SPEEDPLAY COMP PEDALS (why they win for beginner cyclists)

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In this video we will compare a number of cycling pedal systems, including the entry level models from Shimano, Look and Wahoo Speedplay. What clip in / clipless pedal system is best for the beginner? It's a slightly controversial piece this one, as I'm proposing the more expensive cycling pedal system for five reasons!
Installing Wahoo Speedplay pedal: • How To: Speedplay Peda...
#cycling #pedal

[@siy01]

Shimano Mtb pedal has all the advantages you talked about and more. You can walk about normally, they are bombproof, much cheaper for entry level, there's even a beginner cleat where you don't have to twist to release your foot, just lift outwards instead. If using the XTR pedal with the RX8 shoe you have a setup that's pretty comparable in regards to stiffness, stack height, and weight.

[@CamNicholls]

Thanks for sharing on the thread. All I can say is I've never ridden a MTB pedal so I've never formed an opinion on it. Seems like there's some big fans of it, although I question it's practicality for those looking to progress in 'road'. Whether that be fast bunch riding, racing, fondo event etc. Cheers

[@siy01]

@@CamNicholls If it comes down to power transfer I just can't see how one pedal system over another makes much difference, if the same stiff shoe is used with the same cleat position. Millimetre differences in stack height and being 20-50g heavier on the top level equipment aren't going to make a noticeable difference either. I can understand that someone with knee issues may need a larger float than 6 degrees, but for beginners does that not create it's own issue when the rider has to twist their foot over 15 degrees outward to disengage their foot in the most extreme setting of float.

[@daveyoung6680]

@@CamNicholls never had a problem with MTB type pedals, a similar platform to the Speedplays and the only drawback is a decent set of road shoes with ventilation, they're hard to come by. The only disadvantage is that it's took me a while to find a pair that don't creak, Shimano XTR race.

[@Williamchan87]

I'm for MTB pedals, the main draw back is there is only one choice of pedal based power meter

[@edam9461]

As someone who's been riding for 25 years including a few at the elite racing level in road, track and MTB I can't understand why most cyclists aren't on mtb pedals. The only advantage of speedplay over mtb pedal is ground clearance while pedaling mid corner, mainly due to shoe tread, and how many people have ever struck a pedal on the road not in a race?

[@junaid42465]

For beginners like me, I think SPD cleats is a much better choice. A few points,- - With bi-directional release, it's very helpful in the initial few days when you tend to fumble and panic while clipping out. - The most basic SPD pedals don't costs much and won't pinch, if the rider decides that going clipless is not their cup of tea. - Ride anywhere without worrying about mud or rocks in the cleats. - With XC shoes, walking around is never an issue. However, after about ~4,700 km, I do want to try out other cleat systems. Do they actually make a difference in long endurance rides (6+ hrs saddle time)?

[@CamNicholls]

Thanks for sharing on the thread. I can’t really answer that one as I’ve never ridden that system for prolonged periods.

[@junaid42465]

@@CamNicholls No issues. I was just pondering myself. I'm a beginner road rider, just did about 200km ride on SPD cleats last sunday and in good saddle time (~9 hrs). So, was wondering if, road cleats will help in better performance. Although, I didn't have much issue with the SPDs, except one, misaligned my left cleats recently (own mistake). 🍻

[@NigelJMcD]

@@junaid42465 I went from SPD to Speedplay, you do get more adjustment and they do feel more "locked in", you do need to invest in proper road shoes but walking in them is not to bad, just need to make sure you do not lose the walkable cleat covers. It is a fairly big investment if you have more then one bike so if you were fine with SPD on a 200km 9 hour ride then may not be worth it, well apart from the excuse to buy cycling stuff 😁😁

[@martindoonan198]

Most beginners, in me experience, are just as worried about being able to walk in their shoes as clipping in and out. I've been using a mixture of SPDs and Look pedals for 20 years and I can attest to the comfort of SPDs for long riding. Some of my longest riding (12-14 days of 6-8h per day riding) has been done using SPDs. There's not really a noticeable difference in riding performance until you get up to very high-power, fast riding and I mainly notice it in the fact that the float in road pedals is a bit "stiffer" than for the SPDs.

[@larisonjohnson]

I’ve been running SPDs for over a decade. On my road bike I use the PD-ES600 pedals. Larger platform, single sided, and very lightweight, (pedals + cleats … need to consider the whole system when discussing weight). Century length rides and all day rides with several bakery stops are no issue. I push the cleats as far back as they go. Cleats rarely wear out. Road style shoes can be little harder to find, but new gravel options are great. And you can use the same shoes for Road, Gravel, Spin and MTB, depending on the style you opt for.

