Fifty Plus (50+) - First pair of bibs...

Bought my first pair of bibs and went for my first ride in them yesterday. Found a pair of Crafts on line. I really like em, very comfy and the pad is great! Popped em in the washer on gentle cycle hung em to dry. They are ready to go this morning! My evolution into cycling continues...:D

Bibs are great.

Not to long after I got my road bike, I borrowed an LG bib from a friend of mine to try out before buying some and I just couldn't get used to the straps going over the shoulders. The bib was a medium, which is what I wear, so it wasn't too small because the bottom part fit just right. For whatever reason, they just kept tugging on my shoulders and were very uncomfortable. I spent the entire ride shrugging my shoulders trying to get them in a comfortable position but with no success. I also didn't like the shoulder straps rubbing across my chest every time I moved. I guess they aren't for everyone. I'll stick with my PI Attack shorts for now.

Bibs are great.
+1 to that... on super hot days I may use shorts but 98% of the time it's bibs for me.


Not to long after I got my road bike, I borrowed an LG bib from a friend of mine to try out before buying some and I just couldn't get used to the straps going over the shoulders. The bib was a medium, which is what I wear, so it wasn't too small because the bottom part fit just right. For whatever reason, they just kept tugging on my shoulders and were very uncomfortable. I spent the entire ride shrugging my shoulders trying to get them in a comfortable position but with no success. I also didn't like the shoulder straps rubbing across my chest every time I moved. I guess they aren't for everyone. I'll stick with my PI Attack shorts for now.
This may well be due to a brand or size issue. I would not abandon bibs based on one experience with them.

+1 to that... on super hot days I may use shorts but 98% of the time it's bibs for me.



One if my bibs is mesh uppers.

One if my bibs is mesh uppers.
Good point.... I have some newer PI Elite bibs that seem to be just fine in the heat. They have mesh tops and fabric on the legs that is very good for cooling.

And... in coolish weather (we have a lot of that) the extra fabric on some of my bibs is really great for keeping the lower torso warm enough.

Good point.... I have some newer PI Elite bibs that seem to be just fine in the heat. They have mesh tops and fabric on the legs that is very good for cooling.

And... in coolish weather (we have a lot of that) the extra fabric on some of my bibs is really great for keeping the lower torso warm enough.

On cold days I like the fact that the rise on the back of the bibs is like a second base layer. But I am finally losing enough weight that shorts aren't so much of a problem, so I will probably have a mix as the bibs wear out.

. I guess they aren't for everyone. I'll stick with my PI Attack shorts for now.



Yeah you and me both. I've contemplated buying them over the years but I have no problem with the Voler shorts I wear most of the time. Besides, its hot down here in Florida most of the time and I need lots and lots of ventilation. The straps would be an issue to me as I usually just wear a cotton tank top or muscle shirt, something that doesnt 'cling' to me. Cycling jerseys just cost too much, and I'm a minimalist when it comes to clothes and bike riding.

but thats just me

The only issues I have with my bibs is when I'm off the bike. My voice goes up a it, if you know what I mean. Other wise, bibs are great.

Different brands seem to fit differently even in the same size. I have some nashbar bibs that seem tight, Same size Voler fits fine. Same size Giant bibs are loose. Specialized bibs fit tight in the straps and Pearl Zumi seem just right.

My favorite bibs right now are Castelli Velossicimo. Great fit, great pad, not too thick, the lycra is soft and works great hot or cold.

Blimey--All this new fangled stuff getting into the cycling drawer--Makes you wonder how you ever got by with a pair of trainers- sports shorts and a T shirt.:innocent:

This may well be due to a brand or size issue. I would not abandon bibs based on one experience with them.

I haven't given up totally on the idea of bibs, but due to the first, not so good, experience that I had with a pair that I borrowed, it isn't on my list of things to do in the very near future. At the price that a decent bibs go for, it would get pretty expensive to try several pair only to find out that I don't like any of them.

Here's the secret with bibs:

Those of us with a God-given aerodynamic aero-belly (think 1953 Buick) generally love them.

Those of you cursed with a flat tummy can't figure out why the aero-bellies love them.

