Typical features like supportive Lycra fabric—now made with recycled nylon—and airy mesh bib straps promote comfort on intense climbs and hot-weather rides. The Classic chamois is single-density and size-specific, offering optimal support for every cyclist.
Typical features like supportive Lycra fabric—now made with recycled nylon—and airy mesh bib straps promote comfort on intense climbs and hot-weather rides. The Classic chamois is single-density and size-specific, offering optimal support for every cyclist.
Typical features like supportive Lycra fabric—now made with recycled nylon—and airy mesh bib straps promote comfort on intense climbs and hot-weather rides. The Classic chamois is single-density and size-specific, offering optimal support for every cyclist.
Typical features like supportive Lycra fabric—now made with recycled nylon—and airy mesh bib straps promote comfort on intense climbs and hot-weather rides. The Classic chamois is single-density and size-specific, offering optimal support for every cyclist.
Last updated at 05/12/2026 09:31:45
Rapha - Men's Classic Cycling Bib Shorts - Black - Small
Free delivery
originally posted on rapha.cc
It seems that all my kits gave up the ghost at the start of 2022 so that left me to venture to something new, fresh, updated, and not cheaply made. The Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts got on my radar after seeing Lael Wilcox in a pair during one of the epic rides so I figured if they can stand up hours of riding like that, my bum should be fine. The sizing is on point with what I typically wear for a large as is the inseam length. The materials have just the right amount of compression and snug-ness and while I’ve yet to stuff anything into the cargo pockets, they feel sturdy enough should I hamfisted a pair of gloves into them whilst riding. I have a couple of hundred miles on them so far and they’re holding up nicely and the padding feels ample on the 100-mile days. A ... MoreIt seems that all my kits gave up the ghost at the start of 2022 so that left me to venture to something new, fresh, updated, and not cheaply made. The Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts got on my radar after seeing Lael Wilcox in a pair during one of the epic rides so I figured if they can stand up hours of riding like that, my bum should be fine. The sizing is on point with what I typically wear for a large as is the inseam length. The materials have just the right amount of compression and snug-ness and while I’ve yet to stuff anything into the cargo pockets, they feel sturdy enough should I hamfisted a pair of gloves into them whilst riding. I have a couple of hundred miles on them so far and they’re holding up nicely and the padding feels ample on the 100-mile days. A couple of weeks later I bought a second pair!
originally posted on rapha.cc
I both have Rapha's cargo bib - the $115 Core and $270 Cargo. Biggest difference between the 2 is the quality of material used. Obviously the Cargo has better material and details are really nice compared to the minimalistic Core. Built is the same meaning I never have problems with snags, thread runs and rips. I am not sensitive with the chamois too, but on paper the Cargo has better Chamois/padding.For tight budget and function, you can't go wrong with the Core Cargo bib. The fit is a tad bigger than Cargo which is perfect for me. For sizing reference, I am 5'7" athletic build with thick thighs for doing CrossFit and weight lifting. Small fits me perfectly! And much better fit than my Cargo which hugs or more aero than Core which are both small. I sized my bibs ... MoreI both have Rapha's cargo bib - the $115 Core and $270 Cargo. Biggest difference between the 2 is the quality of material used. Obviously the Cargo has better material and details are really nice compared to the minimalistic Core. Built is the same meaning I never have problems with snags, thread runs and rips. I am not sensitive with the chamois too, but on paper the Cargo has better Chamois/padding.For tight budget and function, you can't go wrong with the Core Cargo bib. The fit is a tad bigger than Cargo which is perfect for me. For sizing reference, I am 5'7" athletic build with thick thighs for doing CrossFit and weight lifting. Small fits me perfectly! And much better fit than my Cargo which hugs or more aero than Core which are both small. I sized my bibs according to height instead of waist and thighs.