[@dennish9519]

My thinking for a good pedal for a beginner is a SPD. Dual sided and you can find alot of shoes that are both good for power transfer and easy to walk around in. As time goes on they will find what direction and type of rider they want to be so they could then decide what pedal system to upgrade to. Me I am a Look fan, always have been. My first clipless pedal was a Look, way back in 91. I try not to walk around too much in my cycling shoes but I do have to replace the cleats about once every 3-4 years. It would be interesting to try the speedplays, to compare the float and force needed to release from the pedal. Also to see how the cleat holds up compared to the Look. Good video, alot of good info.

[@CamNicholls]

Good points you make Dennish, thanks for sharing on the thread.

[@nedt]

SPDs here on my tarmac sl7, love em

[@Omnis2]

Would strongly recommend beginners start with SPD 2-bolt. Why? Because almost every spin bike comes with them. Blow yourself up on a bike that you can't crash so that you can maintain your bike-handling when you're totally gassed. I started out spinning and did so several times per week for 8 months (but with 3-bolt SPD-SL because my studio was rad). Sadly, that studio closed and my cleats haven't worked with any of the other places I've been. This started the road bike journey. After 2 months of dialing in my bike fit while doing paceline training rides, I was able to hang with the A/B peloton of my local group ride. 2 Roadie commandments: (1) Don't drop your bike. (2) Don't get dropped. Speedplay and some of the 2-bolt pedals being double-sided is a big plus for both bike handling and not falling behind after setting off from a stoplight.

[@CamNicholls]

Some great points there, thanks for sharing on the thread. Cheers

[@Doktor_Al]

Someone as experienced as you should know that for total weight comparison you should include the cleats as speedplay requires an adapter and heavier cleats

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, it's a good point. Thanks for adding to the thread. I guess the weight and build quality was a quick supplementary point, but I should have mentioned, you're correct there.

[@grobbosixtyone]

I have used SPD’s since Shimano first bought them out. I always have the tension spring set to the lowest setting so getting in/out is no issue. Love being able to walk normally in SPD shoes also

[@anthonyrizzuto309]

I’ve been SpeedPlay user for ten years or so, and would not use anything else. And now look forward to trying their Wahoo power pedals.

[@andrefrancis945]

Always informative keep up the great content

[@mattwatson3721]

Just started down the clipless path. I settled on SPD b because I could get a pedal that I could clip in on one side, and was flat on the other. After a while, I got some regular SPD pedals. Before this video, I had not really considered speedplay pedals, as most of the people I ride with use SPD-SL so that is where most of the advice I get comes from and what has been recommended. The speedplay pedals seem more like the SPD pedals I use now. Looking forward, they may be my next pedal….

[@MrTeff999]

I've ridden at least 200,000 miles over the past 50+years, so pay attention. I've used them all. If you ride in the city, double-sided pedals will make your life easier and your rides safer. Save the single-sided pedals for long rides where you don't need to stop very often. Here's what I use: I have Speedplay Zeros on my road bike, Eggbeaters on my mountain bike, and Shimano SPD on my road tandem. They all work great. Eggbeaters never get fouled by mud and dirt, and are the easiest to locate and clip into. I love my Zeros, but they are more prone to being fouled with dirt or sand, and when you are off the bike, you'll be walking on the cleats. My SPD are bullet-proof and I use them with touring shoes so I can comfortably walk around a restaurant or a museum or a grocery store.

[@pilikiosuafoa1727]

Mtb double sided spd pedals

[@CamNicholls]

I almost put it onto the list but decided to stick with 'road' specific. Thanks for adding to the thread though.

[@dexter_johnson]

I've been riding these for years on my road bike, love them.

[@pjgalligan]

Yeah I used MTB SPDs on road bike for years, but the adjustability of the Speedplay pedals makes a big difference when you get a proper bike fit (mine was also done by Neil Stanbury)

[@JonathanHair]

Shimano 2 bolt SPD for mountain bikes is the best even on the road. Everything good you mentioned, plus easy to walk in. I have shoes with recessed cleats. They look and feel like normal shoes!

[@yisraels4555]

Having used "clips" and different clipless systems over the years... unless you are actually racing SPD wins. you can get off the bike and actually walk normally (yeah that is important) - but you need to be a bit choosy about shoes. Fortunately with more gravel racing, availability of stiff light shoes is improving. Also the "standard" SPD pedals have a smaller contact area (well not really smaller than the Wahoo..) but there are a large variety of SPD pedals - some with a platform which increases contact area. Basically unless you are really competitively racing (and you are making a recommendation for beginners) SPD (and a good shoe) gives 99% benefit without the drawbacks. Lets not make cycling complicated especially for beginners.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes, there is a lot of love for the SPD's on the thread. Thanks for your thoughts.

[@robscherer]

Just picked these up as an alternative to my favero assioma duos. Excited to try them out, great review!

[@Chibster83]

Thanks Cam! I’ve been riding Shimano for years and didn’t realize all of those differences from Wahoo. No one ever explained it to me before. I’m seriously considering switching.

