Road Vs MTB Clipless Pedals: Which Are Best For You?

Clipless pedals are a great upgrade. But would you be better opting for road bike pedals or clipless mountain bike pedals? Road pedals are bigger and single sided, whereas MTB pedals are smaller and you can clip into both sides. Si and Manon take you through the advantages and disadvantages of each type to help you decide which are best for you!
In association with @RideShimano 👉 gcn.eu/Shimano
00:00 Intro
00:47 What are clipless pedals?
01:49 Road pedals
02:39 MTB pedals
03:07 Cleats
05:16 Cycling shoes
07:46 Mixing bike & pedal types
08:55 MTB pedal types
09:28 Which are best for you?
Useful Links:
GCN+ | Every. Unmissable. Moment. 👉 gcn.eu/9jP
Download the GCN App for free 👉 gcn.eu/app
Visit the GCN Shop 👉 gcn.eu/gcnbooks
Join the GCN Club 👉 gcnclub.com
GCN Training Plans 👉 gcn.eu/gcntp
Which type of pedals do you use? Let us know in the comments below! 💬
If you liked this video, be sure to give it a thumbs up 👍 and share it with your friends!
Watch more on GCN...
📹 Are Flat Pedals Actually Just As Fast As Clipless Pedals? 👉 • Are Flat Pedals Actual...
📹 Revolution: Tech That Changed Cycling Forever - Pedals on GCN+ 👉 gcn.eu/7RU
📹 Watch our Editor’s Choice Playlist 👉 gcn.eu/editorschoice
📹 Or why not check out our Features Playlist 👉 ​​gcn.eu/gcnfeatures
🎵 Music - licensed by Epidemic Sound 🎵
All Wound Up - Tigerblood Jewel
Autumn Haze - West & Zander
Blacklight - John B. Lund
Bottle Rocket 6 - SFX Producer
Bulking Season - Timothy Infinite
Button Up - Timothy Infinite
City Gaze - Phello
Cold Dead Hands - Tigerblood Jewel
Come Closer, Don't Speak - Tigerblood Jewel
Everyone Dance - Guustavv
Flanged - BLUE STEEL
Fungus - Cushy
Get in Here - Smartface
Gotta - Smartface
Hey Its Me - Tigerblood Jewel
How We Do - Hank Lotion
Hunt - Jones Meadow
Life Upon Us - Alan Carlson-Green
Like Water or Something - Lofive
Quite Unique - Tigerblood Jewel
Power - Cushy
#gcn #cycling #roadcycling #roadbike #bike #bikes #bikelife #shimano #bikepedals
📸 Photos - © Velo Collection (TDW) / Getty Images & © Sprint Cycling Agency
The Global Cycling Network (GCN) is the largest online cycling channel in the world, bringing together a global community of road cyclists to celebrate everything that’s great about the world of cycling.
Our videos bring fans compelling daily content including expert tutorials, techniques, training, racing, cutting-edge bike tech, unparalleled behind the scenes event coverage, humour, entertainment, and more.
Presented by ex-pro riders, GCN offers a uniquely qualified insight into the world of cycling, and most importantly it’s fuelled by our passionate and enthusiastic fans - everyone who makes up the GCN community. We also bring the latest and greatest tech to your attention, showcase the best places in the world to ride and get exclusive access to events and races.
Welcome to the Global Cycling Network | Inside Cycling
Thanks to our sponsors:
Pinarello Bikes: gcn.eu/Pinarello
Zipp Wheels: gcn.eu/Zipp
Topeak Tools: gcn.eu/Topeak
Canyon Bikes: gcn.eu/-Canyon
Pirelli Tyres: gcn.eu/Pirelli
Orbea Bikes: gcn.eu/Orbea
Vision Wheels: gcn.eu/Vision
Wahoo Fitness: gcn.eu/Wahoo-Fitness
Park Tool: gcn.eu/-parktool
Elite Bottles: gcn.eu/EliteBottles
Whoop Fitness: gcn.eu/Whoop
Selle Italia: gcn.eu/SelleItalia
SiS: gcn.eu/ScienceInSport
Zwift: gcn.eu/Zwift
Shimano Wheels: gcn.eu/Shimano
DMT Shoes: gcn.eu/DMT
Silca: gcn.eu/Silca
MET Helmets: gcn.eu/methelmets
Strava: gcn.eu/strava
Watch our sister channels:
GCN Tech - / @gcntech
GCN Racing - / @gcnracing
Global Triathlon Network - / @gtn
GCN Italia - / @gcnitalia
GCN en Español - / @gcnenespanol
GCN auf Deutsch - / @gcnaufdeutsch
GCN en Français - / @gcnenfrancais
GCN Japan - / @gcnjapan
GCN Training - / @gcntraining
Global Mountain Bike Network - / @gmbn
GMBN Racing - / @gmbnracing
GMBN Tech - / @gmbntech
Electric Mountain Bike Network - / @embn

[@gcn]

Which type of pedals do you use? 👇

[@craigroberts5965]

I struggled with MTB SPDs due to the lack of adjustment. It lead to knee pain on longer rides. The switch to road pedals allowed me to resolve this.

[@marge5385]

Speedplay, also doublesided, quite intuitive and relatively walkable

[@alinapopescu872]

Normal, flat ones. I don't want to be tied to them and fall over at a busy intersection, with cars speeding all around me.

