetrical and asymmetrical profiles in the fork and seat stays enhance wind resistance management, improving rider stability in crosswinds. Ridley’s wind tunnel tests reveal that these advancements result in a 7-watt savings compared to the Falcn RS and an 8.5-watt improvement over the previous Noah Fast.
Geometry and Handling for Modern Riders
In line with the latest UCI rule changes, the new Noah Fast introduces a steeper seat tube angle of 76 degrees, catering to the trend of more aggressive riding positions favored by professional cyclists. This adjustment allows riders to maintain an optimal position without resorting to short-nosed saddles or steep saddle angles. A lowered bottom bracket also accommodates the increasing preference for wider tires, while a lower head tube and integrated cockpit enhance aerodynamic efficiency, reducing frontal area.
The bike also features Ridley’s new Nimbus Aero cockpit, developed to balance aerodynamic performance with rider comfort. By integrating the cockpit into the top tube, Ridley reduces turbulence that typically occurs with traditional setups. The handlebars, measuring 36cm at the shifters, allow for a narrower, more streamlined position. Their inward angle improves aerodynamics while complying with UCI regulations, and a flared drop offers superior handling when needed. Additionally, the slightly curved top section promotes a more comfortable wrist position when riding on the tops.
The Nimbus Aero cockpit is available in five stem lengths and three width options. However, riders who prefer a traditional setup can opt for a regular bar and stem configuration on the standard Noah model.
Holistic Design for Real-World Performance
Ridley’s design approach for the Noah Fast is comprehensive, optimizing every aspect of the bike for top-tier performance. The frame geometry and cockpit dimensions are based on feedback from Pro Tour riders, ensuring that the bike meets the demands of professional racing. The bike also accommodates a tire clearance of up to 34mm, making it versatile enough to handle rougher terrains like those encountered in races such as Paris-Roubaix.
In wind tunnel tests, the Noah Fast was evaluated fully equipped, with wheels, water bottles, and a bike computer in place. These tests simulate real-world riding conditions, ensuring that the bike’s performance is optimized in scenarios beyond the lab.
Furthermore, the Noah Fast demonstrates a 10% increase in head tube stiffness compared to the Falcn RS, alongside similar improvements in the bottom bracket area, based on independent testing by the Zedler Institute.
The Noah: A More Accessible Option
Alongside the Noah Fast, Ridley is introducing the standard Noah model, which shares the same geometry and aerodynamic features but offers a more budget-friendly option. The standard Noah utilizes a different carbon lay-up and cockpit integration, making it ideal for riders participating in crits and circuit races. The Noah model also offers more flexibility, allowing riders to choose between a traditional handlebar and stem setup while still benefiting from the bike’s aerodynamic advantages.
Pricing and Availability
The Noah Fast is available for pre-order in five sizes, with customization options through Ridley’s configurator website tool. Pricing for the frameset starts at €5,499, while fully assembled bikes featuring Shimano Ultegra DI2 are priced from €8,799. Whether for professional racing or high-performance riding, the Noah Fast sets a new benchmark for aero bikes in the peloton.
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