SHIMANO S-PHYRE SH-RC 902
With its low profile design and sole stiffness rating at the top of Shimano's own ranking, the Shimano S-Phyre SH-RC902 has no doubts about its racing capabilities. While this amount of rigidity may turn some people off and make them question the comfort, rest assured that while sprinting and climbing provide the most benefit, they do so at the expense of comfort. Shoe stiffness ratings are not uniform, with the top-of-the-line Bontrager shoe scoring 14 out of 14 and Fizik scoring 10 out of 10 in their own internal rankings.
Shimano grades the RC9 carbon sole as level 12 and describes it as "rigid and responsive." However, the capacity of the shoe to be comfortable as well as harness pedal power is critical, and they excel in this area. The Li2 Boa double dial system is the newest and smallest from the well-known closure company, and it nestles as close to the side of the shoe as possible. When you consider the broad toe box, this does help to reduce the overall profile of these performance shoes. However, getting the wrap over design just right when putting them on can be difficult and takes some practice.
They are, without a question, a thoughtful choice at this price point, but when compared to their rivals at a comparable price, they stand out with amazing elements like the undersole ventilation. If you're prepared to spend the money, this is one of the best cycling shoes available.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Sizes: 36-48
- Colours: 4
- Weight: Not specified
REASONS TO BUY
- Wide toe bo
- Adjustability of fitVenting for food breathability
- Low profile Boa closures
REASONS TO AVOID
- Tricky to get fit right
BUY NOW: wiggle.co.uk/shimano-rc9-spd-sl-s-phyre-road-shoes-rc902
