The Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 are a high-performance pair of women’s bib shorts for long days in the saddle, with an innovative nature break solution and a hefty price tag.
I say innovative because it is rare to see a nature calls feature which isn’t just about stretchy material.
However while I do also feel Assos could have used a simpler approach, I appreciate that this solution should work for pretty much everyone, unlike those that rely on stretchy fabric.
Simplicity aside, the UMA GTV bib shorts are extremely comfortable and a decent length. They look good and feel durable, which might justify the price tag.
These are the shorts I would wear for a long-distance race.
Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2: Function
As mentioned above, a key element to the Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 is the nature calls feature which the brand calls Bisiclick.
The bib shorts feature two magnetic closures at the rear, which means the bib straps can be detached from the shorts without removing jerseys, vests or shells, for whenever nature calls.
The brand also says the way the magnetic element works means that other clothing won’t get caught in the fastening.
I found the closure system to be intuitive and easy to use, and I didn’t have any issues with jerseys getting stuck.
The closures are neat and unusual, however one downside can be that once unclipped, it can be a hassle to get the bib straps back into place.
Another thing to consider is that the closures may be uncomfortable whilst sitting on a chair at the obligatory café stop.
Obviously, Assos could have just employed a more conventional system, such as an extra-stretchy panel or two, but this option can be tricky for some people.
Bisiclick means that most people will find the new solution easy to use, so overall I think it is a positive feature for women-specific cycling gear.
Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2: Comfort
Assos says the shorts are engineered for endurance riding. The chamois is made from a patented, three-layer, perforated foam called 3D waffle that the brand says increases breathability and eliminates excess weight.
It also features Assos goldenGate technology, a free-floating section designed to conform to the rider’s body, and compressive foam layers that attempt to dissipate vibration.
All that technology is quite literally a lot of waffle, but to its credit I cannot fault the chamois.
I didn’t experience any discomfort, it stayed perfectly in place and it also doesn’t protrude excessively.
As is quite standard, the bib shorts also have UPF 50 + protection.
Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2: Fit
The Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 are made from Ossida which Assos says is a 40-gauge, circular-knit fabric that attempts to provide a level of compression.
These bibshorts feel racy. They give a good level of support without digging in and feel nice and smooth against skin.
They also have a mesh panel across the stomach area which Assos says is to improve comfort for riders adopting an aggressive riding position, and breathing heavily during hard efforts.
I can’t say this feature was hugely noticable in use, but what is doubtless though is that these bib shorts are extremely comfortable for long rides.
They also have 6cm leg grippers which help stop any movement and I found they didn’t budge once on rides. I almost forgot I was wearing them.
Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2: Compared
Compared to the Assos Dyora RS Spring Fall bib shorts, the UMA GTV bib shorts cost £10 more but I find them more flattering. Plus, they have the comfort break feature.
The Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 don’t have strong eco or ethical credentials, so for the conscious consumer I would suggest the Universal Colours Mono women’s bib shorts as a strong alternative.
When looking at the likes of the Pactimo Women’s Summit Classic bib shorts, which are also for long-distance rides, these Assos bib shorts feel more robust and durable.
They are more compressive, have a longer leg length and in my view are more suited to a long-distance race.
However, evidently the Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 are at the premium end of the market so you would expect such high performance and tech for the price.
Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2: Verdict
At £210, the Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 are not cheap by any measure.
I haven’t given these five stars because while Assos are clearly trying to be more inclusive with their kit, this could have been reflected in the price.
That criticism aside, these shorts will serve you well over many, many kilometres, so if you are looking for a durable, comfortable pair of bib shorts for long rides, the Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 might just be an investment worth making.
- Buy the Assos UMA GTV bib shorts C2 from Assos (£210)
