We got our first experience with a Merlin leather jacket late last year, when we tested their Ridge offering. Fast forward a few months, and we’ve pulled on the Chester Cafe D30, in black, for a proper review.
The first thing you notice about it is that undeniable new leather smell, and stiffness. It’s a nod to its quality, and alludes to future journeys in a jacket you just know is going to soften nicely. For the record, it can also be had in brown.
There were a few moments of early trepidation though, particularly for this writer, who generally yearns for simplicity in bike gear. An asymmetrical front zipper features, which is a real classic, yet modern touch.
Immediate thoughts led to the fact that skinny leg tight jeans may need to be applied and we’re not sure that this rider has the physique or the will power to give up meat pies at this point in life, just to pull off the look.
That said, we’re always up for something new, and within moments our fears were laid to rest. The jacket was on and it looked a million bucks. Even yours truly was gaining some interesting and ravishing looks from the minister of happiness and domestic bliss.
A man of undeniable style in my own mind, we were immediately impressed with the antique brass buckles and YKK zippers. The diamond stitched quilt overlays provide a classic contrast and the jacket even has clip fasteners (more on those shortly).
These allow you to wear it with the collar up or folded down, the latter option exposing more of the diamond stitched quilt overlay. There is subtle embossed branding inlayed into the 1.1-1.3mm waxed cowhide leather.
You’ll also find plenty of storage to stash your keys, wallet and phone, when riding. There are two side entry external zipped pockets with leather pull tabs, along with internal storage.
Included in the price of the jacket is a removable 100g cross quilted thermal lining, which is easy to take out and simple to reattach. Even in sub-10-degree morning temperatures on the NSW Central Coast, the Chester Cafe D30 jacket is warm enough without that insert.
That may make for interesting summer riding. All-in-all though, we’ve been testing this Merlin jacket over the last six months, and as we’d hoped, it’s now soft and feels properly worn in.
Our only gripe is that the neck collar clasp can be a little hard to do up, especially when wearing a thick neck warmer, however a little persistence will fix the issue. For safety, you will find shoulder and elbow protectors too, which gives the jacket a CE EN17092 AA rating.
It’s a quality, stylish leather jacket which wears and fits well. Pricing starts at $649.95 in either brown or black, with sizes starting at small and ranging all the way to 4XL. The Chester Cafe D30 Jacket is available at all good motorcycle accessories stockists.
You can find out more on the Merlin Bike Gear website.
Pros – build quality; modern classic styling; overall comfort.
Cons – asymmetrical zipper won’t be for everyone; neck collar clasp can be difficult to do up.
Our test product was provided by Merlin Bike Gear Australia. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this product.