[@Xhadp]

You conveyed most of the same information that I found when browsing around. However going with the SPD/2 bolt system is a lot better for beginners for a variety of reasons. 1) You aren't locked into one pedal type, I currently have a pedal that is flat on one side and clipless on the other which I have used both sides plenty of times for. There are also double sided versions out there as well making for an easy upgrade when wanting a pure clipless solution. 2) Walkability, 2 cleat system means that you get standoffs preventing the cleat from touching the ground when walking. 3) It being more of a gravel pedal means that it is metal and will work better for more types of conditions and will be more durable. My first shoe was a second hand one that had the cleat already installed and all I needed to do was just wash it off. 4) Despite the lower contact patch going from 3 bolt to 2 bolt you hardly lose out on that fatigue that everyone says that a road cleat is supposed to help with. But your millage may vary. With all that being said, yes a speedplay system is what I would be going with if I was to get off of the SPD system which I don't think I am ready for.

[@bh8605]

Great video! I have never tried Wahoo pedals, but as a newb to road cycling many years ago, I waited to invest in clipless. When the choice was made, I went with Speedplay Zero (now Wahoo), and have never hit the ground as a result of being unable to unclip. The lollipop design allows you to clip in no matter the orientation of the pedal. The design also makes it simple to quickly clip in at stoplight/stops for those enthusiastic starts that help you to get off the start quicker than those using Shimano/Look type design (see it every week). If Speedplay was good enough for Peter Segan, its good for me. Although I have never used another pedal, I will not consider changing. Great video, and I hope it doesnt take away from what Wahoo offers. Thank you for the content and great video, Cam!

[@paulmorrison30]

Excellent work 🙏🏾

[@GCPerformance18]

hate the bulky look of cleats and also servicing them

[@CamNicholls]

Agree they're rather girthy, but the walkable inserts actually make them easier to walk around in over the others, from my experiences. I can also tell from the noise I make inside the house and the agitated looks I get from Alice haha

[@SteRumbelow]

I assume you lube your chain and clean your bike? Wahoo/Speedplay cleats only need a bit of lube on the springs every now and then, and some grease in the pedal itself if you’ve got the older Speedplay variants. It’s really not a big deal!

[@tommyhernandez9425]

I just got a 2023 trek domane sl2. I've never used clipless pedals before in my life, but Ive been considering buying a pair. With so many options, it's hard to know which ones to get. Especially if you're a beginner like myself. I have looked at getting the speed play pedals, but like you said the price tag is a little high. However, I'm still considering buying a pair. Thanks cam. Great video. Very informative.

[@rosswinnel6394]

Timely video 👍have spent the last few years for various reasons riding the bike on the stationary trainer and have been looking at venturing outside the shed 🤣and current pedal system is a little stiff so have been thinking seriously about the speedplays to make that transition back into road riding a little easier. I better check them out more seriously now👍

[@davekashuba4730]

I'd love to know about long-term durability - specifically the lateral float that would occur for me as early as 5,000km (meaning the outside of my foot would be lower than the inside of my foot which would wear out the outside of the pedal body), bearing life and cleat life. I have 100% flat feet, and that lateral instability caused my Speedplay Zeroes to wear out VERY quickly.

[@detmer87]

Same experience with the zero's

[@CamNicholls]

Interesting situation. I know the cleat rock (caused by wear) seems to have been resolved. At least from what I can see after 5 months of use. But can’t comment on other points.

[@hjshoon5244]

I started with shimano clipless pedal (most common and cheap) moved on to Time (light for its price but rare) then Look (another common pedal platform and relatively cheap for its weight) and now on wahoo Speedplay Comp pedals on both my road and TT bikes. Agree with the reasons and I highly recommends it. Few other reasons which I considered includes the metal surface of the pedal which wahoo changed for durability, can push the cleat way more towards middle of your foot area and easier to walk around with the wahoo Speedplay cleats and more grip too. The dual sided engagement is a big plus and makes moving from traffic lights a breeze. After a ride or 2 your leg will have the muscle memory and don’t even have to intentionally look down anymore to clip in. Just step on the pedal as you naturally would and get going

[@RealShkillz]

I used Shimano 105 pedals for 2 years, lots of knee issues. Switched to original Speedplay after for 2 years and all my issues went away (love the double sided entry as well). Went to Garmin pedals (Look Keo) after for power meter pedals, and again nothing but issues and hot spots, no matter how many fits I did. Have gone back to Wahoo Speedplay pedals now, and again no issues. The biggest factor for me is being able to specify the float from one side of the foot to the other, something impossible on regular road cleats. By far the best product for new people and experienced cyclists, although they never seem to get much love. Not to mention walkable cleats, vs cheap Shimano or Look plastic ones that are tough to walk in and wear out in a season. Great Video.

