Decathlon Triban RC500 bib shorts review

While Decathlon's Triban RC500 bibs are very competitively priced, they certainly feel more expensive than their price tag. They look the part too, with mesh uppers, wide leg bands and a quality pad.

The contoured pad is fairly wide and has smaller pads of higher densities in all the important places. Two large 15mm-thick pads with gel inserts cushion the sit bones, while four small 9mm-thick pads of the same density protect your undercarriage.

The shorts are constructed from a relatively thin Lycra fabric. Wide, elasticated, 8cm-deep bands with a silicone gripper inside hold the legs in place.

Decathlon has added neat yet subtle reflective detailing to help you be seen, but being a European brand the chevrons are on the left leg.

The mesh bibs look classy with their contrasting grey and arrow pattern on the back. The wide straps are the same mesh fabric.

Decathlon RC500 performance

Not only does the pad look impressive, it performs well too. The gel pads under the sit bones do a superb job of combating saddle fatigue, and the undercarriage pads increase comfort as well. Plus, the channelling helps to keep you dry and chafe-free. Overall rear-end comfort was spot on and I have no complaints.

The first thing I noticed about the legs is that they’re shorter than many bib shorts. The fabric feels fine and isn’t overly tight, making for a good fit. However, with the short length and higher-sitting gripper, the legs tended to ride up over time.

This was annoying rather than a major problem, but does add pressure around the upper thighs if you’re blessed with bulging quads.

The mesh uppers kept the shorts in place well and are perfectly cool and airy, and do a good job of wicking sweat away. Sometimes on longer rides the shoulder straps did bunch up but didn’t cause any major discomfort.

Decathlon RC500 bottom line

Decathlon delivers budget bibs that offer good rear-end comfort. They’re not without niggles but the pros outweigh the cons, making them great value.