With our mini-summer over, we're back riding in cooler conditions and getting ready to try out some wet weather gear in the coming few days...or possibly weeks, but we'll look on the bright side for now!
Santini Redux jersey
£135.00
This premium race jersey from Italian brand Santini is boldly described as "an aerodynamic masterpiece", designed to fit like a second skin. The fabrics are light, fast-drying and UV resistant, and to back up those aero claims Santini have actually took it into the wind tunnel to make sure the fabrics are as slippery as possible. The seams are thermowelded instead of stitched to make them super airtight, and there's a joint cut shoulder construction for maximum range of motion. Pockets are inside for even more aero, with a triple inner pouch that has a near-invisible thermos-sealed laser cut opening. Can all these credentials justify the lofty price tag? Check back for a review soon.
zyrofisher.co.uk
Bianchi Via Nirone 7 Allroad
£1,000
Bianchi aren't particularly associated with bikes priced at a grand or lower, although this road-themed all-rounder can do a bit of everything and could well be a solid buy at £1000 exactly. It's got a Shimano Sora 9-speed groupset, with a 50/34 chainsette and 11/34 cassette to tackle climbs, and durable 32mm Kenda tyres mean you're not limited to just tarmac on the Via Nirone. The frame with internal cable routing is made up of lightweight and durable aluminium hydroformed tubing, paired with a carbon fork, and it has classic endurance geometry for a relaxed ride. 160mm Shimano SM-RT64 disc rotors should provide plenty of stopping power for confidence on tricky descents. Is this a Bianchi Bargain? Stu Kerton is riding it now...
bianchi.com/uk
Bontrager Velocis road shoe
£179.99
The Velocis has had a bit of a makeover for 2018, with the colours on the upper covering the whole shoe as opposed to black heel sections on the previous version. Bontrager's inForm Pro last is supposed to give an ergonomically optimised, high-performance fit, and this is paired with a carbon/fibreglass mixed sole to give a stiffness of 10 out of 14 on Bontrager's stiffness scale. Boa's IP1 dial gives precise, two-way adjustment, and the upper is well perforated for breathability and comfort. If 'Radioactive Orange' ain't your thing, you can also get them in more subtle blue or black colourways...
trekbikes.com/gb
SDG Allure women-specific saddle
£79.95
This multi-discipline women's saddle is designed to relieve soft tissue pressures, with a durable nylon fibre base material and an anatomically shaped cut-out. The 'Optimal Rideable Area' (ORA) of the Allure is ideally for riders who have sit bones in the 110-114mm range, and when you're bedded in there's a slight down curve at the nose to help with relief when the rider shifts weight or adjusts forward on saddle. The plush microfibre top material gives all-day comfort, and the rails are a titanium and alloy blend. Is the Allure an alluring perch? Siobhan Kelly's verdict is coming soon.
silverfish-uk.com
Cycology Vintage Grimper Mens Cycling Jersey
£55.00
This retro-themed jersey is "inspired by those hardy souls who live to climb any mountain, any time", so say Cycology. it's made with thermal regulating Italian fabrics, designed to be super light and comfortable. Rear pockets include an extra zippered section for valuable and rear reflective strips, and elastic grippers on the sleeves and hips are added for a secure fit. Is it an ideal blend of vintage looks and modern performance? Ash Quinlan is finding out now, with a review due soon...
cycologygear.co.uk
For all the latest road.cc test reports, head over to our reviews section. If you want some more advice before splashing the cash, check out our buyer's guides.
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4 comments
Why have bianci put a barcode on the bike?
I'll be looking forward to the Cycology review. My experience with Cycology bibs has been very poor. Suntan lotion seemed to dissolve the printing down to the base white fabric and the bib material became loose. This was within 6 months. Cyclology said they were aware of this problem occasionally occurring but no warranty was provided.
"This women's saddle is designed to relive soft tissue pressures"
Ooo-err, once was enough!
Well everyone gets sentimental about soft tissue pressures every now and then, props to SDG I say... *edits furiously*