Road Cycling - SPD-R problem

Has anyone had any difficulties with SPD-R pedals locking up?

Even with the spring settings set loose sometimes they lock up so hard I can't get my shoe out of the pedal.

Am I setting them up wrong? (I'm using SPD-R shoes)

Have you tried turning the allen screws all the way counter-clockwise? This is the loosest adjustment. (I hope I'm remembering the correct direction 'cause I'm at work now.) Then work your way clockwise until you get the tension you want.

Are these new pedals? Any rust or dirt? Try some pedal lubricant.

They are set very loose and they are new - they're often fine at the start of a ride then I'll be rolling up to a stop - try to release and they jam and I'm forced to release my other foot to avoid falling over.

Hi stuartd,
Ck your cleats or better yet take the bike and shoes to your LBS and let them have a look.

Ride Safe....Dudley

I've had trouble at times, too. I found a couple of things that improved the situation...

When you attempt to click out, be sure you're rotating your heel straight out (i.e. perpendicular to the frame). If you let your foot roll over as you try to unclip, it makes it harder to get out.

I had my cleats pushed way out on the shoes, so my feet would be closer to the cranks. Moving the cleats back toward the center of the shoes a little made clipping out much easier. Still can't explain that one.

Are you sure you are using the correct cleat for the pedal. Depending on the manufacturer they recommend different cleats for different pedals. It makes a big difference.

Mike