Test cycling shortsVan Rysel EDR Ultra - price hit from Decathlon

Stefan Frey

 · 16.06.2025

For just 120 euros, Van Rysel's EDR Ultra road bike shorts are a solid pair of shorts with clever fetaures and a modern design
Photo: Georg Grieshaber

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Decathlon is known for its attractive offers. The Van Rysel EDR Ultra Bib Short is no different. 120 euros for a pair of high-quality cycling shorts? Sounds tempting. But will the Van Rysel leave as positive an impression in the saddle as it does on your bank account? Our test clarifies.

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The French outdoor giant Decathlon is also really stepping on the gas in cycling. Not only do the French company now have their own team taking part in the Mountain Bike World Cup. They also develop their own MTBs and cycling clothing at prices that would make many a high-end manufacturer sweat.

With the Road bike shorts EDR Ultra Decathlon is now targeting endurance cyclists with its own Van Rysel brand. We wanted to know whether they would be well advised to wear the 120 euro trousers.

Sophisticated design and high-quality seat cushion

At first glance, the Van Rysel is certainly convincing, because like the significantly more expensive models, it also features seamless leg ends and wide, seamless straps. The French also provide high-quality padding from Elastic Interface. But that's not all: the EDR Ultra has a total of three pockets for stowing provisions or equipment. The two slash pockets on the thigh are even laser-cut. We also like the feel of the velvety soft fabric of the Van Rysel.



Discreet laser-cut pockets on the thighs keep bars and small items within easy reachPhoto: Georg GrieshaberDiscreet laser-cut pockets on the thighs keep bars and small items within easy reach

Slight disillusionment when putting them on. The fabric has little stretch and sits a little flabby on the skin, even though the waistband reaches far up and wraps the wearer nicely. The zip pocket on the back is inconveniently positioned and pinches a little. Excess material accumulates in the crook of the leg when pedalling

We were less convinced by the back pocket. Although it is still easy to reach, it is a little uncomfortable to wearPhoto: Georg GrieshaberWe were less convinced by the back pocket. Although it is still easy to reach, it is a little uncomfortable to wear

Less pressure-resistant seat cushion

The pad is also not optimally positioned and could be a little further forwards. Otherwise, there is a risk that you will no longer rest on the saddle in the area with the most support. The padding is also one of the softest in the test and is noticeably saggy on long rides. For most cyclists, the Van Rysel is therefore more likely to be a good choice for the home lap than for setting a new long-distance record.

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The pad only offers optimum support in a narrow area - be careful with wide sit bone distances. Also not very pressure-resistantPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe pad only offers optimum support in a narrow area - be careful with wide sit bone distances. Also not very pressure-resistant

Van Rysel cycling shorts road bike short EDR Ultra - Info & Price

  • Price: 119,99 Euro >> available here
  • Weight (L): 198 grammes
  • SizesS - 3XL
  • Made in: Albania
  • Equipmentseamless straps and cuffs; mesh back; 3 pockets
  • Upholstery Length/width/hardness: 22.5 cm / 14 cm / soft
  • Leg length (from trochanter major): 32 cm

Evaluation & conclusion

Pleasant material unfortunately with little elasticity; somewhat soft seat cushionPleasant material unfortunately with little elasticity; somewhat soft seat cushion

These affordable trousers from Decathlon come with all the latest features such as seamless straps and cuffs. They are made from a very comfortable, soft material, although it lacks a little stretch. The cut is not ideal, which means that the Van Eysel EDR Ultra has noticeable creases around the hips. Pleasant: The trousers close very high. The padding is very soft, somewhat narrow and positioned quite far back.

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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