The Van Rysel XCR time trial bike is now on sale

The Van Rysel XCR time trial bike arrives at Decathlon stores, one of the most anticipated bikes and similar to the ones used by Decathlon-AG2R La Mondiale cyclists. A machine that, like the Van Rysel RCR Pro road bikes, has benefited from collaboration with SwissSide to achieve maximum aerodynamic performance. Of course, at an unbeatable price that could make it a perfect alternative for long-distance triathlon enthusiasts.

Van Rysel XCR, Decathlon's speed machine now available

The time trial bike market is somewhat limited. These are very specific bikes that are often quite expensive and are mainly acquired by long-distance triathletes, a sport where aerodynamics are essential for achieving results. Also, to a lesser extent, high-level master cyclists sometimes get one of these bikes for the few time trial competitions that take place.

It is true that in other countries like Great Britain, time trial competitions at a popular level are much more common, although it remains a limited market, so Decathlon's daring to launch a bike like this Van Rysel XCR is commendable. It features a frame like the one used by the professionals of Decathlon-AG2R La Mondiale and a setup that includes the exquisite SwissSide Hadron2 wheels, with larger profiles than its road counterpart, more suitable for the performance sought in a time trial bike. Specifically, 62.5 mm for the front wheel while the rear goes up to 80 mm.

Another essential parameter in a time trial bike like this Van Rysel XCR is the adjustability so that the cyclist can pedal in the most aerodynamic and effective position. In this case, a handlebar provided by Deda is used, highlighting the fixation with a single block of the aerodynamic extension. A set that can be adjusted in length, height, and width. Of course, being the same model used by Decathlon-AG2R La Mondiale, both the bike and the handlebar comply with UCI regulations to be used in road competitions.

Finally, in terms of the groupset, Decathlon has opted for Shimano's top-selling Ultegra Di2, with performance and weight very close to the top-of-the-range Dura-Ace, and obviously with shifters on both the handlebar and the end of the extensions. This choice allows the price of this bike to be kept low and is very attractive, especially considering the average price of other time trial models, €7,499.99, which will surely make it a very popular model among triathletes.

Van Rysel XCR: technical specifications

• Price: €7,499.99
• Weight: 8.5 kg
• Frame: High modulus carbon
• Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2. Chainrings 52/36, cassette 11-34
• Wheels: SwissSide Hadron2 Ultimate 625 and 800
• Tires: Michelin Powercup Tubeless Ready 700x25c
• Handlebar: Deda Jet One
• Saddle: Fizik Transiro