Before this test, I’d never heard of Bicycle Line. Despite the very domestic sounding name, it’s an Italian brand that’s been around since 1987. As one would expect from Italy, the materials are absolutely divine. In fact, this is some of the most comfortable cycling clothing I’ve worn, and that includes a few of their winter pieces that I’ll review separately.
For the hottest days of summer, the Veloce’s Flex-40 polyamide fabric is thin, but doesn’t let the air flow in like a mesh would. I reserved this kit for days that topped out in the mid-80’s, and they easily handled early morning starts in the 60’s without chilling me to the bone – and that’s with no base layer or arm warmers, just what you see here.
In addition to the very, very supple and comfortable fabric, these pieces have some unique features that I really liked…
The jersey pockets are the most differentiating feature. The center pocket is normal and has an additional zip pocket on the outside. The side pockets, though, use curved side openings. At first, if you forget they’re not like every other jersey, you end up wrestling with them and wondering why in the heck you can’t get your damned fingers in them. Then you remember that they open to the sides and they become far easier to use than standard pockets. You’ll never want to go back. Grabbing a gel has never been quicker, and your arm stays at a far more comfortable angle. They’re deep enough to keep small things held securely. That said, I keep my phone and cash in the center or zip pocket just to be safe.
For safety, there are reflective bits on the sides and back of the jersey, including on the arms, and all the way around the leg grippers. Mesh panels down the center of the back and under the arms help breathability, as does the Fieldsensor fabric throughout. It’s also treated with “InterPower”, a “long lasting finish” that supposedly improves moisture wicking.
The chamois has 3D raised sections designed to curve with your anatomy. I never felt any bunching and it ranked near, but not at, the top of chamois I’ve ridden. It uses “C-Fort Gel”, which is non-toxic, non-allergenic, PVC- and latex-free and unaffected by any temperature you’re likely to ride in. Not too thick, not too thin, it’s a good mid-height padding. It contains silver microfibers to keep bacteria from proliferating.
Mesh lower straps and center back section give way to Lycra over the shoulders. The leg grippers have small silicone gripper dots all the way around, which leaves a nice wreath of circles around your leg after the ride. Arm openings have no gripper, and the waist has the same gripper dots running around most of the circumference except where it’s red in the front.
The jersey has a full zipper with a very generous neck protection flap at the top.
REVIEW
I’m 6’2″, about 180lbs and a bit more muscular than most roadies. (If you’re reading all of my clothing reviews, you’ll get sick of hearing that). I tested a size Large bibshort and XL jersey and both fit perfectly. The sizing fits with its Italian sourcing, I’ve found most European brands run much smaller than American ones, something that’s proven particularly true with this series of clothing tests, with the exception of Mavic’s (France) size Medium gear fitting about the same.
For between seasons, the Bicycle Line Veloce bibs and jersey are amazing. They’re good for a broad temperature range, making them perfect for all day rides that may see cool morning starts or different elevations bringing temperature swings. Fit is snug without being restrictive. The fabric’s hand is super soft, and the material is thin yet feels expensive.
Available in North America through ARG Sports.
Veloce jersey is $230, Veloce bib is $235.
ALSO TESTED:
- Mavic HC and Helium jerseys and bibshorts
- Hincapie Metric (coming soon)
- Zoic Antidote and Mania MTB shorts and jersey
- Road Holland
- Castelli
