Tom Ritchey has been riding off-road and riding far – and designing products for such adventures - decades before anyone thought to call it “gravel riding” or “bikepacking.” His real-life experiences directly inform every product made by Ritchey – such as the beloved VentureMax handlebar. With its short reach, shallow drop and purposeful flare, the original VentureMax offers comfort and confidence to legions of riders looking to settle in and have some fun on those dirty drop bar adventures.

Like the original, the Classic VentureMax is influenced by those life experiences, but some adds new features – continuing to inspire riders to chase gravel and other mixed-surface adventures. Adding a touch of stylish sophistication with its high-polish silver finish, the Classic VentureMax features round tops, while drilling for a Shimano EW-RS910 junction box expands the adaptability of the WCS VentureMax.

Multiple hand positions are key for comfort and confidence on any ride, and the Classic VentureMax offers plenty of options there – especially with its wide 24° flare at the drops. But it’s the return of the Bio-bend in the drop that adds yet another design element that is practical and comfortable for whatever surface you choose to ride upon and for however long your adventure endures.

Tech Specs

Materialdouble-butted 6061 alloy

Bend shapebio-bend

Top sectionround

Width40, 42, 44, 46cm

Drop102mm

Reach76mm

Drop flare24°

Flare out6°

Back sweep6°

Clamp diameter31.8mm

Accessory mount diameter31.8mm

Clip-on compatibilitylimited

Weight310g (42cm) 

Colorhigh-polish silver

Logic Features

Round Top

A top with a traditional and minimalist shape, size and weight.

Bio-Bend

An ergonomic bump in the drops that supports the curvature of the palm to dissipate pressure.

Tech Drawing