SIDI Motus flat pedal shoe test: Chic Italian shoes for trail and everyday use

SIDI makes a confident all-rounder claim for the Motus shoes. Whether it's a lap around the block or an all-day tour through the countryside: the Italians should always be with you. From a rational point of view, this definitely makes sense. Anyone who buys extra bike shoes for a three-figure sum probably doesn't want to buy another pair for every occasion. So the Motus has to be used for everything. On the emotional side, the chic SIDi scores points with its flawless workmanship and appealing design. But what about its core competences? We wanted to find out whether the flat pedal shoe is actually as versatile as it is advertised and what qualities it really has.

>> We have tested the latest SIDI shoes for clipless pedal riders here.

SIDI Motus in detail

• Area of use: Everyday riding
• System: Flat pedal shoes
• Weight: 645 g (BIKE measurement, size EUR 40)
• Price: 139 Euro >> available here
• Sizes: EUR 36 - EUR 50 (whole sizes)
• Special features: lace fastening with garage, reflective details

Not all flat pedal shoes look as sleek as the SIDI Motus. These shoes could also be worn for commuting or in the office. The Italians leave nothing to chance when it comes to design and manufacturing quality. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

>> The demands on an MTB shoe are high. Here we explain what a flat pedal shoe must be able to do.

Equipped for everything

According to SIDI, the Motus shoes should excel on any terrain and for any purpose, be it exploring the great outdoors, trips with the kids, trail riding or even racing. The Italians can also draw on 60 years of experience in the development of off-road footwear and have incorporated some of the technologies developed for motocross into the Motus. The upper shoe is made from particularly tear-resistant yet lightweight ripstop fabric. Speaking of light: at 645 grams in size 40, the pair actually weighs relatively little. The low weight promises to reduce foot and leg fatigue on long rides. The Materis rubber compound of the sole also originates from the motocross sector. A flat profile should ensure a stable stance and a high level of comfort.

>> We also tested grippy flat pedal sneakers from First-Degree.

Fit and features

Every biker should find the right SIDI Motus among the 15 different sizes. The fit is average. The front shoe also offers enough space for wide feet. The lace fastening is uncomplicated and allows the shoes to be securely fastened. To prevent the laces from falling victim to the chainring or getting caught, they can be stowed away in a kind of garage. There is a compartment on the tongue that can be opened or closed with Velcro and holds the laces. If the tour takes longer and the daylight fades, reflective details ensure better visibility and safety.

>> Of course, you also need the right pedal for your shoe. Read all about flat pedals here.

How the SIDI Motus performs in practice

Despite their light weight, the foot feels well supported and protected in the Motus. The shoes enclose the foot generously and offer reinforcements on the toes and heel for additional protection. The flat sole sits well on flat pedals and ensures a secure footing on the bike. The grip is good, although not at the top level. However, the rubber compound of the sole is somewhat hard. Advantage: The robust material promises durability. The stable but flexible upper material and the light padding around the shaft and tongue ensure comfort. Even on six-hour tours, we had no problems with pressure points or the like. Off the bike, the Motus makes a passable runner. Here too, the stiff sole is no performance miracle, but the transversely offset lamellae of the sole also grip loose ground and steep inclines. In the dark, the shoe reflects remarkably well without the elements detracting from the clean look.

The SIDI Motus is light and comfortable. Together with reasonable protection, this makes it a pleasantly inconspicuous companion for the whole day on the bike. The robust sole is good at everything but excellent at nothing. The flat pedal shoe therefore fulfils the central characteristic of an all-rounder. The quality and look are well worth the price. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

>> The flat pedal classic from Five-Ten now relies on a Boa fastener. Click here for the test.