Shimano Launches New Gravity Shoes and Pedals

With the ongoing refresh/trickle-down of technology across the Shimano MTB line, it was only a matter of time before we saw new gravity-focused shoes and pedals. With input from the Atherton clan, notable updates include a fresh Saint-level SPD pedal, new Michelin rubber outsoles for the shoes, and two sizes of XT flat pedals. Get all the details, including pricing in USD after the break.

New Shimano 2018 Footwear and Pedals 

• Footwear: SH-AM901, SH-AM701, SH-GR900, SH-GR700, SH-GR700W
  
• Pedals: SAINT SPD PD-M820, SAINT PD-M828, DEORE XT PD-M8040, PD-GR500
  

New SPD Footwear for Demanding Tracks and Fast Splits

The flagship All-Mountain SH-AM901 shoe is designed for Downhill and Enduro riding and racing. The revised upper featuring an armored lace shield and asymmetrical padded ankle collar with sidewall sole offers greater protection while absorbing less water and offering quicker drying times than previous models. The additional molded toe cover offers protection while the Speed Lacing System further improves adjustability in all weather conditions.

The ultra-grippy, high traction rubber outsole makes walking easier and is designed to offer an optimal interface with the pedals. Best paired with the new SAINT PD-M820 SPD pedal, a channel on the sole behind the cleat creates a stable pedal connection when clipped out.

Following the SH-AM901 is the SH-AM701, also an SPD-only shoe. Unlike the SH-AM901 the SH-AM701 forgoes the lace shield, offers a harder sole and uses an ankle gaiter to keep out debris and offer protection. The SH-AM701 also comes in a super loud lime green option to stand out on the trail.

Shimano Footwear Technology with the Freedom of Flat Pedals

Completely new for 2018 are two dedicated Gravity shoes. The top-level SH-GR900 shares many of the premium protection attributes of the SH-AM901, such as the asymmetric raised ankle collar, armored lace shield and molded toe cap, but the difference comes with the SHGR900’s simplified sole construction. Not only do riders get superb grip and improved walkability from the all-new Michelin rubber outsole but the GR900 is 35g lighter than the AM901. The SH-GR900 is best paired with the new SAINT SH-M828 flat pedals.

Much like the All-Mountain lineup, the gray/green or blue SH-GR700 ditches the armored lace shield for increased heat ventilation and the aesthetic of a multi-purpose shoe. The SH-GR700 is also available in a dedicated women’s version (SH-GR700W) with women’s specific sizing.

Pedals

Shimano’s revised Gravity pedals feature one SAINT-level SPD option and three flat pedal options at SAINT and DEORE XT levels, as well as a non-series option. All are designed to fit perfectly and offer optimum pedaling connection with Shimano´s Gravity and All-Mountain footwear.

The SAINT PD-M820 is one-half of Shimano’s most advanced Downhill and Enduro-specific pedals offering ultimate bike control, contact, grip and durability with SPD efficiency and stability.

The PD-M820’s wide alloy body is system engineered to match perfectly with the SH-AM901 shoe providing a very solid pedal/shoe interface. The double-sided durable alloy pedal body protects the SPD mechanism from impacts whilst the low profile design lowers the stack height and the weight. Four adjustable pins per side offer grip when you’re not clipped in.

For those who prefer flat pedals, the SAINT PD-M828 is strong and durable with an eight-sided concave platform pedal, offering excellent grip and support. Twelve stainless steel pins per side (optional 3.5mm or 5mm) deliver the aggressive downhill or free-rider the ideal balance of connection to the bike and pedaling stability, with the best balance of weight and durability across riding conditions.

The DEORE XT PD-M8040 delivers flat pedal performance for trail riders. Offered in two sizes—small-medium (shoe size recommendation 36-44) or medium-large (shoe size recommendation 43-48)—it is designed to deliver optimal support and rider-tuned performance. With 10 pins on either side and a slightly concave design for comfort and efficiency, these Trail and Enduro pedals offer the legendary off-road performance associated with Deore XT. Sold with optional 3.5mm pins or 5mm pins.

Lastly, the PD-GR500 builds on the strong reputation of its predecessor (PD-MX80) as a Shimano-branded durable flat pedal for entry-level Trail and All-Mountain riding. The PD-500 features height-adjustable pins, low-maintenance sealed cartridge bearing chromoly axles and is available in black or silver options.

Expect to see all the products in stores in November, 2018. For more information visit www.shimano.com