Lapierre Road Bikes Face-Off: Xelius vs Aircode - Which Rides Better? [2025]

Torn between two French beauties? You're not alone! 🇫🇷

The Lapierre Xelius vs Aircode decision has cyclists scratching their heads worldwide. Here's the thing: both bikes are absolute stunners with completely different personalities—kind of like choosing between a nimble mountain goat and a sleek cheetah.

Lapierre's been crafting race-winning machines for over 75 years. We're talking about bikes that have carried riders to wear all four jerseys in the Tour de France and mount podiums at the Giro d'Italia, Olympic Games, and beyond. Pretty impressive credentials, right?

So what's the deal with these two models?

The Xelius SL is a climber's dream—we're talking an incredibly light 845g medium frame (almost 100g lighter than its predecessor). This thing practically floats uphill! Meanwhile, the Aircode DRS is all about slicing through the wind with its fully integrated cockpit and internal cable routing that screams "aerodynamic efficiency."

Here's something cool: the 2022 Aircode DRS actually improved comfort by 12% through clever engineering that connects the seat stay with the top tube. Who says aero bikes can't be comfortable?

The stats that matter:

• Xelius SL: Weapon of choice for Grand Tour contenders like Thibaut Pinot and David Gaudu, with six models available (monthly payments from £74.97 to £219.98)
• Newer Xelius DRS: Just launched in October 2024, weighs only 7.36kg, fits tires up to 32mm wide
• Aircode 500: Tips the scales at 16.73 lbs (7.58kg), costs $4,700, and delivers exceptional stiffness compared to the Xelius

Whether you're hunting mountain passes or chasing sprint victories on flat roads, the right Lapierre can totally change your riding game.

Ready to dive deep into this French face-off? Let's break down exactly how these two premium machines differ and help you figure out which one matches your riding style and goals! 🚴‍♀️

Design Philosophy: Aero vs Climber DNA

Here's where things get really interesting—these two French machines couldn't be more different if they tried!

Think about it this way: Lapierre's engineers basically asked themselves two completely different questions. For the Xelius, it was "How do we make this thing fly uphill?" For the Aircode, it was "How do we slice through wind like a hot knife through butter?"

The results? Two totally distinct design philosophies that'll blow your mind.

Frame Geometry: Aggressive vs Balanced Setup

The Aircode DRS doesn't mess around with its geometry—this thing means business! With a more extended reach and steeper seat angle [9], it plants you in a seriously forward-leaning position that's all about aerodynamics and raw power output. Picture this: you're practically lying on the bike, creating the smallest possible frontal profile to cheat the wind.

The Xelius SL takes a completely different approach. Sure, it's still race-oriented, but it offers a slightly more forgiving, balanced geometry that won't have you feeling like a pretzel after 50 miles. This setup keeps you responsive on climbs while maintaining rock-solid stability when you're bombing down descents.

What's really cool? The progressive head angle (ranging from 72° to 74° depending on frame size) gives the Xelius its distinctive sprightly character—especially noticeable when the road tilts upward [1].

Aerodynamic Focus: Drag Reduction System in Aircode

Time to get nerdy about the Aircode's wind-cheating wizardry! 🌪️

Lapierre's proprietary Drag Reduction System is basically a masterclass in making air your friend instead of your enemy:

• Truncated NACA airfoil cross-sections that make the bike 13% faster in straight headwinds and 5% faster at 10° yaw angles compared to the previous Aircode SL [10]
• Modified frame geometry that tucks you into the perfect aero position
• Streamlined headtube-fork integration that guides airflow like a Formula 1 car
• D-shaped seatpost for minimal drag

But here's the kicker: despite all this aero obsession, the Aircode DRS still delivers impressive stiffness through the bottom bracket. Even better? Lapierre actually improved comfort by 12% by connecting the seat stay with the top tube [9]. More comfort and better aerodynamics? That's some serious engineering magic right there!

Climbing Optimization: 3D Tubular Design in Xelius

Now this is where the Xelius gets really interesting—its innovative 3D Tubular concept completely flips traditional bike design on its head.

Instead of doing what everyone else does (attaching seat stays to the seat tube), Lapierre said "Hold my coffee" and extended them to connect under the top tube [3]. Sounds weird, right? But this unconventional approach delivers three game-changing benefits:

First: It disperses road vibrations between your saddle and handlebars, making those epic climbing sessions way more comfortable.

