How to optimise the power to the pedals

Do you want to feel your mountain bike in a completely different way, from its sporty side? Then I recommend switching from a touring shoe to a proper racing shoe. You can also try out a road racing shoe if you have a racing bike parked in the garage. The difference is striking. You will notice that it is only partly the tyres that slow you down. Rubber shoes also absorb power - and plenty of it. At least that's what your legs feel. It feels fantastic when your legs act directly on the chain via hard soles. Shoes and pedals can significantly change the character of the bike. The direct pedalling feel finds fans where you wouldn't expect it: in the course of our research, we even came across a BMX rider who wore Shimano SPD-SL pedals and matching road shoes in a race. In terms of riding feel, it's quite clear: Harder is better. Lighter too.

DRIVE

Not an ounce of power should be wasted in the shoe when the clock is running. That's why racing cyclists wear light and hard racing shoes with carbon soles. These generate maximum propulsion - at the expense of long-distance and walking comfort. On rough terrain, minimalist racing shoes offer little grip and protection as soon as you are no longer on the pedals. Touring shoes in their various forms offer a compromise between efficiency, protection and comfort.

CONTROL

Just don't slip! Off the track and with gravity as the driving force, control is more important than efficiency. Above all, the shoes must provide a secure footing both on and off the pedals. This requires soles with as much grip as possible. Ankle protection also protects the feet when travelling over hill and dale. Weight only plays a secondary role. Walking comfort, weather protection and durability now take centre stage.

The big BIKE Ergonomics Special with tests, tips and the right setting on 56 pages can be found in the download area below.

THE SHOE

It is impossible for one shoe to optimally fulfil all biking requirements. Compromises are unavoidable. Light and fast, or robust, safe and suitable for hiking?

THE FIT

Not all feet are the same. That's why shoes are available in different shapes, lengths and widths. If the off-the-peg shoe doesn't fit, customising the inner workings will help you to bike without pain.

MASS WORK

High-tech against tingling and for more power. Insoles help to distribute the pressure optimally and to optimise the position of the foot in the shoe.

MTB pedals: KLICK OR FLAT?

A question of taste and personal preference. Both systems have advantages and disadvantages.

ADJUST CLEATS

We will show you how to Correctly adjusting the cleats of MTB clipless pedals .

PEDAL SOLUTIONS

Pedal width: Some pedals are available with different axle lengths: SQlab offers four axle lengths. The SPD-compatible pedal 511 is available in standard length, -5 mm, +8 mm and +15 mm. Crankbrothers has a retrofit axle with +5 mm in its programme. The XTR version of the Shimano SPD pedal is available in a short -3 mm version. The XT flat pedals PD-M8140 is available in two cage sizes. The L version is 10 mm wider.

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