[@perjensen1962]

Shimano SPD MTB flats on the Kona XC bike and Shimano flat/SPD on the gravel bike. No complaints 😊

[@achilleasgiovanis6929]

Flats😂

[@andymow21]

Always used SPDs on my road bike. Can actually walk in them when I need to.

[@ChrisBeard]

Defo. I have SPDs and Shimano MT3 shoes which look like a trainer but are surprisingly stiff. Saves taking spare shoes on my commute or getting to the start of a long ride like the DD. Unless your racing the weight or aero gain just ain't worth the wally walk in the pub😅

[@BRMCaptChaos]

And one doesn't trash the cleat doing so.

[@FRamirez1A]

Same here. SPDs on my road bike.

[@mjtpli]

Unless you’re a super serious racer who doesn’t care about ever getting off your bike, this is really all you need to know.

[@QuixonDnB]

@@ChrisBeard I have same shoes, really comfy, love them. Just started to use spd pedals and have not regretted at all.:)

[@andrewdeaconrides]

I went clipless (SPD-SL) when I bought my first road bike. I liked so much being clipped-in, so I bought a set of SPD pedals & a pair of shoes for my MTB. Then I realised that SPD is the way to go: it's nicer to be able to clip in from both sides of the pedal and you can walk in those shoes. For now I still use SPD-SL on my road bike, but after I'll upgrade to a new one, I'll go with SPD for sure.

[@Countrystock]

Completely agree with you on this one, I'll be doing the same

[@danabean4408]

@@Countrystock Totally agree. There is an added benefit that because of the recessed cleat, the SPD shoes/cleats don't damage floors in the house, which has been a saving grace, especially to my wife. I am totally a road cyclist, but with hi-end gravel racing shoes, who needs SPD SL (which I used for years before I saw the light)???

[@andrewmcalister3462]

Logically, the time to switch would be when buying a new shoe, not a new bike. Pedals can be moved between bikes, but when buying a shoe, you are locked into the 2 bolt or 3 bolt systems (with a few dual exceptions).

[@ahkl77]

SPDs for 3 decades - the only pedal similarity between my different bikes. Shimano nailed this.

[@Joettcrow]

You can also get SPD / Flat pedals, which I personally love in stop and go traffic. Sometimes I don't want to fuss w/ clipping in and out at every light or behind every car, so I can just put my foot down on the flat and get ok power. Once I've got some road ahead of me I can clip in and get focused riding.

[@geoffreyhoney122]

Me too! For all the reasons you articulated, the are amazing especially in traffic or wacky off road bits, plus I can just hop on the bike with my regular shoes for a short shopping jaunt!

[@gcn]

Another good option! We also compared clipless to flats 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4evl6SgmLmVpLc

[@LadyPelikan]

I have those on my second bike. Great combination - I can go in any shoe for shorter trips, or bike shoes, as I feel it.

[@ShadowzKiller]

This is the best pedal for everyday riding and for beginners learning how to use cleats. Both myself and my father started with this before shifting to SPD SL cleats/pedals.

[@SeanBlader]

The hybrids are nice for having options or to not wear your bike shoes for a quick ride somewhere, but they are staggeringly heavier. On my old bike I kept the hybrid ones, but when I upgraded I just got SPD's.

[@gregmuon]

Fun fact. Shimano originally marketed SPD pedals as road or MTB pedals. They were trying to avoid paying licensing fees to Look. When Look's patent ran out, they rebranded SPD as mountain bike pedals.

[@kekkonenprkl]

Also they still offer "road specific" SPD pedals. Or more like one offering, Ultegra PD-ES600.

[@axelschneider1678]

SPD / Platform in one pedal. Only ride urban/ commuting and the ability to walk in the bike shoes or to be able to use any shoes is invaluable for me.

[@Khalidazizphoto]

I use magpeds Magnetic Pedals. And they are great.

[@DaigoroToyama]

That's indeed a fun fact! I laern new things every day. Thank you.

[@jerrygascan9132]

fun fact? fun fake fact. not true.

[@mjtpli]

For the recreational rider I would definitely recommend the SPD pedals with platform pedals on one side. Not only do they give you the option of riding in sneakers (sorry, “trainers”), but also when starting though an intersection you can power through before clipping in once safely across. Faffing around trying to clip in in the middle of a busy intersection is… not fun.

[@s.j.5850]

How right you are!!!

[@HeibesHealth]

Having tried both, my absolute favorite is SPD. I have Specialized mountain bike shoes with the SPD cleats because they’re recessed in the shoe, and the shoe itself has great grip to the ground. I can clip and unclip out of the SPD much faster. I tried the Wahoo Speedplays at one point, but I had the worst time clipping in and out of them, so those were an expensive fail for me. EDIT: I use SPDs and mountain bike shoes on a road bike, and I’ve never been more comfortable.

[@tomnewham1269]

I’ve got the same setup. Shimano shoes were too tight for me and MTB cleats are so much easier to use.

[@shellypalumbo5297]

I totally agree!! My eggbeaters are super easy to clip and unclip.

[@Blah-blah-sure]

I agree also. Tried road shoes. But never had confidence to un-clip. And the soles seem slippery

[@gcn]

Do you feel like you're lacking anything with the MTB shoe?

