Online retailer Wiggle’s in-house brand, dhb, has an updated range of shoes for 2012 covering road cycling, commuting and mountain biking. The road range starts with the £59.99 R1.0 and ends one stop later with the R2.0C at £99.99. We’ve received a pair of R2.0C’s to test so will focus our attention there.
The C in R2.0C refers to the shoe’s carbon fibre sole which sets it apart from the nylon-soled R1.0. The 100 per cent carbon fibre composite sole has a 3k weave which promises a “phenomenal inherent stiffness to weight ratio”. A high gloss lacquer finish completes the look.
Ventilation is looked after by mesh inserts on the side which are designed to allow heat to escape without being front facing and allowing too much cold air in. Two Velcro straps on each shoe are complimented by a ratchet which allows for more refined adjustment. The synthetic upper has twin needle stitching in key areas to improve durability.
Reflective stitching on the instep and outside improves rider visibility in low light conditions, while this second generation shoe has an external injection molded heel counter, which, according to dhb, “provides strength and rigidity to allow maximum control when interacting with the clip in pedal system.” Talking of which, the shoe, which is also available in black, is compatible with the three-hole cleat system used by LOOK and Shimano.
See the full range at www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb/cycling-shoes/
