Ability in British bike racing is split into categories. From elite, where the finest racers thrash each other for the chance at World Tour glory, to Category Four, where the legions of committed riders compete for more modest acclaim. In the Lake District on the latest Rapha Cycling Club shoot, our wear testers swapped their racing categories for weather fronts, pedalling through a category five storm. Under dark skies and amidst the floods, we put the latest Autumn/Winter club kit through the wringer.
Lakes of Grey
The new Rapha Cycling Club kit
14 November 2017Rated by the Guardian as “the king of climbs and arguably the hardest road in the land”, Hardknott Pass is 2.2km and 15-odd minutes of gut wrenching effort up switchbacks veering upwards of 30%.
NEW RCC EYEWEAR
Rutted roads and cattle grids tested the new Pro Team Arenberg Glasses – now available in RCC club colours. Our latest performance eyewear features a full frame and high-grip rubber pads on the nose and along the frame arms to keep them secure, however bumpy the ride.
WARMTH WITHOUT WEIGHT
A highlight for the new RCC collection is the Pro Team Insulated Jacket, an extraordinary piece of cold-weather clothing. The jacket, which regulates your temperature during hard efforts by using active insulation, was well-received by the riders during the bracing weather and steep climbs of the Lakes.
THE ULTIMATE COLLABORATION
RCCLDN’s Ben Chatfield was one of the lucky members able to ride the new RCC x Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 9.0 Aero ahead of its launch. His verdict? "Felt every bit as good as it looks. Point it at things and it wants to go after them. I absolutely loved it." Only 50 of the bikes have been made, so move quickly if you’re tempted.
Thermals and Current
The new RCC Souplesse Thermal Jersey is designed for women who like their kit close-fitting and ready for racing. Made of a warm, breathable fabric, it’s the finest solution for cold temperatures and high tempos.
LATEST IN THE LIVERY
New season RCC highlights
RCC TRAINING JACKET
For the winter club run. Combines the comfort of a jersey and the performance of a jacket.
RCC CLASSIC LONG SLEEVE JERSEY
A ‘Sunday best’ jersey made of a beautiful merino wool for the utmost on-bike comfort. Based on the bestselling Classic Jersey II.
RCC PRO TEAM LONG SLEEVE JERSEY
The club race jersey for cold weather competition. Cut close for a streamlined fit, the rear pockets have buttons to secure your race number.
RCC WINTER TIGHTS WITH PAD
Technical tights with a DWR protective coating to keep you warm and dry on cold rides.
RCC SOUPLESSE TRAINING JACKET
Built for warmth in uncertain weather. An excellent option for the winter weekend club ride.
RCC SOUPLESSE THERMAL JERSEY
A close-fitting performance jersey that wicks sweat away. Designed for high-tempo rides.
RCC WOMEN’S BREVET GILET
Windproof, hi-visibility gilet, with reflective stripes and breathable mesh side panels.
RCC SOUPLESSE WINTER TIGHTS
Smart performance leggings for cold rides – weather protective and flattering.
THE RCCLDN SEVEN
All of the riders you see here – as well as the photographer – are London chapter members. Meet them below.