Cycling shorts testDynamics Rapido II - price banger from Stadler

With the Dynamics Rapido II, two-wheeler giant Stadler has a real price banger in its range of trousers. Can these affordable trousers keep up with the expensive competition?
Photo: Georg Grieshaber
At Stadler you can get the Dynamcs Rapido II cycling shorts for just 74.99 euros. That's a real bargain compared to the prices of cycling shorts specialists. In our test, we found out whether the affordable own-brand bib shorts are also suitable for sporting activities.

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Zweirad Stadler has always offered bike clothing at particularly attractive prices under its own Dynamics brand - usually with a wide range of features. With the Dynamics Rapido II, the developers have obviously orientated themselves to the current standards of the top trousers.

Dynamics Rapido II: Favourably priced and sporty without the superfluous

The Rapido II also has a sporty multi-panel cut and does without superfluous seams at the leg ends and straps. Breathable mesh has been placed at the back, which guides the straps neatly upwards. The waistband is also cut slightly higher and there is no seam on the stomach, which makes it more comfortable to wear.

The wide, seamless straps are mesh-connected and drape neatly over the shouldersPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe wide, seamless straps are mesh-connected and drape neatly over the shoulders

The inside of the leg cuffs are lined with silicone to prevent them from riding up. There is a generous amount of reflective material on the outside, which increases visibility on the road.

In terms of workmanship, the Rapido II is not yet at the top level. Some of the seams are a little bulgingPhoto: Georg GrieshaberIn terms of workmanship, the Rapido II is not yet at the top level. Some of the seams are a little bulging

Not an optimal cut

The Rapido II sits comfortably when you slip it on, the straps lie neatly on the shoulders without having to be adjusted for a long time. The finishes on the legs and stomach are also pleasing. However, the cut is not quite as good as some of the much more expensive trousers and the trousers are not quite as snug at the sides of the buttocks and hips.

The fit is OK, but the material wrinkles in the crook of the legPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe fit is OK, but the material wrinkles in the crook of the leg

The trouser fabric is slippery and even the silicone prints can't prevent the leg cuffs from moving upwards when pedalling. This causes the material to bunch up in the crook of the leg. The seams are bulging, especially at the anchor points of the straps.

Seat cushion positioned far back

However, the seat pad is particularly striking. With its strong gradation, the area with the greatest support is quite narrow. In addition, the padding is positioned so far back that the sit bones barely rest on the padding. In the long term, the padding can therefore only provide little comfort.

Although the trousers themselves are comfortable, the material is quite thick and quickly feels sweaty. In addition, the Rapido II doesn't hug the body as tightly as other models and has a lot of movement during the ride.

Dynamics Rapido II - Info & Price

With the Dynamics Rapido II, two-wheeler giant Stadler has a real price hit in its range of trousers. However, the trousers are not a real alternative for sporty bikersPhoto: Georg GrieshaberWith the Dynamics Rapido II, two-wheeler giant Stadler has a real price hit in its range of trousers. However, the trousers are not a real alternative for sporty bikers
  • Weight (L): 207 grammes
  • SizesM-XXXL
  • Made inChina
  • Equipmentseamless straps; wide cuffs; mesh back; reflective
  • Special features: Cushion placed very far back
  • Upholstery length/width/hardness: 22,5 cm / 15 cm / soft
  • Leg length: 30 cm
  • Price74,99 Euro (124,95)

Conclusion

Stadler's price banger is more of a pair of cycling shorts for occasional bikers. The workmanship and details of the Dynamics Rapido II are not on a par with the much more expensive competition. The material is slightly sweaty on warmer days. High-slipping leg cuffs and many noticeable seams reduce the wearing comfort. We found the high-rise waistband comfortable. Very soft padding placed too far back, which is more suitable for short distances.

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