[@CamNicholls]

Interesting to hear, thanks for sharing on the thread Kelsey.

[@simonhj]

I used Time pedals since the '80s until Speedplay appeared on the scene. Even after years of use, I still had occasional issues clipping in because they'd flip over or I didn't get th toe in the right place. Speedplays revolutionised my cycling experience. They're so easy to use, and I like the lack of tension on the float. I can set them up easily to allow my feet to sit at their neutral position (heals in slightly) with the ability to independently adjust how much float I have either side. Plus I use extender plates to get my feet further forward over the axle, and that has no impact on stack height with the Speedplay system. I've had no issues with the cleats getting clogged up, but I don't walk around that much off-road. They cleats require a little maintenance, but it's not a big deal. Looks like Wahoo have improved the cleat design as well as that of the pedals to improve durability which is good. I'm about due for some new ones.

[@Keule_from_Mars]

Cheers. Im using SPD (Time, they have massive float and clip in so nice) on my Roadbike aswell. Im verry happy with that. Im using some fancy Fizik shoes with BOA dials and a very nice Carbon Sole. They basically look like a road shoe, with the difference, that you can actually walk in them. In summer i tend to commute a couple of times per month. 60km each direction. In the City with traffic and trafficlights and crossings, ive learned, that i absolute hate the different road systems (yes, ive tried them all) but thats all personal preference. Im not racing, so i dont need the stiffest system possible. I need my knees to survive. On another note, when you're training indoors with your roadbike, every cleatsystem but SPD will f*ck up your nice wooden floor...

[@Demon09-_-]

I got the new wahoo speed play pedals. I used a torque wrench for isntall so the cleat bolts are all done up to 2.5nm. But there seems to be an odd rocking stright out of the box. Is this just something to get used to on speedplay pedals? or should they not be able to rock at all?

[@n22pdf]

Started off with Shimano's as most do a good few years back, switched to Speedplays and never looked back brilliant love them :)

[@2ndstreetmarvel]

I’ve only ever used Speedplay pedals since I first started riding over 15 years ago. Great pedals. I haven’t tried any of the newer once since Wahoo took over.

[@JK-NOT-JK]

- Started with SPD and basic Shimano shoes. They were absolutely fine and quite cheap. - When the shoes wore out, I changed to SPD SL for three reasons; (1) bike fitter suggested they have a wider contact point and may be more stable for a weak knee, (2) a much wider range of shoes, and (3) 3 different float settings. - Biggest issue has been cleat wear. I walk over 25 meters of gravel each time I go to my garage and go through a set every 3/4 months (even when walking in cleat covers). The yellow sacrificial part shreds and falls apart very quickly on anything buy a smooth surface. - Recently did 400km using Look cleats. Didn't like them al all. Harder to clip in and crucially much harder to walk in than SPD SL (which themselves are not great). Ideally, I'd like a decent shoe (I use Gaerne Carbon G. STL, which are excellent) but with a little more sole protection on the heel and toe to aid walking slightly and prolong cleat life.

[@sangampattnaik5944]

How is the unclipping sir? I use sh56 multi release? Should I upgrade?

[@olasonn]

Have used Shimano SPD-SL for years, but just bought Garmin Rally power meter MTB SPD which will be my future on the road. Easier to walk around in, easier to clip in to, longer lasting cleats... Happy with my choice. 🙂

[@CamNicholls]

Fair call, thanks for sharing on the thread

[@nathanturner7071]

Thx again for a useful video. For balance it would have been good if you had of suggested some reasons NOT to buy speedplay (apart from the manuf issue with earlier models). I was intending on buying speedplay a couple of years back but my bike fitter steered me away from them as the Shimano had a wider pedal which was better for my wide foot.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes good points you make. Cheers 👍

[@draugmithrin]

Speedplay's cleats too pricey and complex for me, as a consumable part the cost really adds up over time. If you have multiple bikes and shoes then it's even more expensive than other systems. Glad Wahoo relaunched the different spindle lengths, I use Kneesaver pedals extenders to eliminate knee pain due to toe out condition .

[@cyclotaur6315]

Been on dual-sided SPD from the start, never a problem. I'd NEVER switch to road pedals. I have used only two pair of shoes in 12 years, on road, cx and gravel bikes., the second pair still going strong, and have rarely needed to renew cleats. i know some riders have certain knee/hip/foot issues that need special fitting (shims etc) but as a Mr Average cyclist I've done 100,000 painless and uncomplicated kms on the dual-sided SPDs. They're bulletproof. Plus you're less of a slave to fashion if you avoid road shoes and cleats. 😛

[@CamNicholls]

Interesting to hear! Thanks for sharing on the thread

[@DoNuT_1985]

In just 5 years, I had 4 sets of pedals. Staring out with SPD pedal but I didn't like the shoes I bought together with them and had two sets of Look Keos (one tension spring broke, so it was too loose for riding) ... finally I went with Look-compatible Favero Assioma pedals with power meter. Plus 3 pairs of shoes. Could have saved a lot of money ... how much are Speedplays with dual-sided powermeter? 😇

[@AndyWJP]

I do minimal walking on rides so am interested in a quick fix for protecting the metal cleats when I stop for a bit. Any tips? I don't like the idea of having chunky rubber soles on the cleat assembly all of the time. Flip flops maybe :) I think that carrying some thick rubbery tape patches may be an answer.

