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Visually, the RX801 The design is strongly reminiscent of the XC502, but the robust synthetic leather is slightly less reinforced with TPU inserts in the toe area. Instead of the cheaper Boa L6, the Li2 fastener, which can be finely adjusted in both directions, is used, while a Velcro strap in the toe area improves the fit. While the cheaper XC502 is based on a carbon-reinforced nylon sole, the RX801 transfers power to the pedals via a super-stiff carbon sole. However, with the significantly narrower rubber profile, you should be a little more careful when pushing off.
Perfect customisation
The comfortable wrap-around tongue and non-slip material on the heel are shared by both models. The fit is also similar: narrow and flat. However, Shimano has a wide version in its range for wider feet - not every manufacturer offers this.
The Shimano can be adjusted to fit the feet almost perfectly thanks to the combination of the twist fastener and Velcro. This is also due to the fact that the two fasteners are positioned far apart and can therefore build up traction both at the toes and up to the heel.
Thanks to the Velcro in the toe area, the Shimano can be optimally adapted to the foot. In addition, the Boa dial is positioned far back, which noticeably improves the hold on the heel. This means that the Shimano also fits well on narrow feet like mine.
Peter Nilges - BIKE Test Manager
The tongue with its special construction fits snugly around the instep without causing pressure points. The material only pushes together slightly on very slim feet. The hold in the shoe is excellent as long as you are standing on the pedals. Overall, we found the material to be a little stiff and not very supple; the Suplest XC/Gravel Performance, for example, offers even more comfort.
Lightweight for racing applications
At just 634 grams in size 46, the Shimano RX801 is definitely one of the lightweights in the gravel community. This is made possible on the one hand by the extensive use of carbon, which is reflected in excellent power transmission, and on the other hand by the absence of a usable outsole. The narrow profile makes you feel like you're stomping through the terrain in Manolo Blahniks - beware of the risk of twisting your ankle!
There would be fewer compromises with the XC703, which has a wider outsole. In a comparable size, you have to accept an additional weight of around 100 grams, but you get a second Boa dial on top, which could improve the adjustment in the toe area even further.
In addition to the really poor running characteristics, we weren't entirely convinced by the stance on the pedals: although the RX801 convert every movement of the calves into propulsion, the thick carbon sole makes you stand a little higher and more wobbly on the pedals than, for example, with the Suplest Gravel shoe mentioned above.
Shimano RX801 - Info & Price
- Price250 Euro >> at Rose or Bike components available
- Weight (size 46): 634 grams
- Sizes: 38-48 / also in wide
- Sole / StiffnessCarbon / 367 N/mm
- Made inChina
- EquipmentBoa-Li2, Velcro fastening; enclosing tongue; replaceable pad; narrow profile sole; short pedal channel
- Fitnarrow and flat throughout, flat instep, true to size
Evaluation & conclusion
With the RX801, Shimano has a thoroughbred gravel racing shoe in its programme. Thanks to the thick carbon sole, extremely durable upper material and almost perfect fastening system, power is transferred to the pedals without loss. The other side of the coin: The Shimano is not a comfort miracle, and if you want to master longer pushing passages with it, you should have experience in running with high heels. However, as long as you stand on the pedals, the RX801 a top shoe for gravel sprints.
Stefan Frey
Editor
