dhb Classic Long Sleeve Jersey

If you want a simple bit of kit to bridge the gap from autumn to winter, the dhb Classic Long Sleeve Jersey is definitely worth a mention. There is little in the way of marketing blurb and technical this and that, but that is exactly what it is all about. A well-made, decent-performing top that works perfectly especially as part of a layering system, for not a lot of cash.

• Pros: Really well made; neat additions like a zip garage
• Cons: Not as warm as many winter jerseys

The Classic is a lightweight long sleeve jersey that works at its best when the temperature is hanging around the 7°C to 15°C mark, when paired with a standard long sleeved baselayer.

The polyester fabric dhb has chosen is quite thin compared to many jerseys, but it does a respectable job of keeping the cold air at bay, and the fact that it has a fleecy style back to it helps trap a warm layer of air next to your body.

The beauty of its lack of bulk is that once autumn gives way to winter, it easily fits under a jacket to keep you warm and dry on a horrible day, plus you can always add a thermal baselayer beneath it without feeling like the Michelin man in all your layers.

As part of dhb's Active collection, the Classic has a slightly more relaxed fit than models further up the range. The cut is designed more for those who ride in a slightly more upright position, as you don't have much of drop to the rear of the jersey as you might on a racier garment.

That's not to say it won't work if you ride a little more aggressively. My winter bike is just as slammed as my summer one, and while I did notice the shorter back it's not a major issue when wearing bib tights. It may not be form fit, but it isn't baggy either, so it's not like you have loads of material flapping about in the wind.

The neck is a decent enough height to keep the draughts out, and you get a zip garage to protect your neck, which is good to see at this price.

The full zip runs smoothly, and it also has a strip of fabric behind it to block wind getting through.

The sleeves are a good length, and although there is no elastic at the cuffs they pretty much stayed put when stretched out on the drops.

On the rear there are four pockets, three traditional and one zipped valuables pocket, which is a nice touch. The pockets are quite roomy and, more importantly, deep so things shouldn't tip out when you are hunkered down and descending.

One thing I do like is that the stitching used to separate the three main pockets is reflective, and there is a band around each cuff as well.

Overall quality is up to dhb's usual high standards and you really can't fault it. All the stitching is immaculate throughout, and the Classic is really finished well.

I like the bright orange colour, too. It should hopefully help you get noticed out on the road during gloomy weather without having to go down the fluoro route. If you want something a little more subdued, there is also a navy blue option.

Both colours come in a size range stretching from XS to XXXL (35in to 46 1/8in chest) which should cover most cyclists. The sizing is spot on to the size guide on wiggle's site, which makes things easier when you can't try before you buy.

Price-wise, you are looking at an RRP of £65 for the Classic, which I'd say is about the right money for a jersey with this quality of finish. That said, the whole jersey is quite basic in terms of tech, and using it on its own you'll only be wearing it for about a couple of months of the year.

> Buyer's Guide: 20 of the best winter cycling jerseys

When it comes to competition, James was very impressed with the Triban RC 500 long sleeve jersey, which comes in at a very good £34.99.

The very similar Lusso Terrain LS is about the same money as the dhb at £69.99, so there is a fair variation of price out there.

On the whole, the Classic isn't the warmest jersey on the market, but it works well in the right temperatures. Add to that the quality finish and other little neat details and you've got a decent bit of kit for the money.

Verdict

Simple but effective autumn jersey that is the perfect thickness for layering up