Metatarsophalangeal joints
The starting position for correct cleat fitting is between the first and fifth metatarsophalangeal joints. As a rule, the cleat should be positioned within the two imaginary lines.
Longitudinal position
Depending on your personal comfort, the cleat can also move a little further forwards towards the ball of the foot or backwards towards the heel. The individually suitable position often only crystallises after an extensive test round.
The cleats
Shimano cleats are symmetrical, so it doesn't matter whether they are mounted on the left or right shoe. The direction, on the other hand, is decisive. A small arrow indicates where the front of the cleat is located. This side must point in the direction of travel.
Lateral play
Shimano cleats allow about four degrees of lateral play before the pedal's click mechanism triggers. This gives the foot some room to manoeuvre off-road. Nevertheless, it is important to adjust the cleats as precisely as possible to the anatomical position of the foot.
Fitting SPD cleats: This is how it's done:
USEFUL ACCESSORIES
Ergonomically correctly positioned cleats not only allow power to be transferred better to the pedals. The anatomically correct alignment also prevents pain in the joints or other complaints such as burning soles of the feet. Here are some practical tools for mounting cleats.
Ergon Fitting Box Mtb Exp.
More comfort on the bike in just a few steps. The fitting box from ergonomics expert Dr Kim Tofaute uses various templates to explain how to optimally adjust the contact points on the bike to your anatomy.
Bikefit Foot Fit Calculator
The Bike Fitter app can be used to determine the inclination of the feet. The foot can then be brought into a horizontal position using suitable cleat washers. This is intended to prevent burning on the soles of the feet.
Ergon TP1
With the TP1 template, the three elementary cleat settings (longitudinal orientation, Q-factor and foot angle) can be adjusted precisely and in no time at all. The instructions supplied illustrate the individual steps.
Shimano SH-SM51
New Shimano cleats cost around 10 euros. Bikers normally use the SH-SM51 version, which releases when you turn your heel to the side. Alternatively, the silver SH-SM56 cleats also release diagonally and upwards.
WORKSHOP TIPS
Screw adhesive
It is quite possible for a screw to come loose from the thread. This can quickly become dangerous because you can no longer reliably click out of the pedal with loose cleats. A drop of blue Loctite can help here during assembly.
Setting the trigger hardness
With Shimano pedals, the release tension of the click mechanism can be adjusted. Beginners should reduce the spring tension for easier entry and exit. To do this, turn the 3-millimetre Allen screw anti-clockwise. Professionals choose a harder setting.
Wear and tear
Does the shoe rattle in the pedal or do you slip out of the pedal easily when pedalling or on technical terrain, even though the release hardness is already at the limit? Then the cleats are probably worn out. We recommend replacing them as soon as possible so that the cleats always function safely and reliably.
You can read this article or the entire issue of BIKE 9/2017 in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
Stefan Frey
Editor
