Should I adjust my SPD cleats to match how my foot normally looks when walking, i.e. my foot normally points out, should my cleats be set so that the toe points out slightly when riding? I'm getting back into riding and am overweight and right now I can ride 10-15 minutes before I get a pain in both legs right above the knee. If I stop for a few minutes the pain goes away and I can go again. I think the seat height is right along with the fore-and-after position.

Thanks,

Bruce

Pain on the top of the knee typically indicates that your seat is to low. Maybe visit your LBS for a quick fitting. Having a good fit will make biking that much more enjoyable.

As far a cleat position, whatever is comfortable without contortioning your foot or causing leg/knee pain. The cleats should have just enough play in them so you can slightly rotate your foot.

Keep riding!

Actually, the location of the pain you're experiencing suggests that your saddle is too low. Try raising it 2 or 3 mm. Also, what are your typical gearing and pedal speed? Many people could benefit from gearing down and pealing faster. It really is easier on the joints.

As far as cleat alignment, a good starting point is to have your feet at a normal "walking" angle. If your toes point out when walking, they should when pedaling too.

Scott P
Bend, OR

One warning with putting your cleats similar to your normal walking angle. My feet also turn out and putting my cleats at a similar anle to my natrual foot angle actually caused me pain in my knees because my knees were not tracking straight when when i peddled

Try this link about 3/4 of the way down the page. https://www.caree.org/bike101cliplesspedals.htm

I have been looking for cleat covers for my Shimano cleats for years. Thanks for including this link.

Really Great Article - I am going to put the link into the Beginner's Sticky!

Thanks for link. Most informative. I think my plan is to make sure the seat height is right, and I might just put the stock platform pedals back on and see what different foot positions feel like.

Bruce