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Outdoor Research
Freewheel Lite Ride Short - Men's

4.4 out of 5 stars
5 Reviews
$75.00 - $100.00
Up to 25% off
Color:Black

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Durable, four-way stretch bike shorts with a contoured fit and knee pad compatibility

What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying:


"These shorts feel great in the saddle. The articulated leg openings make knee pads fit naturally, and the higher back rise means no gapping when I’m in a riding position. The lightweight stretch fabric moves with me, and the DWR finish keeps mud and moisture from soaking in. The zip pocket is a bonus—I always stash my key there for peace of mind."


Designed for riders who demand comfort, flexibility, and durability, the Freewheel Lite Ride Shorts deliver high-performance functionality in a minimalist package. The bluesign®-approved nylon-spandex blend offers unrestricted movement with four-way stretch, while the DWR treatment keeps moisture and mud at bay. The articulated leg openings are shaped for knee pad compatibility, making them an excellent choice for trail and enduro riders.


The contoured waistband features a higher back rise for a secure fit when we're in the attack position, while the bonded stretch waistband eliminates bulk for all-day comfort. A gusseted crotch adds durability and prevents chafing, even on extended rides. With thoughtful details like a top-loading zip pocket for secure storage and a low-profile slide lock closure at the waist, these shorts keep us dialed in from the first climb to the final descent. Whether we're hammering out climbs or ripping through technical descents, these shorts provide the flexibility and protection we need.


Details

  • Lightweight and stretchy mountain bike shorts for high-performance riding
  • Abrasion-resistant fabric with four-way stretch for unrestricted movement
  • DWR treatment repels water and dries quickly in wet conditions
  • Contoured waistband with a higher back rise for a secure, comfortable fit
  • Articulated leg openings designed to fit over knee pads
  • Gusseted crotch enhances mobility and durability on aggressive rides
  • Secure zip pocket for storing small essentials on the trail
  • Item #ODRZ92R
Responsible Collection
Bluesign Approved (fabric)
Material
90% nylon, 10% spandex, PFC-free DWR finish
Fit
regular
Inseam
10.5in
Pockets
1 zippered right hip
Waist
stretch
UPF Rating
50+
Claimed Weight
5.82oz
Activity
enduro, trail, downhill, cross-country
Manufacturer Warranty
limited lifetime

What do you think about this product?

Overall Rating

4.5 based on 5 ratings

Review Summary

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2 Stars - 0 reviews
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4 Stars - 3 reviews
5 Stars - 2 reviews

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4 out of 5 stars

August 5, 2025

Great shorts but frustrating button

Simple design that works. Fairly good stretch. Comfortable. Lightweight but robust fabric. I like the understated design and clean lines of the product. I'd prefer a different button b/c this button needs to slide to lock into place, and it is direction-specific. However, the button rotates over time and so it's frustrating to find the correct orientation to close it. Fix the button and this would be a 5-star product. It would also be good to add some no-slip silicon to the inside of the waistband. If you wear a shammy underneath the shorts tend to slip down a bit even with the side pulls secured tight.

HikeNbike
outdoorresearch.com

Originally reviewed on outdoorresearch.com

4 out of 5 stars

August 4, 2025

Fiddly fit

Like the short a lot. The fabric is supple, durable, and lightweight. The fit- initially you are going to think it sucks. I'm not 100% SUPER happy with the way the waist and crotch are for movement off the bike, on the bike, they're pretty good. It isn't perfect, but it's pretty good. I don't feel like they're going to break in and change fit, either. I like the button/snap system a lot, though. The good- tight enough that you aren't going to have fabric moving around on you creating hotspots, loose enough that you don't feel constricted. They're very true to size, as well. All in all, they don't suck. I'll count it as a win.

Jeremy L
ExpertVoice.com

Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com

5 out of 5 stars

July 27, 2025

great summer bike shorts

durability and breathability are great, they hold onto my waist with the pull tabs on the side, the button fly is great, the only thing i would change is to extend the length of the fly zipper, otherwise made well, my iphone fits in the side pocket

Thomas W
ExpertVoice.com

Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com

5 out of 5 stars

June 5, 2025

Just awesome shorts!

These are the best shorts I've ever owned. Buying more to have on hand

Northern Diver
outdoorresearch.com

Originally reviewed on outdoorresearch.com

4 out of 5 stars

March 27, 2025

Five ride review! 4.5 stars!

Five ride review! I just got back from a 10 day trip to NC avoiding New England mud season! Observations - waist size is the same as my two pair of Freewheel shorts. Though these seem a bit trimmer cut thru the butt and legs. The material is allot thinner than I expected however seems really durable. With that the “waist section” is very stiff and a bit uncomfortable when you put them on however not really noticeable when riding. The one pocket seems a bit larger as my iPhone goes in much easier than my Freewheel shorts. These are certainly minimalist and I actually wish there was a second smaller pocket for energy snacks. Overall these are another great OR quality product and a great addition to my mountain bike kit! I’d certainly purchase again!

Mark NH
outdoorresearch.com

Originally reviewed on outdoorresearch.com