Bike shorts?
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: NYC
Posts: 40
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Bike shorts?
I'm looking at getting bike shorts for when I go riding longer distances, but I'm having a hard time making sense of it all. There are a lot of options and not much specific as to what I should look for when choosing some. I don't want to drop a lot of cash trying out a whole bunch, either. Do I go for a few sizes up? I'm normally about 32 to 34.
Right now I'm looking at the "Nashbar LQ8 Short" which seems to be a fair price and is 8-panel, which I gather is a desirable feature. How does that look to you guys?
Right now I'm looking at the "Nashbar LQ8 Short" which seems to be a fair price and is 8-panel, which I gather is a desirable feature. How does that look to you guys?
#2
Goon
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Ypsilanti, MI
Posts: 864
Bikes: Rocky Mountain RC30, Soma Sport Fixed
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
No you probably want to get what fits. ill-fitting lycra is no fun.
The Panels are a two edged sword. They are there to prevent "bunching" but depending on how they are made, you need to watch out where the seems sit, as you want it relatively smooth where any contact is being made with the bike.
Now, I am not an expert with nashbar, but I hear their stuff isn't of great quality. If cycling is something you like, it's better to get something nice, even if it costs a little extra.
For me, if I am going to be using it a lot, especially when it comes to comfort, it is worth it to be the best I can get. Does that mean the most expensive? Nope. Get what works best for you.
The Panels are a two edged sword. They are there to prevent "bunching" but depending on how they are made, you need to watch out where the seems sit, as you want it relatively smooth where any contact is being made with the bike.
Now, I am not an expert with nashbar, but I hear their stuff isn't of great quality. If cycling is something you like, it's better to get something nice, even if it costs a little extra.
For me, if I am going to be using it a lot, especially when it comes to comfort, it is worth it to be the best I can get. Does that mean the most expensive? Nope. Get what works best for you.
#4
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Sacramento, California, USA
Posts: 40,865
Bikes: Specialized Tarmac, Canyon Exceed, Specialized Transition, Ellsworth Roots, Ridley Excalibur
Mentioned: 68 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2952 Post(s)
Liked 3,106 Times
in
1,417 Posts
I've had much better luck with Voler than Nashbar. Try https://www.velowear.com/products/1110192PRTXSM.aspx
#6
Bike ≠ Car ≠ Ped.
Get two, or maybe three, different shorts from different brands, and maybe throw in a bib while you're at it. You don't need to get your entire stash at once, either.
The point is, you can't know "what works good for you" until you also find out what doesn't work so well. Almost any biking short is nicer than regular athletic shorts, yet after a while, you'll probably find yourself preferring a particular brand or model. Once you do, stick with them when you get more.
The point is, you can't know "what works good for you" until you also find out what doesn't work so well. Almost any biking short is nicer than regular athletic shorts, yet after a while, you'll probably find yourself preferring a particular brand or model. Once you do, stick with them when you get more.
#7
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: Central NC
Posts: 117
Bikes: Waterford Rs 22, GT ZuM
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I just bought 2 pairs of cycling shorts. One for REI, their Norvata brand for about $45. The other from Nashbar, their essential short for $25. The REI short is much much better. I didn't realized there would be that much difference. I will try other brands, but will stay away from Nashbar. I would rather spend more and have something that I can use.
#8
Life is good
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Not far from the Withlacoochee Trail. 🚴🏻
Posts: 18,209
Bikes: 2018 Lynskey Helix Pro
Mentioned: 13 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 522 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 10 Times
in
10 Posts
+4 for velowear.com
If you sign up for their emails you get $$ off on future purchases.
Bibs are much more comfortable than shorts. I have 0 pair of shorts and 10 pairs of bibs. Once you try them you'll never go back.
If you sign up for their emails you get $$ off on future purchases.
Bibs are much more comfortable than shorts. I have 0 pair of shorts and 10 pairs of bibs. Once you try them you'll never go back.
__________________
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. - Psalm 103:8
I am a cyclist. I am not the fastest or the fittest. But I will get to where I'm going with a smile on my face.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. - Psalm 103:8
I am a cyclist. I am not the fastest or the fittest. But I will get to where I'm going with a smile on my face.
