Unveiling Paul Seixas's Van Rysel RCR-Pro Prototype at the Tour de France

Emerging French cycling prodigy, Paul Seixas, has been observed competing on what appears to be a pre-production model of the Van Rysel RCR-Pro. This advanced machine has made appearances at both the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and the prestigious Tour de France. Despite attempts by our photographers to glean details from the Decathlon CMA CGM cycling team mechanics at the Grand Départ in Barcelona, information regarding the bike remains undisclosed. Nevertheless, the prototype shares a strong resemblance to the existing RCR-Pro all-rounder model and subtly displays the brand's 'Road-Aero-Light' designation within its frame's internal structure.

Reflecting modern aerodynamic trends in bicycle engineering, the new RCR-Pro prototype integrates Van Rysel's cutting-edge, high-modulus carbon fiber material. Distinctive features include a more pronounced and sharply angled head tube, complemented by fork legs that gracefully narrow towards the dropouts. The top tube exhibits a more linear profile, while the rear section is distinguished by a slender seat tube that closely follows the contour of the rear wheel, paired with redesigned seat stays positioned lower than previous iterations. Furthermore, despite the bike's capacity to accommodate wider tires, Seixas, aligning with a prevalent trend among riders, has chosen to equip his prototype with 28mm Continental GP5000 S TR tires, mounted on Swiss Side Hadron 3 Ultimate 550 wheels.

As a team sponsored by SRAM, Seixas's Van Rysel is outfitted with a Red AXS groupset, featuring a 54/42T chainring setup, a 10-33T cassette, and 170mm crank arms, alongside Look Keo Blade Ceramic Ti pedals. The Decathlon CMA CGM team uniquely utilizes Deda Elementi components, with Seixas's bike showcasing a custom integrated cockpit paired with a 140mm stem, notably elevated by 150mm of spacers. The bicycle is completed with a Fizik Vento Antares 00 saddle for comfort and minimal weight, Elite Leggero Carbon bottle cages, and a 3D-printed race number holder. An intriguing detail is the butyl inner tube wrapped around the right fork leg, serving to secure a transponder.

This prototype underscores the continuous innovation in competitive cycling, emphasizing how technological advancements contribute to peak performance. Seixas's choice of equipment, from the highly engineered frame to precise componentry, highlights the relentless pursuit of speed and efficiency in professional racing. It reflects a dynamic synergy between rider needs and cutting-edge engineering, inspiring advancements across the sport.