What they say: Redefines the balance of aesthetics, comfort and power transfer.
What we say: Standing for Road Performance, the RP range sits just beneath Shimano’s Road Competition (RC) models but the RP9 is very much at the top of its class.
Based on a carbon composite sole it has an I beam-like form for stiffness and uses Dynalast to optimize foot ergonomics, plus it gives a slightly larger range of cleat adjustment than most-a total of 22 mm fore and aft.
The upper is a perforated, one-piece, synthetic microfiber that uses a BOA lace to draw together the offset asymmetric closure along with a strap.
This teams up with an external heel cup to hold your foot snugly, the whole package weighs 466g and is available in sizes 39-48. Best paired with the Shimano PD R8000 Ultegra SPD-SL, right.
Conclusion: Leading ergonomics, at a great weight and price, make the RP 9 a standout shoe.