originally posted on REI
I never bought into the Rapha hype but recently caved and decided to try a bib/jersey from them. I’m converted. The best chamois I’ve ridden on. I’ve bought high end kits from Assos, Le Col, and even budget bibs from Pearl Izumi and Black Bibs. This is by far the best and it’s not the most expensive that I’ve bought. I’m 5’7 160-165lbs and bought a medium. It’s perfect. My previous bibs had straps that were too stretchy and it allowed too much movement from the bib. The straps on these are more firm and keep it in place well.Others have commented on inseam, inseam seems fine for me and I’m not a tall guy. The size medium bib stops a couple inches above the knee, for reference I wear a 28 or 29 in the length when I buy jeans.One of the guys who I race with is ... MoreI never bought into the Rapha hype but recently caved and decided to try a bib/jersey from them. I’m converted. The best chamois I’ve ridden on. I’ve bought high end kits from Assos, Le Col, and even budget bibs from Pearl Izumi and Black Bibs. This is by far the best and it’s not the most expensive that I’ve bought. I’m 5’7 160-165lbs and bought a medium. It’s perfect. My previous bibs had straps that were too stretchy and it allowed too much movement from the bib. The straps on these are more firm and keep it in place well.Others have commented on inseam, inseam seems fine for me and I’m not a tall guy. The size medium bib stops a couple inches above the knee, for reference I wear a 28 or 29 in the length when I buy jeans.One of the guys who I race with is bigger and mentioned that the larger sizes of Rapha’s bibs assume that you’re getting taller, and not necessarily wider. He’s noticed the jerseys being a little long and bacon-ing up when he leans over and grabs his bars, rather than sitting flat on his body. I assume the same would be the case for inseam length for Rapha’s Bibs, however, I’ve only worn a medium in Rapha’s bibs.Highly highly recommended.
Rapha - Men's Classic Cycling Bib Shorts - Black - Small
Free delivery
It seems that all my kits gave up the ghost at the start of 2022 so that left me to venture to something new, fresh, updated, and not cheaply made. The Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts got on my radar after seeing Lael Wilcox in a pair during one of the epic rides so I figured if they can stand up hours of riding like that, my bum should be fine. The sizing is on point with what I typically wear for a large as is the inseam length. The materials have just the right amount of compression and snug-ness and while I’ve yet to stuff anything into the cargo pockets, they feel sturdy enough should I hamfisted a pair of gloves into them whilst riding. I have a couple of hundred miles on them so far and they’re holding up nicely and the padding feels ample on the 100-mile days. A ... MoreIt seems that all my kits gave up the ghost at the start of 2022 so that left me to venture to something new, fresh, updated, and not cheaply made. The Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts got on my radar after seeing Lael Wilcox in a pair during one of the epic rides so I figured if they can stand up hours of riding like that, my bum should be fine. The sizing is on point with what I typically wear for a large as is the inseam length. The materials have just the right amount of compression and snug-ness and while I’ve yet to stuff anything into the cargo pockets, they feel sturdy enough should I hamfisted a pair of gloves into them whilst riding. I have a couple of hundred miles on them so far and they’re holding up nicely and the padding feels ample on the 100-mile days. A couple of weeks later I bought a second pair!
I both have Rapha's cargo bib - the $115 Core and $270 Cargo. Biggest difference between the 2 is the quality of material used. Obviously the Cargo has better material and details are really nice compared to the minimalistic Core. Built is the same meaning I never have problems with snags, thread runs and rips. I am not sensitive with the chamois too, but on paper the Cargo has better Chamois/padding.For tight budget and function, you can't go wrong with the Core Cargo bib. The fit is a tad bigger than Cargo which is perfect for me. For sizing reference, I am 5'7" athletic build with thick thighs for doing CrossFit and weight lifting. Small fits me perfectly! And much better fit than my Cargo which hugs or more aero than Core which are both small. I sized my bibs ... MoreI both have Rapha's cargo bib - the $115 Core and $270 Cargo. Biggest difference between the 2 is the quality of material used. Obviously the Cargo has better material and details are really nice compared to the minimalistic Core. Built is the same meaning I never have problems with snags, thread runs and rips. I am not sensitive with the chamois too, but on paper the Cargo has better Chamois/padding.For tight budget and function, you can't go wrong with the Core Cargo bib. The fit is a tad bigger than Cargo which is perfect for me. For sizing reference, I am 5'7" athletic build with thick thighs for doing CrossFit and weight lifting. Small fits me perfectly! And much better fit than my Cargo which hugs or more aero than Core which are both small. I sized my bibs according to height instead of waist and thighs.
