Shimano (Japan) – "2018 RP series footwear helps riders go farther and faster, more comfortably", stated Shimano.

With the unveiling of three completely revamped models as well as the introduction of two all-new models, Shimano’s Road Performance (RP) series grows to a total of nine offerings across men’s and women’s categories for 2018. Thanks to an expanded product line, the RP Series’ blend of road performance and comfort is available to all levels of cyclists.

"Built upon the Shimano Pedaling Dynamics (SPD) platform, Shimano footwear and pedals are engineered together as a complete pedaling system, optimizing bio-mechanics, engineering excellence, material selection, and craftsmanship to increase rider efficiency and comfort. Each RP model delivers pro-level features including Shimano’s trademark Dynalast shape, stylish design aesthetics and durable synthetic leather material", added the company.

RP9 - Flagship performance for unparalleled comfort and efficiency for long rides:


"The SH-RP901 is designed with new performance and styling for the most discerning endurance riders. Utilizing a supple, stretch-resistant microfiber synthetic leather material, the seamless one-piece upper design with perforated venting delivers superior fit and all-day comfort. A new carbon composite outsole is designed for optimal stiffness on long rides while the new curved external heel cup structure secures the heel and foot. Engineered with a Boa® IP1 dial with hidden wire routing, the RP9 offers excellent adjustability and sleek aesthetics. A high density insole with adaptable arch pads as well as an increased cleat adjustment range further improve the RP9’s fit options. Details such as a protective film covering the toe cap, a reflective heel tab and a wide and durable heel pad for walking stability are designed to help the RP9 excel during the rigors of endurance cycling", explained Shimano.

SH-RP901 Features:

• Weight: 224g (size 42)
• Stiffness: 10
• MSRP: $300

RP7W - Top-tier women's shoe delivers performance for epic rides:


Constructed with a supple, perforated high-density synthetic leather upper and featuring a micro-adjustable Boa® L6 dial for fine-tuning, the SH-RP700 Women delivers superior fit. The light carbon composite outsole is designed for ideal stiffness for long rides and an external heel cup firmly secures the foot through the pedal stroke.

"While all Shimano shoes can be worn by either gender, women’s models are also made available. Featuring a women’s-specific last designed to address the anatomical differences generally found from men’s to women’s feet. The RP Women’s models feature a narrower heel pocket, narrower volume and lower toe box volume, while still sharing Shimano’s DYNALAST performance-enhancing properties", Shimano explains.

SH-RP700 Women Features:

• Weight: 217g (size 40)
• Stiffness: 9
• MSRP: $200

RP5 and RP5W - High-performance road endurance shoe for the aspiring rider:




"Available in both men’s and women’s versions, the SH-RP501 and SH-RP501 Women deliver endurance road performance at an excellent value. Maintaining the RP series clean design aesthetic, the RP5 and RP5W feature a seamless upper constructed with a high-density synthetic leather. A micro-adjustable Boa® L6 dial means excellent comfort and fit. The light carbon fiber reinforced nylon sole and Dynalast design maintain excellent pedaling efficiency and a durable, wide heel pad provides stability and confidence off the bike", continues Shimano.

SH-RP501 Features:

• Weight: 275g (size 42)
• Stiffness: 8
• MSRP: $150

SH-RP501 Women Features:

• Weight: 275g (size 42)
• Stiffness: 8
• MSRP: $150

RP1 - All-around road cycling shoe with Shimano quality, comfort, and function:


According to Shimano the RP1 is completely new for 2018 and "is a value-packed road performance shoe with excellent versatility. Featuring SHIMANO DYNALAST technology, the RP1 delivers comfortable fit and ideal support for pedaling. Dual hook and loop straps provide a reliable and secure fit and a lightweight glass fiber reinforced nylon sole ensures stability on the pedals. With both SPD and SPD-SL cleat compatibility, the RP1 is ideal for everything from road rides to spin class".

SH-RP100 Features:

• Weight: 255g (size 42)
• Stiffness: 6
• MSRP: $80