[@HeibesHealth]

@@gcn I don’t! If anything it feels like a gain. My toes can spread out and aren’t so cramped, the bottoms of the shoes have a lot of grip, so when I unclip and put my foot to the ground, it’s not sliding around (and even better for walking if needed). They feel much more stable on the pedals than road shoes for me.

[@Bertie..]

Stopped using clipless on all my bikes, MTB, road, gravel . Switched to flats. So much better than clips, power transfer surprisingly same, lots more freedom. Only took me 30 years to figure it out!

[@ska042]

For most riding, I'd agree, but for out of the saddle hard efforts there's absolutely a benefit to being attached to the pedal.

[@gcn]

That's what we found was generally the case when we did a comparison a little while ago! 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4evl6SgmLmVpLc

[@alancooke6630]

Flat pedals for me as well. 850 miles tour around Scotland cycle camping, no problems

[@julianw5692]

I think it's worth mentioning that on the mountain bike system you have "float", a little bit of movement of the shoe whilst still being clipped in. That could make it more comfortable especially if you have joint problems.

[@collinklimek1660]

I know this video is sponsored by Shimano, but Crankbrothers makes some awesome mtb and gravel pedals as well. Specifically, the eggbeaters still feel fast on the paved sections, but offer much more versatility when off-roading.

[@The2808erik]

I don't like that they don't have release adjustment.

[@collinklimek1660]

@@The2808erik You can change the float and release angle based on what cleat you purchase.

[@yonglingng5640]

​@@collinklimek1660And based on your installation orientation (whether you install one cleat on the other shoe or vice versa).

[@collinklimek1660]

@@yonglingng5640 Yeah, definitely. They lend themselves well to customization based on shoe size, etc.

[@kevinportilla9320]

And crank brothers shoes look so much nicer, you can wear them like they are some adidas or bike shoes

[@tomnewham1269]

One point that wasn’t mentioned was that for a beginner using clipless for the first time, the MTB system is the way to go. There are two types of Shimano cleats with the silver ones easier to clip out of than the black ones that were shown in this video.

[@erins9271]

I bought the SPD/flat pedals when I was first learning to use clipless shoes. I've stuck with them because the shoes are easier to walk in. Helpful if you ride in traffic to be able to use both sides even with clippers spd shoes. 😊

[@chaotic2insanity]

No matter what clip in style you choose. Don’t forget to clip out when coming to a stop. When in doubt nothing beats a good old fashion flat pedal. As always happy riding everyone.

[@junkandcrapamen]

track stand

[@Shadowboost]

track stand? I usually don't need to clip out even when the rest of my group does

[@gcn]

We've all had that dreaded unable to unclip moment! 😂

[@zwiftgalaxyhunt]

I use spd es600. Spd pedals but with road cleat sized platform, the best of both worlds. Can walk normally when off the bike which is a must when commuting!

[@headlessmike]

Me too. They even come with special SPD cleats that cannot be unclipped by pulling up hard, effectively canceling out one reasons I often hear people claim why SPD-SL is better.

[@uranusjr]

@@headlessmike You got it backwards, the single-direction release version (SM-SH51) came first, and the multi-direction SH56 came after as an “improvement” to the problem people crash not being able to unclip. Most Shimano pedals bundle SH51 as the default cleats.

[@rhobowkhrigowbo1708]

This. If only there were more road shoes with a clean and sleek design that hold recessed SPD cleats. And no, I don’t think those Shimano adapters are an adequate solution.

[@sevenrats]

100%! I love these!

[@Paul523069]

I’ve used both systems and it’s SPD all the way for me. One pair of shoes for my road bike and my XC bike. They’re plenty stiff enough for the road, don’t get wrecked off road and you can walk in them. What’s not to like.

[@njsarn]

I agree that the gravel or MTB shoes with their respective SPD Pedals are most practical. One key advantage is the use of SPD MTB system in the city, as it allows one to use both sides of the Pedals. The road shoe&pedal system to me is quite dangerous. At the traffic lights, if I failed to clip on my other side at the start, the road shoe WILL slide off the pedal if on the wrong side. Better yet, Shimano EH500 with one sided clip and flat on the other side is fantastic for city and town. Because the flat side will allow the MTB shoe to lodge into the Pedal's flat side without clipping (little known Shimano EH500 feature). That means one can unclip one side ahead to a stop, yet the MTB shoe won't slip out coming to a full stop or following start.

[@jiffmiller]

This is the video I have been searching for!!! I started with SPD on both road and mountain bikes for cost purposes but always wondered if I had a made a mistake. The technical side of me would love a more in depth video though maybe with motion analysis to see the performance differences ( if there are any) Pretty easy to do the same ride with same shoes and just different cleats.

[@philipcooper8297]

I use flat pedals on my road bike, and I'm not even ashamed.

[@ChrisBeard]

Good for you. :-) my mate just did 120 miles on flats. We ribbed him bit he was fine and still make it just fine

[@milan4ever]

Same

[@philipcooper8297]

​@@ChrisBeard Years ago, the GCN did a comparison video between flat pedals and clipless pedals on a road bike, the difference was negligible.

[@seanoleary771]

@@philipcooper8297 Yeah there's been studies as well. If you're going flat (no pun intended) out, yes they are significant. For Joe Commuter, use whatever you're comfortable with.

