Review: ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short

ROKA is a well-known brand in triathlon, but less so in cycling. The ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short are said to deliver uncompromising performance and comfort.

Product Roka Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short
Price $170/ approx. £140
Size tested Small
Weight 187g
Colours Black; black/dark slate; cyan
Sizes S – XXL
Website www.roka.com
Grade C+

 

The ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short in action

ROKA has a good reputation when it comes to swimming products, but in recent years it has made a concerted effort to become a player in cycling apparel.

The aesthetics of ROKA’s range of cycling kit is an acquired taste – black on black or as Roka says ‘high-vis color pop’!

The all black test shorts are rather understated with subtle Roka branding on the thigh and the long legs end just above the knee – not the best if you like a high tan line, but more aero.

ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short

The laser cut leg-cuffs work really well, the light compression along with the silicone print means there’s no slippage, whilst also not being too tight and causing any discomfort. There are also reflective tags on the back of the legs for improved visibility.

ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short

Rather than opting for the narrow elastic ‘braces’ style straps like some other high-end competitors, ROKA’s Pro Bib Short are equipped with classic straps – however, this is not to the product’s detriment and the straps are positioned wide enough to not feel restrictive across your chest.

 

The rear of the bib upper has a light/mesh section for improved breathability and comfort. At the same time the braces are also made from mesh material, although with smaller holes.

ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short

Despite the mesh upper, on very hot days I’d prefer a lighter pair of shorts.

A major factor for any pair of shorts is the quality of the chamois. The contoured pad is comfortable when sat in a more upright position and also when perched towards the nose of the saddle putting the power down.

ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short

However, for some the pad might feel a bit bulky (especially when off the bike) and a more lightweight insert may be preferred.

ROKA Men’s Cycling Pro Bib Short

Advertisements

Verdict

A well-made and solid option, but there’s a lot of competition at this price point.

Latest News
Van Der Kaay Thorpe Taupo photo credit Simon Dawson Photography
World Triathlon Cup New Plymouth 2023: Van Der Kaay extends 100% record
vetle-thorn-norwegian-triathlete.jpg
Europe Triathlon Cup Quarteira 2023 results: Thorn sprints to victory
Cassandre Beaugrand / WTCS Montreal 2022
Europe Triathlon Cup Quarteira 2023 results: Beaugrand dominates
Gustav Iden on the run at WTCS Abu Dhabi 2023
Game ON. Team Norway puts best foot forward on the road to Paris
Cassandre Beaugrand
WATCH AGAIN: Beaugrand, Thorn strike gold at European Cup Quarteira