General Cycling Discussion - How do I know when my cleats are worn out?

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staple
04-13-06, 03:31 PM
I've been using clipless for less than a year and have not yet replaced my cleats. They are starting to look a little worn, but they still work fine, as far as I can tell. How do you know when they need to be replaced? (They are SPD's, if it matters).

webist
04-13-06, 03:36 PM
They should begin to unclip too easily or come out too easily when you pull up on them. Maybe you should have your LBS show you a worn out set and let you compare them to yours. You certainly don't want surprising you with a sudden failure.
DieselDan
04-13-06, 08:56 PM
With SPDs, you will start having problems unclipping. All others, the cleats won't stay engaged.

UmneyDurak
04-14-06, 12:08 AM
With Shimano cleats the "float" wil increase so the foot is moving from side to side too much (more or less personal preference). Also the tabs on the sides of the cleat wore out.
catatonic
04-14-06, 07:59 AM
With eggbeaters, it will become harder to engage. At least that was how it was with my old commuting shoes, which wore out the front of the cleats really fast.