Shimano S-Phyre RC903 review: can you spot what's new?

The updates are small but consider them proof that Shimano listens to critiques

Shimano S-PHYRE RC903
(Image: © Josh Ross)

Cyclingnews Verdict

The Shimano S-Phyre RC903 is a gorgeous shoe that does a great job holding your forefoot right where it should be. Compared to the previous generation you’ll struggle to find the differences but Shimano has massaged some of the pain points.

Pros

  • +

    Excellent forefoot retention

  • +

    Tyre rub toe protection

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    Beautiful colours

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    Li2 BOA dials

  • +

    11mm of cleat adjustment

Cons

  • -

    The end of wrapped upper is noticeable

  • -

    Leather-wrapped midfoot can tear

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The top spot in the Shimano road cycling shoe lineup is always well-regarded and frequently seen in the professional peloton. The previous generation hit the market two years ago and brought with it extensive changes including an updated fit. Although that detail did take some adjusting for long-time fans, we found it good enough to claim a spot in our best cycling shoes buyers guide. Now, after a season on the feet of Mathieu Van der Poel, Shimano is making an updated version available to the rest of us. 

Tech Specs: Shimano S-Phyre RC903

Price: $450.00 / €359.95

Sizes: EU 40-48 (half sizes available 40-46.5)

Weight: 252g per shoe (Actual, size 44)

Colours: White, Blue, Red, Black 

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Testing scorecard and notes
Design and aestheticsAbsolutely gorgeous shoes but wrapping the outer over the sole is style over function. 8/10
ComfortVery good but if you have a prominent bone on the inside of your foot above the arch the end of the wrapped upper may be an issue.9/10
PerformanceStiff but not too stiff carbon outer, precise Li2 adjustment, and excellent midfoot stability.10/10
WeightLighter than many but not the lightest out there. 9/10
ValueTop shelf shoes and priced as expected. No surprises here.8/10
OverallRow 5 - Cell 1 90%
Josh Ross

Josh hails from the Pacific Northwest of the United States but would prefer riding through the desert than the rain. He will happily talk for hours about the minutiae of cycling tech but also has an understanding that most people just want things to work. He is a road cyclist at heart and doesn't care much if those roads are paved, dirt, or digital. Although he rarely races, if you ask him to ride from sunrise to sunset the answer will be yes. Height: 5'9" Weight: 140 lb. Rides: Salsa Warbird, Cannondale CAAD9, Enve Melee, Look 795 Blade RS, Priority Continuum Onyx