The Fastline 2.0 trousers are Fasthouse's top of the range riding trousers, with great quality materials and a race-style cut. I was really impressed with the toughness and comfort. They are perfect for bike park riding, laps on downhill trails and when you want something more hard-wearing. The compromise is a heavier feel and added warmth.
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Fasthouse Fastline 2.0 MTB Trousers - Materials and Construction
Made from a 54% Polyester, 40% Polyamide, and a 6% Spandex blend, the fabric is tough and hard-wearing but has a bit of give. It feels thick (400D Poly body) with even thicker 600D in the saddle area. They have a water-repellent finish, that offered decent protection against water splashes and light rain.
The cut of these trousers is more of a race fit. They are tapered at the ankles, with elasticated materials making them easy to get on and off. The fit was snug, but not restrictive. There is a good chunky Dulon zipper that feels reliable long-term and a ratchet fly closure for the waist.
They have a silicone pattern on the waistband to help the trousers remain snug and in place, and a mesh lining down to the knees - like a loose short liner. It’s basically a pair of mesh shorts sewn in to be integral rather than removable.
The ankles and shins are a blend of lighter fabric, with a decent stretch in them but not enough to pull off or on over shoes, and no zips to help get them off when soaked. There is a handy hook on the back to hang them up, which is good for spraying down and drying. They weigh 450g.
Fasthouse Fastline 2.0 MTB Trousers - On the Trail
I liked the fit of the Fastline 2.0 trousers, they felt fitted, but not restrictive. The fabric allows full movement and they stayed in place. The ratchet closure was useful, but in some cases rubbed with waistbands on bags or hip packs. In terms of size, they feel a little over-engineered. I feel like the issues I encountered won't be a problem for most. You'll most likely wear these trousers when you're riding without a pack.
They have a nice cut and are a really good option for cooler weather. They were great in everything but continuous rain for obvious reasons. While I could and did do some longer rides in them, they are definitely better for bike park laps or shuttle runs. The weight of them makes them warm to ride in. In winter they felt fine, but on milder days, the double-lined style made them feel very warm. They aren’t windproof all over, but the top half offers good weather protection.
They are more like a motocross trouser in some respects, but I do feel like the reflective graphics on them felt a bit misplaced. They wouldn't be my first choice for commuting, and the styling, cut and build don’t lend to them being used on the road much, but it’s a nod to safety at least.
I like the fit, it’s relaxed to provide movement, but there's little to no excess material to flap around or snag. They run true to size, and when riding, they didn’t snag on the saddle off the back. The silicone gripper and waist elastic did a good job of keeping everything in place.
They’ve worn well, with a few tumbles and scuffs not showing up. The thicker fabric on the seat is even more robust and at times I felt the central seam when riding because it’s a stitched jean style rather than a diamond or seamless pattern. However, for the riding they are intended for, it’s perhaps less of an issue.
Fasthouse Fastline 2.0 MTB Trousers - Summing Up
If you are after a pair of tough, fitted riding trousers for enduro or bike park laps the Fastline 2.0 should be on the list. They would be good race trousers but are still suited to more casual riding thanks to the useful pockets to stash essentials.
They are comfortable when pedalling, but my only comment on the thicker fabric is that it warms up quick. Even on long downhills, with airflow working through the thinner areas, they remained warm. I’d only really use them for longer rides if the weather was cooler and mainly dry. Otherwise, I'll stick to waterproofs for wetter rides and thinner trousers during changeable weather.
They are priced competitively when compared to Troy Lee Designs Sprint pants/trousers at around £125 and Royal Racing Apex at £130. The Fastline 2.0 sit a little more than that, but within the same bracket.
If you're looking for a pair of trousers to ride in all day, the Fastline 2.0 may not be the best option. I think their construction and styling are better suited to racing, downhill or bike park riding. If you want tough trousers for downhill, the Fastline 2.0 trousers are a worthy contender.
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