The Velographer's two video reviews of the Sidebike WT001 Knitted Road Shoes agree that they are a surprisingly comfortable, well-made, and stylish budget shoe with a knitted upper, nylon sole, and single dial closure. They fit true to size and offer excellent value at the original $60 price, though the price has risen to about $83 on AliExpress. The main drawbacks are the single dial, flexible nylon sole, basic insole, and fixed cleat position with no fore/aft adjustment.
Pros
- Fits true to size compared to mainstream brands like Shimano and Nimble1
- Very comfortable, with no hot spots during rides, and breathable knitted material1
- Well put together with good glue and lightweight materials1
- Heel cup uses grippy material similar to high-end Shimano S-Phyre shoes that locks heel in place1
- Reflective strips for night visibility1
- Secure fit can be achieved with one dial by pulling the Kevlar threads before tightening1
- Nylon sole flexes but does not cause a loss of power transfer when pedaling normally1
- Great value at $60, cheaper than many other types of shoes1
- Stylish appearance for a $60 shoe1
- Soft, grippy tongue material that doesn't irritate feet1
- Front lining protects knitted material from toe overlap wear1
Cons
- Only one dial, which is less convenient and provides a less secure fit than two dials1
- Nylon sole is flexible and less stable than a solid sole when standing and pumping1
- Basic foam insole with little support1
- Cleat position is very limited with only three fixed holes and no fore/aft adjustment1
- Price has increased to about $83 on AliExpress1
Key Facts
- Price paid: $60; current price on AliExpress: about $831
- Size reviewed: 411
- Sole material: nylon1
- Closure: single dial (Freelock, not Boa brand) with Kevlar threads1
- Upper material: knitted1
- Cleat compatibility: three-hole (Shimano-style); SPD and SPD-SL compatible1
- Reflective strips on the shoe for night visibility1
- Heel cup material similar to Shimano S-Phyre shoes1
Reviews & Ratings
10:46The reviewer evaluates the Sidebike WT001 Knitted Road Shoes, noting they are a $60 shoe (now $83 on AliExpress) with a nylon sole, one Boa dial, and a knitted upper. He finds them comfortable, well-made, and stylish, with good heel retention and reflective strips. However, he criticizes the single Boa dial, the flexible nylon sole, the basic insole, and the limited cleat adjustment range. Overall, he considers them a great value for the price, especially for casual riding.
24:01The reviewer purchased the Sidebike WT001 Knitted Road Shoes for $60 on AliExpress and tested them over several rides, including an 80km ride. He found them surprisingly comfortable and well-made for the price, with a nylon sole that flexes but does not noticeably reduce power transfer. He noted limitations such as a single dial and fixed cleat position, but concluded they are excellent value for money.
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