New Van Rysel Road Bike: Review of the Van Rysel RCR F

The new Van Rysel road bike— the RCR F—is turning heads in the cycling world. If you’re into pure aero performance, sprint dominance, and cutting-edge design, this bike might just have your name on it.

Developed in close collaboration with the aerodynamics experts at Swiss Side, the RCR F doesn’t just look fast—it is fast. With its sleek, modern silhouette and optimized tube shapes, it brings serious watts-saving benefits to the table.

In this article, we’ll dive into what sets this machine apart, how it stacks up against other top-tier road bikes, and whether it’s the right ride for your goals—whether you're chasing podiums, Strava segments, or just your next cycling adventure.

So grab your helmet, clip in, and let’s roll!

Presentation of the RCR-F Pro and RCR-F2 Pro Models

Looking for a high-performance road bike with top components and a sleek design? Whether you're chasing your next personal best or just love the feeling of speed on two wheels, the RCR-F Pro and RCR-F2 Pro models deliver pure performance. Here's a quick overview of their specs so you can find the one that fits you best:

My take on the Van Rysel RCR-F and RCR-F2 Pro

Pure speed meets smart engineering

When I first heard about the Van Rysel RCR-F and RCR-F2 Pro, I was curious—but after diving into the specs and testing them out, I’m honestly impressed. These bikes aren’t just designed to look fast—they are fast. Developed together with the aero-experts at Swiss Side, the new frame and cockpit have been fine-tuned to cut through the air.

To give you an idea: the RCR-F is said to be 13 watts faster than the original RCR at 45 km/h. That’s a noticeable boost, especially when you're pushing on flat roads or sprinting for the line. And with a 7% increase in front-end stiffness, it feels sharp and reactive—exactly what I want on quick descents or out-of-the-saddle efforts.

High-end performance without the high-end price

What really stands out for me is the value. Both the RCR-F and RCR-F2 Pro come specced with top-tier components—think Shimano Di2 shifting and Swiss Side HADRON² wheels—without reaching the price point you’d expect for that level of kit.

The RCR-F2 Pro, for example, comes in at just 7.5 kg (size M) and feels incredibly nimble and light on the climb. It's a real performance machine, but one that doesn’t force you to empty your wallet. That balance between cutting-edge tech and affordability is rare, and it’s what makes these bikes such a smart pick for anyone chasing performance without compromise.

Design and aerodynamics of the RCR F

When we talk about the new Van Rysel road bike, we definitely can’t ignore its design. One of the first things you’ll notice about the RCR F is its sleek, aerodynamic structure designed for speed.

The collaboration with Swiss Side

Developed alongside Swiss Side, the RCR F taps into extensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind tunnel testing to achieve its design prowess. Gone are the days of cumbersome frameworks; now we have a bike that cuts through air like a hot knife through butter. The aero tube shapes have taken a serious upgrade with the UCI’s 8:1 tube shape ratio which enhances the bike’s aerodynamics significantly.

Improved aero cockpit

The one-piece aero cockpit is another cherry on top of this performance cake. Built in collaboration with DEDA, it features a unique curved design and saves a whopping 13.6 watts at speeds of 45 km/h compared to the RCR. To illustrate, that’s about 90 seconds saved on a 268 km course with an elevation gain of 2250 m. You could practically order a pizza and have enough time to finish it before crossing the finish line at that rate.

Let’s face it—one of the key reasons we ride is to impress other cyclists, right? You’ll look as aerodynamic as you’ll feel on this beauty. Remember to check out buycycle for the latest deals—because looking good while riding shouldn’t break the bank!

Handling and comfort of the new Van Rysel

One of the standout features of the new Van Rysel road bike is its attention to rider comfort without compromising performance.

Ergodrops: A unique touch

The drops incorporate what Van Rysel calls Ergodrops, which nicely fill the hollows of your hands, ensuring that your grip is always comfortable whether you're hitting that sprint or tackling a sharp turn. Special features like a 12-degree flare on the drops make for better stability and allow you to comfortably position yourself for those high-speed sprints. Seriously, it’s almost like the bike is telling you, “Don’t worry, I got you!”

Rider position optimization

Van Rysel did their homework on rider posture as well. They discovered that a 90-degree elbow angle combined with resting forearms on the top of the cockpit is the most aerodynamically efficient position. As a result, the RCR F’s geometry is ever so slightly more aggressive than its sister model, the RCR.

