livedarklions

That's what I wear or I wear a cotton t shirt (I ride hundreds of miles in hot weather so attired), but I don't think that qualifies me to say that people shouldn't spend their money on more expensive items if that's what they're comfortable in and/or they think they're getting aero benefit. Maybe they just like the way they look in a jersey better than how they look in a t shirt. What's wrong with that?

Comfort is subjective, value is subjective, having cheaper preferences doesn't make us superior or give us a license to judge.

elcruxio

Cycling shirts have pockets...

DonkeyShow

pockets = $90

Herzlos

Cycling shirts are much lower at the back than the front, so no-one behind you can see your ass crack when bent over. They are also made of lighter material that wicks sweat away, and they usually come with 3 large pockets across the back for bottles, tools, snack etc, and often a 4th zippable pocket for keys.

You can of course cycle in more or less anything, but specific cycling shirts just seem to make life a little bit better (especially for the people behind you), especially when doing longer distances on a drop bar bike.

indyfabz

As noted above, I got each of my wonderful, full-zip Rapha jerseys for $55. They have three pockets. The usual three and then a side pocket that zips closed. The usual three are great for carrying things like my phone, camera and snacks. Very hand, especially when out on tour.

bikehoco

To each his own ….. but I purchased a top tube bag to carry such items to avoid having to buy cycling jerseys.

Sometimes I ride wearing a tank top, short sleeve, long sleeve, light jacket, or winter coat but the bag is always there.

indyfabz

Look at that: Another Rapha sale going on.

Rapha Sale | Cycling Clothing | Up to 30% Off Selected Lines | Rapha

indyfabz

I’ve got enough bags already when I’m out there.

And a jersey with a full zip lets me control ventilation better during changing conditions.

Eric F 

My reasons...
- Rear pockets for storage of phone, tools, and snacks (this is essential for me - I don't like bags on my bike)
- Snug fit that doesn't allow the fabric to flap, AND keeps the stuff on the pockets from moving around (I have a jersey that is a little too large for me and the rear pockets droop and shift - highly annoying)
- Lightweight fabric that wicks sweat efficiently, and ventilates well in the areas that benefit most from ventilation.
- Fabric texture that is comfortable and non-irritating against my skin.
- Full-length zipper for ventilation and easier on/off.
- Pleasing design and colors (totally subjective) or club kit.

indyfabz

Nice summary, but OP already knew all that. But maybe others will learn something.

seypat

It's all subjective. One person's trash is another's treasure. Since Shimano 105 has electronic shifting now, one could argue that going above 105 level on anything is a waste. If I think about it, mabe expensive water bottle cages? Dropping big coin for smal weight reductions would be a waste for me, but I weight 200lbs. A lighter rider might disagree with that.

elcruxio

bike bags are definitely handy.

I use an insulin pump. Carrying it in the saddle bag saves tons on money, because I don't have to buy super expensive cycling shirts. But strapping the bike on my back every time I go to a store or need to visit a bathroom, so I get the darn thing to go with me, does get a bit old.

Crashing and flying too far away from my bike is also an experience to be cherished.

DonkeyShow

But half of them in the Rapha sale link you yourself posted are $90+ soo....?

NumbersGuy

So we can all pay for the design, materials, style and quality we feel is best. A quality jersey from Rapha can be had for $60, or a higher priced one with different materials, style or features can be purchased if desired.

Why are those who prefer cheap stuff always angry that there are many options at various price points for those of us who don't prefer the cheap stuff?

phughes

This thread asks the wrong question. The right question is, "What is the biggest waste of time in biking." The answer? Every thread posted by the OP.

DonkeyShow

I bought $300 jeans this month, I love expensive things. Who is angry? Lol ******g weirdo.

Pinelander

Helmets. It's not really a waste of money, but I'm looking around and I seem to really like helmets.
Oh, and I use a genuine goatskin water bag.

badger1

Nothing like an elegant, well-phrased, 'intelligent' riposte to elevate the tone here in teh Biek Formz. Nicely done.

rsbob 

On the contrary, $15 from AliExpress, and the pockets include a full-length zippered jersey. I have several of them and the quality is quite good.

mflacche

I wish a $40 water bottle was my biggest waste of money ever

Serious answer for the OP's question... I think replacing perfectly good parts for lighter ones is a much bigger waste of money than buying expensive hydration. Most riders don't need the gram reductions (especially me). Also, if someone looks at their bike and sees many opportunities for weight reduction, I think they might be better off cutting their losses, selling that bike, and buying a lighter bike.

indyfabz

So…The link was a followup to my post a few posts above that one about once scoring two Core jerseys for $55 each. They are currently on sale for $60, what with inflation. Normally only $80, which is $10 less than $90. I have the $$ and am willing to spend it on a very nice product, sooo…

Any other questions?

DonkeyShow

Soo pockets = $80. Got it, thanks.

big john

You can find jerseys on sale.
Fly Racing Lilly Ladies Jersey (Turquoise) (XS) - Performance Bicycle (performancebike.com)
Louis Garneau Connection 2 Jersey (Dark Night) (S) - Performance Bicycle (performancebike.com)
Arsuxeo Men's Short Sleeve Cycling Jersey With 3 Rear Pockets Summer Bicycle Riding Bike Top Breathable Quick Dry Moisture Wicking Elastane Polyester Green Yellow Black Red Blue Orange Gradient Sports 8717031 2022 – $24.99 (lightinthebox.com)

indyfabz

You obviously don’t got it because you can get pockets for less than some shirts without pockets if you want to go cheap. (That’s not to mention you ignoring the sale price I linked to.)

Whether I am out for the day or on the road for two weeks self contained, a high performance jersey with pockets is extremely useful for reasons pointed out in a post by myself and at least one other person. I’m not going to waste my time explaining the utility on someone who isn’t willing to learn because he’s painted himself as someone who is “frugal”, to put it kindly. Spending money to get something useful isn’t a bad thing unless you don’t have the money to spend.

Time to add another “donkey” to the iggy list.

Koyote

If you truly think the only difference between a Dri Fit t-shirt and a quality cycling jersey is pockets, then you have no idea wtf you are talking about and should sit down.