Cornish Cycling Clothing Tested on the Roads of Provence
One of the most beautiful things about cycling is that it connects people across cultures, languages and continents. Whether you’re riding quiet lanes in Cornwall or climbing iconic European mountains, the shared experience of riding a bike feels the same everywhere.
This story comes from Em & Chris, two Cornish cyclists currently working for international active travel company Backroads. When they returned home to Cornwall last autumn, they stopped by Saint Piran Service Course to pick up some Cornish cycling clothing before heading back to France for the winter.
What followed was a season of bike mechanics, legendary rides and testing Saint Piran cycling kit on some of Europe’s most famous roads.
Sharing Cornwall Through Cycling
Working with Backroads means guiding cycling trips across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. For Em, who grew up in Cornwall, there was one thing she wanted to bring with her when leading international trips — a piece of home.
That meant finding Cornwall cycling apparel that captured the spirit of the county while still performing on long days in the saddle.
Saint Piran cycling kit fit the bill perfectly.
The clothing combines performance materials with designs inspired by Cornwall’s identity, making it something riders are proud to wear both at home and abroad.
For Em and Chris, wearing Cornish cycling clothing while riding internationally felt like a way of representing Cornwall wherever they went.
Winter in Provence: Preparing Bikes for the Season
During the winter months, Em and Chris are based in Provence working in one of the Backroads bike workshops. It’s the quieter season for tours, but the busiest time behind the scenes.
Over the winter they help prepare thousands of bikes ready for the upcoming travel season.
The process begins with servicing the e-bike fleet before moving on to road bikes and hybrids. Every bike needs to be checked, rebuilt and dialled in before guests arrive in the summer.
It’s a huge operation — and a perfect environment for passionate cyclists who enjoy working on bikes as much as riding them.
Testing Saint Piran Cycling Kit on Legendary Rides
While winter in Provence involves plenty of workshop time, there’s still time to ride — and the roads surrounding the region offer some of the best cycling in Europe.
For Em and Chris, this meant putting their Saint Piran cycling kit to the test on some truly spectacular rides.
Mont Ventoux
One ride had to happen almost immediately.
Just one weekend after arriving in Provence, they set out to climb Mont Ventoux, one of the most famous mountains in professional cycling.
The climb was completed just before snow settled on the summit — perfect timing and an unforgettable ride to begin the winter.
For riders around the world, Ventoux represents one of cycling’s great challenges.
And for two Cornish cyclists wearing Cornish cycling clothing, it was also a chance to represent Cornwall on one of the sport’s most iconic climbs.
Gorges de la Nesque
Soon after came another ride that many riders consider one of the most beautiful in the region.
The Gorges de la Nesque is less famous than Mont Ventoux but offers incredible scenery and flowing roads through dramatic canyon landscapes.
For Em, it quickly became a favourite.
The ride delivers spectacular views and a more relaxed climbing experience compared to the relentless slopes of Ventoux.
Cornwall Cycling Apparel on the World Stage
Although the winter season hasn’t yet brought guests to Provence, the Saint Piran cycling kit has already been thoroughly tested on these early rides.
When the Backroads summer season begins, riders from all over the world will see a small piece of Cornwall represented on the roads of France.
That’s one of the most powerful things about cycling — it carries stories and identities far beyond where they started.
In this case, Cornwall cycling apparel designed at Saint Piran Service Course is travelling far beyond the Cornish coast.
Looking Ahead to Spring Riding
As the days in Provence begin to get longer and the weather starts to warm up, more riding opportunities appear.
Spring riding in southern France means quiet roads, mild temperatures and endless exploration.
For Em and Chris, it also means more chances to ride in their Saint Piran cycling kit before the tour season begins.
Wherever those rides take them next, Cornwall will be represented along the way.
Ride with Cornwall
At Saint Piran Service Course, cycling is about more than equipment.
It’s about community, heritage and the landscapes that shape how we ride.
From the lanes of Cornwall to the climbs of Provence, the same spirit of cycling connects riders everywhere.
If you’re looking for Cornish cycling clothing, Cornwall cycling apparel, or performance-focused Saint Piran cycling kit, you’ll find it here.
About the Riders
Guest story by Em & Chris
Em and Chris are Cornish cyclists working with international active travel company Backroads. During the winter season they are based in Provence preparing bikes for the upcoming cycling season while exploring some of Europe’s most iconic rides.
Photos courtesy of Em & Chris.
FAQs
What is Saint Piran cycling kit?
Saint Piran cycling kit is performance cycling clothing inspired by Cornwall’s culture and designed for real-world riding conditions.
Where can I buy Cornish cycling clothing?
You can find Cornish cycling clothing and Cornwall cycling apparel at Saint Piran Service Course in Cornwall or online.
Is Saint Piran cycling kit suitable for long rides?
Yes. The kit is designed for comfort, durability and performance during long rides and demanding terrain.
Do international cyclists wear Saint Piran kit?
Yes. Riders and guides working internationally have been riding Saint Piran cycling kit across Europe and beyond.