Second: It frees up the seat tube to flex along its entire length—hello, additional comfort!

Third: It saves weight by using less carbon fiber in areas where you don't need the extra material [3].

But wait, there's more! The Xelius SL3 doesn't just climb like a mountain goat—it's also gotten some serious aero upgrades. Wind tunnel testing showed it's 8.5% more aerodynamic than its predecessor across all wind angles [3]. At 50km/h, this translates to 12 watts saved with a 0° wind angle and 15 watts saved at 10° and 20° wind angles [3].

Pretty impressive when you realize this climbing specialist is now giving dedicated aero bikes a run for their money!

Both bikes showcase exactly why Lapierre has such a stellar reputation—they're not just building generic race machines, they're crafting purpose-built tools that absolutely excel in their chosen disciplines.

Performance on the Road

Time for the real test. How do these French machines actually perform when the rubber meets the road?

Climbing Efficiency: Where the Xelius Shows Its True Colors

The Xelius SL loves when the road tilts upward. Each pedal stroke translates directly into forward motion—no energy wasted, no sluggish response. Those short chainstays and compact wheelbase create an impressively nimble feel on ascents [1]. Even carrying slightly more system weight than some competitors, this bike doesn't hesitate during quick accelerations on climbs [2].

What about the Aircode DRS? Surprisingly capable for an aero-focused machine! Riders report it responds well to grinding out climbs and adapts nicely to sitting/standing rhythm changes, even on those punishing 10% gradient sections [4].

But let's be honest—the Xelius maintains the edge uphill. On technical climbs where every gram counts, that lightweight frame (845g for medium size) [5] makes a noticeable difference.

Winner on climbs: Xelius, hands down.

Sprint and Speed: Power vs Aerodynamics

Both bikes deliver impressive power transfer, just in different ways.

The Aircode DRS offers exceptional stiffness through the bottom bracket—perfect for explosive sprints and accelerations [6]. Here's where it gets interesting: the Drag Reduction System saves almost 15 watts at high speeds (50 km/h) compared to previous models. That translates to 8 seconds saved every 10 kilometers [7]—not bad for your average group ride!

Plot twist: the newer Xelius DRS has actually surpassed the Aircode in aerodynamic efficiency by 14 watts [8]. Who saw that coming? The old "aero vs. climber" divide is getting blurrier.

The Xelius provides very efficient power transfer through its stiff frame and fork [2], though some reviewers suggest upgrading to stiffer wheels could unlock even more performance potential.

Cornering and Descending: Precision vs Stability

Descending reveals each bike's personality most clearly.

The Xelius impresses with agile, precise handling that builds confidence at speed [2]. Want to place the bike exactly where you need it through corners? This is your machine [1]. Fair warning though—at very high speeds, the Xelius can feel somewhat twitchy and demands an experienced hand [2].

The Aircode takes a different approach with what riders describe as "absolute control" [6]. The front end provides exceptional stability through both tight hairpins and sweeping turns. That extended reach creates a stable, safe posture at high speeds [7], making it particularly suited to technical descents.

On fast, straight descents, the Aircode's wind-cheating profile really shines—helping you maintain momentum when gravity and aerodynamics work together.

The verdict? Choose your poison: surgical precision (Xelius) or rock-solid stability (Aircode).

Comfort and Ride Feel

Performance numbers only tell half the story. What really matters on those epic 100-mile adventures? How your body feels after hours in the saddle.

The comfort battle between these French machines comes down to completely different engineering philosophies—and trust me, your back will notice the difference.

Vibration Dampening: Two Approaches to Smoothing the Ride

The Xelius SL takes a fascinating approach with its signature 3D Tubular design. Instead of connecting the seatstays to the seat tube like most bikes, Lapierre runs them up to join the top tube, leaving the seat tube less braced [9]. Pretty clever, right? This creates a noticeably more compliant frame that soaks up road chatter before it reaches your bones.

The Aircode tackles comfort differently. Even though it's built for speed, Lapierre managed to improve comfort by 12% [10] by connecting the seat stay with the top tube. Not bad for a bike that's supposed to be all about cutting through air!