And, that's it in a nutshell.

Bibs are great. Once you try them you'll never go back to shorts. :thumb:
I started with Voler bibs in 2003. Got a deal on some Etxe Ondo bibs in 2004/5. Love them. In 2008 I got another deal on DeMarchi bibs. :thumb:
After doing a little cleaning and tossing in September I now have 5 pairs of DeMarchi (4 new) and 3 pairs of Etxe Ondo bibs. :D




Not to long after I got my road bike, I borrowed an LG bib from a friend of mine to try out before buying some and I just couldn't get used to the straps going over the shoulders. The bib was a medium, which is what I wear, so it wasn't too small because the bottom part fit just right.
If you look at the size charts for most bibs, the size is based on height, not weight or waist size. If the straps were digging in then you probably needed the next larger size.

Not for everyone is true. I have performance elite and Hammer's set I got with a large order. The straps kill me. Once on a century ride (Tour de Safford) I had to stop, at about 70 miles or so take off my jersey, pull off my straps and put on jersey again. I just couldn't stand the strain on my shoulders anymore. Besides I get along with regular shorts just fine. Why complicate things?

I fought wearing bibs for a long time. Talk about being stupid. After my first ride with them I realized riding would have been much more comfortable with them all those long years. Today, I like bibs so much that if I'm going on a casual ride with friend who will all be wearing street clothes, I'll wear street clothes too, but with bibs underneath them.

Search all the different bike forums, lots of threads discussing bibs.

I did take the time reading, since the difference in riding comfort is greatly influenced in clothing choices. As for bibs, I believe the biggest issue for most people is the straps. Take two people, both weighing 200lbs with an 36" waist. One is 5' 8" inches and the other 6' 2", and according to the size chart, both need the XL. Except how can the same size bib fit both people equally with a 6" height difference? I think here in lies the problem and why some people either love or hate bibs. Depending on the manufacturer, the bib material and cut, strap lengths vary and it's very important to find what works for your waist size and height. Read the reviews and see what others are recommending for your body size.

As for me, I'm 5'8" and have bibs from 3 different manufacturers. The difference in strap comfort is not bad since I'm not very tall. One is perfect, another loose and the 3rd is between the first and second. For someone taller, they're going to view these bibs differently.

Unless you can find bibs locally, your taking a gamble buying off the net, so read reviews and look for a good return policy.

I am a shorts kind of guy. My only complaint with bibs is the feeling of the shoulder straps slipping down(whether they actually do or don't). They kinda bother me. I have good muscles from my neck to shoulders that taper downward and that makes for that feeling. Oh well.
The other thing I don't like is the extra layer on my chest and belly. In the summer it is HOT here and that extra layer is a bit much sometimes. Don't like the feeling of something clinging to my belly. I'll take shorts, thank you very much. But if you like bibs, great!

I first got a pair of bibs in 2010. I have 3 pairs now, 2 PI Elite and 1 Performance Ultra.

I like them best when climbing (does this call for another post in the hill climbing thread....), but, love the fact I am not pulling up shorts all the time.

Those commenting about uncomfortable straps, etc. are you just wearing the bib w/ a jersey? Maybe try it with a baselayer undershirt underneath so the contact points don't go raw. Good baselayers have the potential to keep you cooler than just a jersey on hot days.

Bibs are great.

I have trouble fitting into them. I think it's because there are two dimensions....waist and length. At 5'9" and 185 lbs. with a 35" waist and 43" chest I find that if I buy based on waist size the length is too long and if I buy by length the waist is a tad small. Then again I'm comfortable with shorts. I do have two pair of PI Tri suits and they fit me very well. Unfortunately the chamois gets me about 30-40 mi. and then feels a little too "minimal" for me.

Anyone here wear Assos and are they really worth the price?

I have a pair of Castelli bibs, and I hate them. It turns taking a leak into a major production. I have to take off my jacket, take off my jersey, take down the straps, finally extract the dangly bit, do the deed, and then reverse the whole process. I have worn the bibs once, probably never will again.