#9
Generic Title
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: North Carolina
Posts: 1,927
Bikes: 2008 Trek Fuel EX7, 2007 Trek 1600, 2007 Eastern Warthog
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I don't have a problem with butt-crack-showing-syndrome, so I see no reason to wear them unless I'm racing.
__________________
Generic Joke
Generic Joke
#10
Disciple of St. Tullio
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: State of Jefferson
Posts: 743
Bikes: Ciöcc, Bianchi, DeRosa, Eddy Merckx, Frejus, Hampsten, Kondor, Losa, Magni, Pegoretti, Pelizzoli, Pogliaghi, Scapin
Mentioned: 38 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 267 Post(s)
Liked 334 Times
in
140 Posts
#11
Bottecchia fan
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Posts: 3,520
Bikes: 1959 Bottecchia Milano-Sanremo (frame), 1966 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1971 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1973 Bottecchia Gran Turismo, 1974 Bottecchia Special, 1977 Bottecchia Special (frame), 1974 Peugeot UO-8
Mentioned: 2 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 33 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 12 Times
in
9 Posts
For the OP, every person is different so it would be impossible to recomend a specific pair of shorts for you but since you mentioned you want to use them for longer rides, I would recomend starting with some intended for that purpose. These are often marketed as "century" or "touring" shorts. They tend to have a bit bulkier pad than a racing short but are fairly comfortable. Expect to spend $50-$75 for decent shorts.
__________________
1959 Bottecchia Milano-Sanremo(frame), 1966 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1971 Bottecchia Professional (frame),
1973 Bottecchia Gran Turismo, 1974 Bottecchia Special, 1977 Bottecchia Special (frame),
1974 Peugeot UO-8, 1988 Panasonic PT-3500, 2002 Bianchi Veloce, 2004 Bianchi Pista
1959 Bottecchia Milano-Sanremo(frame), 1966 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1971 Bottecchia Professional (frame),
1973 Bottecchia Gran Turismo, 1974 Bottecchia Special, 1977 Bottecchia Special (frame),
1974 Peugeot UO-8, 1988 Panasonic PT-3500, 2002 Bianchi Veloce, 2004 Bianchi Pista
#12
Junior Member
Join Date: Jul 2008
Posts: 9
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
i found a BUNCH on clearance at rei .com outlet. They shipped to my closest REI store (if you have one near you) for free shipping. I tried them all on there at the store and returned the ones that didn't fit right. I had ordered about 6 pair and only a couple even fit right. They are all SO different! The ones I kept were $25 on clearance.
#13
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Posts: 14,277
Mentioned: 1 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 3 Times
in
3 Posts
Neer having worn bibs I don't know so can you guys explain that statement? Why would bibs be more comfortable that shorts? I don't have "butt crack" syndrome either. I've heard that some bibs are cut for shorter torso/longer leg proportions and can pull and cause chaffing with those of us with the opposite physical proportions.
For the OP, every person is different so it would be impossible to recomend a specific pair of shorts for you but since you mentioned you want to use them for longer rides, I would recomend starting with some intended for that purpose. These are often marketed as "century" or "touring" shorts. They tend to have a bit bulkier pad than a racing short but are fairly comfortable. Expect to spend $50-$75 for decent shorts.
For the OP, every person is different so it would be impossible to recomend a specific pair of shorts for you but since you mentioned you want to use them for longer rides, I would recomend starting with some intended for that purpose. These are often marketed as "century" or "touring" shorts. They tend to have a bit bulkier pad than a racing short but are fairly comfortable. Expect to spend $50-$75 for decent shorts.
2) The chamois tends to stay in the proper location easier
3) No crack issues
#14
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2007
Posts: 2,118
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
Though I can't imagine even trying on a decent pair of shorts that would have the potential for a crack issue.
I used to have no issues with shorts before I tried bibs, but that was when I were naught but a skinny young lad...... Ah! those were the days!
#15
Bottecchia fan
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Posts: 3,520
Bikes: 1959 Bottecchia Milano-Sanremo (frame), 1966 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1971 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1973 Bottecchia Gran Turismo, 1974 Bottecchia Special, 1977 Bottecchia Special (frame), 1974 Peugeot UO-8
Mentioned: 2 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 33 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 12 Times
in
9 Posts
Well, 1 and 3 don't seem to be an issue for me. Why would the chamois stay in the proper location easier? That really doesn't seem to be an issue either.
