Birds on Bikes Fit Guide - Find Your Comfy Size
Australian‑made in Brisbane. ECA‑accredited. Size‑inclusive 6–24. Comfort first.
This guide helps you choose women’s cycling knicks and bib knicks with pockets that feel great before you even hop on the bike. We design for real riders and real bodies, with fabrics that aren’t see‑through and are made to last.
How the right fit should feel
- Comfortable, not constricting. Firm enough to stay put; no digging or pinching.
- Waistband sits flat. No roll‑down when you bend or breathe deep.
- Legs stay in place. Hem grips gently; no sausage‑leg.
- Chamois sits where it should. Close to the body, centred under you when you’re on the saddle.
- Confidence check. You can squat and stretch without the fabric going see‑through.
Tip: New knicks should feel snug off the bike, they relax a touch in the first few rides.
Step‑by‑step: find your size
You’ll need: a soft tape measure (or string + ruler), fitted underwear, a mirror.
1. Measure your waist
Find the narrowest point between ribs and hips. Keep the tape level and relaxed. Note cm.
2. Measure your hips
Stand with feet together. Measure around the fullest part of your bottom/hips. Note cm.
3. Measure your thigh (optional)
Around the fullest part of one thigh. Helpful if you’re strong through the legs.
4. Check your preferred fit
- Bibs: If between sizes, choose the smaller for a supportive, stay‑put fit.
- Comfort fit (knicks): If between sizes, choose the larger.
- Supportive/firm fit (knicks): If between sizes, choose the smaller.
5. Match to the size chart
Use your hip as the primary guide; adjust for waist/thighs if needed. If your hip and waist land in different sizes, start with the hip size and check comfort at the waist.
Between sizes or newly between measurements? We offer size swaps—see our return policy.
Try‑on checklist (2 minutes at home)
- Put on as you would tights. Don’t yank the straps (for bibs)- gather the fabric and ease it up.
- Set the chamois: hold the pad edges and wiggle hips to centre it.
- Bend, squat, pedal in place. Fabric stays opaque; waistband stays flat; hem doesn’t ride up.
- Pocket test (for bibs): phone in one pocket, keys/snack in the other - no bounce.
- Strap check (bibs): straps should sit flat without digging; if they feel loose or the chamois drops, try the smaller size.
- Saddle sit‑test: sit on your bike or a firm chair for 30–60 seconds; you should feel cushioned, not bulky.
TIP: Undies? Skip them. Your chamois works best next to skin.
Body‑positive fit tips
- Curvy hips / smaller waist: start from hip measurement; choose styles with a soft waistband (Tourer) or bibs to avoid waist pressure.
- Tummy‑friendly: look for a wide, soft waistband (Tourer) or bibs for zero waist dig.
- Strong thighs: if hems feel tight, size up or choose styles with a stretchier leg band.
- Tall riders: check inseam on PDP; bib straps are flexible and help with rise.
- Petite riders: a slightly shorter inseam can avoid knee‑back bunching.
Tip: New knicks should feel snug off the bike, they relax a touch in the first few rides.
Troubleshooting & quick fixes
- Waist rolls down: try bibs or size up; check that the waistband isn’t sitting too high.
- Legs creep up: a firmer fit or a different hem band helps; ensure you’ve smoothed the fabric evenly.
- Chamois rubs: check that shorts are pulled fully up and pad is centred; try a dab of chamois cream.
- See‑through worry: do the squat test in daylight—our fabrics are not see‑through; if you’re unsure, send us a quick photo (good light) for advice.
Care = comfort + longevity (Made to last)
- Wash warm, gentle cycle. Use mild detergent; skip fabric softener.
- Line dry. Heat can damage elastics.
- Wash after rides. Keeps the chamois fresh and prolongs life.
- Avoid rough surfaces. Sit on a towel or change quickly after gravel/dirt stops.
Buying well and caring well means you replace less often, good for your wallet and for the planet.
Need help?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most riders prefer one size smaller than their knicks for a supportive, stay‑put fit. If you have a long torso or prefer softer straps, stay true to size.
No, our fabrics are chosen for opacity. Do the squat test to see.
No, your chamois is designed for direct contact.
Decide if you prefer comfort or firm support, then go up or down accordingly. We can help, message us with your measurements.
Adjust how you’ve set the shorts first; the chamois should sit high into the crotch.
Yes, our range runs sizes 6–24 with patterns designed for curvy bodies.
Need a hand? We’re here.
Chat to us with your waist/hip/thigh measurements for a personal recommendation.
Local? Drop by for a try‑on (Annerley Arcade, Brisbane)
