CGR AL Sportfit Apex XPLR AXS
A versatile flat bar aluminium bike that’s ready for anything. SRAM Apex XPLR AXS wireless shifting makes gear changes easy, with the range you need for roads, paths and light trails.
SPORTFIT Bikes
Flat Bar Bikes for Comfort and Control
The SPORTFIT range combines the ride and performance of our best-selling bikes with the control of a flat bar.
Designed for riders who want a more upright and confident position, SPORTFIT bikes are more advanced than a traditional hybrid. They deliver the speed and capability of a road or gravel bike, with comfort and versatility that make them ideal for commuting, exploring or heading off the beaten track.
WHAT IS SPORTFIT?
SPORTFIT takes best-selling platforms and transforms then into flat bar bikes.
You get the same performance frames and all surface capability, with a more upright position for added confidence and control. Going beyond what you can expect from a traditional hybrid, bringing a set-up that is right for you to everyday riding.
Greater stability and control on mixed terrain, without losing the DNA, tyre clearance and mounts you’d find on our drop bar versions.
WHO IS SPORTFIT FOR?
Every road bike frame starts with one goal: turn power into smooth, efficient motion. Our engineers refine geometry, materials and integration to balance comfort, stiffness and weight.
- Leisure riders who value comfort and confidence to explore trails and countryside.
- All riders who want electric assist to go further, longer and to fall back in love with cycling.
- Commuters who want more confidence and control, with practical mounts for racks and mudguards.
- Gravel explorers taking on mixed lanes, towpaths and bridleways at their own pace.
- Fitness riders building miles without chasing numbers, looking for an easy to live with setup that keeps rides enjoyable.
SPORTFIT VS DROP BAR COMPARISON
SPORTFIT
- Flat bar, upright position for visibility and confidence in traffic and on rougher lanes.
- Extra stability and easy low speed control on mixed surfaces.
- Same frames, tyre clearance and mounts as drop bar counterparts, so you keep the versatility.
Drop bar
- Lower, more aerodynamic position that can feel faster on the road.
- Multiple hand positions for long days and varied terrain.
- Preferred by riders who prioritise speed, efficiency and classic road feel.
Suspension Fork Upgrade
Adding suspension forks to your SportFit bike can further enhance comfort and control when riding.
They help reduce fatigue in the arms and shoulders - absorbing bumps and vibrations whether you're on a gravel path or a potholed road.
SPORTFIT Bike Guides
WHAT IS SPORTFIT? AND WHO IS IT MADE FOR?
Not every rider wants to be locked into the aggressive position of drop bars. Some prefer the confidence and control of a flat-bar setup, without sacrificing the performance and versatility of a high-quality frame.
ROAD VS GRAVEL VS ALLROAD VS CGR VS SPORTFIT: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Buying a new bike is exciting – but with so many categories, it can feel like you’re learning a new language. Road, Gravel, Allroad, CGR, SPORTFIT… what’s the difference?
Frequently Asked Questions
A SPORTFIT bike is Ribble’s take on the flat bar road and gravel concept. They use the same award-winning frames as our drop-bar bikes, but with a flat handlebar and more upright riding position. This gives you more comfort, control and confidence compared to a traditional road or gravel setup.
Unlike a standard hybrid, SPORTFIT bikes are based on high-performance road and gravel platforms. They’re lighter, faster and more capable, with modern gearing, disc brakes and frame designs optimised for real-world riding. A hybrid is best for short leisure rides, while a SPORTFIT can handle commuting, fitness riding and weekend adventures.
Yes. The upright position, flat bar control and option for racks, mudguards and wider tyres make SPORTFIT bikes ideal for commuting. They’re quicker and more efficient than a typical hybrid, and tougher for all-weather, year-round use.
It depends on where you ride most. Multi-Surface SPORTFIT bikes are best if you spend more time on tarmac with occasional light trails. Gravel SPORTFIT bikes lean further off-road, with geometry and tyre clearance for rougher terrain and bike packing.
Yes. More riders are choosing flat bar road and gravel bikes for their mix of speed, comfort and control. They’re especially popular with commuters, new riders who don’t want drops, and anyone who values stability and visibility without losing performance.
Can I Get a SPORTFIT Bike on Cycle to Work?
You can get a Ribble SPORTFIT bike through Cycle to Work to spread the cost and save on tax. We also offer flexible finance so you can ride now and pay later.
Learn more about Cycle to Work and finance options on our support page.
Explore the Ribble SPORTFIT Range
From versatile all-rounders to adventure-ready builds, the SPORTFIT range gives you the choice to ride your way:
- Multi-Surface SPORTFIT Bikes: designed to handle tarmac, paths and light trails with comfort and control.
- Gravel SPORTFIT Bikes: built for off-road adventures, with stable geometry and clearance for wider tyres.
