Morvélo Eroica Jersey and Bib-knicks

L’Eroica is an annual cyclosportif event held in Tuscany which allows competitors to only ride road bikes built prior 1987 as they navigate some 135km of the region’s famed dirt roads.

What does that have to do with mountain biking? Well, British brand Morvélo eschews any allegiance to one particular discipline, so it’s not entirely inappropriate that their high quality Eroica jersey and bib shorts appear here.

Although the styling of the Eroica jersey and bibs may appear entirely “roadie”, their quality construction and comfort lend themselves to any bicycle oriented pursuit.

Most impressive are the bibs, which feature a hefty dual-layer chamois. Flat-locked seams appear to have been sewn in all the right places as even rides of several hours were completed chafe-free. The leg gripper was our favourite feature of these bibs. The wide panel at the base of the shorts features a slightly rubberised finish on the inside, providing secure, even grip. Morvélo calls it Printed Gripper Elastic, but ‘comfy’ would be just as apt a description.

The Eroica jersey features the same finish on its sleeves, providing a similarly comfortable result. A quality zipper and reinforced seams bear the hallmarks of a brand keen to impress. Three pockets on the back are complemented by a hidden, zippered pocket on the right hand side of the jersey. It’s a nice feature, and could save the hassle of several hours scouring the trail for the car key that might have popped out of a conventional rear pocket.

Both the jersey and bibs feature reflectors on their rear, which is handy given the kit’s dark colour scheme. That darker palette is, however, well suited for a day’s riding on the dirt.

It’s good looking, comfortable kit, perfect for those who dabble on-road and off.

From www.morvelo.com

RRP: Bibs $150, Jersey $110

Hits: Comfort, great construction

Misses: Style and colours may not suit all

Words and Images: Richie Tyler