Just switched from SPD to SPD-SL Pedals
03-14-21, 04:55 AM
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Just switched from SPD to SPD-SL Pedals
I just switched to my pedals and feel like it made a huge difference. I feel so much more connected to the bike. My only issue is that I now struggle to clip in given these new ones clearly aren't dual sided and always seem to settle upside down. Is this just something to get used to or is there a "trick"?
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03-14-21, 05:29 AM
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I made the same switch last year. When unclipped the SPD-SL pedal should position itself with the front pointing up. They are a little more difficult to clip into compared to the double sided SPD, just takes time to get used to them. I put them on my bike on the trainer to practice clipping in and out.
03-14-21, 09:08 AM
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I've also noticed that a new set of SPD-SL pedals might take a few rides to break-in so that it spins freely and orients itself properly after unclipping. There's also a bit of a learning curve when clipping in, going toe first to catch the pedal, instead of just stomping down like SPDs. I use both, SPD on the gravel and SL on the road.
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03-14-21, 09:15 AM
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I just googled it and got 1.1million results in just over half a second. Many are videos on YT. Short story: The pedals hangs front up. You catch the front of the pedal w/ your shoe, ahead of the cleat. The flips up, you step down after hooking the front 'loop' w/ the front tip of the cleat. Step down, ride. Best done at the bottom of the pedal stroke, not the top. Same w/ clipping out.
03-14-21, 10:01 AM
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It might be your pedals are too new and the excess lube hasn't pushed itself out of the way of the bearings yet. Once it does, your pedals might hang in the proper position for clipping in without you having to futz around.
03-14-21, 11:34 AM
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Are you sure it's the pedals and not the shoes that makes such a noticeable difference? I use both, and with similar quality shoes I honestly can't tell any difference which pedals I'm using when I'm on the bike.
03-14-21, 01:16 PM
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I had the same problem with my Look pedals... they need time to loosen up. Once they do they back is heavier so they'll be pointing up when unclipped.
