bike upgrades I don’t regret making

About

The rider upgraded the stock gearing on his Van Rysel RCR Pro from 52/36 chainrings and 11-30 cassette to a 50/34 and 11-34 cassette for easier climbing, later switching to Carbon-Ti 50/34 chainrings for weight savings and aesthetics. He replaced the stock Shimano Ultegra C36 wheels with Mavic MVCS 4.5s featuring a 25mm internal width for better comfort and tire support, running 30mm Continental tires tubeless at 56–58 PSI. Custom 3D-printed extensions on the Di2 shifters improve button actuation with gloves, and silicone inserts in the bar drops enhance grip ergonomics during sprints.

Key points

Drivetrain Modifications

• Switching to an 11-34 cassette reduced effort on long climbs in hilly regions like the Peak District and mountainous areas in Spain [01:31]
• Installing Carbon-Ti 50/34 chainrings provided a 1:1 gear ratio for steep ascents and saved weight over the stock Ultegra setup [01:46]

Wheel and Tire Setup

• Mavic MVCS 4.5 wheels with hookless design and 25mm internal width allow 30mm Continental tires to run wider (~32mm), improving ride quality on rough UK roads [04:51]
• Running tubeless tires at 56 PSI front and 58 PSI rear contributes to a smoother, more comfortable ride over long distances [05:03]

Ergonomic Enhancements

• 3D-printed buttons over the Di2 shifters increase leverage and tactile feedback, making shifts more reliable when wearing gloves [06:22]
• Silicone inserts installed inside the drop section of the handlebars create a thicker, more secure grip for sprinting and sustained holding [07:14]

Promo

https://www.instagram.com/daaaanjj/
https://www.tiktok.com/@daaaanjj
https://www.strava.com/athletes/39635109