Cyclocross - Shoe/Cleat Question

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BayBruin
03-09-10, 08:39 AM
Years ago I started riding with Speedplay Frogs because I heard they were good pedals and offered a lot of float. My knees aren't great and I liked the extra freedom. A couple years back I upgraded to Speedplay Zeros for basically the same reason plus the Zeros had coffee shop covers which is great because I am a big guy and I can trash cleats pretty quick walking around in them. I realy love how the cleats/pedals work but during my commuting etc. the cleats get worn down and the cheap metal and plastic break. I need a new pair as again they broke once more. Probably my 8th pair over the last 3 years. They retail for $40 a pop so it's not cheap.

Since I am a big guy I am not really overly concerned with the weight of my equipment. When I first started cycling I was wearing mountain bike shoes with clipless pedals and didn't know any different.

So my question is, is there a mountain bike shoe, or a road shoe with a good rubber build up around the cleat base, that will accomodate Zeros...or what other options should I consider? I guess I should go back to mountain bike shoes for my commute then maybe keep my road shoes for weekend rides. I'd rather not have to switch pedals out all the time. I don't know. Just looking for some opinions on the subject.

moralleper
03-09-10, 09:12 AM
I have Specialized MTB Comp shoes and Time ATAC pedals. there is enough sole on the shoe that the cleat does not touch the ground when walking. I have used a lot of different shoes since I started using clipless pedals 15+ years and the Specialized shoes are the most comfortable and the Time pedals offer a good amount of float, up to 17 degrees.
AndrewP
03-10-10, 08:42 PM
Shimano A520 pedals have a platform around the cleat to spread the pressure, with either SIDI mega MTB shoes (light, v stiff soles, recessed cleat) or Cannondale MTB shoes (not quite so stiff, more comfortable walking and heavier).

thebluesky
04-01-10, 03:03 AM
Now it's not an experts comment. Just that I have tested almost everything :)

MB (SPD) shoes with good rubber build up around the cleat base are "SIDI Dragon 2 SRS Carbon" and every part is replaceable in case of wear.
If you still feel comfortable with Sppedplay, it comes in models that can be combined with above SIDI shoes, namely:

Speedplay, Frog ST
Speedplay, Frog Ti

the later one is far more expesive because of the Titan axel while the first one is in stainless steel.

Good Luck and happy biking