Review - Rapha Brevet Cargo Bib Shorts

Ever run into a supermarket at the end of a long day on the bike, mid-way through an unsupported bikepacking trip, and bought more food than you can possibly carry? Enter the solution: the new Rapha Brevet Cargo Bib Shorts.

When I first posted a picture of these on social media with the caption "is that a banana in your pocket, or are you just pleased to see me" it gained predictably mixed reactions: "why do you need more pockets? What's the point?" Those questions probably came from people that have never tried packing for a bike tour before...

There are times on any long distance bike ride, whether day-long or month-long, when you run out of carrying capacity. Food stops are the most likely cause: they can be few and far between, and as a result require a certain amount of 'camel'ing' in between. I have resorted to tape, straps, loaves of bread stuffed down my jersey, and much more on recent touring adventures. The reality is that an extra pocket is always handy (though in this case not for your hands).

The Rapha Brevet Cargo Bib Shorts are designed with distance in mind, much like the recently reviewed Rapha Brevet Windblock Jersey. The focus is on lightweight fast-drying materials that will stand the test of many miles in the saddle.

The shorts are made from a water-resistant fabric, which is slightly gives them an almost soft-shell like feel, but has proven effective at warding off light rain and trail spray. Despite its resilience, the fabric seems comfortable even testing in 25+ Celsius, and the non-absorbent nature means they are extra fast drying.

The theme of fast-dry, which is very useful for multi-day riding, continues with the chamois pad. The pad is the same as in the Rapha Brevet Bib Shorts, with a design made for all-day comfort, and with a perforate composition that allows moisture to escape. I was longing for shorts that would dry fast on the #7Countries7Passes, and these look like they could well be the answer.

Onto those pockets...

The pockets come as a three-some: with two deep stretchy mesh pockets on sides of the legs, and one rear back pocket built into the bib straps. I must admit I didn't test the rear pocket, but can see it would be useful; the side pockets are certainly fantastic for housing lightweight slim items such as snack bars, multitools, or even a banana. In all seriousness, they are a sensible and useful addition for long distance rides.

Other details like the strong elastic leg grippers, mesh bib straps, subtle reflective elements, and stylish branding, further present these as a quality pair of endurance cycling shorts.

To sum up, these are a clever and very useful pair of long distance riding shorts. Built from high quality materials, washing well, and providing great comfort on long bike rides; I can see I could well be using these for many future adventures.

>> Shop the Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts here <<












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