[@mjtpli]

Once I made the transition to clipping in I find it more comfortable over longer distances. I had to endure a few embarrassing falls first though.

[@thekeytoairpower]

I use pd-es600 pedals. They are technically a touring pedal, so look and work like a road pedal but use spd cleats. Really light and slow me to use one pair of shoes for both road and mountain.

[@kekkonenprkl]

I use road SPD-SL (PD-R8000) mainly, because they are much more stable, less float/play and larger surface area. But i switch to SPD (EH-500) during the Finnish winter. Ice and snow builds up in the pedals and/or cleats, and sometimes can't clip in instantly, hence the combo pedals.

[@gcn]

Do you still ride a road bike throughout the winter?

[@kekkonenprkl]

@@gcn Yes i do. Canyon Endurace AL for the winter. Takes 35mm CX tyres for the snow and even studded tyres for the most slippery part of the winter. Also the city takes great care of the cycling paths through the whole winter. This is actually a quite nice video of the winter upkeep of our cycling infrastructure in Oulu, Finland. kzbin.info/www/bejne/i5nbXmVsfMt2eLc

[@jeffreywilliams3646]

Got my first set of clipless pedals a couple of years ago for my road bike - got mountain bike kit as it's more practical for commuting, get groceries, etc.

[@deansimpson3231]

I started with a mountain bike and when I got into road biking it was easier to keep the SPD pedals on everything. That said, I have never felt the need to get road pedals. Thanks for your explanation, it was well done!

[@MrDaemondays]

I use the Crankbrothers Eggbeaters 3 for both and they are fantastic. 4 sides to clip in to and they are very light as well. The grip is good. I’m always thinking about trying the Look Keos but then again I don’t want to give up on the comfort of walking. I have stiff shoes with carbon soles btw so the power transfer is very good.

[@EddyGF800]

My first pair of cycling shoes had the mounting holes for both, after trying both it's SPD for me. One aspect that is useful is that there is enough inherent "float" so that if you don't get the cleats set up perfectly, you have a reasonable hope that you won't end up putting undue stress on your knees, etc

[@fokas.automotive4768]

Using hybrid flat/spd pedals on my hybrid bike. Love them!

[@stuartsnelling2426]

Gravel Pacific, the ocean you can walk across 😅

[@balintargyelan2237]

I am a triathlete and I really like SPD pedals because it allows walking or even running on short distances. While the others are struggling with their road bike shoes being already clipped on the pedals and having to run barefoot, I can just zoom past them in my SPD shoes. And getting on the bikes with the shoes already on the pedals can be really tricky, I've seen really nasty falls caused by the shoes hanging from the pedals. I love and would absolutely recommend SPDs for short course triathlon, because its more comfortable and doesn't or hardly looses any time in transition compared to road shoes.

[@rhonda9226]

Good video. Walking into the coffee shop scene - keeping it real!! After years using a road shoe / pedal system, I switched to a mtb shoe / pedal. It's really nice to be able to walk around.

[@VincentBrazil]

I use spd on my road bike. Handy for commuting and when I do triathlons and feel perfectly happy when just doing long road rides. Currently use the Specialized Recon SL, which are essentially a road gravel shoe

[@wotexpat9367]

I find Crank Brother Egg Beaters the best for MTB. Lighter than most Road pedals and triple sided clip ins.

[@exe9280]

Just did the transition from SPD to SPD-SL, coming from gravel/mtb i just stuck to the spd‘s on my first road bike. After a year only riding my road bike and getting a second one now I got SPD-SL pedals for both of them, and I gotta say, it just feels way better and safer and more effective with the SPD-SL. It’s probably just subjective, but I’m happy I made the transition.

[@stuwh1055]

I cycled in the late 80s early 90s was on toe clips and went to look and did use a shimano look cleat pedal and then gave up cycling for a years 2 years bought a tourer and had the Shimano SPD one side and the normal pedal I really liked them so much I got a small pair of Shimano SPD for my road bike and I think will stick with them for my road bike. Great video

[@mwirkk]

Thanks so much for this episode! I have been wanting to see GCN cover this topic for a long time. I was introduced to Time's Link, MX and CX series pedals at a local bike repair shop and liked them alot! Subsequently I discovered (and switched to) a series of Crank Brothers pedals. I have Mallets, Candy's, and egg-beaters -- the latter my current favorite for their simplicity, comfort and flexibility in riding style. They also look kuul!

[@melswan2320]

This is one of the great aesthetic debates of cycling and seems to be peer-group driven. I’m nowhere near any decent level of cycling and ride for fun and exercise and I’ve tried both systems. However, for ease of engagement and longevity (things are bombproof!) SPD pedals for me.

[@Jalfred92]

I have begrudgingly moved to SPDs for some of my riding. Flats have been absolutely fine but clipless pedals have helped me manage knee pain, presumably because of the narrower stance.

[@SurirPi7]

I just switched to SPD, in my case they are holding my foot even better. I couldn't find any reason why they would be any worse. Nice to heqr that this video confirms it. Also got the Shimano RX8, which hold my foot really well. For anyone not racing its probably the future

[@headlessmike]

Shimano makes some nice Ultegra SPD road pedals. People seem to forget that SPD is not purely intended for MTBs.

[@JonathanHair]

I think these are no longer in production. I have a set. But now the SPD road offering is intended for low performance bikes.

