From Painter to Cycling Powerhouse: The Ridley Bikes Story
Ridley Bikes, a Belgian brand synonymous with innovation and performance, boasts a unique origin story. Founded in 1997 by Jochim Aerts, Ridley began not in a factory, but in his father’s garage. Aerts, initially a frame painter for other Belgian cycling companies, dreamt of creating his own high-quality bikes.

Fueled by passion and a meticulous eye for detail, Aerts honed his craft, learning about frame design, welding techniques, and geometry. The name “Ridley” itself was a tribute to Ridley Scott, a nod to the emerging carbon fiber frame technology Aerts envisioned for his bikes.

Early success came through Aerts’ dedication to quality and performance. Ridley bikes quickly gained recognition in the cyclocross scene, with riders winning world championships on their frames. This success paved the way for their expansion into road bikes. Ridley partnered with professional cycling teams, and their bikes were ridden by top athletes in prestigious races like the Tour de France.

Today, Ridley stands as a major player in the global cycling industry. They offer a wide range of bikes, from performance-oriented road and gravel models to comfortable endurance bikes. Ridley remains committed to innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of design and technology. They utilize advanced materials like carbon fiber and invest in wind tunnel testing to create aerodynamically efficient bikes.

From its humble beginnings in a Belgian garage to its current position as a global cycling brand, Ridley’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. They continue to inspire riders of all levels with their commitment to performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.