The ride cymbal has a wide range of expression.  These are the different sounds a drummer can make; struck on the tip of stick on the outer cymbal, tip of stick on middle, tip of stick on the bell, edge of stick on outer cymbal, on middle, and on bell.  On top of this there are different angles and trajectories that alter the sound.  www.westlondon-drumtutor.com
From West London Drum Tutor. drum lessons in Harrow, Greater London, UK