Bontrager Specter jersey review

We put the eye-catching Bontrager Specter jersey through its paces

bontrager specter jersey
Cycling Weekly Verdict

The Bontrager Specter jersey is a good if unspectacular jersey, that is breathable, has a good fit, and comes in a variety of different designs, although might be a little to expensive for what it is

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Eye-catching designs

  • +

    Decent breathability

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Maybe a little too expensive

  • -

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Maybe the biggest talking point with the Bontrager Specter jersey is the design, which will leave onlookers with no doubt about your preferred choice of bike brand. However if you’re not a fan of the blue, red, and white vintage design that we’ve tested here (or indeed don’t think much of Trek’s bikes) then there are a number of different designs available, all of which certainly grab the attention.

>>> Buyer's guide to summer cycling jerseys

I have to admit that I quite liked the different eye-catching designs that Bontrager has offered this jersey in (although may not have gone for the vintage Trek one if it had been my own choice). The only thing is that they might not be for everyone, which is a shame as the Bontrager Specter jersey is actually a half-decent piece of kit.

Ventilation is the highlight. The rear panel of the Bontrager Specter jersey is made from a much lighter fabric than the front and side panels, which means that it is nice and breathable, making it a pleasure to ride on hot days. This is complemented by the full length zip, which means you can fully unzip on hot climbs.

>>> Hot weather cycling: five tops to help you keep your cool

The fit is fairly standard. Bontrager describes the jersey as having a “streamlined body fit”, but it certainly isn’t aero. That said, it certainly isn’t loose and baggy either, finding a nice middle ground that should suit most riders.

Storage-wise, things are also pretty standard. There are three good-sized rear pockets that offer plenty of space to store all your long ride essentials, while not being too baggy that they sag when fully laden.

>>> Buyer's guide to summer cycling clothing

The one thing I’m not sure about with the Bontrager Specter jersey is the price, which despite not being extortionate, still seems a little high for a jersey that might do a good job in most areas, but doesn’t really offer exceptional performance. Take £10-£15 off the price and it would be a much more reasonable proposition.

For more details visit the Bontrager website.

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Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.