?s for serious cyclists!

[scooterbug44]

I need clothing for a bike trip - do you have any favorite brands, items, and local or internet stores?

I will be doing about 45 miles a day (and my butt hates ANY bike seat) so I know padded bottoms are a must, but have never worn/bought any before.

So far I have a long list of potential items on REI (love their reviews) and have already gone through Title Nine and Athleta and didn't find anything there. Plan to hit Robin's and Big Daddy soon.

All the equipment (bike, helmet, etc.) is being provided and we're stocking up on butt butter at the next Ironman, I just have to get clothes and budget is a factor.

I need to be comfy and properly attired, but my typical bike riding in Sowal is low-key, so there will be no "investing" in uber- high tech gear for the long haul, just need functional items that will work for the trip and that I will probably only reuse for other sports or joy riding.

Any advice or tips would be appreciated!

 

[beachmouse]

In terms of bike shorts, they tend to be a personal sort of thing and your tender bits may vary but Pearl Izumi, Louis Garneau, Mavic, Craft, Cannondale, Descente, and Addidas all are respectable names for shorts.

Note that bike shorts are designed to be worn commando, which is why black is the most popular color.

 

[rancid]

I need clothing for a bike trip - do you have any favorite brands, items, and local or internet stores?

I will be doing about 45 miles a day (and my butt hates ANY bike seat) so I know padded bottoms are a must, but have never worn/bought any before.

So far I have a long list of potential items on REI (love their reviews) and have already gone through Title Nine and Athleta and didn't find anything there. Plan to hit Robin's and Big Daddy soon.

All the equipment (bike, helmet, etc.) is being provided and we're stocking up on butt butter at the next Ironman, I just have to get clothes and budget is a factor.

I need to be comfy and properly attired, but my typical bike riding in Sowal is low-key, so there will be no "investing" in uber- high tech gear for the long haul, just need functional items that will work for the trip and that I will probably only reuse for other sports or joy riding.

Any advice or tips would be appreciated!

Nashbar.com and performance bikes are great online websites. good deals and big selection. weekly sales

 

[Smiling JOe]

love me some Pearl Izumi heavily padded shorts, though they make many models. I'm a touch and feel shopper when it comes to cycling shorts. Here is the deal -- until you get your saddle butt, padding or no padding, it's going to hurt. You will have to build up to time on the seat and there is only one way to do that -- time on the seat.

Regarding the best deals out there -- Nashbar - Welcome! (Nashbar)has some tremendous sales, and they publish thin sales magazines to mail out in addition to online catalog.

The most expensive cycling mag I've seen is Colorado Cyclist.

I've also had great experience with shorts and jerseys from (REI) REI: Deals on Outdoor Gear, Equipment and Clothing for Camping, Cycling, Fitness, Hiking, Kayaking and More (and I love every shopping experience with REI.)

 

[bluemtnrunner]

Definitely hit Nashbar. I always like to shop my local bike store jerseys. Bob's Bikes in Birmingham is my store of choice.
Don't skimp on cheaper brands or places like Academy Sports, you can wind up really miserable. Cannondale shorts are my favorites. REI has an online outlet also, you can pick up good deals there. Too bad you can't hold off until fall, that is when the summer shorts and jersey prices get knocked way down.

Have fun!!!!!!

 

[scooterbug44]

Thank you guys!

I will definitely check out Nashbar!

Yes, I know saddle time is the only way to train, and I will be upping my mileage, but seriously I have the wrong bones or something.

Really, commando? Is that a chafe issue? That makes sense, just surprised noone mentioned it before - especially since I was instructed to shop for padded undies and my co-peddlers are not shy.

 

[beachmouse]

Undies under bike shorts will frequently cause chafe issues, and can also interfere with the shorts' moisture-wicking abilities, and the dryer you can keep that region, the better. If you have dark colored shorts that are reasonably new (lycra starts to break down from washing over time)

There are mountain bike shorts that have a lycra and chamois liner and an outer nylon shell that look more like traditional shorts if you don't want the total roadie look.

 

[scooterbug44]

The reason I am harping on that is that I am supposed to be switching off padded shorts w/ padded undies+regular shorts. Partly because handlaundry/dry time is an issue.

You seem to be leaning towards straight up just taking more padded shorts/skorts/capris?

 

[bluemtnrunner]

The reason I am harping on that is that I am supposed to be switching off padded shorts w/ padded undies+regular shorts. Partly because handlaundry/dry time is an issue.

You seem to be leaning towards straight up just taking more padded shorts/skorts/capris?

Yep, lots of pairs of shorts for a long ride like this and a kilt/skirt/towel for coverage while changing...if you care. I've seen so many guys drop trou right in the parking lot.
Wash em and bungee to your camelback for drying as you ride.

I have a pair of cannondale Mtn Bike shorts that look like regular shorts on the outside but have really never worn them much as the loose legs always seemed to be a problem.
Triathlon shorts have thinner padding and dry quicker as they are designed for swimming then biking. You might want to check those out. I have a Louis Garneau that I like but Zoot makes some good ones too. They are a little shorter than traditional cycling shorts.

Check out SheBeest and Terry too. My favorite jersey is shebeest.

I wanna go!!!

 

[Smiling JOe]

padded undies are more for people who wear casual shorts and ride mtn bikes.