But, let’s be real here, while the setup is optimal, you can’t customize the cockpit width for individual frame sizes. So, if you’re looking for that perfect fit, consider how this will play into your buying decision. But hey, if your friends say you’re too picky, just throw in a classic cycling joke about saddle sores and they’ll back off!

Weight and stiffness of the RCR F

Now, let’s talk about the numbers that cyclists love: weight and stiffness. The new Van Rysel road bike has been engineered to maximize speed while keeping things light.

A solid construction

The RCR F harnesses a blend of super high-modulus and high-modulus carbon fiber for its frame, making it 7% stiffer at the front end compared to the RCR. The frameset weighs in at just 1.42 kg in size M. This is fantastic engineering! In comparison to competitors, such as the Canyon Aeroad at 7.07 kg and the Cube Litening Aero at 7.4 kg, the RCR F holds up well without compromising performance.

With the fully built top-tier model clocking in at 7.5 kg with a Dura-Ace groupset, I’d say you’re getting a solid deal for an aero bike in this price range. With prices starting around €5,499 and peaking at €9,499, this bike certainly makes a statement—just like that time you accidentally waved at a fellow cyclist who turned out to be a total non-cyclist!

Price and variations of the Van Rysel machine

When considering the new Van Rysel, understanding the pricing structure is essential, especially if you’re planning to invest in a bike that offers both performance and aesthetic value.

5 Best road bikes in 2025 | buycycle

Explore the best road bikes of 2025 for every cyclist, from budget-friendly picks to high-performance models built for speed.

buycycle BlogAlice Huot

Different variations for cyclists

The RCR F comes in three variations, distinguished mainly by their groupsets and wheels. Every model features the breathtaking deep 65mm Swiss Side Hadron wheels and is complemented by a powermeter and GP5000 tires. That's likely enough to make your wallet weep silently, but when you feel the wind on your face while riding, it all becomes worthwhile!

Shrugging off budget concerns about cycling, lower pricing on pre-owned bikes can certainly help lighten that load. You might just find what you’re looking for over at buycycle.

AG2R’s choice for the Tour de France

There’s a reason why AG2R La Mondiale chose the Van Rysel RCR-F as their official bike for the Tour de France. Built for pure performance with no compromises, this bike is a true racing machine. It features the ultra-aerodynamic Van Rysel RCR Pro frame—developed in collaboration with ONERA, the renowned French aerospace lab known for its work on the Rafale fighter jet. For the first time ever, ONERA shared its aerodynamic expertise with a cycling brand, and the result is impressive.

The setup includes a fully integrated DEDA Combo cockpit, SWISS SIDE HADRON² Ultimate wheels paired with Continental GP5000 S TR tires for maximum grip and rolling efficiency, and the high-end Shimano DURA-ACE Di2 R9200 electronic groupset. Top it off with a fi’zi:k saddle, and you’ve got a pro-level bike made to conquer the toughest stages of the World Tour.

Should you buy the RCR F?

The big question on everyone’s mind: is the latest Van Rysel road bike the right choice for you?

Perfect for speed enthusiasts

If your cycling style is about achieving maximum speed and conquering flat terrains with ease, then this bike was made for you! It’s designed to dominate sprint finishes and will give you the edge over competitors. Bike racing is a sport of inches, and those seconds really do count.

Consider your riding preferences

However, if your rides frequently take you up steep climbs or to the majestic mountains, you might want to weigh other options, like the RCR-R instead. This gives you a more rounded experience that can handle diverse terrains instead of just focusing on pure speed.

But hey, every person’s cycling journey is different. Whether you’re a speed demon or a leisurely cyclist, finding the right bike should equip you with a ride that complements your style. While you're contemplating these choices, continue exploring the amazing deals on buycycle.

Shop for the new Van Rysel road bike!

Cycling is a dynamic sport filled with excitement, speed, and, of course, a few laughs along the way. And one thing is for sure—the Van Rysel RCR F delivers on all fronts, promising impressive performance coupled with state-of-the-art design.

Make your next bike purchase right and consider shopping on buycycle. You can find stellar bikes just like the RCR F at competitive prices. Or, if you’ve been thinking about upgrading, why not sell your current bike on buycycle? It’s a win-win situation!

So get out there and enjoy the ride, but be sure to come back to check out buycycle's inventory on your quest for the perfect cycling companion. Whether you ride to race or just for fun, there’s a perfect bike waiting for you! Happy cycling!