EDIT: I guess I could try Jim Hobson's "Hunch and Flop". If I don't get arrested it looks like it could be great fun:

http://www.jimhodgson.com/2010/08/19/how-to-pee-in-cycling-bibs-the-hunch-n-flop/

I have a pair of Castelli bibs, and I hate them. It turns taking a leak into a major production. I have to take off my jacket, take off my jersey, take down the straps, finally extract the dangly bit, do the deed, and then reverse the whole process. I have worn the bibs once, probably never will again.

EDIT: I guess I could try Jim Hobson's "Hunch and Flop". If I don't get arrested it looks like it could be great fun:

http://www.jimhodgson.com/2010/08/19/how-to-pee-in-cycling-bibs-the-hunch-n-flop/

Hmmm... thats a good point! I haven't had to take a leak yet; going to have to strategize for when that situation arises. :twitchy: But my Crafts fit perfect.

Hmmm... thats a good point! I haven't had to take a leak yet; going to have to strategize for when that situation arises. :twitchy: But my Crafts fit perfect.

It is not a production at all. Just roll your bib leg up and do your business. I've never had to do what Michaelnet had to do - except for number 2.

My bibs are TIGHTS, not shorts. I run a little short of being able to get my dingus down to my ankle.

Those commenting about uncomfortable straps, etc. are you just wearing the bib w/ a jersey? Maybe try it with a baselayer undershirt underneath so the contact points don't go raw. Good baselayers have the potential to keep you cooler than just a jersey on hot days.

Key word: potential. come ride with us in the summer ;) . It's not that they dig in(on me), it's the sensation of them slipping down and the subsequent constant contraction of muscle to raise the shoulders or the constant pulling them up. I just hate the feel of a bib. Not to mention the look if you ever have to remove your jersey......NASTY!

Those commenting about uncomfortable straps, etc. are you just wearing the bib w/ a jersey? Maybe try it with a baselayer undershirt underneath so the contact points don't go raw. Good baselayers have the potential to keep you cooler than just a jersey on hot days.

Yes, I did try wearing the bib with a jersey. The bib I borrowed to try out was one that was for my build. It felt OK and was fairly comfortable while standing or walking and the problem didn't start until I started riding. It was especially irritating when riding my hoods. It just felt as if the straps were constantly pulling my shoulders toward my waist.

As for base-layers, summers in Florida are miserable without having to add more layers. In the middle of summer, I normally ride with a stay-dry tank top and at times, even that is too hot. Unlike most other areas, we have a warm climate for most of the year. Currently, it's 73º here in Tampa and is suppose to go into the upper 70's, low 80's later in the day; and it's the middle of December.

All the other discussions I have read about bibs all have the same outcome; either you love them or you hate them. Right now, I am in between and still have not ruled them completely out. However, with the experience I had, they aren't exactly what I had expected according to all that I have read about them.

My bibs are TIGHTS, not shorts. I run a little short of being able to get my dingus down to my ankle.

:lol:

OK, point taken

(I usually wear shorts bibs with leg warmers, which solves the problem for me)

My bibs are TIGHTS, not shorts. I run a little short of being able to get my dingus down to my ankle.

Bib knickers should take care of that, NO?:lol:

No. Bib Thong might work though.

:twitchy:
No. Bib Thong might work though.

Oh, my eyes! :twitchy:

It is not a production at all. Just roll your bib leg up and do your business. I've never had to do what Michaelnet had to do - except for number 2.

+1

Just got my first two sets of Louis Garneau bibs last month. As a man, I figured this bit out pretty quick.

Anyone here wear Assos and are they really worth the price?

I have a pair of the F1 Uno. They're my least favorite bibs because it makes my base layer ride up in front, and the chamois is a bit thick for my liking. So I don't think they're worth the price, but I think this is one of those YMMV questions.

Bibs? Meh.

I am very thin and have a long torso. That leads to the dreaded "wedgie" effect when I wear bibs. I've tried, they've failed me. No thank you.

No. Bib Thong might work though.

