To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Swiss Cross, Ritchey has announced an updated version of the steel cyclocross frame.
The original Swiss Cross was named for cyclocross and mountain bike champion Thomas Frischknecht and was a no-holds-barred race machine — and since it was introduced has become a mainstay in the brand's range.
The new frame no longer gets a canti or disc label and has been brought into the modern age with updates such as 12mm thru-axles, 142mm rear spacing and slightly longer chainstays (437mm) to accommodate 40mm rubber.
While there have been some updates, the bike will retain the triple-butted tubing put together with a mix of brazing and TIG welding, and the bi-lam seat cluster lug is complete with integrated seat clamp.
With an updated CX geometry the Swiss Cross features a sloping top tube, a 72-degree head angle, 63mm bottom bracket drop, a 1,029 mm wheelbase, 550mm stack and 388 reach, all in a size medium.
According to Ritchey, the carbon monocoque fork will be paired with a straight carbon steerer tube and a forged and machined head tube, with integrated cups for use with drop-in headsets The bike also sees a 68mm threaded bottom bracket, 27.2mm seatpost and two bottle mounts.
Ritchey also says the frame will have full lengthening housing stops so it will play nice with cable driven or hydraulic setups without the need for zip ties. Interestingly, it will also come with a 28.6mm front derailleur clamp if for some reason you decide it would better as a 2x setup.
Being that this is a steel frame, it’s claimed to weigh 2,700g / 5.95lbs in size large, including the axles and derailleur hanger.
Keeping to its racing roots, the new Swiss Cross doesn't have fender or rack mounts, and Richey even includes a cowbell that attaches to the handlebars for ultimate heckling.
Ritchey will only be producing 100 of the 25th-anniversary edition red and white frames. Each frame will be numbered and will cost $1,500 / €1,550.
For those that miss out, don't fear, the new Swiss Cross will also be available in a more subdued black and paint job set to cost $1,400 / €1,450.