Assos Equipe R Bib Shorts S11

The Assos Equipe R Bib Shorts S11 aim to deliver top-tier performance without straying into the wallet-emptying costs of ultra-premium options. The Swiss company has long been regarded as producing some of the finest shorts in the cycling world, combining premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a hefty price tag that reflects their elite status – and these really are excellent, delivering superb long-distance comfort without emptying your bank account.

For more options, check our best cycling bib shorts buyer's guide.

Packaging and first Impressions

Assos understands how to make an impression. The Equipe R Bib Shorts S11 arrive in a sleek, high-end box that immediately reinforces their premium status. The fabric and finishing are impeccable, with a race-cut silhouette that looks fast even before you pull them on.

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Colour options, however, are a little more niche. My test pair came in 'Edge Green', a bold, almost pastel shade that won't appeal to everyone. There's also Secret Blue, another distinctive option, or the safer bet – plain black – if you prefer a more traditional look.

Fit and compression

The fit of these bibs is unmistakably race-focused. The Type.911 textile provides a firm, compressive fit, supporting your muscles without feeling overly restrictive. The raw-cut cuffs and minimalist silicone grippers ensure a smooth, aero profile while keeping your legs firmly in place without excessive pressure.

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One of the standout features is the ZeroPressure Waist, a low-cut front panel designed to eliminate any stomach constriction when you're riding in an aggressive position. This works brilliantly when tucked in the race position, but it does have one minor drawback – if you pair it with a shorter jersey, there's a chance your base layer or a bit of skin might be on display when standing at the café queue.

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The X-Frame bib strap system, borrowed from Assos's higher-end models, is soft and supportive, distributing pressure evenly across your shoulders.

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It does a great job of preventing the rear of the shorts from sagging, ensuring the chamois stays exactly where it needs to be during long rides.

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Chamois and ride comfort

The Equipe R S11 insert is where these bibs really shine. Assos has used its GoldenGate 2.0 technology, which means the chamois is stitched at the front and rear but left free-floating at the sides, supposedly allowing it to move with your body rather than against it. While this is difficult to quantify, what I can say is that the chamois remained exceptionally comfortable across a variety of ride types and intensities.

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From a flat-out 10-mile TT effort to our two-hour local paceline slugfest, the padding offered excellent road feel without sacrificing comfort. The 9mm channelled foam and 3D waffle technology effectively damped vibrations without feeling bulky, striking the right balance between support and connection to the bike.

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That said, the chamois pad is on the shorter side, reinforcing the aggressive race-focused design. It works perfectly when riding in a low, forward position, but for more upright endurance rides or long, social spins, you may notice a lack of support in comparison to a more endurance-oriented chamois.

Performance on the road

Once in motion, the Equipe R Bib Shorts S11 feel fast and supportive. The compressive fit enhances muscle efficiency, reducing fatigue on longer efforts, while the floating design of the chamois ensures consistent comfort across different riding styles.

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These bibs truly excel when you're pushing hard, whether that's a fast group ride, interval session or road race. They keep everything locked in place while remaining breathable, making them a solid choice if you're a rider who prioritises performance.

Crash replacement policy

Assos offers a crash replacement policy, which is a great reassurance when you're investing in premium kit. If you damage the bibs in a crash within the first 30 days, Assos will repair or replace them for free. Beyond that, Assos will still attempt to repair or replace them at a 'reasonable charge', though it doesn't specify exactly what that cost would be. While the lack of transparency on post-30-day pricing is a minor downside, it's still a useful policy that adds value.

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Value

At £165, the Equipe R Bib Shorts S11 are undeniably premium-priced, but they deliver high-end performance that rivals some even more expensive bibs. Looking at the alternatives, these sit between mid-range and ultra-premium offerings:

The £125 Santini Karma Evo Delta Bib Shorts and £145 Le Col Sport Bib Shorts II provide strong competition at slightly lower prices, but they don't quite match Assos in terms of fabric quality, compression or aerodynamics.

Meanwhile, they significantly undercut ultra-premium bibs like the Pas Normal Studios Escapism Bib Shorts that are a wallet-worrying £240 and Assos's own £215 Equipe RS Schtradivari Bib Shorts while offering virtually all of the same core technology and race-ready features.

If you're looking for top-tier bib shorts without being staggeringly expensive, these are a smart investment.

Conclusion

The Assos Equipe R Bib Shorts S11 are a premium, performance-focused pair of bibs designed for serious riders who prioritise aerodynamics, muscle support, and long-ride comfort in aggressive positions. They deliver high-end materials, race-proven chamois technology, and a compressive fit that feels dialled in for hard efforts.

They aren't the most versatile bibs, and if you prefer relaxed endurance rides or a more upright position, a longer chamois pad might suit you better, but for fast-paced riding, crits, or hard training sessions, these are genuinely exceptional.

Verdict

Sleek and racy with top-tier fabrics, features and construction – though you might want to consider another colour