Why I choose RAPID SPORT cycling bibs
When it comes to cycling bibs (in fact all things relating to bums on saddles and cycling comfort) there is no one size fits all and opinions might be as divided as a FORD vs Toyota debate. So here goes. Here is my two cents worth. In no particular order. These are my favourite cycling bibs and why. Plus a few more options that I have considered.
My favourite cycling bibs: RAPID SPORT
RAPID Sport is my go-to cycling bib, no questions asked. Rob introduced me to the way back around 2013 during an AUDAX ride and ever since I have done well over 50,000kms in Rapid Sports bib after Rapid Sports bib. And I can vouch for them. Did you know that Rapid Sport is the leader in affordable cycling clothing, activewear, and ski clothes in South Africa? The bibs go at just over R1k per pair, so you can buy 3x of them every year or so (depending on how much you cycle!) iso a single ‘brand-name’ bib. And some of the brands below aren’t nearly as comfy as a RAPID bib. At least for me.
Find them here. RAPID Sport is based in OBS in CPT and they are open Monday to Friday from 9am till 4pm and Saturdays from 10am till 1pm. Go there. Or be square. Address: 5A Howe St, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 – Phone: 021 426 4044 or visit rapidsport.co.za/
OTHER Popular cycling bibs in South Africa
ASSOS is hailed to be the gold standard. Made in Switzerland and said to last ages. But I’ve never had one. Maybe it is time. or maybe the price tag scares me. However, you can find them locally from Bike Addict for between R2k-6k per pair as right here. If you are a fan, please share your experience with ASSOS cycling bibs below. Ek luister by die radio.
CIOVITA is a proudly South African cycling apparel brand, based in Cape Town, and very popular in the local market. very popular in the local market. And you must see how fast all the stock sells out of the tent at the Cape EPIC Prologue and registration day! Founded in 2016 by Andrew Gold, the brand, whose name is derived from Latin and Italian words for “life in motion” (cio + vita).
SPECIALIZED bibs are great. I love it. But they are also on the higher end of the price bracket, starting from R1750 and going up to R5k for the S-Works cycling bib. And yes, I do have to order generous sizes for a comfy fit. And similarly TREK also has a range of bibs from R1750 to R3k, but I guess it is less likely for a S rider to buy a Trek bib and vice versa.
FIRST Ascent. Sign Up and Get a 10% Discount Voucher!* New subscribers only. Minimum spend R500 and single use only. The First Ascent range of cycling bibs (7) range from R1499 to R2699 on their online store and can also be found at CWC, Cyclelab etc. I’ve tried one before, but their shape didn’t quite fit my shape, or was it the other way around?
And you might have been wondering about…
TEMU even has a few options. I was curious as to what a R200 bib before shipping and import taxes would yield and I was even more surprised to get a fitting size on the first attempt. Let’s suffice to say it works, but it is certainly not made for long distances. Maybe nothing more than a 45min spin class. Don’t shoot the messenger.
What is your favourite cycling bib?
Tell us below, why it is or isn’t RAPID Sport bibs –
AND/OR send your bicycle with #bicyclecouriers!
