Cycling shorts vs Bibs

[GuytonMike]

I have long worn cycling shorts I purchased from Aero Tech Designs. They are eight panel, unpadded and fit comfortably. On longer rides the waist band abrades my lower back and to compensate for that I apply a sheet of moleskin. On Bike Sebring this past weekend the moleskin was not enough to stop the abrasion. I am now looking for a different solution. I have never worn bibs and don't know if bibs are available without padding or if the hem on the bib if high enough on one's back to not be under so much pressure. I would greatly appreciate suggestions. For now, I'm off the bike until things heal.

 

[IyhelM]

Hard to find bibs without padding at a decent price point. Look for rollerskating stuff maybe.
I usually wear trail running shorts, they lack the large waist band of most cycling gear, never had any abrasion issues.

 

[Rolling Along]

I am using customized shorts from
www.bikingthings.com
I am not sure if the waist band would abrade on very long rides like Sebring. I am including a photo to give you an idea. I have the stock V20c seat pad with a layer of yoga mat underneath.

 

[Boreen bimbler]

I remember Lael Wilcox used to unpick the pads out of her shorts.

 

[Joe Riel]

I have recumbent bibs (no padding) from www.boure.com.

 

[vmi1056]

I used to ride with shorts and would cut out the pads. I’ve used Boure and they have non-padded bibs as previously stated but since I discovered NeoPro bibs, that’s all I use. They have a thin pad that I hardly notice, are comfortable and great quality for the price.

 

[IyhelM]

I have recumbent bibs (no padding) from www.boure.com.

Not sure I should wear those in France, bourré means drunk!

 

[GuytonMike]

I’ve worn eight panel non padded shorts sold by Aero Tech Designs for many years. I contacted them about a set of bibs without a pad. They replied and said just select a pair and in the comments section of the order form state that you do not want the pad. I had mine within a week. They have been great.

 

[Frito Bandito]

I think it would be good to have small fiberglass, plastic or even CF elbow, hip and even shoulder plates sewn in to help protect from the initial impacts and road rash when falling over. They would have helped with my recent tip over and wouldn't add much weight or restrict movement if placed correctly.