[@theflyerpr40d]

Hi Cam, you should try the magped road I think they are the best for beginners! Super strong but easy to release.

[@rickmoses5081]

AWESOME! I was JUST considering this pedal type. NOW I KNOW I’m getting them. Thanks to your vid and advice! So I say, THANKX MY CYCLING BRO!🚴🏻‍♂️🚴🏻‍♂️🚴🏻‍♂️🥁🥁🥁

[@job9902]

Shimano SPDs are probably a better bet, I use SPD and SPD-SL for different bikes, but the ability to walk normally in SPD shoes is a big plus for gravel and for bike touring

[@Nerma0815]

Started cycling with Speedplay pedals 30 years ago. Im still using the X1 and i do like them so much. I tested the new wahoo design and i dont get used to it. 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@Phil-dx8rw]

I have been riding speed plays for over a decade and they are great in terms of feel and comfort

[@kenzulumovski892]

Sold, on my way to the bike store! But for a dude who stands like he just got off a horse, would you recommend the wide axle model? Thanks!

[@donwinston]

I used Look pedals way back in the mid 1980's when they first came out. I haven't had any interest in using anything else since then. I appreciated how much better they were compared to toe clips and assumed there was no way to improve from there.

[@liamturner6286]

Been riding for 5 years and just got the Power Link Zeros and love them, except… the ‘standard tension’ cleats took a good 50-100 clips in/out (on the trainer) before I was comfortable taking them out on the road, and I am still a bit sketchy. Considering I had very loose clip tension when I first started using SPD-SLs this would be my only concern about recommending for first time clip in riders.

[@CamNicholls]

Thanks for sharing on the thread. Lubing that system up upfront can help a lot. I personally find.

[@DanTuber]

2 questions. What's the feeling under the feet when standing on the pedals like compared to spd-sl? Do the wahoo cleats wear out more or less than shimano?

[@CamNicholls]

Smaller contact point but you 'feel' closer to the shoe, which I personally like. Can't compare to Shimano but the Look cleats wear out faster.

[@markclements1509]

Was using Speedplays for years but got fed up not being able to clip in once there was dirt mud etc (something that happens a lot here in the UK)in the cleat. They are great for anyone with knee issues. I'll probably go back to Speedplays when its dry the couple of days we have here per year.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes I get the dirt and mud aspect. If that's your riding environment it will do your head in.

[@markclements1509]

@@CamNicholls oh it does!

[@mecoollearoyd]

you didn't mention that the release force is adjustable on the Shimano pedals.

[@CamNicholls]

No, but i should have. My bad.

[@donvape336]

I only ride on a trainer and bought the Shimano spd-sl system. I can't believe thr difference in watts increases just by the pedal change. It took me years.

[@simonalexandercritchley439]

Hi Cam, I have not tried the new Speedplay's.Too many issues with the old ones. Mostly using Look Keo. I also have and old road Time pedal/Shoe set. For mtb have Shimano SPD & Time XC8. The Time pedal has the best mud shedding and durability but not for beginners! In Wellington I used the SPD pedals on a road bike for commuting and shopping, best for walking & beginners imho.

[@CamNicholls]

Thanks for sharing on the thread. Definitely a lot of opinions for the SPDs.

[@charlespackwood9219]

From the very start I was on clip in pedals. Right out of the bike shop with my first road bike. Every time I ride a city bike with my friend it just feels so weird not using clip in pedals

[@michelbinet5278]

I've been riding on Speedplay Zero for about 10 years now and I need a new pair, but I hesitate, altough people say that Wahoo solved the 'lateral play' issue, is that really the case...?

[@phil_d]

I personally didn't get on with Shimano SPD-SL pedals; the clip in isn't very intuitive and unless you're on the bike for hours and don't have to stop I would look elsewhere. The best single-sided SPD-SL pedals I've used are Time Xpresso pedals (Xpresso 2 & 4 are very reasonably priced). The cleat slides down into the lock position and the rear is held open by a carbon spring. Clipping in and out is very easy. On my commuter I have Time ATAC pedals, which again you slide into the clips and being MTB pedals you can walk around on the shoes without mashing your cleats. @CamNicholls Can you use Wahoo Speedplay pedals with a Mid Foot Cycling plate or is there enough aft adjustment to get mid foot? I'm using a Lake shoe which is the correct size for my foot but I still run a more mid position cleat.

