By making a few adjustments to a model already widely praised by pros and amateurs for its lightness, efficiency, and comfort, Shimano is close to perfection with the new S-Phyre RC-902 shoes, already seen in races on the feet of Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, Primoz Roglic, and Warren Barguil.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: @3Bikes.fr

The third version of the S-Phyre shoes – the first model of which dates back to 2017 – evolves gently, but while retaining the ingredients that made them successful. And while today the concept of a wrap-around upper (instead of the traditional tongue) has been adopted by several brands, Shimano was the main instigator. It consists of a comfortable synthetic leather upper that wraps around the foot when tightened, preventing the formation of creases or overlapping layers, and allowing the foot to be progressively “pressed” against the sole without feeling pressure points, or almost none.

The other innovative and retained asset of the S-Phyre concerns the shoe construction system, with the absence of a midsole normally dedicated to attaching the upper between the outsole (carbon) and the internal comfort sole. In the case of the S-Phyre, the latter starts directly from the outsole, and this is even more visible on this latest RC-902 version. One of the main advantages of the concept is found when tightening, with both sides of the shoe closing on the foot at the same time. This feature also allows for a gain of a few millimeters in height between the foot and the outsole, and provides additional foot stability on the pedal.

The S-Phyre are also characterized by a super rigid sole (index 12/12 on the Shimano scale), quite flat and wide at the cleat area, which offers a wide range of adjustment with less risk of overhang and again contributes to better stability. Cleat adjustment is also facilitated by numerous markings.

On the RC-902, Shimano also retains the insole with a modular arch support, with a choice between two thicknesses of pads (supplied with the shoes), which allows for good support of the midfoot and provides well-distributed pressure throughout the shoe. Finally, in terms of weight, we are truly at the same level as the two previous models, with a measured weight of 230 g, compared to 232 g for the RC-901 and 224 g for the RC9, always in size 39.

=> SEE ALSO: Shimano S-Phyre RC-901 shoes review

Subtle evolutions

For closure, the new S-Phyre now feature two Boa Li2 dials instead of the previous IP1 models. While the operating principle remains the same (tightening or loosening click by click, total release of the system by pulling on the dial), the Li2 are slightly thinner (11.2 mm vs 14.3 mm), a little more powerful when tightening, and made with a cartridge from recycled materials.

But it is especially in the last shape that we notice the most differences with the previous S-Phyre. At the front, the toe box is slightly widened, which provides more comfort without altering foot retention. Conversely, the heel cup is revised, with more rigidity and a narrower entry, to reduce the risk of foot torsion during maximum power pedaling phases. On the sides of the inner heel, there are two silicone inserts, also designed to keep the foot firmly in the shoe.

Regarding the upper itself, at the midfoot, Shimano claims to have leveraged an in-depth analysis of pro riders’ pedaling dynamics to find the best combination of foot support, movement during pedaling, and comfort. This resulted in an evolution of the design, with a blend of synthetic leather and TPU-reinforced mesh, whose different layers are superimposed to stretch or stiffen in specific areas, while ensuring excellent breathability. This system also allows for good overlap of the two parts of the upper when tightened, without creating creases.

Finally, in terms of ventilation, specific work has been done on the combination of air intake at the front of the carbon sole and on the mesh front part of the upper above the foot. Although not specifically designed for hot weather, the S-Phyre do not pose any overheating problems, at least outside of extreme conditions.

Regarding the finish (which is excellent), we note a replaceable heel pad, and a rubber protective plate at the front end of the sole, which extends slightly upwards to limit damage in case of rubbing with the bike tire.

The RC-902 are available in three colors (white, black, Shimano blue), plus a magnificent electric red that will only be available from selected retailers. They are available from size 36 to 48, with half sizes from 37 to 47, and in a wide fit version from 37 to 47. Finally, Shimano even offers a women’s version, with a slightly different cut and a slightly slimmer instep.

Still as efficient, more comfortable

On the road, the new S-Phyre do not destabilize users of previous models in terms of pedaling. You still feel like you’re riding “flat” with a very stable platform underfoot, and a lot of rigidity under the sole.

With the S-Phyre, you feel like you’re riding “flat” with a very stable platform underfoot, and a lot of rigidity under the sole.

The main difference lies in foot retention, with a slightly tighter heel that seems to benefit from a more effective connection with the rest of the shoe, and especially with freer toes. The front part appears more “square” when viewed from above, which has the effect of no longer forcing the toes to remain in contact with each other. Over several tens of kilometers, the improvement is noticeable in terms of blood circulation, and therefore comfort. As far as we are concerned, the RC-902 even seem a tad longer than the RC-901 for the same size thanks to this evolution of the shape, but without the foot support suffering during intense effort, quite the contrary.

The closure is firm and effective, and the upper offers a rather rigid contact with the top of the foot. However, the absence of pressure points prevents the appearance of tingling or unbearable pain in the long run.

Moreover, the materials used for this upper have the advantage of not soaking up water in the rain, and the foot maintains stable support even when wet. Water drains relatively quickly, thanks to the ventilation holes in the sole, at the front and back.

Ultimately, the S-Phyre RC-902 benefit from the recognized qualities of the two previous models, and improve on details. The shoes are not radically different, but meet the demands that can be expected from high-end models at €359. Their firm comfort is aimed at competitors or cyclists who have an engaged practice, and who can thus benefit from a perfect connection with the pedals during intense efforts.

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