__________________
1959 Bottecchia Milano-Sanremo(frame), 1966 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1971 Bottecchia Professional (frame),
1973 Bottecchia Gran Turismo, 1974 Bottecchia Special, 1977 Bottecchia Special (frame),
1974 Peugeot UO-8, 1988 Panasonic PT-3500, 2002 Bianchi Veloce, 2004 Bianchi Pista
1959 Bottecchia Milano-Sanremo(frame), 1966 Bottecchia Professional (frame), 1971 Bottecchia Professional (frame),
1973 Bottecchia Gran Turismo, 1974 Bottecchia Special, 1977 Bottecchia Special (frame),
1974 Peugeot UO-8, 1988 Panasonic PT-3500, 2002 Bianchi Veloce, 2004 Bianchi Pista
#16
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2007
Posts: 2,118
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
Well, if 1 and 3 aren't a problem, then 2 is less likely to be a problem as well, as I said, when I was younger and skinnier I had no problems with shorts either. If I had tried bibs then, I might have preferred them. Now, I definitely do.
#18
Disciple of St. Tullio
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: State of Jefferson
Posts: 743
Bikes: Ciöcc, Bianchi, DeRosa, Eddy Merckx, Frejus, Hampsten, Kondor, Losa, Magni, Pegoretti, Pelizzoli, Pogliaghi, Scapin
Mentioned: 38 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 267 Post(s)
Liked 334 Times
in
140 Posts
I didn't think 1 was a problem either. I was fine with shorts and I never thought the waistband dug in until I tried bibs the first time, then I discovered the difference. 2 and 3 I've never had a problem with.
#19
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Los Angeles
Posts: 1,894
Bikes: Bianchi Via Nirone 7, Jamis Sputnik
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I bought my shorts from hammernutrition.com for $39.99. If you don't mind the logo, they're made by Voler, and they sent me a bunch of free samples of gels and stuff with it.. I've read that the padding is different from the one previously linked on the Voler site. Better quality.. whether it's true or not, i'm not sure, but I have been using them for a few weeks now and they're awesome.
#20
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: NYC
Posts: 40
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Well, Dick's Sporting Goods had a pair for $30 that I tried on and seemed to fit well, so I picked those up. I've worn them on two extended rides and they are pretty comfortable, no qualms. Thanks for all the advice and suggestions; my next pair may very well come from the internet.
#21
Life is good
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Not far from the Withlacoochee Trail. 🚴🏻
Posts: 18,209
Bikes: 2018 Lynskey Helix Pro
Mentioned: 13 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 522 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 10 Times
in
10 Posts
I like the no waist band/no draw string feature. I can breathe when climbing a hill.
__________________
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. - Psalm 103:8
I am a cyclist. I am not the fastest or the fittest. But I will get to where I'm going with a smile on my face.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. - Psalm 103:8
I am a cyclist. I am not the fastest or the fittest. But I will get to where I'm going with a smile on my face.
#22
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: northern California
Posts: 5,603
Bikes: Bruce Gordon BLT, Cannondale parts bike, Ecodyne recumbent trike, Counterpoint Opus 2, miyata 1000
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
You get what you pay for. I used a set of Pace shorts until they were nearly rags as they supported the boys better then the Nashbar shorts. I prefer a slightly tight fit so things do not slip down between my legs and the saddle.
#23
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Waterloo, ONT
Posts: 1,417
Bikes: Road: Trek 1.5 (2007). Mountain: Santa Cruz Chameleon (2008). Beater: Peugeot Recorde du Monde (1850)
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I got a couple pairs of Pearl Izumi Quest shorts @ 48$/piece today. Going to go for 100km in them tomorrow .
The other pair of shorts i ride in stand in at 120$/piece. Fancy Sugoi shorts. I find them very comfortable, but a touch bulky if you're walking around in them.
I think both styles of shorts i wear are meant for longer distances, since it's thicker/heavier padding.
The other pair of shorts i ride in stand in at 120$/piece. Fancy Sugoi shorts. I find them very comfortable, but a touch bulky if you're walking around in them.
I think both styles of shorts i wear are meant for longer distances, since it's thicker/heavier padding.
#24
Generic Title
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: North Carolina
Posts: 1,927
Bikes: 2008 Trek Fuel EX7, 2007 Trek 1600, 2007 Eastern Warthog
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts