with the SPD type pedals are there any others beside original crank bros for around $40? also whats the best way to search for shoes online? just google SPD type shoes or how did u hear of DZR shoes? since there is no way for me to try on some dzr shoes how do i tell the sizing?

DZR has a print-out thing somewhere on their site that you can use to get your size. If its not on their site, it's definitely on the mission workshop site.

For those with limited local options for shoes, zappos has a growing selection of shoes with free shipping both ways.

shimano m520 SPDs can be had for 35 shipped.

google or search qbike/your favorite online dealers for shoes. try some shoes on at your LBS. if the LBS prices are really inflated you could just look online for the model you like.

ive liked 105 spdsl and atacs.

ok well since pricing is similar between the SPDs and the SPD-SLs is there a quality difference or is it just a personal preference difference? will i get better performance out of lets say the r540s then i would the m520s or are they pretty similar in that sense also?

Go with Shimano SPD. I broke a pedal spindle on Crank Bros. Candy pedals. I did some Googling and found others whose broke a spindle AND many more people who broke the the "eggbeater" mechanism. It made me wonder how these pedals got so popular.

SPD=MTB 2-bolt style cleat. SPD-SL=Road. You said that carrying an extra pair of shoes wasn't a problem so maybe try out a road setup

thanks guys for the helpful feedback. i think ill be going with the r540s because i can carry extra shoes and i plan on going on longer rides where it seems the SLs shine. i haven't decided on shoes yet though.

consider spdsl 105s also.

+1

They have much better entry/exit action compared to R540s

currently on the (relatively) cheap
https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/209...700-Pedals.htm

go with the 105s.

i have a set of ancient ultegras that have the same narrow-body/plastic scuff plate design, and the plates wear out, especially in inclement weather. the result is first squeaky, then sloppy, then unrideable. the r540s appear to still use this design. perhaps materials have improved?

in any case, i also have a couple sets of the newer wide-body/metal scuff design (one ultegra and one DA) and they are far superior. well into five figure mileage on at least one set, zero issues.

i think you should hold your horses, and make sure you understand the differences before dropping coin!

to the OP,

I was on the same boat a few weeks ago: https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...ss-Newbie-Post

As recommended by most people, I went with the SPD-SL road pedals (Shimano 105). Needless to say, I'm really happy with it. Like Carleton said, try on shoes before you buy them. I made the mistake of buying shoes online and returning them eventually (quite a hassle).

Goodluck with your puchase!

don't worry i haven't jumped the gun. basically the 105s are the r540s with some metal for easier clip in/out and for durability right? the cheapest ive seen is $57 on nashbar but they are sold out


edit: i saw this https://www.ebay.com/itm/2011-SHIMANO...item336be6731f

well i still haven't had time to hit the lbs to try some shoes =/

I literally can't think of anyone who has ever bought a style of pedals for this reason

i swear you deleted a post where you werent sure of the difference between spd and spdsl. thats a key differentiation to make.

The 105s are Ultegras but like 10 grams heavier and at 1/2 the price

went to the bike shop and tried on some shoes, seems size 10 US so around 44 EU. i was checking out some shoes.

i was thinking https://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product...7#ReviewHeader
or https://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product...7#ReviewHeader
or https://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product...2_10000_202527
ill be getting the 105 pedals as well.