Originally Posted by
tjspiel
Just curious. Why aren't the adaptors an option? My impression is that there just aren't that many shoes that are compatible with speedplays out of the box. Sidi might be a brand to try.
I've used various SPDs, Crank Bros, old style Time pedals, and yes a set of Ultegra SPD-SLs. To me the one that's easiest to get in and out of is the one you're most used to.
The Times were probably the easiest but they were horrible to walk on. Of the more modern clipless pedals I've tried the differences seemed small as they tend to work the same way. Different tread designs on various shoes made more difference.
SPD-SLs and road pedals in general aren't so great for commuting because they're harder to walk in but I don't find them much (if at all) harder to clip in to.
From what I understand, people who use the adapter plates are the ones who have the most complaints about these pedals. One legitimate complaint about these pedals are they hard to walk in. Not really an issue with me but would keep a set of Kool Kovers with me just in case. These particular pedals(Light Action) are supposedly much easier tp clip in and out of. I want to be able to click out quicker just in case a car cuts me off and I have no alternative except to slam on the brakes and hope I click out before I look like an idiot falling off of my bike at a stop. That's too bad there aren't more shoes directly compatible with speedplay.