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review
Jerseys - short sleeve
B'Twin SS Jersey 500 B'Twin SS Jersey 500 B'Twin SS Jersey 500 B'Twin SS Jersey 500
BTwin SS Jersey 500

B'Twin SS Jersey 500

7
by Shaun Audane
UPDATED Thu, Oct 15, 2015 04:24

First Published Jun 20, 2014

0
£19.99

VERDICT:

7
10
Good everyday jersey with few faults considering the price tag
Weight: 
163g
Contact: 
www.decathlon.co.uk
How we test

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Available in a choice of subtle colours, the B'Twin SS Jersey 500 is a smart looking staple for everyday riding. It's thinner fabric lends it rather nicely to sunnier climes or indoor trainer sessions.

These days I much prefer understated and classy to team replica stuff, so the black/blue/white was an instant hit and coordinates with most training attire (there's also black/red/white should you prefer).

100% two-layer polyester construction won't win any bragging rights down the clubhouse but is a surprisingly pleasant-feeling blend without that overtly synthetic feel when worn directly against the skin. Flat seams continue this comfortable theme and avoid telltale branding come time to strip off and hit the shower.

Sizing loosely conforms to everybody else's, although fortunately our medium was nearer a large, flattering my contours without constricting chest or shoulder regions. However, this did preclude all bar the thinnest base layers and the single piece raglan sleeves have a definite edge when alternating positions or just cruising on the tops for prolonged periods.

Detailing is similarly agreeable. A 22cm zipper and rubberised tag ensures medallions can swing freely in that 80's style and provide reasonable amounts of climate control. On the back we've the classic three pockets complete with elasticated cuffs for secure stashing of phones, bottles, energy bars etc.

Overall performance has been very hard to knock. The thin, yet fairly sturdy fabric has resisted frisking from prickly foliage and dries in a trice following unexpected downpours. Better still, having come on stream after fifteen minutes or so, fibres offer surprisingly efficient airflow with only trace dampness around the lumbar and armpit regions. Said trait is particularly welcome during intense turbo trainer workouts.

Long periods spent hunkered low, battling fierce headwinds resulted in minimal gathering; though having a proportionately much shorter torso certainly helped. Odour has always remained well-within socially acceptable limits, although post-ride sniffs suggest it's less neutral than more expensive fare, which could be another consideration for those who are more susceptible.

Verdict

Good everyday jersey with few faults considering the price tag.

road.cc test report

Make and model: BTwin SS Jersey 500

Size tested: Medium, Black Blue White

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

"regular road cycling Ideal for regular outings". I would say it's a nicely executed everyday jersey particularly suited to general riding and indoor trainer service.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

1. BreathabilityWicks away perspiration

 

2. 2

Low weight / lightweightLightweight component

 

3. 3

SupportElasticated hem for good hold

4. 4

VentilationUnderarm mesh for ventilation; half-zip on chest

 

5. 5

Easy transport3 large pockets at the back

G

100% polyester.

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
7/10

Fabric feels thin but seems sturdy enough.

Rate the product for performance:
 
7/10

Comfortable, lightweight no-frills design with better wicking prowess than expected.

Rate the product for durability:
 
7/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
8/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
7/10
Rate the product for value:
 
7/10

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

While hardly exotic, this jersey follows the classic race configuration faithfully and has proved surprisingly comfortable for longer periods. However, designs with raglan sleeves and longer zippers have a definite edge.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Stylish, lightweight and represents great value for money.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Models with raglan sleeves and full length zippers have a definite edge over longer distances in warmer weather.

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.

Would you consider buying the product? Yes, as an everyday staple.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes, in the above context.

Overall rating: 7/10

About the tester

Age: 40  Height: 1m 81  Weight: 70 kilos

I usually ride: Rough Stuff Tourer Based around 4130 Univega mtb Frameset  My best bike is: 1955 Holdsworth Road Path and several others including cross & traditional road

I've been riding for: Over 20 years  I ride: Most days  I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: cyclo cross, commuting, touring, fixed/singlespeed, mtb,

 

BTwin SS Jersey 500
BTwin 2014
Btwin
Shaun Audane

Shaun Audane is a freelance writer/product tester with over twenty-eight years riding experience, the last twelve (120,000 miles) spent putting bikes and kit through their paces for a variety of publications. Previous generations of his family worked at manufacturing's sharp end, thus Shaun can weld, has a sound understanding of frame building practice and a preference for steel or titanium framesets.
Citing Richard Ballantine and an Au pair as his earliest cycling influences, he is presently writing a cycling book with particular focus upon women, families and disabled audiences (Having been a registered care manager and coached children at Herne Hill Velodrome in earlier careers)

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