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2015-05-18 3:49 PM

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Subject: Jersey confusion
I figure it's about time I got a cycling jersey. Can anyone make sense of this confusing world for me? The costs range from $45 CDN to $345. What is the difference between a cheap one and an expensive one? Is there anything I should look for? Is there anything that I should stay away from?


2015-05-18 5:17 PM
in reply to: b2run

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Subject: RE: Jersey confusion
Pretty much any jersey in the range of $35-75 is going to work.
Stay away from fabrics that stain easily (wet dirty rides).
Depending on the make, the sizes can range quite a bit different. Usually I'm a medium but some, it's a large.
Be careful on the style, for example many are "Fitted". Some like them tight and others like them looser.

here's a quick video to help:
http://www.artscyclery.com/learningcenter/selectcyclingjersey.html
2015-05-18 5:31 PM
in reply to: b2run

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Subject: RE: Jersey confusion
I've bought a few jerseys used via ebay. If you know the size you can't get some pretty nice ones for anywhere from $15-20.
2015-05-18 5:45 PM
in reply to: b2run

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Subject: RE: Jersey confusion

As metafizx said, sizing has been a question. I've been burned a few times on jersey fit before I realized the most reliable measurement is when the chest/armpit-to-armpit measurement when laying is stated.  I have one jersey I bought at bike shop long time ago that I used as my template.  If a jersey laying flat chest measurement is stated as a 21" (53-54cm) it's been good to go for me.

One of the real cheap jerseys I bought on eBay didn't take to washing well! Poorly constructed.  Brand names have been fine for me. I've gotten some cheap deals watching on eBay.

2015-05-18 9:00 PM
in reply to: b2run

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Subject: RE: Jersey confusion

As with anything cycling, as costs increase for a product, the returns also diminish exponentially.  I'd say that $60-80 (MSRP) is a good price range where quality and value meet.  That doesn't mean you need to pay MSRP though...if you can find sales or discounts to bring the price down into the $45-$65 range then you'll probably be pretty happy with your investment.

I've had jerseys that MSRP in the $40-60 range (paid closer to $35-50) and while they do the job, you'll find the minor things that could be better.  Whether it is a good fit, well made zippers, the stitching, how well it wicks moisture or keeps you cool on hot days, durability, etc.

I would start out with a cheaper jersey and see if it works for your specific needs.  If you end up wanting more out of your jersey, use the first one for shorter rides or bad weather days.  I ride a lot...with a lot of rides in the 3-5 hour range...and sometimes in the 7-9 hour range.  I have really come to appreciate a nice jersey that fits well and keeps me as comfortable as possible on long hot days.  

Bibs on the other hand...cost almost becomes irrelevant when I shop for a good pair of bibs.  A good pair of bibs is basically priceless.

2015-05-18 9:33 PM
in reply to: b2run


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Subject: RE: Jersey confusion
About the only thing I really look for in a jersey is a full length zipper cause it's super sexy and badass to open that thing up to expose your bibs and chest hair while biking up a long hill in the heat. Or least, that's how it looks in my head, can't really speak to what others think of me, but it's probably not good. Well that, and its hard to get it off if you got a tight fit and don't have the full length zipper.

But as others have said, 50-75 bucks will get you a decent jersey.





2015-05-19 3:20 PM
in reply to: b2run

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Subject: RE: Jersey confusion
Okay. I have a relatively cheap one on order. Thanks for the advice.
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