[@kekkonenprkl]

@@JonathanHairDo you mean the PD-ES600 pedals, that are marketed as Ultegra level? Availability seems quite good right now, are you sure they are OOP? Or is it a recent change and the stock is still good.

[@JonathanHair]

@@kekkonenprkl ahh yes, you are right. Didn't realize those were Ultegra branded. Still exist. My pair are older and look different.

[@markthompson1167]

Always used spd. Originally as i was starting out they were easier to get the hang of. Then as i upgraded my road bike realised the range had expanded so i could have the look of a road cleat pedal but with the practical elements of spd and no need for new shoes!

[@island661]

Thank you for this! 🙏🏻

[@dontaylor8540]

I've always used SPD (for mountain and now for road) but thank you GCN for showing a gravel shoe 🤯 which might be the other option for me.

[@lucborot2219]

I was taught pedalling at the cycling school of the Paris Jacques Anquetil velodrome 50 years ago, on track and road. We used clips with leather straps and cleats that had to be nailed to the shoes. I stopped biking in the 80s and when I returned, I discovered the clipless systems with joy gratitude. Having experience of the 3 systems (including the ancient one ;) ) and being more on the touring than racing practice, I confess a preference for the MTB system, for walking in particular, whether in town or on muddy or rocky paths. The greatest virtue I find in the road system is that the platform being longer and wider, pressure feels like it is more directly applied to the pedal and energy gets more efficiently transferred to the bike. Sorry to be long, but one thing more: I'm not nostalgic of the ancient system at all, especially as now I'm in my mid-60s and my leg joints have undergone much wear and tear. Being able to fix the cleats and pedals with a bit of lee way allows my feet to twist a bit on the bike to avoid excessive tension in the oinees and ankles, and this I am thankful for.

[@s.j.5850]

It makes more sense if you are not racing. Most of us are recreational cyclists. Practicality dictates the MTB pedal hands down.

[@john_7986]

I started with mountain bike peddals and kept them for road biking. I only need 1 pair of shoes and the clip in feel is the same for all my bikes. I would consider upgrading peddals to the larger platform if it improved stability

[@BoomerangVillage]

You'll get way more benefit from upgrading to stiffer shoes than to SL pedals. in stiff shoes, the difference is not perceptible. SL pedals only real benefits are marginal weight and aero gains, but if that's what you need, you're probably already using SL pedals.

[@jameslee-pevenhull5087]

Touring, single sided SPD with platform. Platform for riding from the hotel to the chippy in plimsolls. Commute, double side SPD. Road & TT, SPD-SL. Vintage rides, usually plates, clips and straps. Some bikes rubber block pedals.

[@brettmansfield]

I'd been looking forward to this video since it was mentioned in the GCN show. I was really hoping for some data on the power differences between SPD and SPD-SL.

[@MischkaSi]

There is none, why would there 😂

[@lhommeaudacieux]

I originally started with road bike cleats but eventually switched to MTB ones when after trying it out for a while. No performance difference for me, way more convenient. Then I got mixed pedals with a flat side for commuting and now I find myself using the flag side more often even when I have my cleated shoes on. It is just a bit more comfortable when you can occasionally switch up your foot position a bit and my times seem to stay the same either way...

[@brew-jameshenrybreward4889]

I had Look pedals for years, I wanted to get a power meter having looked into all the options I went with the Wahoo power play. For my commute and casual road riding arguably I should have gone SPD but I am very happy with my choices. There is also something to be said for my pedals, head unit, speed sensor, heart rate monitor all being in the same ecosystem.

[@gavlptvbk8665]

I’ve always used SPDs on my bikes but fitted some SLs on my road bike earlier this year and love them. Clipping in always feels far more positive than the SPDs, they feel more secure and comfortable and I don’t miss the grinding of metal on metal. Only problem I’ve had is one of the cleats came loose enough to have to remove my shoe whilst clipped in, possibly due to the extra force required to unclip?

[@imolotkov]

I decided to go with Shimano PD-ES600 for my only gravel/road bike. They are being marketed as for commuting, but in fact are great for both road and gravel rides as they are one-sided SPD and that cuts down some weight + somewhat aerodynamic. A recreational cyclist like me would benefit from an SPD type because of their versatility.

[@leifgonzales6045]

Same here. Good coverage at the bottom of the shoe compared to other SPDs.

[@scherzo0o]

Manon, you've got me at "sole purpose in mind". Love you!

[@alt5494]

Thank you this was helpful.

[@ZOB4]

I use Crankbrothers Candy pedals on all of my bikes - being able to walk off the bike is much more important to me than saving a tiny bit of weight or a tiny bit of power transfer.

[@martyjbrown]

Learned on SPDs, stayed with them. Wear very light carbon-soled S-Works XC shoes and use XTR pedals which have a platform cage. Work brilliantly together. Usually/always riding road.

[@matthewlawrence9894]

Riding in coastal North Carolina, where it is often hot and very humid, SPD pedals and Shimano SD5 sandals keep my toes happy. At any temperature above 55, the shoes come off and the sandals on. The SD5 sandals are stiff enough to transfer effort onto the pedals, yet comfortable enough for walking about town. I'm cycling in sandals 9 months a year.

