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Until now, Shimano's trail version of the XTR pedals offered few advantages - apart from some protection for the binding mechanism. The 9100 XTR pedals had neither pins nor a real platform. This is now changing with the PD-M9220.
The update to the XTR trail pedals is a whole different ball game: the cage measures 91 x 72 millimetres and is significantly larger, with four height-adjustable pins on each side.
The contact surface between the shoe and pedal has also been enlarged and should therefore ensure a more stable stance even when clipped in. This means that Shimano now finally has a real alternative for trail and enduro bikers in its range, who previously had to resort to heavy Saint pedals.
Unfortunately, this also comes at the expense of weight. Best values are no longer to be expected in this version: without cleats, the XTR pedal weighs 467 grams per pair.
The binding mechanism remains Shimano standard and still does without a scale that would help with adjustment. In addition, you still need a 2.5 mm Allen key instead of a 3 mm one. On the other hand, the adjustment screw is rasterised with clear clicks - so if you can count, you should have few problems with the setup.
Ride test of the Shimano XTR PD-M9220
Considering that the XTR logo is emblazoned on the pedal axle, the PD-M9220 is a real hunk. No wonder, as the Shimano Saint pedal was the inspiration for the design. However, apart from real gram-pushers, the slightly higher weight is unlikely to bother anyone, as the new XTR trail pedal delivers everything you would expect in this category.
Entry and exit are clearly defined and absolutely reliable at all times. Even when things get hectic on the trail, the shoes find their way into the pedals almost automatically - the release firmness can be adjusted over a wide range.
Thanks to the enlarged contact surface on the side of the binding, you stand very compactly and firmly on the pedals without restricting your freedom of movement. That's what you want from a clipless pedal.
And finally, the XTR trail pedals also have a cage that offers real added value. Even if the pins could be a little longer, you are sufficiently secure on the pedal to cover a few metres with them unclipped. A better pedal for trail and enduro use? We couldn't think of one!
Shimano XTR PD-M9220 - Info & Price
- Price244,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight pedals / cleats: 467 / 49 gram
- Footprint / stand height / axle length91 x 72 mm / 9.1 mm/ 55 mm
- Release hardness / angle / freedom of movement7.3 - 15.6 Nm / not specified / 3 degrees
- Special featuresFour height-adjustable pins per side; adjustable bearings; increased contact surface; raised platform
Evaluation & conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry / exit (30%) | 1,5 |
| Driving feel / stability (30%) | 1,3 |
| Cage function (10%) | 1,5 |
| Setup (10%) | 2,0 |
| Weight (20%) | 3,0 |
| BIKE NOTE | 1,8 |
Conclusion: Shimano XTR PD-M9220
Finally a real trail pedal at XTR level: The binding mechanism is clearly defined and absolutely reliable - typical Shimano. You stand firmly, compactly and comfortably directly on the pedal, yet with good freedom of movement. The cage also offers good grip when unclicked, even if the pins could be a little longer. If weight is not an issue, the new XTR PD-M9220 is the ultimate pedal for trail and enduro.
You can find out more about pedals here
Stefan Frey
Editor
