When to add a spacer to pedals
06-15-20, 08:39 AM
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When to add a spacer to pedals
I am using Garmin Vector 3 pedals and have noticed that on average, I have a 3 to 5 mm offset to the outside on a regular basis. Is this a lot? (like, I mean, should I consider adding a spacer?). I already installed the 2mm spacer that came with the pedals.
I only ask because I'm experiencing some right knee pain. Along with the new pedals, I had to get new shoes and cleats. I got fitted at the LBS, but after a few rides, I notice that my right foot is just a bit farther back on the pedal than I'd like. I can't adjust the cleat anymore to fix this because I'm at the limit. The shoes are the correct size (same as my old ones that worked fine... except that the old ones were MTBs).
I'm wondering if it just takes some time to break in the new shoes.
Last week, my knee hurt so bad after a hard ride, I limped around for a few days.
06-15-20, 08:53 AM
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Sounds like you either need a re-fitting, different float cleats or just go back to SPD
Make your rides after changing things short so you don't jack yourself up if the changes are bad
Make your rides after changing things short so you don't jack yourself up if the changes are bad
06-15-20, 08:53 AM
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If your knee hurts you need to get that sorted quickly. Is it just one knee and the other one is fine?
What "spacer", like a washer between the pedal and the crank? I use Kneesavers, it's a 25mm spacer, because I toe-out. Fitters don't always have the answer and sometimes it takes experimentation.
What "spacer", like a washer between the pedal and the crank? I use Kneesavers, it's a 25mm spacer, because I toe-out. Fitters don't always have the answer and sometimes it takes experimentation.
06-15-20, 08:56 AM
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Yeah... new pedals, cleats, and shoes are a lot to change at once, but I didn't have a choice. The plan is to go back to the SPDs and see if it all goes away. Then probably new shoes (which sucks because I have wide feet and the choices are limited/expensive).
06-15-20, 08:58 AM
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If your knee hurts you need to get that sorted quickly. Is it just one knee and the other one is fine?
What "spacer", like a washer between the pedal and the crank? I use Kneesavers, it's a 25mm spacer, because I toe-out. Fitters don't always have the answer and sometimes it takes experimentation.
What "spacer", like a washer between the pedal and the crank? I use Kneesavers, it's a 25mm spacer, because I toe-out. Fitters don't always have the answer and sometimes it takes experimentation.
06-16-20, 01:47 PM
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Install an SPD pedal, attach a shoe, and measure the position of the center of the shoe, right between the cleat holes. Install a Vector 3 pedal (on the other side), attach a shoe, measure, and compare. Measure from the outside surface of the crank arms. If there's a difference this will tell you what it is, and how much spacers to add. A 5mm difference should be obvious.
Phase differences and imbalances in cycling dynamics can also be due to leg length differences.
Phase differences and imbalances in cycling dynamics can also be due to leg length differences.
