Victor Bosoni and Jana Kesenheimer won the Transcontinental Race and tested Rapha's new Brevet collection. The system consisting of jersey, bib shorts and waistcoat was developed for ultra-distance races and multi-day rides. Rapha accompanied both riders on a journey from Serbia to Albania for the campaign in spring 2026.
Tried and tested over long distances
Jana Kesenheimer explains that the Cargo Bib Shorts' exit solution saved her an hour and a half during the 4,800 kilometre Transcontinental Race. The elasticated straps can be pulled down and are designed to improve comfort in the shoulder area. The seamless design on the legs is intended to prevent skin irritation. A small pocket on the back of the bib shorts can hold keys or a GPS tracker.
Lael Wilcox is using the collection in her attempt to break the 18,000-mile around-the-world record. She has held the women's record since 2024 and the fabric is designed to offer more freedom of movement than other jerseys. The pockets on the shorts and the solution for exiting work regardless of the number of layers.
Reflective stripes and visibility
The two horizontal stripes have characterised the Brevet collection since its introduction. They utilise retroreflective materials for visibility after sunset. The revised stripes are lighter and more flexible than before and are designed to offer more freedom of movement in the chest area.
Plenty of storage space
The new Brevet Jersey uses a five-pocket system called Brevet Air Pocket. The system lifts away from the body when loaded and works together with the Brevet Cargo Bib Shorts III and the Brevet Wind Gilet III. An integrated mesh insert is designed to prevent heat build-up on the lower back. In combination with the four cargo pockets on the bib shorts, this creates additional storage space for valuables and layers of clothing.
Lael Wilcox packed the enlarged jersey pockets at the TCR with a litre of juice and cola. Victor Bosoni emphasises the compressibility of the system. The jacket, waistcoat and lightweight backpack can be stowed away in a small space.
Modular system and materials
The Brevet system is based on functional materials selected for their light weight, odour resistance and breathability. The basis is the Brevet Cargo Bib Shorts III with lightweight Italian materials and seamless endurance seat pad. The women's version has elasticated bib straps that can be pulled down to remove. The material retains its shape and guarantees that the seat pad stays in place.
The Brevet Merino or Lightweight Jersey III with Brevet Air Pockets serve as an intermediate layer. The outer layer is the Brevet Wind Gilet III with a two-way zip for temperature regulation. The Brevet Packable Backpack offers 10 litres of volume and has reflective straps and an integrated transport bag.
Victor Bosoni explains that the lightweight backpack has become indispensable for long ultra races. Classic musettes slip during the ride. The backpack sits securely, is lightweight and can be stowed away compactly thanks to its stretch material.
Ultan Coyle, Rapha Chief Creative Officer and two-time TCR finisher, describes the philosophy: on long distances, comfort and speed are interdependent. Comfort keeps you moving, speed helps you move efficiently. The collection has been available since 19 May at rapha.cc, in Rapha Clubhouses worldwide and from selected retail partners.
Matthias Borchers
Editor