[@clintonshiells3095]

Very thorough treatment of this subject. I started road cycling with metal cleats hammered onto leather soled shoes clipped into quill pedals with toeclips and Binda toestraps, including track stands at traffic lights. Skipping some steps, I road Speadplay zeros on my road bike with cafe covers in my pocket. Given that my cycling is now best described as touring speed, I find that MTB pedals and shoes works best for me on all my bikes-road, gravel, mountain. I don‘t notice any difference from a smaller contact surface with the latest Shimano XTR pedals and Sidi shoes. I felt a bit scandalous for some years but now can‘t see it any other way, for me that is.

[@chrisl.6158]

I'm using SPD on my road bike. Important things to mention: There ARE one-sided clip SPD pedals that weigh pretty much the same as SPD SL pedals. And there ARE shoes (my Giro Savix road shoes for example) that are compatible with bith systems.

[@timauch2044]

Hi. I've seen a couple of comments about Giro Savix or other shoes supporting both SPD and SPD-SL. Forgive me, but I am not following - isn't it the cleat that you put on the shoe supports SPD and/or SPD-SL? I see that the Savix supports both the 2-hole (SPD) and 3-hole (SPD-SL) cleats directly, with no need for an adapter, but you still need attach one or the other cleat, is that correct? Hopefully I am missing something, as I'd like to find a way to choose either one system or the other on the fly. Thanks.

[@chrisl.6158]

@@timauch2044 Yes, you have to attach the right cleat on the shoe. The cleats usually come with the pedals by the way (Spd pedals with spd cleats, compatible with 2 hole shoes, and spd-sl pedals with spd-sl cleats, compatible with 3 hole shoes). I think there is no adapter from Spd to Spd-Sl or the other way around. Anyways I wouldn't use an adapter. So either get the right shoe or a shoe that works with both systems (like the Savix). Did that answer your question? 🙂

[@timauch2044]

@@chrisl.6158 Thanks. My goal is to use 2 different shoes interchangeably with two different bikes with different pedals; I posted that as a generic comment to this video as well. So I think you did answer the question - and my search continues. :) I actually used the adapter approach in the past and it didn't work, as I was missing a plate (it was for a Wellgo adapter) needed to make a smooth and tight connection from shoe to pedal (if that makes sense.) I rummaged around my parts bin and found that I actually had the needed plates. I added the them and tried them on my ride this morning - it worked quite well. I also found that I had a Shimano SH41 adapter and that worked even better (more stable to walk with) , so I wouldn't rule out the adapter approach, but I do agree that an SPD-SL cleat and pedal would be best for both stability and power transfer. Thanks again!

[@chrisl.6158]

@@timauch2044 Interesting. Now I have a question: I thought those adapters have to be quite thick and would mess with my position on the bike. But is it just a thin metal plate? And yes, the SPD-SL may be a more pro solution if you ride in supertuck position etc. but for me SPD pedals are just fine on the road bike. With my torn ligaments on both feet I thought I have less mobility and therefore should first try SPDs. With the Savix shoe I could "upgrade" to SPD-SL at a later point, but actually I think I'll stick with SPD on my road bike.

[@dblissmn]

My first clipless were SPD on my mountain bike, but when I added a road bike in 2007......and a pair of better SPD pedals to go with it....I found after about a year I was getting hot spots on my feet, I assume from the longer distance riding on the road bike. Cue the better pedals being transferred to the mountain bike and SPD-SL for the roadie. And that's been the arrangement ever since. I think a more rigid shoe might have me looking again at an all-SPD set-up but with my current shoe setup the split between SPD-SL and SPD makes sense as I just don't have any MTB shoes that are quite THAT rigid.

[@tirtuli]

Hi and thanks for the great video. A little tip ;-) Check out the pedals from Magped, there are screwed under the shoes metal plates and the pedals have correspondingly strong magnets. From the foot position they are much more flexible and you can go better with the shoes because of the flat metal plates under the shoes, which makes the coffee fetch almost silent ;-P which are also the reasons why I use the system myself. Drive myself the Magped Sport 2 in the 200 variant (strongest magnets) they are allrounders for the Gravel and Road area Greetings from Duisburg - Germany

[@rodisopamsu]

For Look Keo there are rubber cleat pedal plate savers which makes it more easy to walk around and to save the cleats from getting teared from walking on the ground. For the pedals there are also plates which can be clicked in and flatten the pedal so that normal shoes work with the pedals.

[@Kim_Miller]

I'm in my 70s and used the old toe clips with leather straps in my teenage years and beyond. Probably ten years ago I moved to SPD pedals and now have them on my four bikes, road and gravel leg powered and road and mtb e-bikes. I swap between flats and SPD on the e-mtb, depending on the terrain I'll be riding. On the gravel bike I have SPDs but with a larger body that almost mimics flats. I ride a few times a week with a bunch of retired friends and most are on SPDs. Two or three are on the LOOK style road pedals and a few don't use cleats at all.

[@roytelling6540]

I think your channel is great and watch every new video. I ride back and to work all year round and these are not good for me in the winter! as you need big boots and thick socks to keep your feet warm I have thought about getting some for the LATE spring, Summer and early Autumn? then change them when I put my winter tiers on?

[@carlroeger]

I‘m still using SPD-SL for like sporty rides, when commuting I simply put on some pedal adapters and e voila: you can use every sneaker you want.

