Clipless pedals improve power transfer (5-10% gains in some studies) and pedaling efficiency on long road rides; flats give faster bail-outs and are better for technical MTB descents and beginners. Most road cyclists go clipless; many trail and gravel riders mix both. Below, we compare power, safety, learning curve, and price. While clipless pedals tend … Read more
Whilst there are a variety of different clipless pedal systems used by amateurs and pros alike, Shimano’s SPD and SPD-SL clipless pedals are perhaps the most common versions used by road cyclists and mountain bikers.
In this article, we’ll be comparing Shimano’s SPD vs SPD-SL pedal and cleat systems to help you decipher which is best for your riding.
As a professional cyclist, I’ve logged countless miles on the bike and experimented with all the equipment combinations under the sun in the search for the perfect setup.
One thing that’s remained a constant on my bike, however, is clipless bike pedals.
If you’re looking to take your cycling game to the next level, clipless pedals are a very worthwhile investment.
The four main cycling cleat types are: Look Keo (3-bolt road, the original road system, narrow wedge with 4.5° float); Shimano SPD-SL (3-bolt road, slightly larger contact patch than Look); Shimano SPD (2-bolt MTB and gravel — recessed in the shoe, walkable); and Speedplay (4-bolt road, double-sided entry, adjustable float). Cleats are NOT cross-compatible — … Read more