[@CamNicholls]

Thanks for sharing on the thread. That's a good Q, I'm pretty confident you can use that plate. Neill is a big Speedplay fan himself.

[@docpewpew]

I have had the keo and than got the assiomas and all my crit starts a bad because of the hard to clip in and I've been using clip ins for more than 3 years I've considered using the wahoo speed plays but heard alot of riders crashed when sprinting because of the uncliping

[@tobiasbouma4071]

Something I love is that setting up cleats on my shoes consistently is a trillion times easier with Speedplay. The better shoes have great markers on them, and speedplay cleats sit flush to the (outer shell of the) shoe so that lining up markers is done with much greater consistency.

[@davidburgess741]

While I'm no beginner, M540s are on all my bikes. Not racing, the long axle length allows full pedal clearance on my track bike. Even with the cleats all the way back. I run the tension all the way up, because those pedals are my brakes. Extremely easy to service the bearings also. 2 bolt shoes better for walking and look like road shoes. (Bontrager Solstice). Much cheaper too. Weight, well.

[@MrJudegwapo]

My first pedal is SPD SL shimano and for me it is very easy to clip in and out than a speed play or the MTB pedals as mention in the comments. I ride on track by the way.

[@stoyanom86]

I think that everyone in the comments is saying the same. MTB-type pedals, like Shimano SPD are probably the best option for beginners. You can mash your foot in to clip in, from either direction. Release can be unidirectional or multidirectional, depending on the cleats you get. You get a lot of float. They don't cost much. And you can walk on your cycling shoes without looking like a penguin and damaging your cleats. Yes, they weigh more, but we are talking beginners, so this is less crucial and yes, if you choose multidirectional release, there is a chance of unclipping by accident if you exert a lot of force in the wrong direction. I've been cycling on SPDs for many years, exactly for these reasons and to date the only serious downside I've encountered is the more limited options when it comes to powermeter pedals.

[@enderfry]

I got serious wrist injury on my FIRST ever ride with shimano pedals as i couldn’t unclip fast enough

[@oeylille]

I like a dualsided pedal, so I'm using SPD's. Price for speedplay pedals start (almost) at Dura Ace level, and I don't understand why.

[@CamNicholls]

I think when you see them / feel them, you appreciate there's more to them. But I get the price aspect.

[@HarryTzianakisTheGodOfSpeed]

Have I ever told you that I am the first person to ever use structured training and intervals in cycling? Hi Cam! 😇👍

[@CamNicholls]

I believe so, which is impressive. Well done.

[@HarryTzianakisTheGodOfSpeed]

@@CamNicholls 👍 Good to see one of you guys don't hate me to the point of denying the facts 🤣👍💚 we would be good friends, me and you 👊

[@petersevcik7159]

I love the speed play pedal system but I've had issues with the new wahoo pedals (play in the pedal body's) sent back for warranty was sent a new set and the second set did the same thing after a few rides so now they sit my tool box Maybe third time lucky!

[@CamNicholls]

Sounds like the Cycling Tips article I read. Should be good moving forward!

[@mathewrose2951]

Don't really know why I like Look Keo Carbon Blades the best. Perhaps it's because they feel relatively more long under the foot than Shimano or Speedplay. Not wanting to overthink it, I have three pairs. I started on Look in the 90's, tried the other brands, and wound up back on Look again in the end.

[@CamNicholls]

Yes I understand once you get used to something it’s hard to move. Interestingly I was quite ‘stuck’ on speedplay after 12 years of use but recently started using look pedals via the Assioma brand and I’ve found it to work quite well. For me. A smaller contact point than the Shimano’s is why it works for me, I feel.

[@derekbiggerstaff]

I was an early adopter of speedplay and I definitely think they are the best system so far.

[@adhiperwira3523]

I have used the speed play since 6 months ago. I think it's easy to use

[@DonnyDonnMendoza]

I had my unclip of shame at the end of the MS to the gong charity ride. Kinda hilarious and what I get for riding in cleats for only two days before the event (despite having a bike with clip less pedals for six months). I crashed whilst a volunteer was handing me my finisher’s medal as I was trying to unclip. Luckily it was on grass and the only thing that was hurt was my ego 😂

[@CamNicholls]

Thanks for sharing on the thread! It happens to 99.9% of us. The fact you got grass over concrete is a win! 😃

[@2ndstreetmarvel]

Haha! Happened to me twice within 10 minutes when I first went clipless. Haven’t had it happen since. But yes, I think we’ve all done it. 🤣

[@scottmesenbrink93]

I rode Look pedals from 1986 until 2003 when I switched to Speedplay X2 pedals and I will never go back. Unfortunately, Wahoo discontinued support of the X2 pedals when they bought Speedplay so I can’t get replacement cleats so I’m slowly switching my bikes to the new Zero pedals. Not a great outcome but I will still never go back to Look or similar pedals. Even with years of experience I dislike the hassle of getting into them quickly and the float isn’t there. I rode SPDs on the indoor trainers but I would not use that system on the road. They do not have the same feel as the bigger platform as the Speedplay system.

