For your 40+ mile rides, I highly recommend you buy the most comfortable "quality" cycling shorts you can. They will last you longer and you will be more comfortable in the long run whether or not you feel the need for chamois cream. My favorite regular shorts are Specialized. I don't remember the specific kind and whatever was written on the inside that may say has been rubbed off, but they were probably the most expensive pair they make . . . and worth it. For shorter rides, particularly 6 miles, it doesn't matter nearly as much, but the longer you ride the more you realize the importance of quality. The chamois itself is the most important part. I can't remember what the materials are for the higher quality versus the lower quality, but if you feel them in a store, you can probably tell the difference. At first touch, a lesser quality chamois may feel plenty soft and comfortable, though, but after a long time in the saddle, it won't be as comfy as the higher quality one.

As for chamois cream, everyone is different. I find that on anything longer than an hour, if I don't use cream, I notice some chafing the next day. Not necessarily while I ride, but later. Some people don't use it for any length ride, though, so you have to figure out what works for you.

Quote Originally Posted by oniasuka View Post
Greetings!
I would rather avoid clipless, as I use the platform to hoist myself off and on the saddle.
I'm guessing this isn't your only reason, but I wouldn't say this is a "good" reason to avoid clipless. With clipless, the better way to get on the bike is to straddle it first with both feet on the ground. Clip into one pedal or the other and then push off. It's just a different technique than what you described. Of course I'm completely unobjective on the subject. I would never go back to non-clipless . . . but I also don't commute to work. I ride a road bike for the purpose of exercise and going as fast as I can with optimal pedaling technique. So I won't tell you you should go clipless . . . but I would be remiss if I didn't highly recommend you consider it!