Giro's Chrono Expert bib shorts are very, very good. I tested them along with the Chrono Expert jersey (review to come), and while you don't want to be sweaty and uncomfortable up top, in any jersey and bib shorts set it's the bottom half that needs to excel; this is where the contact point is, and where most of your body movement occurs. Good construction and features are vital. Happily, the Chrono Expert bib shorts do their job really well.
Starting with the chamois, it's a custom model made specifically for Giro, and features graded padding as well as an anatomical fit. It's very comfortable, providing good levels of cushioning around your sit bones, and is suitable for all-day riding. It doesn't feature any perforations for ventilation, but that's a small drawback in an otherwise excellent pad.
> Find your nearest dealer here
In contrast, the upper is very breathable, made of a black mesh material with seams to add strength to the construction. It also features three pockets on the rear – ideal if you use team radios, but they can also be used to carry phones, money and keys safely underneath the jersey if it doesn't feature a zipped pocket.
The legs are anatomically cut, with internal flat seams. They're not the softest I've ever ridden in, but there's no chafing and, to be honest, that's all that really matters.
A particularly comfortable feature is the leg gripper, which seems to be made from exposed elasticated fibres that are woven into the outer fabric. They fit flush against the skin, giving a performance feel, and don't snag or pull on your leg, fitting naturally about halfway up the thigh – perfect for the summer.
In terms of fit, medium on me was perfect, meaning you should stick to your usual size. They come in black only, matching whatever colour jersey you use with them.
> Read our buyer's guide to the best bib shorts
You needn't worry about the delicate-looking mesh upper in the wash, either – it washes through and returns as new after a delicates wash, no trouble at all.
At £119.99, these bib shorts aren't what I'd call a bargain, but the pad is comfortable, the bib section very breathable, and they're a pleasure to wear all day. Very good, Giro.
Verdict
Very good quality bib shorts at a fair price
Make and model: Giro Chrono Expert Bib Short
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Giro says: "Our Men's Chrono Expert Bib is the foundation of a great ride, and the result of countless hours spent in trials and testing with the ultimate goal of making it go unnoticed on the bike. We use premium Italian materials to ensure the appropriate compression and comfort, and designed the entire piece so that each seam moves with you. The custom chamois is anatomically shaped for comfort, and stretch mesh bib straps work with your body in motion."
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
- Breathable mesh bib upper
- Compression leg bands
- Custom Chrono Expert Chamois
- Radio pocket
- Reflectivity
- 78% nylon / 22% elastane stretch performance knit 200 g/m2 Miti ® lycra
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
Comfortable, breathable upper and a decent quality pad.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Rate the product for fit:
8/10
A very comfortable fit all round.
Rate the product for sizing:
10/10
Rate the product for weight:
8/10
Less than 200g brings the Chromo Expert bib shorts into the lightweight realm.
Rate the product for comfort:
8/10
The internal seams could be a little softer, but I never found myself uncomfortable.
Rate the product for value:
7/10
Good value, but not outstanding.
How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?
Absolutely fine.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Great for short stints or long days in the saddle.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Leg grippers, and the black mesh upper looks good.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Nothing drastic - maybe the pad could do with some perforations for cooling on hot days.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your score
Very good bib shorts all round. The pad is excellent, even if some ventilation could improve it, but nothing to detract from an 8 overall.
Age: 26 Height: 188cm Weight: 83kg
I usually ride: Specialized Allez Sport My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Under 5 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding
This. ...
That's a hilarious price. I fail to see where the money is going on this. The mojito is under £100 so what makes this three times as much?
If they can get out of paying...they will. Insurance is a gamble, until the banker loses... when it becomes a scam.
Alternatively the PowerPod was able to give a pretty good true CdA calculation, if it was paired with a /real/ power-meter. *This* was actually the...
our thoughts remain with the families of everyone who has lost a loved one in this way Dead giveaway for monumental insincerity and 'who cares?'
Postie delivering, bike: what could possibly go wrong ?
Sometimes it's 'only a momentary loss of concentration' (© Lancashire Constabulary Dodging Department)
Of all the teams to join, Cofidis........Oh dear. What a mistake........strikes of desparation to be seen in the WT.
The other thing I would say is that be judicious about adding starter packs (bulk follow packs). The lovely Hackney Bike Fit has one but it has...
我的媽和她的瘋狂的外甥都 ・ Wuh duh ma huh tah duh fong kwong duh wai shung