When Ritchey updated the Swiss Cross to a more contemporary cyclocross geometry for cantilever brakes, Ritchey traditionalists struggled with need to do this, but it made the bike fit better for more people, and added a superlative WCS carbon fork, improving the experience for riders. That geometry was then adapted for the disc brake revolution, which again, offered more cyclists better control in the harsh conditions of cross. Now the geometry and disc brake design is not only accepted but embraced and for riders seeking a very capable, forgiving steel-framed cyclocross bike, the Swiss Cross Disc offers the best design and construction for the money. That evolutionary process with one of the most significant nameplates from Ritchey's early years represents the true essence of Tom Ritchey- never being afraid to develop something unique to the the brand, but no resting on his laurels. In celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Ritchey, this specially painted, limited edition Swiss Cross Disc 50th Anniversary Frameset carries the best of Ritchey's core values in the next decade of the eponymous company.

The Swiss Cross nameplate it'carries forward one of Tom Ritchey's most notable designs, with a results-driven palmares. Possibly the most iconic frame associated with Ritchey, the Swiss Cross draws its name from early factory rider, cyclocross and mountain bike legend Thomas Frischknecht. The first iteration of the Swiss Cross was a no-holds-barred race machine designed for one thing: ripping through dirt like no other. Captained to numerous victories under Frischi, the Swiss Cross went on to become one of the most revered frames of the Ritchey offering. Many years later, the heat treated, triple-butted Ritchey Logic II tubeset equipped CrMoSwiss Cross is still a staple of the Ritchey fleet, only now it features a progressive geometry and the expected 12mm thru-axles, flat-mount disc brakes, and 700x40mm tire clearance. One thing has remained unchanged: it is still a no-holds-barred race-ready dirt ripper. Whether it's leading the charge on bell lap or ticking off the grueling miles training for season, the new Swiss Cross is more than capable of tackling it all.