Is Standert Worth The Hype? - Kreissäge RS

Summary

In this in-depth review of Standard's Chrysuga RS, an aluminium racing bike, the presenter explores its high-end build and premium price. With a handmade Italian frame, scandium-enhanced aluminium tubing, and top-tier components like Dura Ace and Scope Rtech wheels, this bike is both stiff and fast, yet lacks comfort over bumps. While the bike’s modern design and trendy aesthetics may appeal to some, the high price and minimal customization options may deter others. Ultimately, it’s a stylish, high-performance bike that's perfect for cyclists who appreciate premium design, but the value proposition may not be for everyone.

Takeaways

• 🚲 The Standard Chrysuga RS is a high-end aluminium racing bike from a Berlin-based brand, handmade in Italy using Da Aegis scandium alloy tubing.
• ⚡ The bike is very stiff, offering a fast, race-ready feel, but the stiffness results in some harshness on the road.
• 💰 The frame-only price is €2,000 in the EU, with complete builds starting at €6,299, reflecting its premium materials and design.
• 🛠️ Modern geometry balances racing and endurance characteristics, with steep seat tube angles for improved riding position and small size availability.
• 🎨 The bike features stylish design elements like soft pink color, small cat ‘Easter eggs,’ and attention to detail in packaging.
• 🛞 Wide tire clearance (up to 35 mm) improves comfort despite the stiff aluminium frame.
• 🔧 Practical design includes disc brakes, threaded T47 bottom bracket, Garmin mount, and various adjustment options, though handlebar widths are limited.
• 💎 Scandium alloy makes the frame stronger, lighter, and more expensive, justifying part of the high cost.
• ⚖️ The bike is ideal for riders who value aesthetics, craftsmanship, and boutique brand experience rather than purely cost-effective performance.
• 🤔 Reviewer’s opinion is mixed: the bike is high-quality and visually appealing, but very expensive and slightly harsh, making it a style and performance choice rather than a purely functional one.
• 🏆 Compared to competitors like Massacan and Specialized Alloy Sprint, the Chrysuga RS stands out for its unique design, small-company ethos, and thoughtful packaging.

Q & A

What is the Standard Chrysuga RS bike, and what makes it unique?

The Standard Chrysuga RS is a Berlin-based influencer brand's racing bike made primarily from aluminium with some scandium added for improved properties. It is handmade in Italy, features modern geometry, wide tire clearance, and high-end components, making it both visually appealing and performance-oriented.

What materials are used in the Chrysuga RS frame and why?

The frame is made from Da Aegis aluminium tubing with scandium added. Scandium is a rare earth element that strengthens the aluminium, allowing for thinner, lighter, and stronger tubes, which improve the overall performance and stiffness of the bike.

What components and specifications are featured on this top-spec model?

This bike includes a UDH Dura-Ace groupset, Scope Rtech wheels, Pirelli P Zero Race 30mm tires, a bladed carbon fork, and a one-piece Polymer handlebar and stem. It also comes with a Garmin mount and bottle cage, but no pedals.

How much does the bike weigh and how does it ride?

Despite expectations of around 4 kg, the bike weighs 7.55 kg. It rides stiffly and feels fast, transferring power efficiently, but this stiffness also creates some harshness on rough surfaces.

Why is the bike considered expensive?

The high cost is due to the premium Da Aegis aluminium with scandium, handmade Italian craftsmanship, marketing, aesthetic appeal, and high-end components. A frame set costs around €2,000, while complete builds start at €6,299.

What makes the geometry of the Chrysuga RS suitable for different riders?

The bike has modern geometry with steep seat tube angles, a long and low frame, and seven sizes ranging from 48 to 60 cm. This provides comfort and performance while accommodating smaller riders and maintaining good handling.

How does the bike compare to other alloy and carbon bikes in comfort?

Being an aluminium frame, the Chrysuga RS is stiff and less comfortable over bumps compared to carbon bikes. However, its wide tire clearance mitigates some harshness, making it more comfortable than typical narrow-tire setups on high-end carbon bikes.

Who is the ideal rider for this bike?

The bike suits riders looking for a fast, stiff, and durable racing bike that also incorporates modern design elements. It’s good for those who value craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, and possibly race at a high level, but who can tolerate alloy frame harshness.

What are some practical design features included in the bike?

The bike includes a threaded T47 bottom bracket, a round seat post, modern disc brakes, wide tire clearance, and thoughtful packaging for direct-to-consumer delivery. Small details like cat motifs add aesthetic charm.

How does the bike’s packaging and delivery stand out?

Standard designed excellent packaging for direct-to-consumer shipping. The bike comes in a manageable box with handles and holes, a built-in stand, and careful protection, arguably better than brands like Canyon.

What are some critiques or downsides mentioned about the bike?

Some welds on the frame are not as refined as other high-end alloy bikes. The stiff aluminium frame transmits more vibration, and shifter positioning may be uncomfortable until adjusted. Handlebar width options are limited to 36 cm and 38 cm.

Are there alternatives to the Chrysuga RS for similar alloy road bikes?

Yes, alternatives include the Massacan brand, which offers handmade Italian frames with a rock-and-roll vibe, and the Specialized Alloy Sprint, which is stiff and racy but less unique in aesthetics.