Both bikes can come with Lapierre's Shock Absorbing Technology (SAT) on select versions. This system uses elastomers tucked inside extended seat stays to absorb vibrations and boost rider efficiency. The result? 11% more vertical comfort [11] without making the bike wobbly or adding much weight—we're talking only about 20 grams [12].

Seatpost Design: The Comfort Connection

Here's where things get interesting. The Xelius features a 128g proprietary D-shaped aero seatpost with 0mm or 15mm setback options [13]. This isn't just about looks—the specialized shape allows controlled flex to filter out vibrations while keeping things stiff where it matters for power transfer.

The Aircode's D-shaped seat tube and seatpost setup has more flex potential since the stays don't join the seat cluster [13]. This design choice effectively isolates road buzz, creating a more forgiving ride without messing with those aerodynamic gains.

Tire Clearance: Where Comfort Meets Reality

Want to know a game-changer for ride comfort? Tire width. The Xelius accommodates generous 32mm tires [9] [13], while the previous Aircode was stuck at 28mm [14]. That 4mm difference might not sound like much, but it makes a huge impact on rough surfaces.

Plot twist: many Lapierre models still come with narrower 25mm tires [9] [161] despite having room for wider rubber. If you snag either bike, consider upgrading to wider tires within the frame's capacity—your hands and backside will thank you. This is especially true for the Xelius, which some riders find surprisingly stiff despite all its comfort-oriented features [1].

Component and Build Comparison

Here's where things get interesting—the components tell you exactly what each bike wants to be when it grows up!

Lapierre's component choices across these premium models reveal just as much about their intended purpose as those fancy frame designs we've been talking about.

Groupset Options: Ultegra Di2 vs Dura-Ace Di2

Both bikes give you options, which is great news for your wallet and performance goals.

The Aircode DRS 8.0 comes with Shimano Ultegra Di2, which saves money compared to Dura-Ace while adding only about 200g of weight [15]. Not a bad trade-off! Want to go full pro? The Aircode DRS 9.0 rocks Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9250 with a race-oriented 52-36T crankset paired with an 11-30T cassette [16].

The Xelius lineup? It's got range! Starting from cable-operated Shimano 105 (€2,899) all the way up to electronic Dura-Ace Di2 (€10,000) [17]. That's quite a spread. The Xelius DRS 9.0 features complete Shimano Dura-Ace with a climbing-friendly 52/36 chainring and 11-34 cassette configuration [2]—notice that wider cassette range? Perfect for those steep climbs.

Wheelsets: DT Swiss vs Lapierre Carbon

Wheels make a huge difference, and both bikes get this right.

Standard Xelius models roll on DT Swiss ERC1600 wheels with 45mm deep rims and reliable DT Swiss 350 hubs [1]. Step up to the Xelius DRS 9.0, and you'll find something clever: DT Swiss ERC1400 wheels that mix 45mm and 35mm deep carbon rims [1]. Swiss Side aerodynamically optimized these—pretty smart approach.

The Aircode DRS models? They mean business with Lapierre Road Disk Carbon wheels sporting 50mm height [16]. That extra rim depth pays off on flat roads and sprint finishes. Feeling fancy? The flagship Aircode models can come with premium DT Swiss ARC 1100 DB carbon wheels—50mm deep, extremely stiff, and surprisingly light at just over 1,500g [15].

Cockpit Integration and Cable Routing

Both bikes feature fully integrated cable routing, but they handle it differently.

The Xelius DRS uses a new carbon cockpit that grows with frame size [1]—smart thinking. Size L frames get a 410mm wide handlebar with a 110mm stem [1]. Everything's proportional.

The Aircode models have a trick up their sleeve: a proprietary handlebar system that lets you mount triathlon extensions directly [15]. Pretty versatile for time trials! Both models use semi-integrated cable routing, so you can adjust your cockpit without disconnecting brake lines [1]. Trust me, your mechanic will thank you.

The cockpit transition between steerer tube and stem got redesigned on both models for better aerodynamics [1], plus that internal routing keeps everything clean and wind-friendly.

Who Should Ride Which?

Alright, decision time!

Here's the real talk: choosing between these French beauties isn't just about specs—it's about understanding your cycling soul and being honest about your riding reality.

Best for Climbers and All-Rounders: Lapierre Xelius

Love the burn of a good climb? The Xelius is calling your name.

