HOT
- Affordably priced
- Comfortable and breathable
- Stiff fiberglass sole provides good power transfer
- Micro-adjustable buckle and Velcro retention system
- Full range of sizes for a unisex shoe
- BONT Size Wizard helps you order the correct size
- Replaceable heal guards and front toe bumpers
NOT
- Runs half size small and wide
- Required longer bolts to install cleats
Price: $129 MSRP
Color: Graphics – Black w/ White or White w/Black
Closures: Velcro and buckle
Materials: Fiberglass construction and anti-stretch microfiber upper
Stack Height: 4.8mm
Weight: 295 grams (size 42)
Availability: Online
RBR advertiser: No
Obtained: Sample from company
Entry-level Road Shoe from BONT Cycling
In late January, BONT Cycling introduced the Riot Buckle as an entry level road shoe. Retailing for $129 this shoe is priced to be attainable to most cyclists. BONT Cycling’s CEO and designer Steven Nemeth explains, “Until the integration of the BOA system in a cycling shoe, a buckle and Velcro closure system was deemed a high standard. As technology evolves, the definition of premium changes and what was once a high standard naturally is reduced to second or third tier on the top, middle, or lower end product offering scale. The reality is, there is nothing functionally wrong with a buckle and some people actually prefer that technology. Because the perceived value has changed so have small parts specs which to our advantage allows us to offer a super stiff pro fit in a truly affordable package that is now the Riot Buckle.”
It’s Truly About the Fit
For testing I ordered my normal size (45) not knowing about BONT’s online Size Wizard tool. When I tried it on, my toes hit the end of the shoe and it was too wide. I knew if I ordered a half size up the length might be okay but still too wide for my foot shape. Instead of giving up, I had Mitch try them on and he said they were comfortable. With that, he took them on our March trip to Tucson for testing.
On the Bottom
The bottom is constructed of fiberglass construction which provides for a stiff sole for good power transfer. As you can see by the picture below, there’s a Micro Grid silkscreened on the sole to assist with accurate cleat placement. The shoe accepts 3 bolt cleats and Mitch tested with Shimano SPD-SL
The day before our first ride, we went to install new cleats. The standard bolts that came with the cleats were not long enough to catch the threading. We ended up going to a local bike shop to obtain longer length bolts which then worked perfectly.
Note that both the toe bumper and the heal guard are replaceable if they wear out.
Breathability and Comfort
The Riot has micro-mesh inserts, ventilation ports around the toe bumpers, and perforations in the fore foot to provide breathability. Mitch did not have any issues in Tucson with his feet getting too hot. However, when we got back to Chicago he tried them on a ride with toe covers in 45 degrees and his feet were cold. Unless using full booties, we suggest these shoes be used above 55 degrees.
Like all BONT shoes, the Riot is a heat moldable. BONT’s resin was developed inhouse to be an extremely stiff resin that becomes pliable at relatively low temperatures. The base of the shoe is moldable which means all stiff areas of the shoe can be molded in a standard oven. You do not need to mold your shoes if they fit you straight out of the box. Watch the video on how the heat molding works. The shoes fit Mitch just fine and this step wasn’t required. But it is good to know if he needs it later on.
BONT’s classic Z-form Velcro is anatomically placed and combined with a micro-adjustable buckle to ensure a set and forget fit with all-day comfort.
Other features of the Riot include a medial longitudinal arch support for an anatomically correct pedal stroke. It’s designed to prevent over pronation of the feet due to internal rotation of the tibia and femur – one of the main contributors to incorrect tracking of knees during the pedal stroke. Also, an anatomical heel cup provides stability, comfort and blood circulation during the entire pedal stroke.
BONT also provides lateral forefoot support for neutral positing and helps to eliminate common issues associated with over pronation and supination.
Bottom Line
While the new BONT Riot Buckle road shoe did not fit my foot, Mitch took over the testing and gave it high marks. It was comfortable and provided good stiffness especially needed on our mountain climbs in Tucson. BONT priced these road shoes at an entry level of $129 which is not out of reach for most cyclists. You’ll make quite the statement on your next group ride with the funky graphics available in predominantly black with white or white with black.
For questions about BONT shoes in the USA, email [email protected]
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