As we start to head into the next Olympic cycle, we are going to start to see more brands launching new track bikes to meet the requirements needed for bikes to be used in Paris next year. For Ridley, that means the new Arena FAST, but also includes the Arena A for the rest of us too.
The Arena FAST began development along with the Dean FAST time trial bike, as they share a similar design narrative for their purpose. In each case, there are strict UCI rules that the design team needed to stay within. Starting with CFD simulations to optimize the design, Ridley took both frames to the Bike Valley wind tunnel to validate, before final testing on the road for the Dean FAST, and the velodrome for the Arena FAST.
The Arena comes in two versions. The full carbon Arena FAST is the top of the line pro model, while the Arena A is a hydroformed aluminum version at a lower price point.
I Wanna Go (Arena) FAST
The Arena FAST is going to be the workhorse at the World Cup and Olympic events. By swapping out the cockpit, fork, and wheels, it is a very versatile frame to cover all types of events. The FAST uses Ridley’s Elite series carbon layup, which uses a custom blend of Toray 60T, 50T, 30T, and 24T carbon, to focus on stiffness and power transfer, exactly what is needed for track racing. The 60T carbon is the lightest and stiffest, but it would make an uncomfortable and unmanageable bike. By blending the other levels of carbon, it helps balance all of the qualities needed for each model’s intended purpose.
The previous Arena frame used the Forza F-Splitfork and more squared off tube shapes with a shaped seat tube that tucks the rear wheel in close to the frame. The new Arena FAST frame takes advantage of the UCI’s latest 8:1 rule for tube profiles to create what Ridley sees as the best combination of aerodynamic shapes. Many of the tubes use NACA aerofoil profiles that have been trimmed form what Ridley calls F-Tubing. Their engineers took things a step further by creating little indents as the front radius transitions to the flat sides of the Kamm tail, and helps air flow smoothly around it.
Two forks are available, one for 70mm narrow hubs, and one for 100mm standard hubs. A flip chip allows for 35 or 45mm of rake to customize handling based on the event and rider preference. The dropout inserts are also designed to handle 12 or 15mm thru axles with adapters for 40mm hubs. As new standards are developed, new inserts can be created to keep the Arena FAST futureproof.
The Arena FAST is available in two sizes, medium and large, with the large designed to hit the UCI’s maximum allowable front center dimension, maximizing bike length and helping put riders as far forward as possible within the rules. The new FAST also features a slightly steeper seat tube angle, and slightly longer overall wheelbase, while keeping the same short 380mm rear stays. Stand over height is runs between the old model’s size small through large.
For pros and cycling federations, Ridley offers track and wind tunnel testing to help dial in the perfect position and equipment selection. Fitting and wind tunnel services are provided through Bike Valley, with Zolder Velodrome handling the track duties. Contact Ridley for more information.
Just like the Dean FAST, the Arena FAST has a short head tube, allowing the stem to mount flush with the top tube. This also allows for a very low position. The 1 1/8″ steerer allows you to use standards bars and stems, along with common headset bearings for ease of maintenance. Ridley also has bearing covers and spacers that match an integrated 110mm stem and 400mm base bar combo. The extensions mount 30mm apart, and are designed to work with a wide array of extensions and risers to help you find the exact position you need. Ridely offers the JET2 extensions, or you can use your preferred extensions.
Everyone Else Wants To Go Fast
For the rest of us that don’t have 5,000-6,000 euros to spend on a frame, the Arena A is your pick. The A uses an aluminum frameset with track specific geometry. A full carbon fork helps provide stiffness to match the frame with precise handling.
The Arena A is available in four sizes, extra small, small, medium, and large. Just like the FAST, the A features flip chips and dropout inserts to work with 12 and 15mm thru axels, 40mm hubs, and is futureproof for new axle standards.
While the FAST comes as a frameset module, the Arena A is ready to ride with DT Swiss T1800 wheels, Vittoria tires, Deda seatpost and cockpit, and Selle Italia saddle. A KMC chain and Miche crankset round out the build.
If you are looking for the fastest bike out there, be prepared to drop some coin. We don’t have USD pricing available, but the base module of the Arena FAST comes in at 4,999 Euros. That gets you the frame, fork, headset, and seat post. For an extra 1,000 Euros, you can add on the Forza base bar. You still need to add wheels, crank, rear sprocket, PF30 bottom bracket, extensions, saddle, and bar tape. For those looking for a UCI approved track bike ready to go from the factory, the Arena A is available at a much more affordable 1,899 Euros.
Both bikes area available now, so see your local Ridley dealer for more details.
Heckling Editor, Image Taker, Crash Test Dummy, and Beard Master at Bikeworldnews.com
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