Submitted by
Nitrogenus
a Weekend Warrior
from TN Date Reviewed: November 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Strengths:
Durable, slick-looking, Shimano
Weaknesses:
Heavy
Bottom Line:
For the price, these are a great pedal. If you are looking to switch from platform to clipless, or if you just want a new set of solid pedals, BUY THESE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Topaz Aditia
a Cross Country Rider
from Jakarta, Indonesia Date Reviewed: October 25, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Happy MTB, Jakarta
Strengths:
Superb. The cleats missed "the target" so many times but, leave no scratching marks at all on the pedals.
Weaknesses:
so far, none
Similar Products Used:
wellgos
Bike Setup:
Polygon Cozmix CX40, SLX mix groupset
Bottom Line:
This pedal is perfect. Easy to clip in/out. Take seconds to setting the spring and voila!.. you're ready to go. The price is surprisingly very affordable for this kinda quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ZombieFood
a Weekend Warrior
from Margate Date Reviewed: October 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
FL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
given to by friend
Strengths:
Easy in, Easy out, very adjustable, very durable
Weaknesses:
if your cleats are muddy brush them off before stepping in. but still I never had a problem getting in or out even when dirty
Bike Setup:
09 Gary Fisher Cobia
Bottom Line:
Great pedal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pokz
a Cross Country Rider
from Philippines Date Reviewed: July 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
south
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
kings
Strengths:
weight, consistent clip in/out, adjustable, price
Weaknesses:
non so far
Similar Products Used:
shimanos
Bike Setup:
marin ht
Bottom Line:
.....great value for intended use
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BEN-OOL
a Weekend Warrior
from Newcastle, Australia Date Reviewed: June 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Ourimab / Glenrock
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Easy to clip in/out
Strong & consistant
Easily adjusted
Got them at a great price
Weaknesses:
Not alot realy, Bit of surface rust starting to show
Maybe a bit weighty if your worried about that sort of thing.
Looking at getting another set for my new bike and the price now is double what I paid last time.
Similar Products Used:
First set of clipless pedals
Used flats before this
Bike Setup:
Mongoose wing Pro (Soon to be Norco Fluid 2)
Std except for the Avid 3 brakes and few other bits & pieces I've added.
Bottom Line:
These things take some abuse.
I have scraped them on the concrete road, they still work.
Smashed them over rocks, they still work
Had enough mud on my shoes that I could barly walk, and they still cliped in with no probs.
Bloody strong, highly recommend.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtbnutt
a Weekend Warrior
from PA Date Reviewed: May 9, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
EBAY
Strengths:
Name brand product at a cost that wont break the bank
Weaknesses:
None so far
Bike Setup:
2008 Trek 6000
Bottom Line:
I bought these pedals brand new off of EBay. I never used clipless before so i was a little scared. After getting everything set up and clipping in for the first time i was impresses. The pedals feel amazing and the audible click is very reasuring. Excellent pedal for the money and very easy to get in and out of...Highly Recomended..No Regrets
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dubdryver
a Cross Country Rider
from Pembroke Pines, FL. USA Date Reviewed: March 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Markham Park Alligator Alley
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
I think Price Point
Strengths:
Very Durable, