Harry Kooros
We’ve been riding in Decathlon’s Van Rysel kit for the past few months, having recently put their RCR-F MIPS helmet and EDR road shoes through their paces.
Now, we’ve turned our attention to the rest of the outfit, testing the RCR-R jersey and bib shorts alongside Van Rysel’s 500 Winter Gloves.
The appeal is obvious: the three-piece combination costs less than $250. That’s considerably less than you’d expect to pay for comparable gear from many of cycling’s established premium brands.
But price is only half the story. After several weeks on the bike, does Van Rysel’s performance-focused range actually deliver where it matters?
RCR-R 5 cycling shorts
Bib shorts are one area where spending a little more can make a noticeable difference, and the RCR-R 5 sits towards the performance end of Van Rysel’s range.
They have a close Pro Fit cut and a lightweight feel, with minimal bulk and no internal seams to cause irritation. Silicone grippers around the thighs keep them firmly in place, while the compression is noticeable without feeling restrictive.
The real test, though, is the pad.
Van Rysel uses an Elastic Interface RCR 2.5 HD pad, with high-density foam and perforations for support and breathability. Decathlon rates it for rides of up to five hours.
Out on the bike, the RCR-R 5 is largely forgettable – which is exactly what you want from a pair of bibs. They stay put, there’s very little movement and the pad remains comfortable without needing any adjustment.
I tested the Concrete Grey colour, which is a nice change from the seemingly endless sea of black bib shorts.
At $119.99, they’re not the cheapest bibs in Decathlon’s range, but the RCR-R 5 feels like a genuine performance option rather than a budget compromise. They’re not the most comfortable bibs I’ve ever worn, but for the price, the quality is high.
RCR-R jersey
The RCR-R jersey takes the same performance-first approach, with a distinctly race-oriented fit.
It’s very close-fitting, so this isn’t a relaxed summer jersey. Once you’re on the bike, though, the cut makes sense. The fabric sits neatly against the body, while the elasticated sleeves and rear hem keep everything in place.
The white version I tested looks sharp, although keeping it clean is another matter.
Mesh panels on the sides help with ventilation, while three rear pockets, a zipped valuables pocket and additional side pockets give you plenty of storage.
On the road, it’s light, breathable and stays firmly in place. The fit is more race-focused than your average mid-range jersey, although it’s not quite as refined as some of the more expensive options I’ve worn.
At $122.99, it’s not the cheapest jersey in Van Rysel’s range, but it offers a lot of performance for the price.
RR 500 Thermal Cycling Gloves
The wildcard of the group, the RR 500 Thermal Cycling Gloves are a much simpler proposition.
They’re designed to keep your hands comfortable on cooler rides, and that’s exactly what they do. There’s enough insulation to take the edge off chilly mornings, while the windproof outer and water-repellent finish offer some protection when conditions turn unpleasant.
The touchscreen-compatible fingertips are a useful addition, letting you use your phone without taking the gloves off.
The bright yellow colour is the standout feature, adding a welcome splash of colour to the otherwise restrained grey and white kit. It also gives you a little extra visibility on the road.
At $22.99, they’re an easy addition to a winter cycling wardrobe and a good value option for cooler-weather riding.
Verdict
The RCR-R jersey is the standout of the three. It’s light, well ventilated and genuinely performance-focused, with a close fit that works particularly well when you’re riding hard.
The RCR-R 5 shorts are also impressive, combining a quality Elastic Interface pad with a secure fit and low weight. They’re well suited to longer rides, although they’re not the most comfortable bibs I’ve worn.
The RR 500 gloves are less ambitious, but they’re practical, inexpensive and add a useful layer of warmth.
Taken together, the three pieces cost just $242.97, and the fact they come from Decathlon doesn’t mean you’re getting budget-level performance.
The RCR-R range doesn’t quite match the refinement of the best kit costing $500 or more, but it gets surprisingly close in performance for considerably less money. For riders looking to put together a capable kit without spending big, that’s a pretty compelling proposition.
Prices
Van Rysel RCR-R 5 cycling shorts (Concrete Grey): $119.99
Van Rysel RCR-R jersey (White): $99.99
Van Rysel RR 500 Thermal Cycling Gloves (Yellow): $22.99
