The unpadded "Bicycles HP" thermal bib shorts from the BOC24 range fulfil their task as a cold blocker with flying colours. Thanks to the front reinforced with Gore Windstopper fabric, the tester's legs hardly cooled down even after a three-hour ride along the frost line. The many reflective piping is a convincing plus point for safety. However, the cut and fit of the trousers manufactured by Santini are not ideal. The 1.81 metre tall, slim tester complained that the size M trousers wrinkled at the stomach and back of the knees. It is possible that "S" would have been a better fit, but then the size information seems questionable. The trousers are currently only available in sizes M to XXL. It is also not clear why the windproof fabric reaches just below the chest when the upper body is normally protected by a windproof jacket. Nevertheless, the comparatively favourable price of 90 euros makes the trousers an interesting offer for all-weather riders.
PLUS: very good protection against the cold; many reflectors; favourable price
MINUS: creases on the stomach and back of the knees when pedalling; no small sizes
Reference/Info: BOC24, telephone 0180/5242925; www.boc24.de
(Photo: Daniel Simon)
