The all-out-aero Ridley Noah Fast 3.0: A closer look at Uno-X Mobility Women’s Tour Down Under race bike

Key Takeaways:

• Ridley launches the Noah Fast 3.0, its fastest bike to date.
• Uno-X Mobility women’s team debuts the bike at the Tour Down Under.
• Anouska Koster’s bike features a mixed drivetrain setup.
• Unconventional handlebar setup suggests a focus on fit over aerodynamics.
• Component choices imply the team may purchase rather than be fully sponsored.

Ridley’s New Speed Machine Takes Center Stage

Ridley has unveiled the latest addition to its lineup of high-performance bicycles—the Noah Fast 3.0. Claimed by the brand to be the fastest bike it has ever produced, this aerodynamic marvel is set to make waves in the professional cycling world.

Debut at the Tour Down Under

The 2025 race season is off to an exciting start as the Tour Down Under provides a premier stage for teams to showcase new equipment. The Uno-X Mobility women’s team has seized this opportunity to debut the Ridley Noah Fast 3.0, highlighting their commitment to cutting-edge technology and performance.

Anouska Koster’s Unique Bike Setup

Rider Anouska Koster’s bike offers a fascinating glimpse into the team’s equipment choices. Her Noah Fast 3.0 is equipped with a slightly mixed drivetrain setup. While Shimano Dura-Ace forms the core of the groupset, it is augmented with an aftermarket CeramicSpeed Oversized Pulley Wheel (OSPW) at the rear. Additionally, an FSA power meter replaces the standard Dura-Ace chainset.

A Closer Look at the Components

The combination of Shimano’s reliability with CeramicSpeed’s high-performance OSPW suggests a strategic approach to maximizing efficiency. The use of an FSA power meter may indicate a preference for specific data tracking capabilities not available in the stock chainset. These choices hint at the possibility that the team is acquiring components individually rather than relying solely on full sponsorships from manufacturers.

Wheels and Tyres for Speed

Koster’s bike is fitted with DT Swiss ARC 1100 wheels, known for their aerodynamic design and responsiveness—critical features for competitive racing. Paired with Vittoria Corsa Pro tyres, this setup aims to deliver optimal speed and grip on the demanding courses of the professional circuit.

Balancing Aerodynamics and Rider Fit

One of the most intriguing aspects of Koster’s bike is her choice of a Deda standard stem and Zero 100 handlebar. This decision appears to diverge from the hyper-aero intentions of the Noah Fast 3.0, which typically features the fully integrated Ridley Nimbus aero bar. The selection of standard components may prioritize rider comfort and fit over marginal gains in aerodynamics.

“We aren’t sure whether this simply provides a better fit for her,” the original report notes, “or whether she is still getting to grips with the new bike before she fits the fully integrated Ridley Nimbus aero bar that comes stock with the bike.”

Implications of Equipment Choices

The team’s blend of components underscores the nuanced decisions professional cyclists and their support crews make when balancing equipment performance, sponsorship arrangements, and personal preferences. These choices can have subtle but significant impacts on race outcomes, especially when fractions of a second can determine victory.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, the performance of the Ridley Noah Fast 3.0 under the Uno-X Mobility women’s team will be closely watched. The integration of customized components may offer valuable insights into the evolving strategies teams employ to gain a competitive edge. One thing is certain: Ridley’s new speed machine has already made a powerful statement in its debut, and enthusiasts will be eager to see how it shapes the races to come.