For my short 5mi commute...and for the vast majority of my rides of 50ish miles and less (and even some metrics and centuries), I don't even bother with cycling shorts anymore. I get along just fine with either flat-seamed merino wool boxers or Walmart Starter-branded poly/spandex undies (much cheaper than merino wool) as my base layer, flat-seamed, gusseted crotch, not-too-baggy shorts (Prana Mojos are my favs) and a properly positioned Brooks saddle.
I do wear bibs from time to time, mostly for 50+ mile rides on the road bike when doing roadie things...more to look the part and not freak out others in the group than for any comfort need. Granted, bibs can be cooler, but they are also darn restricting too! Mr. Winky hates being all bottled up like that!
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"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey
Last edited by chipcom; 06-27-11 at 08:55 AM.