Bicycle Network: Bikes 'n' Bits
Road cycling shoes
René Bueman clips in, buckles down and goes hard on the asphalt to test road cycling shoes
The three things (besides comfort) I look for in a road shoe are
- three one-piece straps as these offer the closest fit
- toe and heel protection on the sole and
- the least amount of bulk – slim fitting shoes feel great.
Specialized BG Comp
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| You-get-what-you-pay-for |
RRP $359.95
Weight: 330g (size 43)
Colours: White or black with red trim
The you-get-what-you-pay-for adage applies here, as almost every aspect of this shoe is an improvement on the less expensive test shoes. It looks great, is well made (has a real leather upper) and the low-profile buckle-adjuster combines with the one-piece straps to minimise the shoe’s bulk. All three straps are looped directly onto the upper (not stitched on), the sole has two drainage holes and the upper has six very effective ventilation panels; you can really feel the airflow over your toes. The upper is unlikely to be scuffed because of the substantial heel and toe protectors. (You don’t want to scuff these good looking and very stiff (carbon and fibreglass sole) shoes). The buckle and gripper are replaceable and there is a reflective panel on the heel. Specialized offers three different sole inserts to ensure knees and legs are properly aligned. These shoes are really comfortable and I loved riding in them because they fitted like a glove.
Rated five out of five
Function 5
Materials & components 5
Construction 5
Appearance 5
Value for money 5
Shimano R086
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| There’s no better entry-level shoe. |
RRP $169
Weight: 301g (size 43)
Colours: White/black combo
Shimano has always made excellent road shoes and the R086 is no exception – its price represents exceptional value. This is Shimano’s entry-level buckle shoe (one of many) but it looks expensive (synthetic upper) and feels comfortable on and off the bike with great ankle support. The R086 has all the attributes of the top-line shoes with its three (fake carbon) straps all integrated (not stitched), good heel and toe protection, a drainage hole and substantial ventilation. The fibreglass-reinforced polyamide sole is stiff but also twists with your foot. Shimano has a women’s equivalent (same price, different last) and like the other test shoes, the R086 should last for years.
Rated five out of five
Function 5
Materials & components 5
Construction 5
Appearance 5
Value for money 5