[@pinjaliina]

For the longest time, I didn't own a road bike and had no experience of any road pedal system. Yet every time I rode on road for any longer period of time, I wondered why there is always so disturbingly much play in the system. I also tried Crankbrothers' pedals, but they weren't any better than SPDs. Then I bought a road bike and decided to also buy road pedals (which happened to be Look Keos), and new shoes as well. What a difference it made! A stiff and stable platform with no unwanted play whatsoever and very efficient power transfer, even though my shoes had nylon soles (not carbon ones)! Nowadays I would never even consider riding a road bike with anything other than road pedals anymore; there has to be a significant risk of having to walk for me to choose the MTB pedals. Still, if you're not on the road, or just touring or commuting. it is like Manon says: the MTB pedals win out.

[@TheBClark88]

I've ridden road for 10+ years and still use SPD pedals - the single sided lightweight ones. The bigger challenge is finding SPD compatible shoes that aren't too overbuilt. Shimano used to make a perfect pair of 'touring' shoes - the RT82s - but these arent around anymore.

[@jamesfarlow352]

Road cleats allow for better adjustment if you have knee or foot issues. For that reason I use them for any type of distance biking. The only time I use spd is for full on trail riding where I need to get the foot off the pedal quickly to avoid a crash or into the pedal easily due to terrain issues.

[@racyagentmac]

I'll go with the mtb type for sure👍 keep doing it thing Manon ❤👌

[@jimmrvos2930]

I use SPDs both on my gravel bike and my road bike. I’ve found that the smaller contact area between an MTB cleat and the pedal creates painful high pressure points on my foot. I’m sure more expensive shoes are would reduce the pressure, but I’m OK with using SPDs on gravel. So I use SPDs for everything.

[@glenirven1785]

I ride SPD's on both Road and Mountain bikes. I use the Shimano Pontoons on my road shoes and also find them easier to walk in. Having one type of pedal and two types of shoes the best solution 👈🏻😎

[@pointbreak2811]

As a roadie, I use MTB SPD with road shoes. I live in the Bay area, CA so we run into stoplights quite often. Being able to clip in/off on both sides really help.

[@Crafftyyy]

I ended up going with a knockoff version of speedplays for this reason right here.

[@Jboasman78]

I always use SPD, saving requiring additional kit between road and gravel bikes.

[@colingregory7464]

Have used some form of spd for many years, mostly because I want to be able to walk in the shoes rather than any particular issue with the pedal (fell over several times on road shoes in my brief time using them), currently using egg beaters

[@macschwarz1380]

Gotta love those blue S-phyre shoes 😍

[@not-fishing4730]

I've learned from my bigger size to go big with the pedals. I started with rattrap / toe clips for over a decade (yes I'm that old). After one broken collarbone I moved up to Looks that are a bear to walk on then speedplays which are great to pedal with for quieting your pedal stroke but not the greatest for us 200 lb+ riders even with Carnacs. From my early Hoo-Koo-E-Koo riding I learned that a bigger pedal platform seemed to help with foot pain. Now I've standardized on DA-SPD's with the surrounding platform. I've learned that even carbon shoes have some flex in the soles so you're better off with a larger pedal platform for all my bikes be they fixed cog, cyclocross, commuter, Xcountry 26, Xcountry 29 and one road. My '84 Fisher still has big flats and my 90 Neenan still runs lollypops.

[@333wheeler]

SPD all the way ! Tried Look black & Red when they 1st came out but never really felt the love. Whereas the lovely float and easy release of the SPD was just great right from the get go.

[@chairthrower]

Cleat covers for SPD-SL/Look pedals work reasonably well to provide some traction on road bike shoes (and keep the cleats from getting dirt in them if you're not just walking on pavement/floors). Probalby not a substitute for gravel/MTB riding but good enough for the cafe run or other brief walks while on a road ride.

[@paulmcc2006]

Just something else to carry around. Pockets already are full.

[@shannontrainer5857]

@@paulmcc2006 Cleat Covers don't take up much space in your pocket.

[@briangermann5567]

I use my clip covers at work when I commute with no problem (and it gives me plenty of opportunities to talk about cycling and my bike!).

[@mickkrol6168]

SPD on Gravel, but will fit SPD to the Road bike when I'm climbing in wet conditions just for safety reasons. Have both Road shoes & Gravel shoes for any given condition.

[@johnti1653]

I’ve used all 3 for years but still find road specific spd’s too hard to quickly clip into when pulling out of junctions / onto roundabouts etc. combined with the walk-ability, it’s a no brainier to use mtb type for me, but I mainly commute. having said that I’ve only ever tried shimano road spd. If I did a load of road racing / club rides I’d probably go back to road specific

[@stevenlevitz8895]

4:40 That was a lovely eye-roll, Manon! 👀

[@BTinKH]

SPDs for recreational cyclists, especially on a budget (or in a coffee shop) are definitely the way to go. The SPD/flat models have great versatility.

[@ayogoweslur]

thanks,. useful and easy to understand ..

[@kirillbogomolov9117]

SPDs on a road bike is a way to go for me too! More convenient, can use the same shoe for road and XC-MTB.

[@allenreeves1562]

I have been using Shimano A600 and E600 pedals on my road bikes for years. They are one sided alloy bodied and use SPD cleats. Comfy, support like a road SPD SL pedal, but absolutely indestructible and can use touring shoes.