This bike attracts riders who consider themselves climb hunters and versatile all-rounders. Professional climbers like Thibaut Pinot and David Gaudu select the Xelius SL precisely for its climbing DNA [18], but don't think it's just for the pros. Amateur riders seeking versatility will absolutely love its balanced character.

As Lapierre puts it, the Xelius "has no limits"—it climbs efficiently, descends confidently, and maintains speed on flat terrain [19]. Pretty much the Swiss Army knife of road bikes, if you will.

The Xelius appeals most to riders who value lightweight efficiency without giving up all-around capability. If you're the type who gets excited about elevation gain on your ride computer, this might be your match.

Best for Sprinters and Speed Seekers: Lapierre Aircode

Feel the need for speed? The Aircode DRS was practically built for you.

Sprinters and flat-terrain specialists gravitate toward this aerodynamic machine that prioritizes slicing through the wind. World Tour sprinter Arnaud Démare—a 10-time Grand Tour stage winner—relies on the Aircode's speed-oriented design [18]. Its aggressive geometry places riders in an aerodynamic position that's all about maintaining high velocities.

Here's something cool: the Aircode isn't limited to pure road racing—it excels equally in time trials and triathlons [18]. Perfect if you're a multidisciplinary speed enthusiast who wants one bike to rule them all.

Experience Level: Be Honest With Yourself

Let's have a frank conversation about skill level.

The Xelius DRS demands skilled handling, primarily targeting experienced racers ready to extract maximum performance [2]. Its agile yet non-intuitive character makes it "less suitable for beginners" [2], requiring technical proficiency to fully exploit its capabilities.

Same goes for the Aircode—its aggressive position and responsive handling favor riders with developed bike-handling skills.

New to road cycling? Don't feel bad about it! Lapierre offers the Audacio—part of their Sport range with neutral geometry specifically designed for "new and improving riders" [20]. This entry-level option provides a more forgiving platform while maintaining enough performance to satisfy developing cyclists.

Bottom line: Both the Xelius and Aircode are serious machines for serious cyclists. If you're still figuring out your riding style or building confidence, there's no shame in starting with something more forgiving and working your way up.

Quick Reference: Xelius vs Aircode at a Glance

Need the facts fast? Here's everything side by side! 📊

The takeaway? Both bikes demand respect and skill, but they'll reward you with completely different riding experiences. The Xelius wants to dance up mountains, while the Aircode wants to slice through wind like a knife through butter.

Conclusion

Making Your Choice: It's About Your Riding Soul, Not Just Specs

After breaking down these two French racing machines, here's the truth: choosing between the Xelius and Aircode isn't really about comparing numbers on a spec sheet.

The Xelius SL represents pure climbing joy wrapped in carbon fiber. That featherlight 845g frame, balanced geometry, and clever 3D Tubular design create a bike that practically begs you to hunt down every hill in sight. But here's what's cool—recent aerodynamic improvements mean this climbing specialist won't leave you hanging on flat roads either.

The Aircode DRS? It's Lapierre's wind-slicing speed demon. Everything about this bike—the aggressive positioning, integrated cockpit, and Drag Reduction System—works together to cheat the air. When you're hammering out high-speed efforts, every watt the Aircode saves translates directly into faster times.

So which one calls to you?

If you're the type who gets excited about mountain conquests and wants a bike that handles anything you throw at it, the Xelius will likely steal your heart. Its versatile character makes it perfect for riders who don't want to be boxed into one riding style.

Speed addicts focused on flat power and sprint glory? The Aircode is your weapon of choice. It thrives when the pace gets hot and the competition gets fierce.

Weight-conscious climbers should seriously consider the Xelius—especially with its surprisingly improved aerodynamics. Plus, that generous tire clearance and comfort-focused design make it ideal for all-day adventures.

Both bikes showcase exactly why Lapierre has earned its reputation among pros and passionate amateurs alike. These aren't just bikes—they're purpose-built machines designed to help you ride faster, climb better, and enjoy every mile more.

Whether you're chasing KOMs on mountain passes or sprinting for town signs, Lapierre has crafted a sophisticated French solution that fits your cycling ambitions perfectly. The question isn't which bike is better—it's which one matches your riding soul.

