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Test cycling shortsShimano Distanza Bib Shorts - fine thread from Japan?

Stefan Frey

 · 12.06.2025

With the Shimano Distanza, the Japanese have a not-too-expensive bib short that is still at the cutting edge of trouser technology
Photo: Georg Grieshaber

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The Japanese component giant should not only be on your radar when it comes to bicycle gears. In addition to first-class cycling shoes, Shimano also offers a range of cycling clothing. The Shimano Distanza Bib Shorts are definitely worth a closer look.
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For "just" 150 euros, you can get the Shimano Distanza Bib Shorts cycling shorts that are absolutely state of the art. The leg ends and bibs are seamless and the lightweight but high-strength fabric provides comfortable compression on the thighs. Airy mesh on the straps promotes perspiration transport and reflective flags on the back of the thighs ensure visibility in traffic.

Pleasantly taut material

The high elasticity of the material is noticeable as soon as you slip them on. The waistband extends quite far upwards, so you feel very well wrapped up in the Shimano overall. The straps do a great job of holding the trousers in place without pulling too much on the shoulders. They hardly roll in when you put them on and are easy to position.

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High waistband, airy straps connected with mesh - you feel well wrapped up herePhoto: Georg GrieshaberHigh waistband, airy straps connected with mesh - you feel well wrapped up here

Similar to the Löffler, the Shimano is also slightly shorter, but thanks to the silicone prints it hardly slips up during the ride. One small drawback is the rather slippery fabric, which means you slip a little on the saddle when pedalling hard.

Shimano completely dispenses with seams on the legs that could scratch, the silicone prints keep the cuffs in positionPhoto: Georg GrieshaberShimano completely dispenses with seams on the legs that could scratch, the silicone prints keep the cuffs in position

Soft and narrow seat cushion

Shimano also uses the wide Elastic Interface range for the seat pad. In comparison, the pad is positioned slightly further back, which limits the usable area. However, riders with narrow sit bones will still get on well with it. However, the density is a little low for a long-distance pad. The pad could provide a little more support.

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Attention: scratchy notes in your trousers!

Shimano Distanza Bib Shorts - Info & Price

Does the name say it all? Yes and no. The cut and material are also permanently comfortable, the seat pad is rather too softPhoto: Georg GrieshaberDoes the name say it all? Yes and no. The cut and material are also permanently comfortable, the seat pad is rather too soft
  • Price: 149,95 Euro >> available here
  • Weight (L): 173 grammes
  • SizesS-XXXL
  • Made inRomania
  • Equipmentseamless mesh straps; mesh back; seamless cuffs; reflex
  • Upholstery Length/width/hardness: 23.5 cm / 15.5 cm / soft
  • Leg length (from trochanter major): 30 cm

Evaluation & conclusion

The cut, features and workmanship are top, only the seat padding is worth a few pointsPhoto: BIKE MagazinThe cut, features and workmanship are top, only the seat padding is worth a few points

The affordable Shimano Distanza Bib Shorts are state of the art in terms of cut and details. The leg ends and bib straps are seamless and also very comfortable over the long term. We also liked the lightweight but high-strength fabric with pleasant compression on the thighs, as well as the airy mesh on the bib straps. The somewhat soft seat pad, which is positioned slightly to the rear, must suit the rider - be sure to try it on first.

>> Jackets, gloves, jerseys - tips & tests for cycling clothing

Stefan Frey

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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