Should I change to Speedplays?
#1
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Should I change to Speedplays?
I have been on LOOK Keos since I started riding. Speedplays continue to intrigue me, and now that they are "rereleased" and available again though Wahoo, it's got me thinking about them again. Is it worth the switch? Any drawbacks?
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#2
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If it's going to be a persistent itch, why not scratch it?
I really like them. Delta-type cleats are fine, and if there were no other choice, I wouldn't grumble too much, but given the choice, Speedplay all the way. They're easier to get in to, the cleats are more walkable, and the float is nice (though weird at first).
The main downside is that cleats can get fouled in wet, soft earth or in snow and then you've gotta get something pointy to clear them out before you get back on your way. For the vast majority of road cycling, this is a non-issue. The other minor issue is installation - the first time people install them, they usually overtighten the screws, making the retention clips bind, which makes it really hard to get in/out. Pay attention to the install instructions, there's a reason that there's Loctite on the screw threads, and make sure that the clip can move when prodded by hand.
I really like them. Delta-type cleats are fine, and if there were no other choice, I wouldn't grumble too much, but given the choice, Speedplay all the way. They're easier to get in to, the cleats are more walkable, and the float is nice (though weird at first).
The main downside is that cleats can get fouled in wet, soft earth or in snow and then you've gotta get something pointy to clear them out before you get back on your way. For the vast majority of road cycling, this is a non-issue. The other minor issue is installation - the first time people install them, they usually overtighten the screws, making the retention clips bind, which makes it really hard to get in/out. Pay attention to the install instructions, there's a reason that there's Loctite on the screw threads, and make sure that the clip can move when prodded by hand.
#4
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Thread Starter
If it's going to be a persistent itch, why not scratch it?
I really like them. Delta-type cleats are fine, and if there were no other choice, I wouldn't grumble too much, but given the choice, Speedplay all the way. They're easier to get in to, the cleats are more walkable, and the float is nice (though weird at first).
The main downside is that cleats can get fouled in wet, soft earth or in snow and then you've gotta get something pointy to clear them out before you get back on your way. For the vast majority of road cycling, this is a non-issue. The other minor issue is installation - the first time people install them, they usually overtighten the screws, making the retention clips bind, which makes it really hard to get in/out. Pay attention to the install instructions, there's a reason that there's Loctite on the screw threads, and make sure that the clip can move when prodded by hand.
I really like them. Delta-type cleats are fine, and if there were no other choice, I wouldn't grumble too much, but given the choice, Speedplay all the way. They're easier to get in to, the cleats are more walkable, and the float is nice (though weird at first).
The main downside is that cleats can get fouled in wet, soft earth or in snow and then you've gotta get something pointy to clear them out before you get back on your way. For the vast majority of road cycling, this is a non-issue. The other minor issue is installation - the first time people install them, they usually overtighten the screws, making the retention clips bind, which makes it really hard to get in/out. Pay attention to the install instructions, there's a reason that there's Loctite on the screw threads, and make sure that the clip can move when prodded by hand.
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If it ain't broke... don't fix it.
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* = pre-Wahoo, there was a one-sided Aero version, the bottom of which formed a more aero shape with the cleat cover when locked in, but I assume that Wahoo axed them and that you'd have to really look to find some in stock.
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#7
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25 years or so on speedplay X type. I'm sad to see them go, but I have enough cleats to get by for another 2-3 years. I tried zeroes in 2018, but never could get clipped in, even with screws very loose. I'll try them again when I have to. I wouldn't use any pedal without the dual sided entry.
#8
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I always start with my left foot at 10 o'clock and brush my right toe against the pedal as I pull my foot up off the ground and slide my foot over the top before I snap in for the downstroke on the right side. Perfecting that skill would be cheaper than new shoes and pedals if your only objective is to be able to clip in without looking down.
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Wahoo will still have the Aero version. It's just not out yet but "coming soon" on their main webpage.
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speedplays crazy lightweight.
both work well....but expensive.
sbgo look cheaper unless u have knee issues
#12
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I use Speedplays, but only because they have custom spindles. The finicky cleats and crappy bearing life make me wish I could run SPD-SLs or Looks, though maybe the Wahoo revision has fixed the issues. I do like that they put a ring around the circumference of the pedal body, I tend to wear the edges of mine.
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I prefer delta style cleats so I ride spd sl anymore but to answer your "ease of getting into" question I always like to show this pic from 2008. Start of a race. I am in the front with the blue and white helmet (celeste kit *shiver*). That was right at the start. I am cvlipped in and looking down the road. Everyone else (mostly) is looking down to clip in. I was running speedplay at the time. Easiest to clip into at the start of a race IMHO
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Sounds like a case of the pedals being greener on the other side of the fence.
#16
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As a former track rider I got used to starting in a fairly high gear as training which gives me plenty of time to clip in. Without looking down I can find the pedal while it is still on the way up and put pressure on the down stroke to clip. I almost always win the first away from the light award. I love SP's but if you are always in mud they might not be for you.
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If you have problems clipping in... get SPD.
I never have to look down with Look Keo.
I never have to look down with Look Keo.
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If you don't mind being meticulous in your maintenance of things, give them a try. If you prefer trouble free designs, stick with Shimano or Look. I really liked the feel of the Speedplay Zeros I had for a while, but it seemed like the slightest dirt from walking on grass or a rainy ride would cause problems. Look or Shimano, however, seem to work great for years without needing anything done to them.
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Who says they are better?
Unless you have proof, it's just a matter of personal opinion.
I understand wanting to try something just for the sake of it. Years ago I replaced the dual muffler setup on my VW with a single "turbo" style muffler. Took it for a drive and after a few miles I turned back and headed home. When it cooled off, I remove the "turbo" muffler and reinstall the dual setup. I sprayed the inlet and outlet with some carb cleaner and sold it for a 25% loss.
It was a $75 lesson.
If it ain't broke... don't fix it.
Unless you have proof, it's just a matter of personal opinion.
I understand wanting to try something just for the sake of it. Years ago I replaced the dual muffler setup on my VW with a single "turbo" style muffler. Took it for a drive and after a few miles I turned back and headed home. When it cooled off, I remove the "turbo" muffler and reinstall the dual setup. I sprayed the inlet and outlet with some carb cleaner and sold it for a 25% loss.
It was a $75 lesson.
If it ain't broke... don't fix it.
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LOOK compatible Deltas here. I have to run no-float (knees). The Wellgo made Fortes work well and don't break the bank.
My biggest challenge clipping in is that I run three different systems and my reflexes start rides locked into the last ride's pedals. I will only run toeclip on my fix gears simply because quality straps pulled tight and slotted aluminum cleats is the most secure road worthy system going and I want to die of other causes before I EVER pull a foot out at 40 MPH. My city/gravel bike is SPD.
My biggest challenge clipping in is that I run three different systems and my reflexes start rides locked into the last ride's pedals. I will only run toeclip on my fix gears simply because quality straps pulled tight and slotted aluminum cleats is the most secure road worthy system going and I want to die of other causes before I EVER pull a foot out at 40 MPH. My city/gravel bike is SPD.
Last edited by 79pmooney; 03-24-21 at 09:31 PM. Reason: spelling
#25
Blast from the Past
Switched to Zero's 10 years ago & have been really happy with them. As others have noted easy to clip in/out. The biggest change in feel that I noted was the float. I have the adjustment fairly tight, less than a Shimano yellow cleat. The quality of the float feels different, a little looser and feels more like I'm rotating on the ball of my foot than Shimano. A lot of adjustability if you like to tinker with fit, I found that very helpful.