Reviewed: Specialized BG S Works Road Shoe

What We Liked
The S-Works Road Shoe is labeled as the lightest production road shoe with a mechanical closure (approx 250g) on the market today. Right away we noticed a considerable difference in weight when compared to our old Specialized Expert Shoes. As one looks at the shoe, you can see the minimal Micromatrix upper and open-mesh ventilation are clues as to the lightness of the shoe. The Powerzone lacing system was easy to adjust--even when riding...just turn clockwise to tighten, and "pull" the Boa Rotary closure to loosen. The "Set & forget" Velcro front strap was truly that. After a Summer of riding, we didn't touch the strap on either shoe. As for the stiffness and pedal performance, the FACT carbon sole (10.0 stiffness index), did it's job allowing sufficient transfer of power through each pedal stroke.

The Snob In Us
After 3 months of riding we can truly say that this shoe is light and comfortable, however once the weather turned a bit cold, the shoe made it known that it was a warm weather shoe. The ventilation, while great in the summer, wasn't at all favorable when the barometer went below 50 degrees. Additionally, we struggled with getting the shoe on from time-to-time as the strap lacing system only has so much "give" and can't handle the foot volume when entering the upper. Lastly, while the Powerzone lacing system made in-ride adjustments eazy, we noticed the lacing would "un-teather" itself from the clasp enclosure from time to time and was a pain to re-attach.

Our Recommendation
The Specialized BG S-Works Road Shoe lives up to its name as being a light and stiff road shoe, but fails a bit regarding the usability related to the Rotary lacing system. We wish the shoe kept the same sole and upper, but ditched the complex lacing for the more traditional 3 strap system.

Where To Buy
www.ajssportinggoods.com for $300.00