Key takeaway: Your perfect Lapierre is the one that makes you excited to clip in and ride. Trust your instincts, and you can't go wrong with either choice.

FAQs

Q1. What are the key differences between the Lapierre Xelius and Aircode road bikes? The Xelius is designed for climbing with a lightweight frame (845g) and balanced geometry, while the Aircode focuses on aerodynamics with its Drag Reduction System. The Xelius offers more tire clearance (32mm vs 28mm) and a more comfortable ride, while the Aircode provides better speed on flat terrain.

Q2. Which Lapierre model is better for climbing? The Lapierre Xelius is the superior choice for climbing. Its ultralight frame, responsive handling, and climbing-optimized geometry make it ideal for tackling mountainous terrain. Professional climbers like Thibaut Pinot and David Gaudu prefer the Xelius for its climbing prowess.

Q3. How do the Xelius and Aircode compare in terms of comfort? The Xelius offers better overall comfort with its 3D Tubular design that absorbs road vibrations. The Aircode, while primarily focused on aerodynamics, has improved comfort by 12% in its latest design. Both bikes feature Lapierre's Shock Absorbing Technology (SAT) on select models for additional vibration dampening.

Q4. Are Lapierre road bikes suitable for beginners? Both the Xelius and Aircode are designed for experienced riders and may be challenging for beginners. For newcomers, Lapierre offers the Audacio model, which has a more forgiving geometry and is specifically designed for new and improving riders.

Q5. What are the price ranges for Lapierre Xelius and Aircode models? The Xelius models range from £74.97 to £219.98 in monthly payments, with complete bike prices varying based on components. The Aircode 500 model is priced at $4,700. Both lines offer various build options, from more affordable Shimano 105 groupsets to high-end Dura-Ace Di2 configurations.

References

[1] - https://www.lapierrebikes.com/gb-en/cycling-lifestyle/which-lapierre-road-bike-is-right-for-me/?srsltid=AfmBOoqieKi3Zt4rO3zPFLfyIqo7n_hJTub5i3i7sxOB47OBgaPjenGu
[2] - https://granfondo-cycling.com/lapierre-xelius-drs-9-0-review/
[3] - https://velo.outsideonline.com/road/road-racing/lapierre-unveils-faster-stiffer-and-comfier-aircode-drs-aero-road-bike/
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[5] - https://granfondo-cycling.com/lapierre-xelius-drs-9-0-racebike-review/
[6] - https://roadcyclinguk.com/gear/first-ride-lapierre-aircode-sl-and-xelius-sl.html
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[8] - https://www.bikeradar.com/reviews/bikes/road-bikes/lapierre-aircode-sl900-ultimate-first-ride-review
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[10] - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/products/lapierre-xelius-drs-is-14-watts-faster-than-the-aircode-as-the-brand-moves-towards-a-single-race-bike-setup
[11] - https://www.cyclingnews.com/news/new-lapierre-xelius-drs-merges-the-aircode-and-xelius-into-one-aerolightweight-platform/
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[13] - https://www.lapierrebikes.com/gb-en/cycling-lifestyle/which-lapierre-road-bike-is-right-for-me/?srsltid=AfmBOor0OwPW5ktEVsWs8LChk5s_WmDTvt4girylUaZXNbZr35taJaU0
[14] - https://www.lapierrebikes.com/lu-en/r/pulsium-sat/?srsltid=AfmBOoqA-tv55xQN0Bq0cgcHiUKO5Xij27R1TqKnOvG0joBCTt-4aMov
[15] - https://bikerumor.com/lapierre-xelius-drs-aero-road-bike-does-it-all-lightweight-comfort-race-ready-speed/
[16] - https://www.cyclist.co.uk/news/lapierre-xelius-drs
[17] - https://www.cyclingweekly.com/reviews/road-bikes/lapierre-aircode-drs-8-0-road-bike
[18] - https://99spokes.com/compare?bikes=lapierre-aircode-drs-9.0-2024,giant-tcr-advanced-2-2025,specialized-tarmac-sl8-expert-ultegra-di2-2025
[19] - https://cyclingreview.nl/en/lapierre-xelius-drs-a-new-evolution-but-is-it-enough/
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[22] - https://road.cc/content/review/142377-lapierre-audacio-400-road-bike