Neither inventions nor risks, the setup with which Van Aert conquered Roubaix

Wout van Aert conquered the Paris-Roubaix 2026 with a lesson in power, technique, and strategy, but additionally he did it with a technical setup contrary to what many consider essential in the Hell of the North. His victory was not supported by a radical bike or experimental solutions, but rather by a setup very close to what he usually uses during the season.

What tires and setup did Van Aert use to win the Paris-Roubaix?

The Belgian triumphed in the velodrome after beating Tadej Pogačar with a Cervélo S5 that, beyond minor adjustments, maintains the same base he uses in WorldTour races. In a context where more specific setups for Roubaix are increasingly seen, his bet was precisely the opposite, reducing variables and prioritizing familiar sensations.

The tires, the key point of modern Roubaix

The point where fine work was done was in the wheel and tire set. Van Aert competed with Vittoria Corsa Pro TLR in 32 mm size, a choice that has already established itself in the peloton as a reference for Roubaix.

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The key was how they actually behaved on his rims. The combination of a front wheel Reserve 42 with a wider internal width (25.4 mm) and a slightly narrower rear Reserve 49 created a different balloon effect on each axis. In front, the tire gained volume and approached 34 mm, which improves stability and absorption in the roughest sectors. In the back, it remained somewhat more contained around 33 mm, favoring efficiency when the race accelerates and avoiding space issues with the frame itself.

This millimetric difference between both axes responds to a very clear logic. More security in the wheel that guides the trajectory and greater speed in the one that transmits the power.

Another relevant aspect was the decision not to glue the tire to the rim. While some riders still resort to that solution in Roubaix, as if they were tubulars, Van Aert preferred to maintain the tubeless system without that addition. The reason is practical. In case of pressure loss or impact, the system can reseal more easily.

Transmission and mechanical setup

The setup followed the same conservative line. He used a SRAM Red AXS group in a single chainring configuration with a 56-tooth chainring. An aggressive choice that fits with the increasingly high pace of the race and the trend to simplify the transmission in scenarios where chain jumps or mechanical problems can be decisive.

The team continues to work with wax-treated chains, a solution increasingly widespread in the WorldTour for its efficiency and lower friction in dry or mixed conditions.

An aero bike adapted for the cobbles

In terms of position, Van Aert maintained his characteristic low and compact adjustment. The integrated handlebar of the S5 is aligned with the top tube, reinforcing that aerodynamic posture that he did not sacrifice even on such a demanding course.

In the rest of the bike, there are details that reflect how far small gains are sought, such as the Prologo Choice saddle with a carbon structure and 3D printed padding adapted to the rider.

He also resorted to Wahoo Speedplay pedals, known for their low profile and for integrating small solutions that favor airflow.

Technology without excesses, but fine-tuned to the limit

Against more risky or specific configurations for the cobbles, Van Aert opted for a known base optimized to detail. There are no revolutionary elements, but rather a sum of very fine-tuned decisions that fit with the recent evolution of Roubaix.

The increase in tire width, the efficiency of tubeless systems, and the improvement in frame absorption have reduced the need for specific bikes for the cobbles. In that context, his S5 demonstrates that today it is possible to win the toughest race on the calendar without stepping outside the concept of a commonly used aero bike.

Main specifications

• Frame: Cervélo S5
• Transmission: SRAM Red AXS 1x with 56-tooth chainring
• Wheels: Reserve 42 (front) and Reserve 49 (rear)
• Tires: Vittoria Corsa Pro TLR 32 mm (34 mm front, 33 mm rear)
• Pedals: Wahoo Speedplay
• Saddle: Custom Prologo Choice
• Cyclocomputer: Garmin Edge 850