Price cracker at Decathlon: Three new smart trainers with Zwift integration from Van Rysel
TOUR
· 01.12.2025
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Van Rysel is expanding its Smarttrainer portfolio with three new models that are tailored to different needs. All feature the integrated Zwift Click & Cog system for precise resistance control.
Van Rysel Smarttrainer: three models for different requirements
Van Rysel is launching a new indoor trainer series that covers three different performance classes. The models D100, D500 Link and RCR all utilise the new Zwift Click & Cog system for direct resistance control in the virtual training environment. Nicolas Devred, Product Manager Home Trainers at Van Rysel, explains the concept: "We have developed this series with a clear goal: to provide every cyclist - regardless of level - with the best possible support for indoor training." The revised design of all three trainers relies on improved sensors for greater precision and better connectivity to training apps.
The pre-assembled cog system significantly reduces set-up time. Riders only need to place their road bike on the trainer and can start training immediately. The dual control of the Zwift Click & Cog system allows both operation via the training app and direct adjustments on the handlebars. All three models have foldable legs that reduce the space required after training. This design takes into account the limited space available in many households and also makes the trainers suitable for smaller homes.
Van Rysel RCR: Maximum performance for professionals
The RCR forms the top end of the new Van Rysel series and is aimed at riders with the highest demands on precision and realism. With a maximum output of 2800 watts, it also covers the sprint performance of professional racing cyclists. The gradient simulation reaches 27 per cent and thus enables training on steep mountain climbs such as the Mortirolo or the Angliru. The measurement accuracy of ±1 per cent corresponds to the standards of professional training devices and enables precise performance analyses.
According to "Rennrad-Angaben", the RCR generates authentic road feedback that simulates the riding characteristics of different surfaces. This technology transmits vibrations and changes in resistance directly to the bike and enhances the feeling of realism during indoor training. The folding legs reduce the amount of space required after training without compromising stability during intensive sessions. The retail price is 799 euros and positions the RCR in the premium segment of direct drive trainers >> e.g. available here.
Van Rysel D500 Link: Precision for ambitious riders
The D500 Link is aimed at regular riders who want to complete structured training sessions with precise performance data. The maximum output of 1500 watts covers the requirements of most ambitious road cyclists and enables intensive interval training. The gradient simulation reaches 15 per cent and thus realistically reproduces most mountain passages. With an accuracy of less than 2.5 per cent, the D500 Link provides reliable power measurements for training control >> available here.
The integrated Zwift Click & Cog system works identically to the RCR model and enables seamless resistance adjustments during virtual rides. Connectivity supports all common training apps via ANT+ and Bluetooth connections. The price of €399 positions the D500 Link in the mid-range and makes precise indoor training accessible to a wider range of riders. The foldable construction and the pre-assembled cog system simplify assembly and storage considerably.
Van Rysel D100: Entry into networked training
The D100 is the entry-level model in the Van Rysel indoor trainer series and is aimed at riders who want to try networked training for the first time. Although no specific performance data is available, Van Rysel emphasises the simple and intuitive operation of the entry-level model. The D100 is particularly suitable for building basic endurance without complex technical settings. The Zwift Click & Cog system also works with this model and enables participation in virtual group rides.
The simplified operation makes the D100 the ideal choice for riders who want to experience indoor training without the technical hurdles. The pre-assembled cog reduces set-up time and allows you to start training immediately after assembly. The foldable legs save space and make the trainer practical for occasional use. Van Rysel is positioning the D100 as an entry-level model that can later be upgraded to more powerful trainers in the series >> available here.
Zwift Click & Cog system in detail
The new Zwift Click & Cog system is at the heart of all three Van Rysel trainers and revolutionises operation during virtual rides. The system consists of a special sprocket (Cog) on the trainer and a handlebar controller (Click) that enables direct resistance adjustments. This dual control works in parallel with the app-based control and gives riders more control over their training. The pre-assembled cog eliminates time-consuming cassette assembly and makes it easier to switch between different bikes.
The technology enables seamless resistance management during Zwift rides and other virtual training platforms. Riders can adjust climbs and sprints directly via the handlebar controller without interrupting the training app. The system supports all common 8-, 9-, 10-, 11- and 12-speed groupsets and eliminates the need for separate cassettes. Compatibility extends to road bikes, gravel bikes and mountain bikes with corresponding thru-axle standards.
Construction and space requirements
All three Van Rysel trainers use foldable legs, which significantly reduce the space required after training. This design takes into account the space problems of many households and makes indoor training possible even in smaller homes. The legs can be folded in and out without tools and still guarantee a high level of stability during intensive training sessions. The compact design after folding allows storage under beds, in cupboards or basements.
The revised design of all models is based on improved materials and optimised weight distribution. Van Rysel has revised the sensor technology and promises greater precision in power measurement and better connectivity to training apps. The direct-drive design eliminates tyre wear and reduces operating noise compared to roller trainers. The pre-assembled cog system reduces set-up time from several minutes to a few seconds and makes spontaneous training sessions possible.
Price positioning and availability
Van Rysel is positioning the new trainer series in three different price segments to appeal to different target groups. The RCR costs 799 euros and competes with premium trainers from established manufacturers such as Wahoo, Tacx and Elite. The D500 Link is priced at 399 euros and is aimed at the growing segment of ambitious hobby riders. For the D100 Van Rysel has not yet named a price, but is positioning it as an entry-level model below the D500 Link.
The pricing reflects Van Rysel's strategy of making indoor training accessible for different budgets. The RCR offers professional features at a price that is significantly lower than comparable competitor products. The D500 Link makes precise power measurement and Zwift integration accessible to riders who previously relied on simpler roller trainers. The tiered pricing structure enables upgrades within the Van Rysel family and creates customer loyalty across different performance classes.
Technical specifications of the roller trainers from Decathlon
Van Rysel RCR
- Maximum power: 2800 watts
- Slope simulation: up to 27 %
- Accuracy: ±1 %
- Price: 799 Euro >> available here
- Special features: Folding legs, authentic road feedback
Van Rysel D500 Link
- Maximum power: 1500 watts
- Slope simulation: up to 15 %
- Accuracy: < 2.5 %
- Price: 399 Euro >> available here
- Special features: Structured training sessions, precise performance data
Van Rysel D100
- Target group: Beginners to networked training
- Focus: basic endurance without technical hurdles
- Price: 249 Euro >> available here
- Special features: Simple operation, pre-assembled cog system
All models
- Zwift Click & Cog system integrated
- Folding construction for space-saving storage
- Pre-assembled cog for immediate start of training
- Compatibility: ANT+ and Bluetooth
- Supported shift groups: 8-12 speed
