My answer to the "sausage thighs" effect is to buy the longest shorts I can find - the look is more flattering to me when the elastic is closer to my knees, where there is somewhat less sausage to be compressed by the elastic. I shudder at the thought of me in those 6 inch inseam shorts! Also less exposed thigh = less thigh to slather in yucky sunscreen ! Once you get used to riding in your lycra attire that fits you comfortably, you will find less and less that you worry about your looks in it, and more and more about how much you enjoy riding! tokie