Cervélo: It doesn’t matter if you’re black or white

Cervélo’s predominately black team kit will be replaced with a revised white number starting from this week’s Tour de France and Giro Donne. Changes to the men and women teams’ kits won’t only be cosmetic, with the jersey featuring a revised pattern and fabrics that the team claim will improve aerodynamics.

Cervélo TestTeam manager Thomas Campana said the International Cycling Union (UCI) was quick to approve the team’s kit changes. "We made the design change because racing during the hot summer temperatures that are normal in Europe is hard on the riders," he said. "And the lighter colour will provide some relief from the heat. All modifications to team kit design must be approved by the UCI and we appreciate their prompt attention in this matter.

Castelli Products Steve Smith believes there will be a real performance saving in the change of jersey. "In addition to the new colour, the team is also debuting an updated Aero Race Jersey pattern that features new construction and fabrics around the arm and shoulder making it even more aerodynamic,” said Smith. “With over three years of development and wind tunnel testing, this jersey saves 10 watts compared to standard race jerseys.

"Racing in hot weather is physically demanding, that's a given, and despite the fact that Castelli makes some of the lightest and coolest fabrics in existence, wearing a lighter colour will make a big difference, both psychologically and physically, to a rider's well being," he added. "UCI agreed that the rider's health is paramount, and so we instituted the change."

Cervélo isn’t the only ProTour squad to seek UCI approval for a kit change this year. Astana requested it fade some of its sponsor’s logos prior to last month’s Giro d’Italia, as a result of several backers having not paid outstanding monies at the time.

Cervélo’s Tour squad will be led by defending champion Carlos Sastre. The Tour commences in Monaco with an individual time trial on Saturday, July 4.