The Van Rysel NCR CF Apex is an unbeatable Allroad with electronic shifting

That all eyes are on the spectacular Van Rysel RCR Pro like the one Ben O'Connor is using to lead much of La Vuelta 2024 makes other machines from the Decathlon catalog go unnoticed, some of them with a tremendously interesting proposal like the Van Rysel NCR CF Apex for those looking for an all-road bike that allows them to do practically everything, even small nods to gravel. A machine that we can already purchase on the Decathlon website for an unbeatable price.

Versatility at the best price with the Van Rysel NCR CF Apex

The NCR acronym that Decathlon uses to name this Van Rysel stands for Neo Racer or, as they explain when describing it, a bike halfway between purely endurance models and their more sporty bikes. This is what in most catalogs has been called Allroad, that is, bikes that fill the gap that a few years ago was filled by gran fondo bikes and that are perfect for the cyclist who doesn't care about speed but does spend endless hours on the bike with maximum comfort possible without giving up a similar handling to that of sporty bikes.

Furthermore, new Allroad bikes like this Van Rysel NCR CF Apex nod to gravel by having wide tire clearance, in the case of this bike 35 mm, a size that, at the beginning of gravel riding, was common and more than enough to pedal confidently on tracks.

Among the qualities of this Van Rysel NCR CF Apex, its elaborate carbon frame must be highlighted, which weighs 1,200 g, a very achieved figure for a bike of these characteristics, where robustness and comfort are prioritized.

However, the best thing about this bike is how Decathlon has equipped it, with an electronic groupset, in this case, the entry-level model from the SRAM range, the Apex AXS, which allows us to have a cutting-edge 12-speed transmission. Seeking simplicity, although not common in Allroad models, this Van Rysel NCR CF Apex opts for a single chainring configuration, choosing a 46-tooth chainring as it is more oriented towards road use. Along with its 11-44 cassette, we have a wide range of gears to tackle any terrain and smooth transitions thanks to its 12 speeds. As always, when using a single chainring bike, we have the option of changing chainrings for different uses. Changing the chainring is a matter of minutes.

The last remarkable feature of this bike is the wheels that Decathlon has chosen, the reliable Fulcrum Racing 3 DB compatible with tubeless systems. To set them up tubeless, we just need to remove the factory inner tube, install the supplied tubeless valves, add sealant, and mount the Hutchinson Override 700x35 Tubeless Ready tires. These semi-slick tires allow us to pedal smoothly on asphalt and provide enough grip when riding on dirt tracks.

The best part is that a complete bike like this has a price that is practically unbeatable. €2,399.99.

Van Rysel NCR CF Apex: Technical Specifications

• Price: €2,399.99
• Weight: 8.75 kg
• Frame: 100% Carbon
• Groupset: SRAM Apex AXS. 46T chainring, 11-44 cassette
• Wheels: Fulcrum Racing 3 DB
• Tires: Hutchinson Overide 700x35c
• Handlebar: Van Rysel Aluminum
• Stem: Van Rysel Aluminum
• Seatpost: Van Rysel Aluminum
• Saddle: Van Rysel Sportlight 900