Shimano has seven models in its road cycling shoe line. Brand new this year is the US$200/£150 R170, Shimano's top shoe without custom molding.
Shimano's two heat-moldable shoes, the R320 Pro Tour Racing (US$380/£300) and the R241 (US$300/£250), are 470g and 541g, respectively, in size 40. These stock R170, however, weigh 500g for the same size.
Fore/aft cleat-bolt adjustment is a nice touch
With a carbon sole, a ratcheting strap, a synthetic leather upper and mesh vents, the R170W is similar to its two bigger brothers, but at a much more affordable price. While it does not feature a heat-molding fit, it does come in half sizes and wide sizes.
One cool feature of the new Dynalast sole: the cleat nuts have about 1cm of fore/aft adjustment. Also, the sculpted heel cup holds the rear of the foot securely without having to overtighten the shoe, and the synthetic leather is relatively easy to clean.
The R170 comes in white or black.
Check back soon for a review of the Shimano R170 on BikeRadar.
The ratcheting strap and off-set Velcro enclosures are similar to Shimano's top-end shoes
