If I'm riding long enough that wear in my jeans would become a factor, I'm wearing lycra. Period. The only time I don't is going to and from class/around campus. I just find it so much better for riding that any time I'm on my bike I'd rather be wearing my bibs than anything else I might happen to have on. If you're going to be away from your bike and don't want to be going about your business in the tight shorts, just throw on some loose athletic shorts over them. That one I can understand, going around in lycra looks a little weird if there's no bike in sight and you're not at a race. If you're too self conscious to be seen in them while on the bike, I suggest either growing a pair and not being so concerned about your "image" or the shorts idea above.