BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Cube has introduced three new shoes, with the launch announcement highlighting “one goal: transferring your power to the pedals as efficiently as possible.”
With the RD C:68X, Sydrix Pro and Sydrix, Cube has introduced three road cycling shoes, with each offering its own combination of stiffness, fit and support.
As we’d expect, the brand is keen to emphasise that “all models come with an exceptionally stiff sole, practical dial closures and high-quality finishing that ensure no effort goes to waste”. What’s curiously missing is any reference to width fitting and toe box shape – arguably key elements in any footwear conversation, irrespective of foot shape.
Cube RD C:68X
“Stiffer, lighter and faster” – so far, so ‘on message’ for a shoe designed for those with pro rider level performance, as well as those with pro level equipment aspirations.
The brand points to the soul as its standout feature, made from the same high-grade material used in its top-tier frames. We’re told this high carbon content translates to a sole which is “extremely stiff yet surprisingly light”. For durability, the carbon fibre features a replaceable heel stud, which aims to prolong service life.
Dual dial fastening allows both fast entry and exit and an extremely secure closure, reinforced by a hard-wearing Dyneema wrap layer for durability even in the harshest conditions.
The toe box and heel cap are both reinforced for extra protection, the upper is perforated to provide ventilation, and a Natural Fit Ergonomics insole ensures the best possible cushioning and pressure distribution for optimum pedalling.
Highlights and specs:
- Full carbon outsole
- Dual dial closure system
- Dyneema reinforced kinetic wrap
- Natural Fit Ergonomics last and insole
- Breathable tongue and dirt-repellent upper
- Stiffness index: 10
- Colours: white and black
- Weight: 248 grams
- Price: £299,95
Cube Sydrix Pro
Let’s open by saying that naming the second-tier shoe ‘Pro’ is a confusing approach. Naming conventions aside, the Sydrix Pro is designed to offer “slipper-like comfort without compromising on performance”. Naturally enough, this ‘comfort’ will depend entirely on the rider’s foot shape as matched (or not) to the last of the shoe.
The Sydrix Pro features a glass fibre composite sole, which the brand states “delivers dependable power transfer”, while the dual dial closure system allows for fast and precise adjustments. The shoe features Cube’s own NF (Natural Foot) Ergonomics insole, along with a “perforated waist layer and ventilation slots in the outsole”.
Both toe box and heel cap are reinforced “for protection and better heel lock”, and the show also features “a replaceable heel stud” to improve durability and sustainability for a longer product life.
Highlights and specs:
- Rigid glass fibre outsole
- Dual dial closure system
- Natural Fit Ergonomics last and insole
- Ventilated tongue and dirt-resistant upper
- Stiffness index: 9
- Colours: grey’n’blue’n’red and white
- Weight: 302 grams
- Price: £149,95
CUBE Sydrix
Here we’ve the “won’t stretch your budget, reliable performance for everyday cycling” model in the range.
Cube tells us that their base model “has received major upgrades compared to its predecessor”, with the “old Velcro straps replaced with a dial closure system that’s quicker to use and more consistent in fit”.
The Sydrix features an asymmetrical design which aims to provide an even pressure distribution, creating a more comfortable ride. As previously mentioned, ‘comfort’ will be entirely down to foot shape, even when materials in the shoe upper are closed with an adaptable system.
As with the Sydrix Pro, the base model shoe features a glass fibre composite sole, a replaceable heel pad and “carefully placed ventilation zones”.
Highlights and specs:
- Glass fibre composite sole
- Dial closure system and asymmetrical design
- Natural Fit Ergonomics last and insole
- Ventilated tongue and dirt-resistant upper
- Stiffness index: 9
- Colours: black and white
- Weight: 310 grams
- Price: £99.95
