Sugoi RSE Bib Shorts

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?

Sugoi calls these "Our elite level race bib short". That suggests these bibs are aimed at the more experienced cyclist looking for a top quality pair of bib shorts. At £119.99, you'd certainly expect the best. However, the Sugoi's feel good rather than great. The pad is the best bit – its quality is excellent. The fact is that, at this price, Rapha comes into play – the quality of its Core bibs outweighs these easily. That's not to say the Sugois are bad, but I was a little annoyed by certain features.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

From Sugoi website:

FORMULA FXE CHAMOIS

The Formula FXE Chamois offers pinnacle riding performance for big miles, high intensities and riders who simply demand the best.

Innovative 3D molded Cradle reduces pressure and numbness.

Microban anti-microbial surface layer.

Molded center channel for pressure relief.

Triple density foam pad construction.

Poron foam layer under sit bones for increased vibration dampening.

Four-way stretch fabrics move with the body to reduce chafing.

Rounded edge reduces chamois bulk at the edge and provides a more comfortable performance fit.

Die cut holes in foam provide improved breathability.

ULTRA PRO

SUGOI's performance stretch fabrics are at the core of our DNA. With a range of textures and compression capabilities, we have been the preferred solution since we created our first bike short in 1987.

The shorts are let down by unsupportive straps and irritation caused by rough stitching at the hem.

The chamois is superb – well shaped with excellent density. I found it beautifully comfortable on a long seven-hour ride in 32°C heat in the Ardeche.

The relatively thick material on the legs and backside looks to have held shape well with no scuff marks, and I've subjected these to a few cyclo-cross training sessions where I do a lot of hopping on and off. That abuse isn't common on the average road ride.

The leg length is spot on, as is the diameter around the leg. The straps could do with being a little tighter, though, because when you're in a riding position they were slightly loose.

My medium was just as expected. A longer torso than mine is needed to make the straps supportive. That, or a pair of scissors and a needle.

At only 170g, the RSE certainly score well on weight, beating competition from the likes of Castelli.

The irritation on the inside of my leg was small but so very annoying. It spoils an otherwise good pair of shorts.

Against rivals from Castelli and Rapha, the RSEs don't do too well. There's nothing about these shorts that makes them stand out against the rest.

How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?

I subjected them to an accidental tumble-dry, but happily nothing untoward resulted...

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

The bunching of material was a small drawback. They were great for hot weather and the pad is comfy for seven-hour days. Shame about the stitching on the hem.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The chamois was perfect for long days in high heat.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

The irritation from the stitching drove me insane on long rides.

Use this box to explain your score

They're okay shorts, but don't beat their competition in any particular area, and lose out on the finishing quality.