I never bought into the Rapha hype but recently caved and decided to try a bib/jersey from them. I’m converted. The best chamois I’ve ridden on. I’ve bought high end kits from Assos, Le Col, and even budget bibs from Pearl Izumi and Black Bibs. This is by far the best and it’s not the most expensive that I’ve bought. I’m 5’7 160-165lbs and bought a medium. It’s perfect. My previous bibs had straps that were too stretchy and it allowed too much movement from the bib. The straps on these are more firm and keep it in place well.Others have commented on inseam, inseam seems fine for me and I’m not a tall guy. The size medium bib stops a couple inches above the knee, for reference I wear a 28 or 29 in the length when I buy jeans.One of the guys who I race with is ... MoreI never bought into the Rapha hype but recently caved and decided to try a bib/jersey from them. I’m converted. The best chamois I’ve ridden on. I’ve bought high end kits from Assos, Le Col, and even budget bibs from Pearl Izumi and Black Bibs. This is by far the best and it’s not the most expensive that I’ve bought. I’m 5’7 160-165lbs and bought a medium. It’s perfect. My previous bibs had straps that were too stretchy and it allowed too much movement from the bib. The straps on these are more firm and keep it in place well.Others have commented on inseam, inseam seems fine for me and I’m not a tall guy. The size medium bib stops a couple inches above the knee, for reference I wear a 28 or 29 in the length when I buy jeans.One of the guys who I race with is bigger and mentioned that the larger sizes of Rapha’s bibs assume that you’re getting taller, and not necessarily wider. He’s noticed the jerseys being a little long and bacon-ing up when he leans over and grabs his bars, rather than sitting flat on his body. I assume the same would be the case for inseam length for Rapha’s Bibs, however, I’ve only worn a medium in Rapha’s bibs.Highly highly recommended.
This is my first Rapha product review although I have been a customer for around 4-5 years. It's now about time to write a review.The reason Rapha has been my number one brand for cycle clothing was clear from very early. In my opinion these products are designed with a rider-first philosophy. Other brands may put fabric technology first, or aero first, or even style first. Rapha is rider-first, and these Classic bibs are a good example. In terms of sizing I tend to migrate between medium/small in Pro Team and Classic, depending upon how in-shape I am. For the Classic bibs I prefer small. I have a black on black pair which I wore recently for a lumpy 100 mile GranFondo and had no issues at all. Did not even know I was wearing bibs. Following the event I decided to ... MoreThis is my first Rapha product review although I have been a customer for around 4-5 years. It's now about time to write a review.The reason Rapha has been my number one brand for cycle clothing was clear from very early. In my opinion these products are designed with a rider-first philosophy. Other brands may put fabric technology first, or aero first, or even style first. Rapha is rider-first, and these Classic bibs are a good example. In terms of sizing I tend to migrate between medium/small in Pro Team and Classic, depending upon how in-shape I am. For the Classic bibs I prefer small. I have a black on black pair which I wore recently for a lumpy 100 mile GranFondo and had no issues at all. Did not even know I was wearing bibs. Following the event I decided to purchase a second pair and went with the Wine and off-white. Let men tell you, this colorway in Classic is truly a class act. Fabrics have a soft almost brushed feel that is not like other bibs, and is very reminiscent of race bibs from back in the day yet are absolutely not retro. Regarding the chamois, last year I was recommended an SMP saddle from my bike fitter. The Rapha chamois shape is perfect for these saddles as it works great for positions that have a more forward rotated pelvis. The Rapha chamois absolutely has this covered.Maybe a quick mention to one or two other garments. Long sleeve Thermal Pro Team jersey. Fantastic piece of kit. Pro Team Flyweight jersey, for the hottest days, superb. For the off seasons, Long sleeve Classic jersey has a timeless classic style and is super comfortable.
I've worn these on a few longer rides and like the cargo pocket idea, although I have forgotten them a couple of rides! Perfect for the phone and couple of gels; and unloading jersey pockets. Overall short quality is good. The legs run long, maybe to accommodate the cargo pockets. Liner is good - fit is a bit smaller than the classic short and core short. I wear a medium in classic or core but need a large in the cargo version, since the legs seem tighter. A good addition to the wardrobe.
