Bicycle Mechanics - shimono clipless pedals.. how tight?

i have been using these pedals on both my road and mountain bikes (they are mountain bike pedals). I have no problems getting in or out of them. I noticed the adjustment screw... to loosen or tighten the springs. I really don't feel much difference from one extreme to the other. Is there a general number of turns or something from all the way loose, or all the way tight that they should be set? how do you judge when they are set at the right tension or tightness?

Is there a general number of turns or something from all the way loose, or all the way tight that they should be set? how do you judge when they are set at the right tension or tightness?

Which model pedal? I have the Shimano 520's and I can definitely distinguish between the loose and tight cleat release settings.

The right tension is all subjective and a personal choice. I keep mine fairly loose for fast escapes while mountain biking, especially on single track trails. However, it they are too loose, then they can disengage while pedaling (such as during climbs on rocky/bumpy sections.

However, some ride buds love their cleats on the tighter side - it's all personal preference.

i have the 520's on my road bike, and the 540's on my mountain bike. my road bike came with road pedals, but i made them switch them out because i only want to use one pair of shoes (until i have another $100 + to blow!) what is the big difference between road cletes and mountain anyway? i know the cleat and the shoe look completely different, works differently, and of course the pedals are completely different... what is the performance difference? why don't roadies use the mountain set ups?

The bigger pedal platform on road pedals distributes the pedal pressure over a larger area on your foot, reducing "hotspots" (an area of pain/discomfort).

Also, mtn. bike pedals need to be able to clear dirt, mud, rocks, etc. which calls for a smaller contact area.

I do use mountain pedals on my road bike.

My first road bike (before my mountain bike days) I used Look pedals and of course road shoes. Very dangerous to walk in off the bike. They would slip on anything, he!! I bet the would even have slipped on a rubber running track.


Enter my mountain bike, wanted to stay clipless. Shimano 520's Scott shoes. I could actually walk off the bike.

When I bought my new road bike this year I knew I wanted to be able to walk when I was not on the bike so I went with the 520's again. And I need new shoes so I got some Sidi Dominators, great shoes.



Here is a hint too, never try something you think is above your budget (the Sidi's) because once you feel how nice it is, you will justify buying whateverit is. :D

Tight enough not to come out accidentally. Loose enough to get out when you want/need to.

Hey roadbuzz, is that wa-hoo-wah country you live in?

Cheers...Gary