Please, NO Borat picture in the thong bib bathing suit. UUUUGGGHHHH

I have a pair of Castelli bibs, and I hate them. It turns taking a leak into a major production. I have to take off my jacket, take off my jersey, take down the straps, finally extract the dangly bit, do the deed, and then reverse the whole process. I have worn the bibs once, probably never will again.

EDIT: I guess I could try Jim Hobson's "Hunch and Flop". If I don't get arrested it looks like it could be great fun:

http://www.jimhodgson.com/2010/08/19/how-to-pee-in-cycling-bibs-the-hunch-n-flop/

I took 4 years into my 10 yr road racing career to try bibs. Afterwards, never went back to shorts again - for road riding. I now use shorts on my hybrid and MTB under cargo shorts. You're not supposed to have to pull off the straps to pee (that would be too much trouble); just need to stretch downward the front U-shaped edge until "Billy" is free. Any good par of bibs will stretch right back to shape w/o any problems for years to come. Also, can't beat the great fit in the rear-end department w/ bibs! Cycling shorts that are loose or have those unsightly "air-pockets," or just plain sag too much in the rear end should be outlawed, unless coverd up w/ cargo shorts or something similar. No bibs should irritate one's shoulders. If so, you just need to find some proper fitting bibs; should not be too tight or too loose.

I've a pair of bibs that get worn only when I've been more than usually lazy about the laundry. In all of the threads I've seen re:bibs, people that like them love them and the rest just don't care. Wait maybe that was the one about Brooks saddles? I can't remember or were we talking about hills and brownies or BBQ and sex but I think that I would rember sex, wouldn't I?:)

I've a pair of bibs that get worn only when I've been more than usually lazy about the laundry. In all of the threads I've seen re:bibs, people that like them love them and the rest just don't care. Wait maybe that was the one about Brooks saddles? I can't remember or were we talking about hills and brownies or BBQ and sex but I think that I would rember sex, wouldn't I?:)

Did you say you have sex in your bibs? :p

I guess some of you have bibs that fit you very differently than mine fit me. My straps do not pull down tightly on my shoulders, nor do they slip off my shoulders. They just sit there and keep my shorts from slipping down during a long ride. And I have no idea why some of you have so much trouble pulling the bibs down in front so you can pee. They stretch and then they spring back into shape when you're done.

I guess some of you have bibs that fit you very differently than mine fit me. My straps do not pull down tightly on my shoulders, nor do they slip off my shoulders. They just sit there and keep my shorts from slipping down during a long ride.

I've never had a pair of shorts slide down on me and I have had several sets of shorts from different manufacturers. Even the crappy Bontrager shorts I had never slid down on me. All my shorts now are Pearl-Izumi Attack shorts with a drawstring waistband rather than an elastic waistband. I don't tie the drawstrings and they still don't slip down, even on long rides. I wear UA compression shorts underneath and I would think that they would cause them to slip even more, but they don't.

My shorts don't slip down on me, but being that I'm still circumferentially "enhanced" (even if only mildly so after my weight loss to date), I tend to have a problem with waistband rollover, which is highly annoying, especially on long rides. Bibs solve that for me completely. I still have my shorts, including some very nice ones, and I wear them from time to time, but all other things being equal, I prefer the bibs.

By mentioning that my shorts sometimes slide down during long rides, I'm not saying that this happens frequently or that it is a drastic thing. But there have been times in the latter parts of a century, especially on hot days, that my shorts would move down just enough that the chamois moved away from an ideal position to control sweating and chafing. Bibs prevent that for me. YMMV.

I am quite OK with the fact that some people don't like riding with bibs. It just happens that I do.

Not to long after I got my road bike, I borrowed an LG bib from a friend of mine to try out before buying some and I just couldn't get used to the straps going over the shoulders. The bib was a medium, which is what I wear, so it wasn't too small because the bottom part fit just right. For whatever reason, they just kept tugging on my shoulders and were very uncomfortable. I spent the entire ride shrugging my shoulders trying to get them in a comfortable position but with no success. I also didn't like the shoulder straps rubbing across my chest every time I moved. I guess they aren't for everyone. I'll stick with my PI Attack shorts for now.

I like the Performance bibs with the white upper section. Other ones have bugged the daylights out of me.