Steel framesets occupy a peculiar position in modern cycling—simultaneously the oldest material choice and one that requires the most deliberate decision-making to pursue. The Ritchey Montebello represents Tom Ritchey's current interpretation of what a steel road frame should be, built around triple-butted Logic II tubing that's been refined over decades of iteration. This isn't heritage for heritage's sake; the tube profiles, butting transitions, and overall geometry reflect contemporary understanding of how steel frames actually ride when paired with modern components and wheels.

The Logic II tubing uses Ritchey's proprietary butting profiles, with wall thicknesses that vary along each tube's length to concentrate material where stress loads demand it while removing weight where it doesn't contribute to stiffness or durability. Triple-butted construction means three distinct wall thicknesses per tube—thicker at the joints where welding and stress concentration occur, thinner in the midsections where the tube primarily needs to resist bending loads. The result is a frame that weighs less than many riders expect from steel while maintaining the fatigue resistance and ride characteristics that keep the material relevant.

Geometry follows what Ritchey calls their Road Logic philosophy: clearance for 32mm tires opens route options beyond pure road riding, while the overall positioning maintains an efficient, forward-oriented fit. The frameset accepts both mechanical and electronic drivetrains through routing provisions, and disc brake mounts use flat mount standard with 160mm rotor compatibility. A threaded bottom bracket shell eliminates the creaking and compatibility headaches that plague press-fit installations.... Read More