DOOM_NX

Hello guys. I'm sorry for reopening the subject, but I've read too many threads already and I'm still confused.

I need pedals for my first road bike. Never had clipless before. I'm aware that there exist basically 2 subcategories of pedals: simple SPD with 2 bolt pattern and SPD-SL/Look type with 3 bolt triangle pattern.

Now, I know that if I need to move a lot in city center traffic I should opt for simple SPD with an SPD-platform combination padal such as Shimano A530. But I don't plan on doing any errands with the bicycle and I don't plan on walking in my cycling shoes. I just need the most efficient type for cycling cause that's what I'll be using them for.

So, in my price range I can buy Shimano 105 5700 pedals, Look Keo Classics, Time RXS First Pedal and Mavic Sprint pedal. All four cost around 50 euros.

I don't know what to choose from the above. I don't know if there's a difference. Keo classics and RXS seem plastic and less sturdy than 105 pedals. 105 pedals seem more popular on bike24.com too.

Can anybody give me some guidance? I don't care that much for pedal weight. I need it to be sturdy cause I'm heavy. Also if there's a system easier to clip in/out I'd prefer that one.

Thank you very much in advance.

Soloist Assassin

Speedplays Zero. Two sided entry, adjustable float. No reason to buy anything else.

DOOM_NX

You mean the ones that cost 130% more? Kinda like off budget lol. I'd rather invest these money on good shoes.

Why is two sided entry a benefit? I don't plan on reentering often and I don't plan on commuting. Could you give an example where two sided entry will be of benefit?

Thanks a lot.

Soloist Assassin

I got the Chromoly versions for just over $100 from my LBS. Two sided entry is easy, because you never have to flip the pedal over as you clip in. Just line it up, and stomp it in. The only thing I don't like about them is they clog up easily in mud, and snow. In those conditions however I use MTB shoes, with discontinued Look Eggbeaters.

DOOM_NX

I see. Well thanks for the input. But they really do cost more than double the price of the other pedals in Europe. Is Speedplay an american brand?

Soloist Assassin

They just might be an American brand. I honestly have no idea. I do like them a lot better, than the Ultegra road pedals I had before. The adjustable float is great for the knees.

DOOM_NX

I like the idea of adjustable float, too. Thanks again.

kh6idf

I can recommend the Shimano 105. I am using them and they work very well.

guadzilla

Speedplay Zero.

/thread

DOOM_NX

Thanks kh6idf. I'd like to hear more opinions for 105's and models around that price range. Thanks again.

NRZ

I love my Look Keo's. Many riders I ride with have them and none complain.

ILUVUK

another 105 fan here

kstephens

I like the 105's as well. I have never had a problem clipping in or out. They have enough float to keep you comfortable.

tagaproject6

If you are on a budget, the Shimano 105s will serve you well.

markrj

I also have 105s.

No problems.

Baftap

I'm another happy Keo user, but I think its all what you get used to so the Speedplays are probably fine too. I just wouldn't break the budget for them.

You'll be happy with either the 105's or the Keo's after a couple of rides.

DOOM_NX

So nobody seems to like Mavic or Time pedals. The thing is Look and 105 look soooo similar. I don't even know if there's a disadvantage with going with the one or the other...

echappist

as it was once by someone else, shimano pedals are the AK-47 of pedals. They'll last a very long time, and the cleats also will last a long time. I place a big emphasis on durability and will be getting a pair of used ultegra 6700 pedals.

tagaproject6

Each product can claim an advantage over the other. It is up to the end user which of those claims are important to them. In the end all the products do well in connecting the rider to the pedals.

Get the pedals you can afford, HTFU and ride!

RT

I absolutely love Time shoes, and use Crank Bros pedals. Purists scoff while I ride comfortably.

DOOM_NX

Yes smarty, that's why I'm asking you whether you have found their claims correct.

I would ride even with platforms but my bike isn't here yet

Carbon Unit

I have used three pedal systems, Shimano SPD-SL, Look and Speedplay. I like Speedplay far more than the others. They are much easier to clip in and out. I went down a few times with the Shimanos because I couldn't clip out fast enough. I have never gone down with the Speedplays. The problem I had with the Shimano being single sided is that on hills, they would hang upside down and I had to kick them with the toe of my shoe to flip them back over so I could clip in.

Speedplay is an American brand produced in San Diego, California. However, they are sold world wide.

tagaproject6

Oh

I found the 105 pedals work really well. Easy to clip in and out and have had no issues with knees nor feet. However, I switched to SPDs(2-hole system) as I wanted the advantage of being able to walk with cycling shoes.

abstractform20

the great things about 105 is that for 25 more zeros can be had.(speedplay)

DropDeadFred

Keo?