thirdcrank wrote: ↑14 Apr 2021, 9:40am
It's worth noting that Rohan have had at least two goes at selling cycling togs. The first was about thirty years ago and IIRC lasted one season. They started again more recently - although my estimation of recently is vague. Searching their www for cycling just came up with 'no products found' followed by a recommendation for women's shorts which were "a perfect choice for walking, sailing, cycling, climbing and more."
That might mean that Rohan stuff is so good you can use it for anything, or that cyclists are hard to please.
I had the original 90s combo of a windrpoof light smock and the Streamline waterproof. First was nicked, second destroyed in a crash, but both very nice. But bearing in mind I paid half price end-of-line for them, and the jacket was still £75 and this over 25 years ago, I think they rather priced themselves out of the market such as it was at the time for practical non-sports cycle wear.
(I've since got another Streamline on eBay for a song, and it's still a very nice jacket if a bit heavy by today's standards)
The second time they tried they went for more overt
Cycling Gear with the Elite Stormer waterproof (my recently retired boss has one and loves it), but the problem there, I think, was people after a waterproof with no hood, back pockets etc. wouldn't go shopping at Rohan, they'd go shopping at LBS, Wiggle etc. They also did a windproof, the Windrider, which was a great bit of kit for me (especially as they sent me a free review sample!) but didn't sell. Again not quite the thing for your dedicated Roadie, and a bit dear and off-the-radar for more leisurely riders. Following year they tried a more minimalist windproof jacket, but again not many takers as the sort of people it was for weren't really looking to Rohan for that kind of kit.
But their more general particular market-niche does suit the utilitarian rider very well. The stuff is good for freedom of movement, easy-care, it's fast drying and tough and I find the fabrics very comfy. Another practical plus for me is the sizing is a bit more generous than most brands, so while I fit a Rohan M very nicely I tend to "M and a half" in most outdoor brands. That is, of course, pure luck of the drawer, but it does make a useful difference for me.
Pete.
Often seen riding a bike around Dundee...