Van Rysel Unveils Lightweight RCR-R Pro Road Bike
The new carbon fiber model features the brand's lightest frame design to date.
1Official Product Launch
Van Rysel has officially unveiled its new RCR-R Pro and RCR-R road bike models. These bikes were previously spotted as prototypes during the Tour de France and Il Lombardia earlier this year. The official public debut is currently taking place at the Rouleur Live event held in London this weekend.
2Engineering and Development
The development process spanned two and a half years, incorporating feedback from the Decathlon CMA CGM professional cycling team. Engineers utilized computational fluid dynamics and wind tunnel testing to refine the design. The team tested thirteen CFD prototypes and seven distinct frame layups before finalizing the production version of the bike.
3Record Breaking Frame Weight
The RCR-R Pro features a specialized mix of super high modulus carbon fiber. This construction results in a claimed weight of 705 grams for a size medium frame, marking it as the lightest frame Van Rysel has ever produced. The standard RCR-R model uses high-modulus carbon, weighing 883 grams for the same size.
4Aerodynamic Performance Gains
Van Rysel also developed a new aerodynamic water bottle and cage system for the bikes. Testing indicates a potential saving of up to 6.3 watts at a speed of 45 km/h compared to previous generations. These components will be released separately, though their use in professional racing depends on existing team sponsorship agreements.
5Professional Rider Validation
Rider Paul Seixas provided critical input during the development phase, testing prototypes throughout the season. Seixas highlighted the bike's improved stability during high-speed descents, noting confidence is essential when exceeding 100 km/h. His solo victory at Il Lombardia served as the ultimate validation for the new frame's performance capabilities and handling characteristics.
6Build Options and Weights
The RCR-R Pro will be available with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, Ultegra Di2, SRAM Red, and Force groupsets. Complete bike weights for a medium size range from 6.6kg to 7.1kg depending on the configuration. The RCR-R model offers more accessible options, including SRAM Force, Rival, and Shimano Ultegra or 105 Di2 builds.
7Market Availability Details
Consumers can purchase the new bike range starting from January 5, 2027. Pricing for the various models will span from €3,299 up to €8,499. While specific model pricing remains unannounced, the company plans to release a detailed technical white paper providing further specifications before the official market launch date early next year.
8Strategic Market Positioning
By categorizing the RCR-R Pro as a lightweight aerodynamic road bike, Van Rysel targets riders seeking versatility across varied terrains. The design focuses on balancing front-end stiffness with rear-end flex to improve rider comfort. This launch signifies the brand's continued commitment to integrating professional racing feedback into their high-end consumer product lineup.
Original article: Cyclingnews — Van Rysel Unveils Lightweight RCR-R Pro Road Bike