How to choose the right cleats for you?

4. How to choose the right cleats for you?
In the last issue, we analyzed the importance of cleats and why the first thing you need to replace on your new bike is the cleats. In this issue, we will introduce how to choose the right cleats for you.
The mainstream road bike cleats brands on the market currently include Shimano, Look, Speedplay, etc. When choosing the right cleats for you, you need to consider the following factors:

(1) Cleat type
Shimano SPD-SL: Suitable for road riding, with a larger cleat area, providing better pedaling stability.
Shimano is not cheap, which is one of the reasons why many people hesitate to buy cleats! Now, we have cleats with the same system on our website, and we provide the corresponding cleats for free. It is much cheaper than Shimano, and you don’t have to worry about the quality. If you are interested, you can click the picture below to buy it! 

Look KEO: Lightweight, with a cleat design similar to Shimano SPD-SL
Speedplay: Double-sided lock-in design, suitable for riders who need more freedom.

(2) Free Angle (Float)
Different cleats provide different free angles (the range of fine-tuning of the cleat in the locked state), usually divided into:
Fixed angle (0°): Suitable for professional riders, does not allow foot movement and improves pedaling efficiency.
Medium free angle (4-6°): Suitable for most riders, providing a certain amount of foot adjustment space. It is also the type of cleat we most recommend.

Large free angle (9° or more): Suitable for riders with knee problems or who need more flexibility to adjust their posture.

(3) Personal riding needs
Competition riding: Recommend one-step high-end models, lightweight and secure locking.

Long-distance riding: It is recommended to choose cleats with a certain free angle, such as Shimano SPD-SL Yellow (6°).
Beginners: It is recommended to try our basic model, which you can get on the website. They are easy to lock and unlock.

5. How do novices adapt to clipless pedals?
For cyclists who are new to clipless pedals, the biggest concern is that they will not be able to unlock the pedals and will fall off the bike. Here are some suggestions for adapting to clipless pedals:

(1) Practice locking and unlocking while stationary
Find a safe place (such as grass or a wall) and practice locking and unlocking repeatedly to get familiar with the action of unlocking by swinging your ankle outward.
(2) Unlock in advance while riding
When you are about to stop or encounter a traffic light, unlock one foot in advance to avoid being flustered when making an emergency stop.
(3) Gradually adapt to the pedaling method of clipless pedals
When you first start riding, pay attention to adjusting your pedaling rhythm and adapting to the 360° pedaling cycle of clipless pedals.

6. Conclusion
The clipless pedal system is an important piece of equipment for road cycling. After getting a new bike, changing the pedals and choosing the clipless pedals that suit you can greatly improve your riding experience. From improving pedaling efficiency, and optimizing riding posture to improving stability, the role of clipless pedals in road cycling is irreplaceable. For beginners, it takes time to adapt to clipless pedals, but once you master them, you will find the huge advantages they bring, making your riding more efficient, stable, and comfortable.

So, when you get a new bike, the first step is to give priority to changing to a pedal that suits you, so that your road riding experience can be taken to the next level!