Ribble CGR 105 £1,020

The blue Ribble 7005 Winter Audax with its traditional, angular frame and horizontal top tube is probably the most recognisable training bike in the UK. It is an institution. So we’ve decided to take a look at a different, decidedly more modern Ribble that could be the Preston brand’s new standout model.

Standing for cross, gravel and road, the CGR is all about offering versatility at a very competitive price. Coming only in fluorescent yellow and specced as you like via Ribble’s bike-building software, our version here is fully winterised with mudguards and hydraulic disc brakes.

The frame is built from 7005 aluminium. A chunky head tube neatly merges onto the fork and an arced top tube gives it a distinctive shape, while girder-like sections pull the back end together, simultaneously providing all the clearance and mounts that gives the bike its adaptability.

There’s enough clearance to fit 35mm tyres with mudguards while front and rear rack mounts allow the CGR to become a beast of burden if you fancy heading off on tour at the end of the season.

The geometry is fairly relaxed compared to a modern race bike, in keeping with the current demand for stable bikes that are designed to take the rough with the smooth.

Of course Ribble’s Bikebuilder software will let you customise the CGR to your heart’s desire but the spec Ribble recommends is based on the affordable but reliable Shimano 105 groupset with RS505 hydraulic discs.

Fulcrum Racing Sport wheels are well built and tough, and shod with Conti Gatorskins are perfectly fit for purpose.

Deda finishing kit is good-looking and reliable, two words that might just as easily sum up the entire bike.