I have been at this road cycling thing for a long time now, and I have found a "system" that works very well for me. I am hoping the BF collective, especially relative newbies, may find this useful. However what works for me might not work for you.

And no way am I getting into the "bibs vs shorts" debate - highly personal.

Below are Four general classifications of rides and suggested shorts/bibs and their respective price.

Remember I am a cheapskate so if you have money to burn by all means ride your Assos for every ride.

1. Very short rides <5 miles - wear whatever you want. Jorts. Pants. Skorts. It doesn't matter. Even street clothes with underwear.

For the rest of the classes below, remember kids...NO UNDERWEAR. No joking.

2. Moderately short rides. 5-30 miles, like a commute or short ride. I like Performance Century or Elites. These can be had, on sale, for approx 35 bucks or less. Do not get the GEL shorts!!!

3. Medium Ride 30-65 miles. These are my most typical rides. I like the Performance Ultra. The shorts can be had for approx 40 bucks on sale, the bibs maybe 50. These are the workhorse of my stable of shorts. I prefer the grey chamois ones from 2 years ago but the green chamois ones they sell now are still decent.

4. Longer rides of 65+ miles, Like the 108 mile ride I just did from West Chester PA to the Poconos. Epic rides, centuries, etc. Break out the Assos. I use the bottom of the line Uno's. which can be had for about 200 bucks if you shop the sales carefully.

I hope you kids find this info useful. I know it's not sticky-worthy but maybe of use to some of you.

If you have your own "system" feel free to post. If you disagree with me, feel free to say so too.