Originally published by VeloUK, BikeBiz, and ProCyclingUK
RIBBLE REBELLION squadron will be racing at the US Armed Forces Cycling Classic this weekend on some very special machines. Designed to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, riders Cole Davis (USA) will be racing on Ribble’s Ultra SL R P-51 Mustang Special Edition alongside Matthew Bostock (UK) who will be riding Ribble’s Ultra SL R Forces Special Edition. Both bikes have taken their design inspiration from British and US aeroplanes used in World War II and have been masterminded by Jamie Burrow, Ribble’s Head of Product.
Ribble’s Ultra SL R P-51 Mustang Special Edition, aptly named ‘Rebellious Ribble’ after the team, takes its artistic interpretation and cue from the legendary USAF WWII P-51 Mustang. Featuring Allied D-Day stripes, yellow nose, USAF insignia and D-Day anniversary on a silver fuselage. Fittingly the design has been applied to Ribble’s flagship road model, the aerodynamically optimised Ultra SL R - one of the fastest bikes in the world as a tribute.
The carbon monocoque frame and Ultra aero integrated handlebar are paired with Ultegra Di2 (8100 2x12-speed) groupset, Rotor 56T/44T chainrings, Zipp 454 NSW Tubeless Disc Wheelset, Pirelli P Zero Race Tubeless Tyres, Tan, 28mm, Ribble Ultra SL R Seatpost (10mm lay back) and a Selle Italia SLR Boost saddle – the magnificent machine will be auctioned to raise funds for TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors).
Sasha Castling, Head of Marketing & PR at Ribble Cycles commented:
The 80th D-Day anniversary gave our in-house product, design and paint teams a fantastic opportunity to create a unique bike to mark this incredible date. The Armed Forces Cycling Classic is a landmark race in the US cycling calendar and this year will feature two allied forces-inspired designs - the P-51 Mustang-inspired design with its striking yellow nose and metallic silver fuselage for American rider Cole Davis who will be joined by Matthew Bostock riding the British Spitfire inspired Ultra on the start line alongside their fellow RIBBLE REBELLION riders. Working with Rob at Armed Forces Cycling Classic, we got to understand just what a special event this was. It’s our first time at this race and being invited is such a huge privilege. To mark this occasion, the P-51 Mustang Ultra SL R will be auctioned for TAPS helping to raise awareness and funds for their outstanding work and dedication.
Cole Davis of RIBBLE REBELLION commented:
I’m over the moon to be racing the ‘Mustang’ at Armed Forces. When I first saw the paint scheme on it, I was hoping that the bike would ‘mysteriously disappear’ after the race and end up in my garage somehow! After learning about how the bike will be headed to auction after the race, I couldn’t be happier and feel more proud. As athletes, we have a spotlight and I think we often forget how to use it. With the money going towards TAPS, it feels like we are able to make an impact in something much bigger than ourselves. I cannot imagine the sacrifices that the military families have made, but I have the upmost respect for them and appreciate all that they do to keep us safe. This project also has given me an additional sense of pride to be a part of our team. Being the only American in the roster, I would not have expected us to raise money to help benefit but I love that we are doing it!
"I am so proud and honored to be working with Ribble on this special, one-of-a-kind custom bike auction! It was such a serendipitous effort, as they are honoring the D-Day Anniversary. What better way to do this than at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic”, Robert Laybourn, Founder and Organizer of the 26 Edition of the Armed Forces Cycling Classic, presented by The Boeing Company.
The Armed Forces Cycling Classic is on the 1st and 2nd June and will feature 5 RIBBLE REBELLION riders.
More info on AFCC and TAPS auction here.