[@paulgibbs4936]

I wear mountain shoes and use mountain pedals on all my bikes. It was much easier to find mountain shoes to fit wide feet.

[@dogukantosun5547]

Learning to walk with SPD-SL is like learning to walk in high heels. It takes a long time to get used to :D

[@budbud2509]

I am intrigued to find out how u know that fact ........

[@dogukantosun5547]

@@budbud2509 :D

[@benaan5]

Recently switched from SPD to SPD-SL because I couldn't find any MTB shoes that could comfortable fit my ultra wide feet. Because MTB shoes are reinforced at the toes to protect them from rocks, which caused numbness for me on long rides. My new shoes (Lake CX201) are pretty much a carbon sole wrapped with an elastic mesh. Finally my feet are comfortable when riding. I thought walking in them would suck, but tbh it doesn't feel too different.

[@Seppster58]

We have the Shimano SPD pedals that are flat on one side for the gravel bike. This way, my wife can ride it (flat trainers) and I can use the clip-in MTB shoes. That way I don't have to keep switching pedals. Have the same pedals on our indoor training bike as well. Works great. Thanks for the video. Very informative.

[@gcn]

Thanks Steve!

[@stevewindisch2882]

I like SPD-SL for road racing due to stronger engagement, but for touring, SPD is the way to go. I'm not looking to win any sprints and being able to walk around is a major bonus.

[@performingartist]

Still riding my Onza MTB pedals I bought in 1995. Still riding in the Shimano SPD shoes I bought at the same time. I ride nearly daily. I haven't even had to change the laces in the shoes!

[@peterleffler2062]

I first started clipless with Time Atack in the mid 90s when they were newish as a pedal. Several bikes and sets of pedals later I haven't found a reason to change. There's a good selection of models, they don't break the bank, they dont break (still use my first ever set), lots of float, good retention, easy clip in/out and excellent mud clearance. But apart from that I dont like them ! 😂😂😂

[@jakehoneywill1]

The fist pedal video that I’ve seen that is actually helpful. Been using cheap mtb shoes which are not stiff, looks like it’s a pair of Gravel shoes for me then..

[@jbarner13]

I agree that MTB pedals are the only logical choice for the vast majority of riders and I have ridden many centuries in them, but I do find that my feet are more comfortable on very long rides with road cleats. I don't know if it's the larger platform distributing force or something else, and I would love to learn if there's any basis for this other than my experience. It would seem reasonable that a stiffer sole would help even the score, but then the shoe would be more awkward to walk in, reducing the benefits of the MTB system. You have to hand it to Shimano that they came up with an excellent system in SPD that has continued essentially unchanged for decades. They resisted the engineering foolishness that caused Look to release Keo, which offered no substantial improvement at the cost of compatibility.

[@user-yl4zi3rt8r]

Wahoo speedplays on my road bike , Time Atac pedals on my gravel bike . Really like the float of the Speedplays and the convenience , durability of the Time Atac pedals

[@nprovenzo]

Shimano once produced an SPD-style urban pedal with a unique design - it was one-sided. The primary advantage of this model was its integration of a sleek, road profile pedal with footwear that offered practical walking comfort. This combination made it an ideal choice for extended, week-long cycling events such as RAGBRAI, where riders often disembark to explore towns on foot.

[@dr.navidsoltani4326]

Es600

[@geoffreyhoney122]

I have those very pedals on my touring/go everywhere bike and they are a

[@scottkempinski5655]

I have been using SPD pedals on both my road and off-road bikes for years, and just use the same pair of off-road shoes for both disciplines.

[@olafduking1422]

Single side Road SPD's (ES600) on the roadbike and same shoes for both, I love the little bit play they have and they feel more comfy also with cliping in/out (one sided clipping in needs some practice and the paint is banged of the pedal during clipping in after a while), only negative is that the "white" shoes like a lot of road cyclist prefer (like the pro's) are not easy to get in a SPD version, but fancy colors like green, brown are more available in SPD version shoes.

[@billkallas1762]

Don't forget that 20 some years ago, Shimano came out with a SPD single sided road pedal and shoe that lasted a year or two. It was called SPD Road. Two bolt carbon shoes, with a metal spd type cleat. Campy also came out with a similar pedal/shoe, at the same time, except that it was a tiny three bolt metal cleat.

[@ska042]

Dunno what you mean about it lasted a year or two. There are still one sided SPD pedals for the road to be had today. Google Shimano PD-ES600.

[@Skyum123]

I use road pedals on my roadbike and flat pedals on my trailbike. It just feels the best to me this way 😊

[@Xune2000]

On the subject of slipping in road shoes, definitely don't take the stair in them. Learned that lesson the hard way taking the pedestrian bridge over a railway line.

[@pcdude2394]

I do both sports and I prefer SPD. Also for commuting to work too. One pair of shoes for all three bikes across the board

[@CarnivoreDMD]

I use 4 different types currently. SPD on my rigid Mnt bike & gravel bike, pegged flats on my full susp Mnt bike & FAVARO KEO on my climbing road bike then Speedplays on my TT bike. I use to use Sampson pedals in 1990’s….just look them up and see how it was for the lightest pedal of that time!

[@Tomalahno]

Look En-Rage with Shimano SPD sandals. Shhh…Shimano doesn’t like to talk about those. ❤