It means very little coming from me with so little experience, but I think you made a good pedal choice. Those M520 pedals are what I have on my Coda and they work just fine and are easy to get in and out of. Plus Stapfam says SPD is the best. I've got a comfortable pair of Nike MTB shoes and I am happy. I notice now there are two kinds of cleats. I think mine are standard rather than multi release. They have given me no problems. Do let us know as soon as you join Club Tombay ok?