Dumpsterlife

Ok, this is hard to put in to words so try to stick with me.

I have a pair of older style SPD MTB pedals. Just going clipless so I'm new to this part of the cycling world.

So I set up my cleats in the shoes, with the arrow pointing forward (towards the toe) making the smaller part of the cleat up front. So I go to put the pedals on accordingly - to my surprise...the way the pedal is has the bigger end facing forward. This being the end that does not go in unless the other end is already in...so if you're still with me it means I have to clip in from rear to forward.

Am I missing something simple? I tried switching it around, but it's not possible to get the bigger side in going forward. Any help along with making fun of me appreciated.

Retro Grouch 

You wouldn't happen to have your bike upside down while you're eyeballing the cleats?

If not, did you have a lot of trouble getting your pedals installed? If so you just cross threaded them on the wrong sides and probably ruined your cranks.

Dumpsterlife

No the bike was not upside down...and no I wouldnt force the pedals on.

operator

Picture please.

rm -rf

This is the right side pedal with the tension adjustment at the back of the pedal. I wonder if it's possible to disassemble the pedals and then mistakenly reassemble them with the wrong axle?

This picture of the spd cleat shows the front (toe) end at the top.

Is that how you are doing it?

Are you wearing the shoes when you try to clip in? It's difficult to do when just testing with an empty shoe. Yes, you do have to engage the front of the clip first.