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Last week, Philippe Pronier, a cycling enthusiast and loyal customer of the Rayon Vélo store in the Val d'Oise, had the exceptional opportunity to test ride one of the most coveted bikes of the season: the Colnago V4RS. This iconic model—the same one ridden by world No. 1 Tadej Pogacar—was made available by the store as part of a one-time promotion, offering a select few the chance to experience this exceptional racing machine firsthand. Speaking for 3Bikes, Philippe Pronier shares his impressions of this extraordinary bike and the Rayon Vélo initiative, which sparked his dreams of becoming a champion.
By Jean-François Tatard – Photos: DR
“The V4RS is more than a bike—it’s a dream machine,” Philippe Pronier declares right off the bat. Tested for the first time on Friday, October 4, this Colnago had piqued his curiosity for quite some time. “I wanted to evaluate its overall performance, but above all, understand why it’s so coveted,” he explains. Known for its extreme maneuverability, the V4RS demands precise handling: “Its steering is ultra-responsive and precise; the slightest input makes it react. It’s demanding, but the level of control it offers is unmatched.”
This isn’t a leisure bike, but a racing bike, designed for those seeking pure performance. “Comfort is secondary here—it’s not a bike for leisurely rides—but that’s part of its charm. You immediately feel driven to push yourself.”
Performance That Lives Up to Expectations
The prestige of the V4RS is inextricably linked to Pogacar and his achievements. Philippe Pronier admits: “It’s hard not to imagine yourself—even for just a moment—as Pogacar.” On climbs, descents, and tight turns, the bike excels. “It’s incredibly stable and light. On accelerations, it responds immediately, without the slightest delay. When standing up, it’s balanced, and the rear end follows with perfect precision.”
"When riding for power and speed—especially in time trial mode—the V4RS proves to be a true racing machine. With impressive stability, it can truly be considered a missile on the road. The choice of 28-mm tires is also essential for ensuring a minimum level of comfort, even at high speeds.”
On his own bike, a Scott Foil, Philippe Pronier is used to top-tier performance. However, the V4RS took him to the next level. “I wouldn’t say it’s night and day, but the difference is noticeable. You feel a power and handling that require experience to be fully harnessed—it’s a bike you have to master.”
Exceptional Technology and Workmanship
Philippe makes no secret of his admiration for the V4RS’s build quality. “The finish is worthy of a master craftsman. The bottom bracket is perfectly sized, the fork is extremely precise, and the seat stays, though slender, ensure impeccable rear stability.” He also mentions the reliability of the components, such as the electronic derailleurs and disc brakes: “The front derailleur maintains perfect chain alignment, and the brakes are smooth, progressive, yet incredibly effective.”
An experience that inspires dreams
For Philippe Pronier, Rayon Vélo’s initiative to make such prestigious models available is a privilege. “Being able to test such an exceptional model changes your perspective on cycling; it’s a way to dream, but also to learn.” He emphasizes the importance of this type of event for strengthening the bond between customers and brands.
And while he’s completely won over by the V4RS, he adds a suggestion to make the experience even more rewarding: “Ideally, we’d be able to keep the loaned bike longer, for rides of 90–100 km. That would allow us to get a better sense of its full potential.”
In conclusion, Philippe Pronier admits that the experience has reignited his dream of owning an exceptional bike like the V4RS. “If I could, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second!” he jokes, referring to a discussion with his wife about “freeing up the necessary funds.”
Philippe Pronier promises to return to the store, determined to test other models. For him, as for any enthusiast, it’s an opportunity to get closer to the magic of elite cycling, to feel the momentum that propels champions. “That’s what really matters: feeling that excitement and that sense of exclusivity. Thank you to the store for this opportunity!” And so ends the bike test ride—but not the dream of a passionate amateur, who leaves with a taste of excellence and the promise of continuing the experience, perhaps with another bike, before making a final decision and completing the purchase.
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