Trickle-down tech isn’t limited to bike components; ASSOS has woven elements of its premium Equipe RS racing range into the new, lower-priced Equipe R S9 bib shorts.
Priced at £155 / €180 / $210, the Equipe R S9 shorts now form the entry point to the brand's range, offering WorldTour-proven tech in a simplified package for everyday riders.
What’s new with the ASSOS Equipe R S9 shorts?
Following positive feedback from WorldTour teams about the A-Lock bib strap used in the top-end ASSOS Equipe RS shorts, this crossed-bib construction has been adopted in the new bib shorts.
The main panels are constructed using what ASSOS calls 'Type.443’ material.
This provides similar compression, breathability and abrasion resistance to higher-priced models, according to ASSOS.
The material also offers UPF 50+ protection – an important feature for racing and riding in the hotter months.
An aerodynamically optimised cut has been developed in tandem with WorldTour racers, giving a secure, close and compressive fit in a standard leg length.
The make-up of the bib straps themselves has been improved too, with a change in the elastic element resulting in a faster drying time and reduced weight, ASSOS claims.
What makes the new ASSOS Equipe R S9 chamois special?
ASSOS’ patented multi-layered chamois insert, which it calls ‘3D Waffle’, is constructed using no fewer than three layers of foam.
The layers are perforated in order to aid breathability, while simultaneously reducing unnecessary weight.
These three layers combine to create a 9mm-thick chamois, shaped using thermoforming to reduce any unwanted ridges or joins.
The compressive foam used in the pad is designed to act as a shock dampener over rougher roads, enhancing comfort in the saddle.
Lastly, ASSOS’ classic ‘goldenGate’ zig-zag stitching method means the chamois is attached to the main body of the shorts at the front and back, though not along the central edges.
This enables the chamois to move across the middle, working with your body for optimal positioning to ensure greater comfort, ASSOS explains.
ASSOS Equipe R S9 bib shorts key details
Zero-pressure waist
The waist area of the Equipe R S9 bib shorts has been designed to eliminate localised pressure points across the lower abdomen and groin, which can cause discomfort.
To achieve this, the upper-shorts area is highly elasticated and cut carefully to fit like a 'second skin'.
Ultralight leg grippers
To further enhance comfort, ASSOS has used its 6cm Ultralight leg grippers for the Equipe R S9 shorts. These are otherwise found only on the premium models in the racing-oriented Equipe range.
This includes the Equipe RS S9 Targa, the choice of WorldTour racing teams.
These leg bands offer light compression, backed by a layer of tiny silicone dots for additional grip to stop them from moving as you ride.
X-frame
Crossing over behind your back, the bib straps of the Equipe R S9 bib shorts are anchored into a more secure fit, ASSOS claims, ensuring the fit of the shorts panels and most importantly chamois stays in place.
This is even more crucial when it comes to the higher-intensity efforts the bibs were designed for.
