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Speedplay: Zero or X/2?

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Speedplay: Zero or X/2?

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Old 01-08-16, 09:50 AM
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Speedplay: Zero or X/2?

X/2 Stainless
  • ~$185
  • Unrestricted float
  • 198 grams

Zero Stainless
  • ~$200
  • Adjustable float up to 15°
  • 206 grams

If I don't need to restrict float then why wouldn't I go with the X/2? The X/2 are lighter and cheaper - seems like a no-brainer. The Zero cleat has more moving parts - the adjustment mechanism seems like another thing to wear or another point of potential failure.

So is there a reason why the Zero would be preferred over the X/2?


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Old 01-08-16, 10:19 AM
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I used the X series for years and finally switched to the Zeros several years ago. I like the Zeros better because they feel more solid (the spring is thicker and has a square/rectangular cross section, compared to a wire spring for the X). The float restriction is something I pretty much ignore, but I can tell by the wear on the cleat how far I rotate, so I generally turn the screws in to just shy of that spot to make it a bit quicker to get out of.

But the X is a fine pedal, so you really can't go wrong with either.
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Old 01-08-16, 10:25 AM
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Originally Posted by cydewaze
I used the X series for years and finally switched to the Zeros several years ago. I like the Zeros better because they feel more solid (the spring is thicker and has a square/rectangular cross section, compared to a wire spring for the X). The float restriction is something I pretty much ignore, but I can tell by the wear on the cleat how far I rotate, so I generally turn the screws in to just shy of that spot to make it a bit quicker to get out of.

But the X is a fine pedal, so you really can't go wrong with either.
What he said.

some people have trouble clipping in with Zeros(usually very lightweight people), but I've never had an issue with them.
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Old 01-08-16, 10:51 AM
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As posted above, I have used both, and continue to use both on occasion. The X2 style represents the original configuration (I have had mine since the early 1990's) and once you get used to the float, are totally fine.

The X1/X2 style take some getting used to, especially when fatigue sets in on a steep hill, if your form goes, it feels real loose until you snap back into reality and keep your legs in position. A few rides in, you will be used to the full float.

The Zero is great, because you can dial in the float, and that tiny bit of resistance at your float limit (on both ends) is nice when your legs get super smoked.

This is only my opinion, and how it feels to me, so take that into consideration.


Between the two, I prefer the Zero.
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Old 01-08-16, 01:05 PM
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I have been using X2 since 1999. Still have my original set, but have two newer ones on both road bikes. I think that the only thing that Zero would have in favor for me might be that the cleats are less prone to filling up with mud. My X2 cleats will if I walk on muddy surfaces. They clean out easily with a small bladed screw driver.
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Old 01-08-16, 01:55 PM
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Started using X/1 a few years ago. Liked them enough that when I saw good deal on a used X/2 on EBAY;
I upgraded. No experience with Zero. Pretty happy with X/2. When I'm off the saddle; I sometimes hit the
chainstay. I guess this can be avoided with a restricted adjustment on a Zero.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-rQ...IoDLA&index=20
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