GRAVEL
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Written with ❤️ by
Hugo
With this new connected RCR smart trainer, Decathlon continues to establish itself as a serious player in the indoor training market.
Priced at €798.99, it combines high output, low noise, native Zwift support and even a self-powered mode rarely seen at this price point.
🚀 In brief:
Decathlon’s RCR smart trainer is priced at €798.99 and delivers up to 2,800 W of power with ± 1% accuracy.
It simulates gradients up to 27% and operates quietly at 56 dB.
Native integration with Zwift, compatible with Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo drivetrains, plus a self-powered mode.
Behind its understated design, the smart trainer RCR packs performance to rival far pricier units. It can deliver up to 2,800 W of power and simulate gradients of 27%, with a claimed accuracy of ± 1%.
All that at a contained noise level of 56 dB, roughly equivalent to a quiet conversation.
Weighing 20 kg, it takes 26 to 29 inch wheels (700C) and covers most axle standards on the market: QR 130/135 mm and TA 142/148 mm.
One of the RCR’s strengths is its native integration with the Zwift ecosystem.
The Zwift Cog, a fixed 14-tooth sprocket, replaces the traditional cassette and makes it directly compatible with most Shimano, SRAM or Campagnolo drivetrains (8 to 12-speed). It’s also ideal if you want to pair it with a Zwift Ride.
Resistance changes are managed via the Zwift Click, a small Bluetooth controller to mount on the handlebar. Two buttons (+ and -) provide access to 24 resistance levels, delivering smooth virtual shifting.
For purists wanting to keep a conventional cassette, the smart trainer remains compatible with Shimano/SRAM 8-12 speed cassettes and XDR freehub bodies (optional).
Another distinctive feature: the self-powered mode.
From the first pedal strokes, the RCR generates its own power to drive the motorised resistance and data transmission.
In practice, this lets you train without a power socket, whether in a garage, a cellar or even outdoors.
Plugged into the mains, the smart trainer also enables a realistic downhill simulation, reproducing the freewheel sensation when you stop pedalling, a rare touch, even among high-end models.
When it comes to outright performance, the RCR makes a strong case:
These figures put it directly up against benchmarks like the Wahoo Kickr Core 2 or the Elite Direto XR-T, while still coming in under €800.
For racers and virtual-competition fans, the RCR offers an optional Ethernet connection ensuring minimal latency and optimal responsiveness.
This wired connection, combined with Bluetooth FTMS and ANT+ compatibility, guarantees stable synchronisation with Zwift, TrainerRoad or Onelap Fit.
The smart trainer also features a built-in heart-rate bridge and a 36 W USB-C port to charge an external device during your session.
The RCR is compatible with most iOS, Android, Mac and PC devices, and firmware updates are carried out wirelessly via the Onelap Fit app.
It also provides access to advanced functions such as automatic resistance adjustment and downhill simulation.
The Van Rysel RCR smart trainer marks a clear step up for Decathlon.
With its 2,800 W, native Zwift compatibility and operation without external power, it clearly shakes up the mid-range segment (€700 – €1,000).
On paper, this RCR ticks many boxes: quiet, fully featured, and well priced.
A credible alternative if you want to train seriously at home without blowing your budget.
| Maximum power (watts) | 2800 |
|---|---|
| Maximum gradient simulation (%) | 27 |
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