SHIMANO SPD-SL Cleat Set

Choosing the Right SPD-SL Clipless Road Cleats  

SPD-SL cleats are the secure, reliable interface between Shimano road pedals and shoes, connecting rider and bike. They offer a wide, stable pedaling platform, easy operation, and long-lasting performance. And they also feature an inherently walkable design that allows for those quick pit stops or coffee breaks without the need for cumbersome covers. 

Shimano SPD-SLpedals have an adjustment screw that dials in the release tension depending on rider confidence and preference. Riders who are new to clipping in, or those who may not have as much rotational mobility through the hip, knee, or ankle, can opt for a low-tension setting for easy disengagement when needed. Other riders, like hardcore racers who are on and off the power in critical race scenarios, will crank down the tension to ensure maximum engagement. Most will find a happy medium somewhere in between, and it's easy to find that balance with some turns of an Allen key or the help of a local shop. 

Fine Tune with Float

Float refers to a certain amount of angular rotation that a cleat, and thus the rest of a shoe, can freely move before it meets the resistance of the release mechanism on a pedal. In other words, it’s how far your toes point toward or away from the bike before meeting resistance.

SM-SH11 Yellow SPD-SL Cleats – 6 Degrees of Float

SM-SH11 Yellow SPD-SL cleats are the most popular option among casual fitness cyclists and a solid choice among many athletes. They have a six-degree float range (three degrees in each direction), allowing free foot movement and low joint stress.

The float's pivot point is in the center of the cleat, allowing the toes to point in a wide range of angles. This broad range also provides more room for error when setting up cleats. Those new to cycling, experiencing knee pain, lack flexibility, or don't know where to start should consider Shimano's SM-SH11 Yellow SPD-SL cleats as a solid option..

SM-SH12 Blue SPD-SL Cleats – 2 Degrees of Float

SM-SH12 Blue SPD-SL cleats are Shimano's newest cleat option, and they are a middle ground between yellow and red. SM-SH11 Blue cleats have two degrees of float (one degree in each direction), allowing for a small range of movement while still delivering a high amount of pedaling efficiency. The pivot point sits at the front of the cleat, which eliminates most lateral movement while allowing a small amount of rotation from the pivot back toward the heel.

SM-SH10 Red SPD-SL Cleats – 0 Degrees of Float  

SM-SH10 Red SPD-SL cleats have no float and are 100% fixed in position. This makes them optimal for sprinters, professional athletes, or those who want the most efficient power transfer possible and are not prone to knee pain. Note that SM-SH10 Red SPD-SL cleats require precise cleat positioning, so they are best installed by seasoned riders or with the help of a bike fitting professional at your local shop.