Press Release: Ritchey Turns 50!

Tom Ritchey was only a teenager when he started designing, innovating, and building bicycles and components more than 50 years ago.

“After spending a few years repairing tubular tires and fixing broken bike frames in his family’s garage in Northern California, Tom Ritchey ultimately designed and welded his first bicycle frame when he was only 16 years old. In the 50 years since, Tom went on to build one of the most influential and innovative bicycle companies in the world.”

“Tom’s 50 years in the bicycle world go beyond having merely forged new paths with great bicycles and pioneering components – his creations have won countless championships and he continues to inspire generations of cyclists to experience great rides while also influencing legions within the bicycle industry.”

Despite having innovated many of the products we all ride today, or as a testament to them, Tom’s vision of the bicycle remains as incredibly unpretentious as it was 50 years ago: “The bicycle’s true function is as a great equalizer that offers the simple pleasure found in the free-dom that is riding. Whether it’s a wooden bike or a Tour de France winner, people all over the world still smile when they see and connect with another person on a bicycle! It’s a freedom tool and a smile machine!”

“In honor of this remarkable milestone, Ritchey has unveiled special logos that recall the brand’s roots and Tom’s journey to becoming a pillar of bicycle and component design. The Ritchey wordmark logo retains the blue and gold of the original logo while including “Palo Alto, California” – where Tom got his start fixing frames so many years ago and which is an important influence on Tom’s professionality, attitude, and beliefs.”

“To further celebrate Ritchey’s heritage, the company will present special, limited-edition colorways for key framesets. All will feature the 50th Anniversary Palo Alto Ritchey wordmark on the downtube and will be released in the coming months.”

“Additionally, Ritchey will release commemorative accessories and soft goods throughout the year. This promotion has kicked off with a special long sleeve t-shirt and will include several other exciting items that Ritchey fans can look forward to throughout the year – such as winter wool cycling caps, drinkware, and much more.”

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