Life In The Saddle

Many new 'casual cycle apparel' brands have established themselves with the sole aim of producing clothing for off-the-bike wear.  Le Coq Sportif  by contrast, has an unquestionable heritage in the world of cycling; both for producing iconic riding jerseys, as well as post-sport casual clothing. Le Coq Sportif have been the makers of the Maillot Jaune since 1951, bar a few hiatus years. The French brand has an unquestionable association with the sport, and their apparel has graced the shoulders of many 'Kings of Cycling'. I too have worn, and been impressed by their riding kit; have a read of my review on the Le Coq Sportif Premium Jersey , from last summer. In this post, I look at their latest range of casual sportswear: including shoes, a polo, sweater and tech pants. Although the range doesn't claim to be cycling specific in any way, it has a style that resonates well with the peloton's fashion. I have also been so thoroughly impressed by the fit and qu...

I’m not really one for wearing pro-team jerseys. I have done in the past, on occasion, but I sort of feel it is one of those privileges that should be reserved for those that have really earnt them. However, the Premium model Le Coq Sportif jerseys, used for the Maillot Jaune, Polkadot, Green, and White jersey holders at the Tour de France, are something rather special. I’ve had a secret longing to wear one for some time. An opportunity to do so arose last month… As well as Le Coq Sportif being the official clothing supplier for Le Tour, they are also the maker of the official L’Etapé du Tour jerseys. I completed the challenging event last month ( blog post ), so I felt like I had justification to wear the kit, and enjoy the same look and feel as the Tour de France leaders! Identical in fit and fabric to the jerseys used at Le Tour, the L’Etapé du Tour jersey I wore for the event was the Premium performance model. It’s made from the most high-tech fabrics, with a true race-orien...

My eyes flit open from a light nap/food-induced coma, to the sight of three things that make me incredibly happy: mountains, smooth tarmac roads and a fast flowing glacial river valley… and more mountains! Having spent the last 24 hours in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Annecy, including a brief spin around the picturesque lake, we’re now heading deep into the Alps on our transfer vehicle. I'm with Team Le Coq Sportif , and we are making our way to La Toussuire and the start of the 2015 L'Etapé du Tour. It's been too long since I've been in the Alps. I'm not sure exactly, but I think the last time I rode a bike here was during our mammoth 2011 France and Spain Tour . I've missed it. I hadn't realised how much I've missed it. When Le Coq Sportif asked if I'd like to join them for this year's Etapé, I jumped at the chance; not only would it involve a trip to the Alps, it would also tick an event off my ever growing Bucket List. Let’s get ...

This time next week, I should be kicking back with a chilled drink; taking in the Alpine air and preparing myself for a big day in the saddle. It's time for L'Etapé du Tour 2015! So far this year, my big rides have consisted of riding around the perimeter of Mallorca, during the  Mallorca312  challenge; as well as riding around the island of Jersey, during the Natwest Island Games . So, I figure now it's about time to ride over (not around) some mountains. I reckon the route of this year's Etapé should accomplish that... The Route This year, the L'Etapé du Tour follows the route of Stage 19 of the Tour de France. Set deep in the Alps, it has afforded itself the label of "The Queen's Stage" of this year's Tour, and there is little doubt that it will be instrumental in deciding who arrives in Paris in the Maillot Jaune. The route might only be 138km long, but packed into that distance is more climbing than any other stage during Le Tour. T...