When Rapha recently launched the Core range they declared it as ‘the new standard in everyday cycling apparel’ – applying the London-based firm’s renowned obsessive attention to detail to a keener price point. The Core bib shorts, while not cheap at £100, are competitively prices, and offer a lot in terms of performance and, on top of that, value for money when compared to more expensive shorts.
While the Core jersey, which we’ve already reviewed, and bib shorts don’t have all the bells and whistles of Rapha’s more expensive products, Rapha also say they’ve managed to save cost by reusing fabrics across the range. For example, the same trim is used on the jersey as on the shorts’ leg gripper, so there’s a saving there. Rapha also say they’ve reduced wastage and production time, so, as far as they’re concern, the Core range isn’t necessarily about producing second-rate kit, but getting the best value for money at a competitive price point.
