After buying a pair of basketball shorts and going for a bike ride today, I realize why there are specific bike shorts. So..

a)what makes a good pair of shorts..paneling, stretch, fabric, etc?. The last thing I want is for them to rip, shred, wear out in places or ride down after a few uses.

b) how not to look like a muffin top and how a pair should fit. Will they loosen up over time or do they shrink the first time you wash a pair?

c) if I can't throw them in the wash/dryer forget it.

d) if you are on the larger side, anything to stay away from other than the obvious?

As my true hobby is sewing/quilting it's finding the right fit not necessarily about brand. On the opposite hand, if you look like a dork, at least cars will notice that you exist.