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Van Rysel has announced the launch of three new performance-focused road helmet models with the arrival of RCR, FCR and the XCR.
At launch, the brand points to designs optimised for delivering higher performance, and enhanced safety – common elements shared by three distinctly different helmets.
RCR: The Air Jet
The RCR helmet has been designed for cyclists looking for a lightweight design with optimal ventilation.
Using ultra-lightweight materials (claimed weight 270g), the RCR features eight large air intake points with seven output points, designed to deliver comfort, even on long rides.
The shape of the helmet, and its construction, are optimised for maximum airflow. Keeping the cyclist’s head cool and dry – no matter the weather conditions – the RCR’s intelligent, variable, ventilation system has been strategically designed to adapt to the cyclist’s position. This, the brand claims, means that the helmet can keep the cyclist cooler during ascents in the vertical position, without creating drag during descents at full speed.
The RCR complies with the globally recognised European safety standard EN1078, and is fit adjustable with a dial mechanism for ease of use, even while riding. A MIPS Air Node technology-equipped version of the RCR is also available.
FCR : The Aero
The FCR features five air intake points with three deep internal channels, with air intake points which have been positioned in high-pressure zones, where they won’t affect the helmet’s aerodynamics.
Backing this claim, the brand points to “rigorous wind tunnel testing by Swiss Side, a partner of Van Rysel and Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale.”
Delivering optimal airflow and minimal drag, FCR has been designed for cyclists focused on aero gains to optimise performance.
Weighing in at just 290g, the FCR helmet provides good ventilation, paired with a lightweight design thanks to its In-Mould structure. The FCR is also available in a MIPS Air Node technology-equipped version.
The FCR helmet was designed in parallel with the PERF 900 and PERF 900 Light cycling glasses, offering cyclists an ingenious attachment system – Flip and Clip.
The glasses’ legs fit perfectly to the helmet and stay securely in place, regardless of the speed or terrain, even when flying over the infamous cobbled paths of Northern France in the Paris-Roubaix.
XCR : The WaTTest
The XCR helmet delivers peak aerodynamics, specially designed for going up against the clock.
Developed using digital simulations and wind tunnel testing, the XCR minimises aerodynamic drag.
Designed in collaboration with the aerodynamics experts at Swiss Side, this helmet has been meticulously developed to deliver extremely high performances, even when up against headwinds and angles of up to 10°, as well as speeds of 45 km/h and above.
The higher the speed, the closer the wind impact gets to 0°, regardless of its direction or force. This helmet has been optimised for use with aerobars when the cyclist’s head is positioned looking straight ahead.
The ventilation of XCR has been designed with a system of removable covers, positioned in a high-pressure zone to create an airflow that won’t impact the helmet’s aerodynamic performance.
Two interchangeable, magnetic, visors are available (categories 0 and 3). Riders can also remove the visor to easily attach it to the top of the helmet at the end of a race.
Testing protocols and standards
In order for a helmet to be approved by European standards, it has to complete and pass 6 random impact tests.
Van Rysel helmets are only approved once they have successfully passed testing with 40 to 60 impacts – 10 times more than the European standard requirement.
At launch, Nicolas Pierron, founder and CEO of Van Rysel, comments: “We’re delighted to unveil this new helmet range, which reflects our unwavering commitment to cyclists’ safety and performance”,
“Each model has been developed with strong characteristics that will meet the needs of different types of cyclists, from passionate amateurs to elite athletes, such as those on the three Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale teams.”
AvailabilityÂ
The FCR will be available for general sale from 17 June 2024, whilst the full RCR and FCR range is now available at Decathlon, both in stores and online. The XCR model will be released in September 2024.
