After spending a bit of time on their bus in Vegas and putting some beers down at their event, we have a better sense why the Rapha brand continues to succeed in the market. With that said, check out their latest Gentleman’s Cap. “A new interpretation of the classic cycling biretta, the Rapha Gentleman’s Cap is designed for the urban riding dandy. Available in three exclusive designs, each cap style boasts its own unique signature features. The Feather cap is made from grey Melton wool and finished with a black grosgrain ribbon stripe down the centre.”

More looks at the Rapha Gentleman’s Cap after the click.

Rapha previews their A/W 2009 collection online now. New products including trouser, a rain jacket, and overshoe covers complement older styles which have been upgraded for the season. “Combining technical innovation with Rapha’s trademark styling, the new collection covers every aspect of the upcoming season. From high-performance roadwear designed for the technical demands of elite racing, to sophisticated tailoring for the urban dandy, Rapha continues to raise the bar for riding apparel and accessories.”

Many more looks at the “New Products” from Rapha’s Autumn/Winter 2009 Range Preview after the jump.

Weekends are for cycling, so why not suit up in some more excellent Rapha gear. They drop three new shirts as part of their “Legend T-Shirt” line. “Inspired by the iconic riders of the 1980s and 1990s, Rapha’s Legend T-shirts come in three eye-catching prints. Designed both for urban riding and wearing off the bike, the montage-style graphics celebrate some of the modern heroes of the sport and the colours they carried to their numerous victories.”

More views of the Rapha Legend T-Shirts after the jump.

Cycling nerds, the new Rapha Condor Team Cap is a modern take on the classic biretta cap of days past as well as the cap worn by Britain’s ”number one-ranked team.” The cap is made in Italy and is super light and comfortable for a long ride. “It is also extremely breathable and is finished with a moisture-wicking anti-bacterial tape and a thick elastic fastener.”

More views of the Rapha Condor Team Cap after the jump.

As I prep for my ride to the docks to watching the end of the Boston leg of the Volvo Ocean race, I wish I could substitute this white t-shirt for Rapha’s Swift Jersey. It just looks great and is perfect cycling wear for the 80-90F weather we’re experiencing in the Northeast of the USA today.

“Using a vintage jersey style, the black flocked silhouettes of swifts in flight on black makes for a beautifully understated and distinctive design. The cut is similar to that of other Rapha jerseys, using side panels to create a slim fit, and cut longer at the back. It has a classic ribbed neck and sleeve cuffs with a metal zipper to give it an old-school feel.”

More views of the Rapha Swift Jersey after the jump.

I just cannot get enough of the Rapha movement. The cycling gear company from England has not only helped invigorate the world of fashionable high end cycling gear, but they themselves continue to output products which cross a variety of tastes. 

Now available as a book, the labels discreetly stitched inside Rapha products provide a treasure trove of insights into some of the many facets of road riding. Whether celebrating the derring-do of the great legends, or simply reflecting on the humble joy of discovering rare parts in a yard sale…

More views from the new Collection of Rapha Labels book after the jump.

“In 2007 Rapha collaborated with Paul Smith to produce two limited edition tweed-style cycling caps. The popularity of this idiosyncratic style demanded Rapha deliver a new line in tweed caps. 2009 brings three new and distinctive interpretations of the classic cycling biretta, rendered in fabrics more usually associated with fine bespoke tailoring. A perfect accessory for the sartorial cyclist.” Get it now from Rapha.

More views of the Rapha Tweed Caps after the jump.

England’s Rapha company looks to fill a niche with their latest project. Recognizing that more and more gentleman cycle to and from their offices – many of them in suits that are not fell fit for the cycling commute, Rapha has teamed with Savile Row tailor, Timothy Everest on a suit that is “at home both on the bike and the in the boardroom.” We should add that the entire suit is a bespoke product and will only be available through fittings.

“Because Tim is a pretty active and knowledgeable cyclist, the details for fit on and off the bike have been really well thought through- the facing buttons up for clearance when you pedal, the cuffs flip down and the collar pops and fastens up. The back has been built so it gives when you get down on the bars for fit and comfort. Both the jacket and the vest have two pockets on on the back in case you need to cary a phone, wallet, or a flask.”

Currently, Mr. Everest is taking on a handful of fitting appointments for the new Rapha suit. Be sure to contact Rapha for more details. 

More detailed images of the Rapha Bespoke Cycling Suit after the jump.

A nice small waterproof satchel from the people at Rapha. What makes the Bonk special is that angled straps for positioning on your bike as well as the reinforced seams that helps keep the rain dogs away. Super simple rain free bag for a quick ride.

More views of the The Rapha Bonk Bag after the jump.

As you might have noticed by now, we are big fans of Rapha. The fusion of classic looks with functional gear, targeted at the bike enthusiasts among you, is done with such perfection by the brand, unseen before. You get highly functional apparel, but at the same time it does not show it off – understated, elegant sportswear.

The Rapha Leather Town Gloves have just been released. “Handmade in England by luxury goods producer Burfield, these classically styled all-weather gloves are a limited edition. Cut from the finest Pittards goatskin leather, the gloves have full fingers, are highly durable and the leather will improve with age.”

They come in black and brown and are available now.

Detailed images follow after the jump.