Shimano R540 SPD-SL Road Bike Pedals Review
Shimano are the most well known cycle component manufacturer, they are particularly well known for developing a new generation of clipless pedals. The Shimano R540 SPD-SL is a fantastic example of Shimano’s continual devotion to creating the best possible clipless pedal.
The R540 SPD-SL weighing a respectable 330 grams per pedal and possess new pioneering ideas. In particular, the Shimano R540 comes complete with a completely new cleat design, which is vastly different from the small SPDs found on mountain bike shows. The R540′s cleat design is significantly larger and less recessed compared to other Shimano models; in fact many of our testers commented that the cleat design was very similar to Look’s road cleat design. The wider cleat
design and binding mechanism ensures better shoe/pedal contact, compared to traditional SPD systems.
Another great aspect of R540′s many of our testers noticed was that the cleats were extremely easy to secure on to the shoe, using an Allen headed screws and Shimano’s tough, non-slip material. The tightness of the cleats meant they felt extremely secure as well as feeling safer to walk in, especially on hard surfaces.
While the low profile platform, with its open design, means that they allow easy access and cleat adjustment, which can be made using an Allen key. Astoundingly, the sealed cartridge axle unit requires little maintenance.
Impressively, the wider pedal platform of the R540′s offers riders improved foot/pedal stability. The stability of these pedals guarantee maximum power transfer to the pedals, with many of our testers noticing instantly the performance enhancing aspect of these pedals. The R540′s feel exceptionally smooth, while also being easy to clip into and release.
The R540′s allow 6 degrees of float as well as including floating cleats. Ideal for road, triathlon and track use, the Shimano R540 SPD-SL is a fantastic clipless pedal and is one of the most affordable Shimano clipless models available today.
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