[@troycollett8540]

I must say I have never updated from the old look delta style pedals.I have had no issues so no real reason to change

[@detmer87]

I had Speedplay Zero pedals but they were worn quite quickly (8000km) and that plastic squeaking drove me mad. Went back to Shimano SPD-SL

[@CamNicholls]

Not sure if you’ve tried the Wahoo versions but the build quality has improved. I assume by worn you’re talking about the cleat system. I found the same with the old versions especially if they weren’t lubed often.

[@zachhood7625]

A note for beginners, while the Wahoo pedals are more expensive they come with a pair a cleats. Shimano pedals don't come with cleats and decent cleats are around $25. So the Wahoo pedals are more like $50 more than Shimano when you include cleat price. If you already own SPD cleats then yeah Shimano pedals will be the much cheaper option. I have a knee injury so I prefer Wahoo for the larger float angle and for the easier clip-in.

[@michaelbradbrook9575]

SPD every day of the week for all the same reasons outlined by your reasons, plus much cheaper and you can get recessed cleats so you can walk around off the bike without slipping 😀

[@Relevant_Irrelevance]

I got Look for one simple reason, or two: 1) my lbs had Look and not Shimano, 2) Look is a good enough brand that it should be quality enough, even if its road and not spd

[@ribbyramone]

Really miss the ease with whcih I used to be able to clip into my Speedplays but do enjoy the Assiomas!

[@gavinimages]

When I first got my speedplays I thought there was something wrong. They were so difficult to clip, it does take a several times to get them to loosen up. Seriously, I had to stand on them and press with my bike pointed into a wall. After that frustration they are as great as they say.

[@gavinimages]

I echo people saying spd is better for a 1st set. Ran them for a lot of years before finally switching

[@pavlos..]

We needed 'Old Mate' featuring in this video. He would have been going nuts with his usual 'oh, you're in *company X's* pocket again!

[@CamNicholls]

Haha. He’s in the next one, don’t worry about that

[@ChrisCapoccia]

Lol any of these pedals are fine. Lots of beginners figure it out without any problems. If you really like speed play, that's fine, but it's not going to convince anyone else who's happy on some other system. I'm not going to try convincing anyone that my look cleats are the best ever, but I've never had a problem. Absolutely not concerned about some narrow q factor when my mountain bike has a wider stance and works fine

[@RitzChea]

I just switched to the Wahoo Powr Link and love them. I got the single sided used on eBay for $200!They are so much quicker to clip in. I’ve been using Shimano and look for the past 7 years.

[@stevekish4611]

The first manufacturer that builds a battery powered clip in pedal that auto unclips when a certain speed, gear turn, rapid deceleration, etc. occurs will make millions!!

[@thomasreese5000]

I use nothing but wahoo speed play pedals on my gravel and road. Never using any other pedal system. Maybe a Shimano/Look SPD if it's necessary. Started out on Shimano road pedals like many cyclists though.

[@Ronald-qj5nx]

One thing with regards to the Speedplay system, they use a not so common 4 bolt attachment so you are limited in your shoes, these shoes are also often not so budget friendly. You can use the adaptor plates but this negates/reduces SpeedPlay's advantages of lower stack height and lower weight.

[@jvogel431]

It seems that you may have not actually used Speedplay before. This is simply not true. The mounting plate is 3 bolt and fits every road shoe on the market. The cleat attaches to the plate. Every road shoe will work nicely with the Wahoo pedals.

[@jimbergey3624]

100% agree, especially about float and compensating for biomechanics. Beginner cyclists are the most likely to not know how to set up their cleats. I injured my knees from this 25 years ago, and have been running speed play since 1999!

[@germanhugger41]

As a diehard Speedplay pedal user for over twenty years, I've been holding fire on buying myself the newer Wahoo Speedplay's because of lateral play manufacturing issue and the non- serviceable non- replaceable bearings.. With the original new old stock made in the USA Speedplay Zero pedals selling on Ebay for big money, it certainly looks like Wahoo have a credibility problem and need to do a lot of work to restore the confidence of people who actually spend their own money on cycling equipment..

[@paulround4691]

I have used one sided spd road pedals for 15 years and 200,000 kms...I use lightweight carbon soled shoes and compete. I have zero problems plus low weight and walkerbility. The cleats last an age and I can use my shoes for everything, road, gravel and MTB racing. Road cleats are a joke and a rip off and not necessary ever unless you are trying to win the tour.

[@cup_and_cone]

I really wanted to like the Speedplay pedals (mostly from a cleat adjustment perspective with so much float), but I did not enjoy the 'rocking' feeling of cleat interface vs traditional cleat systems that have a larger and more stable platform.

