How to fit clipless pedals correctly

Stefan Frey

· 17.04.2016

Photo: Georg Grieshaber

How to fit clipless pedals correctly

In six steps, we explain how to mount clipless pedals correctly so that you have a firm connection to your bike while riding.

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Correctly aligned cleats not only increase pedalling efficiency. You can also prevent joint pain while riding. Take enough time to align the cleats accurately.

Longitudinal orientation

The pedal axis should be under the ball of the foot. To do this, locate the metatarsophalangeal joints at the widest point of the foot. The cleat should lie on the imaginary line in between.

Marking Feel the metatarsophalangeal joints on both sides of the tightened cycling shoe and mark the points with a pen or a small dot of adhesive for better orientation.

Alignment Using a triangle, the cleats can now be moved in the slotted holes of the shoe soles so that they lie exactly in the previously marked position under the ball of the foot.

Lateral alignment The closer the feet are to the bottom bracket, the better the power transmission. You can adjust the Q-factor via the lateral offset. Make sure there is enough space between the shoe and the crank.

Foot angle The basic position of the feet should be as parallel as possible. If the pedalling feels unbalanced, adjust the position to your own foot position when standing and walking by turning the cleats.

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Photo: Georg Grieshaber

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Stefan Frey

Editor

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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How to fit clipless pedals correctly

Stefan Frey

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