Van Rysel has just presented the RCX II Pro “North Star” Edition, a cyclocross bike built to be the best performing of the Decathlon brand. It is a limited edition of only 100 pieces and designed for competitions, with an ultra-high modulus carbon frame, tubulars and a livery designed not to go unnoticed.
Ultra high modulus frame and fork
To build the most “bad” CX bike in their history, the developers at Van Rysel used Super High Modulus carbon fibers for both the frame and the forkThis material has allowed for increased rigidity, especially in the most stressed areas such as the bottom bracket shell, a fundamental feature for a racing bike. All this with a weight increase of only 66 grams compared to to the previous model RCR II, which used “simple” high modulus carbon.
Another improvement over the past is the introduction of the Zipp SL70 carbon handlebar and ZIPP SL Speed carbon seatpost, for a total weight of the bike which stands at 7,35 kg in size M (without pedals, of course). The cable routing is still semi-integrated for now, waiting for Van Rysel to launch a real integrated cockpit.
“Stellar” coloring
A limited edition is also characterized by aesthetic details. The RCX II Pro “North Star” wants to be a flash of light in the darknessà, a new benchmark in the firmament of mud racing.
The front of the frame is painted in a very bright silver-grey, which gradually fades to become ink black on the backThe logos on the frame, fork and rims are reflective, to further highlight the shine effect.
Wheels and tubulars, pure cross style
As proof of its competitive vocation, the RCX II PRO North Star is equipped with high-end wheels and tubulars. The wheels are the DUKE Baccara X-Machine carbon for tubulars, specific for the CX. They have a 27,6 mm wide channel which allows for better stability of the tubulars on all terrains and conditions.
Tubulars are a point of reference in the world of cyclocross, i Dugast 33mm Typhoon, with 100% cotton casing, low rolling resistance and great handling when cornering.
Transmission and price
The RCX II PRO North Star is assembled with the SRAM Force AXS 12-speed groupset, with a 40mm single chainring and a 10-33mm cassette, a rather small scale which demonstrates once again that this is a racing vehicle.
The choice not to mount a top of the range groupset – albeit a reliable wireless one like the Force AXS – is probably due to the desire to maintain the most competitive price possible, in true Val Rysel styleThe RCX II PRO North Star is available now. on the company website a 5.499 €.
