Hot
- Roomier fit from the ball through mid-foot for all-day comfort
- BOA closure with micro-adjustments for dial-in fit
- Updated synthetic mesh and TPU uppers offer a supple fit that conforms to your foot
- Slimmer tongue design reduces pressure and allows for more ankle articulation
- Make a statement or blend in with additional color choices
- Unconditional Bontrager guarantee
Not
- Can’t replace heal or toe bumpers when worn out
- Roomier fit may not work for narrow feet
Price: $134.99 MSRP
Colors: Black, White, Radioactive Red, Radioactive Yellow, and Nautical Navy/Radioactive Coral
Sizes: 36-48 EU (half-sizes 38.5-45.5)
Closure: Single BOA L6 and hook and loop toe strap
Upper material: TPU and synthetic mesh
Sole material: Nylon composite Bronze Series
Stiffness index: 7 of 14
Weight per shoe: 267g (size 42)
Cleat Compatibility: 3-bolt or 2-bolt (SPD-style)
How obtained: Company provided sample
Where sold: Online or at local Trek dealer
RBR Advertiser: No
Bontrager’s Circuit Road Shoe Receives An Update
This month, Bontrager updated one of their most popular road shoes, the Circuit. The Circuit is what I’d call an entry-level road shoe with a $134.99 price tag. It has the Bontrager inForm Race Last design and sole, which means it has a slightly roomier fit from the ball through the mid-foot. A roomier fit allows for swelling, thus added comfort for long days in the saddle.
Compared to the previous version, the new Circuit has an updated synthetic mesh and TPU upper material, a slimmer tongue, and an aesthetically updated BOA L6 dial. The new upper material has a more flexible, supple fit that conforms to your foot. Perforations on the uppers and integrated cooling under the toe box provide breathability and airflow.
The Circuit’s nylon composite Bronze Series sole has a stiffness index of 7 of 14. The medium stiffness provides good power transfer with every pedal stroke but is also walkable. Textured heel and toe lugs deliver off-bike traction but, unfortunately, are not replaceable when worn out.
The sole is compatible with 3-bolt and 2-bolt SPD-style cleats. For the 2-bolt cleats, you’ll need to order the optional mounting plate (PN 558863).
Bontrager extended the color offerings from subtle to bold. The company sent me the nautical navy with radioactive coral around the heal. The pop of color really was nice for visibility and a fashion statement. Other available colors include black, white, radioactive red, and radioactive yellow.
Fit and Sizing
The roomier inForm Race Last design of the Circuit makes for a more accurate fit. I normally wear a 45EU cycling shoe, and the sample pair fit fine in length, even with a little thicker pair of wool socks. With sizes ranging from 36-48 EU (half-sizes 38.5-45.5), Bontrager lists the Circuit as unisex. However, riders with narrow feet, like mine, may find the shoe too wide. I suggest a trip to your local Trek store for proper fitting and to try on a pair.
With the release of the new Circuit version, Bontrager added a slimmer tongue design. I found it comfortable and no pressure on the front of my ankle when pedaling or walking.
Bottom Line
While I have never tried the older version of the Circuit road shoe, the new version is comfortable and performs well. The supple uppers and medium stiffness of the sole are a perfect combination for long days on the bike and ease of walking around at rest stops. The $134.99 price tag makes them affordable for new and experienced riders.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
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