[@CamNicholls]

I hear what you’re saying. I used to wear down the old Speedplays a lot and they would rock! Not ideal. However, Wahoo have indicated they have resolved the issue and I’m 5 months into usage and I’m not seeing any ‘rocking’ wear. 🤞 it’s less of an issue now.

[@Demon09-_-]

@@CamNicholls do they not rock at all for you brand new? im not sure if I am just used to spd sl or what. but my brand new wahoo speedplay seem to have the ability to rock some its not insane like what old worn speed plays seemed to do but it doesnt seem gone.

[@CycoWarriorx]

Oh wow… some people on here gonna kick you off their Xmas list Cam… 😆🍻

[@CamNicholls]

haha

[@laverdadtriunfa]

Is time to get a New set of speedplay pedals to replace my 10 years old ones

[@SuperOrcy]

i keep telling myself that I dont need new pedals, and my old look pedals and cleats have a lot of life left in them yet, but maybe its time I looked at a set of speedplays.

[@pbn111]

the Speedplay & compatible pedals are extremely sensitive to dirt. I standardized all my bikes on LOOK pedals many years ago and I'm not changing any time soon.

[@nlfiets]

Why are the Wahoo almost twice the price of the speedplay pedals? 90€ for zero chromo was normal. I bought zero titanium for 160€!

[@fatbikejamie]

Eggbeaters! Nothing easier to get in or out AND you can walk in the cleated shoes. Super lightweight, too.

[@hokagekira]

seems like i could give speedplay a try for my wife. i got magped for her after hearing from some ladies in my riding group. but that turned out to be a disaster because the magnet was too strong so my wife could clip in properly or even simply clip out. She tried shimano but it seems to hard for her to manage the finessing it. maybe speedplay could solve that part instead.

[@CamNicholls]

Just make sure she’s aware the first few clip ins are tougher but the system loosens!

[@boobtube1700]

ive had look keo carbon blades and Dura-ace, the look are far harder to clip into, i'd say atleast 5x harder, the angle, the 'sweet spot', everything.

[@848evo4]

I have speedplay and wahoo speedplay pedals, the original speedplay cleat is much easier to clip into

[@janeblogs324]

7:00 more information on Q factor please. Its foreign to me

[@CamNicholls]

There was a link that popped up in the right hand corner. This is it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqDXYp9sadlka8U

[@jamesmckenzie3532]

First, I would NEVER EVER recommend a first time clipless rider to get on Wahoo Speedplay pedals unless they had severe issues with foot placement. They are the most difficult pedals to connect into and the hardest to "get right". What would I recommend? Shimano SPD or the hundreds of look alike systems. Commonly found on mountain bikes, they offer a better connection and in some varieties, the ability to ride without being fully connected. Next would be Shimano SPD-L or Look Keo/Delta.

[@CamNicholls]

Fair call, everyone’s got there point of view. For reference validated this this Neill Stanbury who fits people to bikes for a living. He was in agreement that the speedplay pedal is a good option for beginners external to price. But appreciate your perspective. Many people seem to feel the same way. Cheers

[@jamesmckenzie3532]

@@CamNicholls I've been riding for a very long time and I've seen it both ways. Going from SPD/SPD-L to Speedplay. Most were due to issues getting the cleats properly situated or they couldn't be setup for proper rotation (float) or they had release issues.

[@koenvercammen2259]

i went from time to SPD-SL after 5 years on one bike as a test because i was tired of the of the time pedals that are worn after 1-1.5y (not speaking of the cleats). I can say that the shimanos are completly overrated. 1. After using them for a month they are almost always upside down so you need to flip them around with your foot before you can clip in. 2. I"ve hurt myself a couple of times when you think the pedal is engaged but you slide of the pedal while putting force on it. Since them i'm not feeling that secure putting force on the bike during the first strokes) Maybe I will test the wahoos but there are some stories on the internet about rust and maintenance and wear that doesn't make me a big fan to spend that amount of money on them

[@robertcatuara5118]

No Crankbros? Easiest for beginners. Easiest shoes to wear. Why didn't you include the obvious choice?

[@CamNicholls]

Which clipless pedal in their range do you suggest, I'll have a look into them.

[@robertcatuara5118]

The Eggbeaters. Easiest to use. Very inexpensive. I have them on my road and mtn bikes. Mtn bike shoes are easy to walk in and I even drive in them. Thanks for being open minded.

[@runsintheforrest1364]

Shimano pedals are not all cheap though. My ULTEGRA CARBON PD-R8000 came in at 120€.

[@aneczka2114]

Best thing for beginners is spd pedals....and shoes they can still walk around in lol

[@sazaria80]

i give it a tumbs up at the very moment the review was honest and straightforward for the pro and cons, rather than a product advertorial. thanks cam!