You see this thread http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=198152 where we debate the aesthetics of lycra/spandex?

I am firmly in the they are comfortable-on-a-bike, cool, fast, but-look-good-on-no-one camp.

Might have to try those "Commuter Shorts." Thanks for pointing those out. Have you tried MTB shorts? Barring rain, MTB shorts give you the best of both worlds.