First Ride/Test: Mavic caused a lot of excitement this year with the presentation of a new high-end road bike shoe for an incredible 1.000 euros. A few weeks ago we were able to try out the new Mavic Comete Ultimate shoe at a great test event at Bikedress in Munich.
Mavic Comete Ultimate - The Facts
Just as spectacular as the price of the Mavic Comete Ultimate is the technology and construction of the shoe. This is where the Mavic differs from all other cycling shoes, as it uses a two-piece design inspired by ski boots. One part is a carbon outer shell that combines low weight (approx. 220 grams) and high rigidity. In addition, this outer shoe has been equipped with large ventilation openings and two rotary knobs. The inner shoe, on the other hand, is removable and is actually somewhat reminiscent of a classic ski inner shoe.
The main goal in the development of the Mavic Comete Ultimate is to obtain drastic energy savings while ensuring comfort and efficiency. This is achieved through a very close connection to the wheel and a consistent power transmission through a so-called "360 degree pedal rotation" mechanism. By minimizing the sole height to 4,5mm, maximum freedom of movement should be guaranteed. As a result, according to the manufacturer, you get an average saving of 4,2 watts per revolution, as well as 15% energy savings for the large calf muscles.
Mavic Comete Ultimate – How does it ride?
After a short presentation of the shoe by the Mavic experts in Bikedress Munich, the test ride started with ex-professional and Mavic testimonial Frank Schleck, among others practical example explained.
The so-called Super Low Cut of the Mavic Comete Ultimate is particularly noticeable right from the start, through which you can feel a great deal of freedom of movement in the ankle joint and in the area around the ankle and, thanks to the low sole height, is extremely close to the axis. You feel directly connected to the bike. This is particularly evident when driving while standing and offers a pleasant, direct driving experience. In addition, the good ventilation of the shoe quickly becomes apparent, which in turn means that overshoes are likely to be essential on colder days. These are also included in the scope of delivery.
How many watts you really save is very difficult to say, even as a professional, and can hardly be determined during just one ride. Nevertheless, one can really say that the Mavic Comete Ultimate fits very well right from the start thanks to its two-part system and does not actually pinch. To be fair, however, one must also point out very clearly that this is a real competition shoe, which is extremely stiff due to the hard carbon shell and may therefore have less comfort than a normal shoe. For some cyclists, the shoe will therefore feel a little too hard at the beginning or after a longer ride, or the sole will seem to pinch. A custom insole is definitely recommended here to have a perfect racing weapon. For us a top shoe with an innovative structure and design. How much he ultimately brings and whether he is worth his money, everyone has to decide for themselves.
