If you’ve been dreaming of an electric bike that can handle the daily commute with ease, then transform into a trusty steed for weekend gravel explorations, your search might be over. Decathlon has just officially launched the new Van Rysel E-GRVL AF Discover across Europe, a versatile e-bike that aims to be the one-machine solution for a huge range of cyclists.
Positioned as the latest addition to the growing E-GRVL AF family, the Discover model slots in alongside the more performance-focused E-GRVL AF HD Mahle X35 bikes released earlier this year. But where its siblings lean towards the racier end of the spectrum, the Discover has a different, more accessible mission.
The "Swiss Army Knife" on Two Wheels
Decathlon isn't mincing words with its new release. They’re boldly calling the Van Rysel E-GRVL AF Discover “the Swiss Army knife of electric bikes,” and a quick look at its spec sheet and features shows why. This isn't a niche machine; it's built for the real world.
Whether your goal is to replace the car for everyday errands, embark on a multi-day bikepacking trip, or simply rediscover the joy of riding without being intimidated by steep hills, the Discover is designed to be up for the task.
Power and Range: The Heart of the Adventure
At its core, the E-GRVL AF Discover is powered by a Decathlon-branded brushless 250W motor, neatly fitted into the rear wheel. This hub-drive system delivers a solid 35 Nm of torque, providing a natural-feeling push that assists you up to the standard European limit of 25 km/h (around 16 mph).
You can tailor that assistance to your needs or the terrain with three distinct modes: Eco for maximum range, Tour for balanced riding, and Sport for when you need a bit of extra oomph on a climb or a headwind.
The companion to the motor is a removable 360 Wh battery. Decathlon estimates a potential range of up to 100 km (approximately 60 miles) on a single charge, a figure that should cover most daily needs and a solid day of gravel grinding. When it’s time to recharge, a full top-up from empty takes about 4.5 hours. The fact that the battery is removable is a huge plus for security and convenience, allowing you to charge it indoors without dragging the whole bike inside.
Built for the Long Haul: Key Components and Features
A great e-bike is more than just a motor, and the Van Rysel E-GRVL AF Discover comes equipped with a thoughtful selection of components that inspire confidence on varied surfaces.
- Drivetrain: It features the modern and reliable Shimano Cues 1x11 transmission. The single chainring up front simplifies gear changes and reduces maintenance, while the 11-speed cassette at the back provides a wide enough gear range for everything from fast flats to grinding climbs.
- Braking & Tyres: Safety and control are handled by Shimano RS405 hydraulic disc brakes with 160 mm rotors, offering consistent and powerful stopping power in all weather conditions. It rolls on versatile Vittoria Terreno T30 tyres, a popular choice in the gravel world for their smooth center ridge and capable side knobs, perfect for mixed-terrain adventures.
- The Cockpit: On the handlebar, you’ll find a clear 2-inch Ergo 920 TFT color screen that displays all the essential ride data at a glance: current speed, selected assistance level, and crucially, the remaining range in kilometers. It’s worth noting that this display does not offer Bluetooth connectivity, keeping the focus squarely on the ride itself rather than smartphone integration.
- Ready to Ride, Day or Night: The bike comes fully equipped for practical use, with a 60 lux front light and an integrated rear light, both powered by the main battery. The assistance level can be easily toggled using remote control buttons on the handlebars for added safety.
With an aluminum frame and a fork made from a blend of carbon and aluminum, the size Medium model tips the scales at 17.7 kg (around 39 lbs). It’s a respectable weight for a fully-featured, value-focused electric gravel bike.
For those ready to take the plunge into electric gravel adventures, the new Decathlon Van Rysel E-GRVL AF Discover e-bike is now available to purchase directly online.
You can find the new model, for example, in a stylish khaki colourway at Decathlon's Dutch website.
Pricing and Availability
The E-GRVL AF Discover is now available across mainland Europe. Interestingly, there's a slight price variation depending on the country. In the Netherlands, the bike is priced at €2,299.99, while in other major markets like France and Spain, it carries a price tag of €2,199.99.
As of now, Decathlon has not announced any plans or a timeline for a release in the United Kingdom, leaving UK-based gravel enthusiasts to watch on with keen interest.
With its compelling blend of practical features, a reliable groupset, and a competitive price point, the Van Rysel E-GRVL AF Discover is poised to become a major player in the accessible e-bike market, proving that adventure truly is for everyone.