These bibs are really comfy. The chamois is sewn in so that it curves around you and stays in place. These are without a doubt the nicest bibs I have worn. They prevent chaffing so well that I no longer need chamois cream. The sizing was bit off for me. The size guide had me as medium. I wear a medium in everything from all other brands. But the Rapha medium was way too small. The large fits great though. My advice is to order two sizes and return one. Thank goodness Rapha has a liberal return policy.
These shorts fit well and look nicely made. The fabric is soft, breathable, and the shorts are comfortable for long days cycling. I can't speak to durability or color-fastness yet. The color options are great. The shoulder straps are the most comfortable I've owned (maybe they're just a little longer than the others). I don't mind the wide leg grippers at all. These aren't the first shorts I'd choose for the warmest days of the year, or in a hot climate - there are lighter fabrics - or - more breathable options out there. Overall, great bib shorts!
The material of the straps is very comfy. Probably the most comfy of all my bibs. The leg length is perfect for me, but I know that is subjective so you can't gain or remove points for that. The over all material of the bib is great too. The sizing I kind of screwed up on. I am 5'9" @ 145lbs pretty small build. I ordered the small based on their sizing chart and I'd say it was just a bit too small. I am sure I could have swapped them out for a medium, but that's my fault and again no point reduction there. The part they get 4 instead of 5 stars for me is the chamois quality. The chamois is not dense at all, and is the equivalent of like one of mr. clean magic erasers stitched into a bib. There is no density so you can pinch your fingers in the chamois with 0 ... MoreThe material of the straps is very comfy. Probably the most comfy of all my bibs. The leg length is perfect for me, but I know that is subjective so you can't gain or remove points for that. The over all material of the bib is great too. The sizing I kind of screwed up on. I am 5'9" @ 145lbs pretty small build. I ordered the small based on their sizing chart and I'd say it was just a bit too small. I am sure I could have swapped them out for a medium, but that's my fault and again no point reduction there. The part they get 4 instead of 5 stars for me is the chamois quality. The chamois is not dense at all, and is the equivalent of like one of mr. clean magic erasers stitched into a bib. There is no density so you can pinch your fingers in the chamois with 0 resistance. it's basically too soft to do any good. For example, the same thickness chamois by elastic interface is more dense and you can't pinch your fingers all the way through. I guess in the future I'd need to see what their pro bib chamois is like. All in all great bib except chamois.
Rapha changed their sizing and chamois and didn't seem to update anyone or their site. Very annoying. Last year I e-mailed them regarding what sizes I should be getting, I took their advice and the bibs (same line/model) in medium fit fantastic. They still do, they're my favorite pair of bibs. So this year I ordered the same thing in black and I ordered some winter bibs as well. Both ordered in the same size as last year.These are SIGNIFICANTLY smaller. I can just barely make them work.Additionally the chamois are a bit different. I'm not sure if this is good our bad due to the sizing difference of the bibs in general. I can say I haven't noticed any issues yet, but I've ridden the bib shorts twice and the long winter bibs once.Important to note here, the ... MoreRapha changed their sizing and chamois and didn't seem to update anyone or their site. Very annoying. Last year I e-mailed them regarding what sizes I should be getting, I took their advice and the bibs (same line/model) in medium fit fantastic. They still do, they're my favorite pair of bibs. So this year I ordered the same thing in black and I ordered some winter bibs as well. Both ordered in the same size as last year.These are SIGNIFICANTLY smaller. I can just barely make them work.Additionally the chamois are a bit different. I'm not sure if this is good our bad due to the sizing difference of the bibs in general. I can say I haven't noticed any issues yet, but I've ridden the bib shorts twice and the long winter bibs once.Important to note here, the quality on these is still good. It's just annoying to spend several hundred dollars on stuff that used to fit perfect and now barely fits.
Pro: I studied hard or bought and tried every set of bib shorts priced from 35 to $170 over the last year and I have determined that Rapha is the only, I mean only, brand in that price range that currently makes a chamois that actually reaches the sit bones and is dense enough for rides between 20 and 175 miles.Cons: My pair needs to be retired after 11 months; this product is not durable. I've had much cheaper shorts that have lasted thousands more miles.Every other time I look at REI, the price of this product has increased.They are tight in the front; there is too much padding or it is not quite in the right place. They also look very strange in the front, such that you will overhear people commenting when you are off the bike.
