BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Specialized has this week introduced an updated Recon shoe range and a brand new helmet, the Search, both aimed at an increasingly gravel-focused marketplace.
Starting with the Recon, the range naming continues as was, offering 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 models. The all-new shoes are said to directly benefit from S-Works level innovation, with the range now offering “balanced stiffness, for optimal power transfer in a fast, comfortable shoe designed for big off-road days”.
For many, gravel riding increasingly leads to finding yourself (intentionally) well off the beaten path, scrambling over loose rocks, climbing over fallen trees – the kind of hike-a-bike that is no longer the exclusive preserve of hardcore adventure racers.
It’s here that Specialized has joined a growing number of shoe brands who’re rightly pointing out that going well off-piste “in shoes that make walking feel more like ice skating”, is not only extremely challenging, but can, and likely will, ruin a good ride-based adventure.
To directly address this, Recon 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0, shoes feature what the brand calls Stride technology, providing riders with a flexible outsole and upper around the toe box combined with a stiff cleat pocket, enabling the shoe to easily flex when walking and remain stiff and efficient when pedalling.
Combining a balanced stiffness for efficient power transfer with flexibility in the outsole and forefoot – two previously conflicting requirements – aims to ensure that ride-ruining, two kilometre muddy hike-a-bike experiences are no longer a source of series route choice questioning.
Additionally, the simplified tread, made specifically for road, gravel, and trail conditions, offers grip on a variety of surfaces, for a stable, comfortable feel off the bike.
Shoes retail at: Recon 1.0 – £100 / Recon 2.0 – £165 / Recon 3.0 – £210
Search helmet overview
With the brand claiming the biggest vents in its class, offering maximum ventilation, Search aims to introduce high-performance features to riders across the spectrum, at a price point which is also more accessible.
Search is said to combine the best of both worlds – S-Works-derived innovation and performance with a design shaped for a gravel ride, for lining up for a local event, or for the morning commute – ventilation, staying cool, is the common focal point. Naturally enough this also means sunglass stowage has been considered, with rubberised ports specifically placed for front-facing storage of said glasses.
To ensure protection at a level covering all eventualities, Search comes with the Mips Evolve Core Solution, and sports a 5-Star Virginia Tech helmet rating.
Search RRP £125
