The Fort William World Cup saw Shimano and the Athertons showing off some all-new shoes and pedals with gravity riding in mind.
Pete tested the Shimano AM9s this time last year following the Fort William World Cup and this year saw the next step in the development launched with its own matching downhill SPD pedal.
Going from the press release, the top of the line AM901s have addressed the few chinks in the armour of the outgoing AM9.
Before you get too excited trying to find the cheapest price on the internet for these, they’re not scheduled to be available until November.
M820 Pedals.
There are more than likely DX pedals out there still running strong as Shimano release their new and first Saint-branded DH pedal. While it was Rachel Atherton smiling for the cameras in Fort William, it was Sam Dale and Neko Mulally that had extensive input into the design of these pedals. Two riders notoriously hard on kit. Durability is king when it comes to this pedal and these two know how to make something break.
Don’t expect these to be featherweight or complex. There’s no floating cage and you’re looking at over half a kilo for the pair. These things should come out the other side of a rock strike with the rock fairing much worse.
AM901 shoes.
The AM901s look very familiar to anyone that rocked the AM9. A speed lace closure is a nice addition but the quicker drying upper should bring a smile to any UK resident’s face. The AM9s dried considerably quicker than the AM45s of old and like magic compared to its larger competitors. These might not even need to go on the radiator come the winter!
A slightly flexier sole than the AM7 provides a bit more of a comfortable ride without being sloppy, much like the outgoing model.
AM701 Shoe.
The AM701 ups the sole stiffness to 6, where the AM901 is a 9, aimed squarely at enduro and all-mountain riders looking to get more power transfer. Venting on the sides helps to keep the feet cool, if allowing extra moisture in, while a neoprene cuff on the heel helps keep the dirt at bay. Anybody not fancying these viper green numbers will be happy to know there’s some matt grey versions as well.
Flat pedals win medals.
If you’re still not a convert to the church of clips, then fear not, Shimano have thought of you two. The Saint-branded flat gets revised but retains its unique look, with two levels of shoe with a Michelin-developed sole. Claimed to ‘not be the stickiest, but enough for most’, can it be a shoe to rival Five Ten? Other than the sole, these are essentially the flat pedal versions of the AM shoes.
