Bike model comparison
Genesis Croix de Fer vs Ribble CGR
An honest, data-led look at how the Genesis Croix de Fer and Ribble CGR compare on price, ride, resale and what UK riders actually buy.
Overview
Two British takes on the do-everything drop-bar bike. The Croix de Fer is Genesis's steel adventure bike and something of a UK institution, ridden as a tourer, a commuter, a gravel bike and a winter hack. The CGR is Ribble's answer, sold direct and offered in more than one frame material. Both are built to carry luggage, clear mudguards and cope with surfaces a road bike would not.
At a glance
Quick verdict
speed
Ribble CGR
comfort
Genesis Croix de Fer
versatility
Tie
value
Ribble CGR
The Croix de Fer is the better loaded tourer and the nicer steel bike to own; the CGR is lighter and quicker for the money. Touring against pace.
- Pick the Croix de Fer for loaded touring, year-round commuting and the forgiving steel ride.
- Pick the Ribble CGR for a lighter do-it-all bike and a choice of frame material.
- The Croix de Fer holds value notably well, so used ones cost more than you might expect.
- On any used steel frame, check for corrosion around the bottom bracket and chainstays.
Feature by feature
Feature comparison
| Feature | Genesis Croix de Fer | Ribble CGR |
|---|---|---|
Frame material CGR gives you the choice | Steel | Offered in several materials |
Ride feel Croix de Fer is the classic steel ride | Steel spring and forgiveness | Depends on the frame you pick |
Buying Genesis is easier to try before buying | Bike shops | Direct online |
Load carrying Both are properly equipped for it | Racks, guards, bags | Racks, guards, bags |
Decide
Which is best for you?
Choose Genesis Croix de Fer if...
- Touring and loaded riding
- Riders who want steel
- Commuting year round
- A single bike that does everything
Choose Ribble CGR if...
- A lighter, quicker do-it-all
- Buyers happy to order online
- More spec for the money
- Choosing your own frame material
Community
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Croix de Fer or Ribble CGR better?
The Croix de Fer is the better tourer and the nicer bike to own if you like steel, with a forgiving ride and a long history of people riding them everywhere. The CGR is lighter and quicker for the money and gives you a choice of frame material. Pick the Genesis for loaded touring, the Ribble for pace.
Can you tour on both?
Yes. Both take racks, mudguards and bags, and both are used for exactly that. Steel is the traditional touring choice because it rides forgivingly under load and can be repaired almost anywhere, which is why the Croix de Fer has the stronger reputation for long trips.
Which is better used?
The Croix de Fer holds its value notably well, so expect to pay more for a used one. The CGR is the keener used buy. Check the frame carefully on any steel bike of this age, particularly around the bottom bracket and the chainstays where road salt collects.
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