Any keen cyclist will tell you how they love taking their bicycles for long rides and how they face some of the odd moments when one is forced to leave the saddle because of a natural call while still in the bib shorts. It is important to know that bib shorts are an advancement of cycling shorts in that they do not feature a waistband. However, they present a challenge when have to go to the washroom.
The Squat and Pull
It is not the most preferable for your chamois as it does put a lot of stretch into the shorts, but it does wonders. Just squat low to the ground (naturally, out of sight), and take one leg of your shorts up and over to the side, moving the chamois aside as you do so. This method is probably the most primitive/it is certainly possible to step in pee while doing it but it does not matter what shorts you are wearing.
The Bibs-Designed-for-This
Today, there is a slew of excellent bib shorts available from Velocio, SheBeest, Giro, Sugoi, and La Byci that have various pull, zipper, and snap options to allow you to drop the shorts. Velocio’s bibs used to zip down the back and now simply are more elasticated. Giro and SheBeest offer halters that can be pulled off without taking off your jersey. But do not buy shorts only because of this factor, try to find the shorts that will be most comfortable for you! La Byci’s Alt Road Cargo Bib shorts combine durability with comfort, along with two cargo leg pockets. At La Byci we have a collection of Women's Alt Road Cargo Bib and Women's Short Team Bib Evo as well.
The Take-It-All-Off
The take-it-all-off method is quite simple but may prove to be unmanageable at times. Again, privacy is key, so try to find an environment that you are comfortable in. First, it is recommended that you learn how to undress systematically starting with your jersey. The jersey has to be taken off first since the bib shorts are strapped over the shoulders. If you wore a jersey during the race, first take this off and then pull down the bib shorts to the fullest. Despite this, it is a way that is guaranteed not to cause mess and discomfort and is the most appropriate despite being slightly time-consuming.
The One-Shoulder
The one-shoulder method is a blend of the squat-and-pull and the take-it-all-off methods since it falls somewhere in between. Privacy is a must, so lock yourself in the room, or go to a place where no one will disturb you. Release one of the shoulder straps of the bib shorts you are wearing. This allows us to lower the front part of the bib shorts. Starting with one of the shoulder straps pulled off to the side, pull down the front part of the bib shorts. This should be enough space where you can lessen the burden of your bowels. After this, pull the front back up and rethread the shoulder strap as it was before. The one-shoulder method is somewhat of a middle ground since it does not take much time to get the jacket off yet does not involve undressing.
It is quite a challenge to address the issue of bathroom breaks when you are in bib shorts but with these tips, you can be able to identify the best one for you. The fast squat and pull, the bibs designed for this, the taking it all off and the one-shoulder method have their advantages. It is advisable to try out these techniques when training for the real ride and determine the best technique to use. Enjoy cycling!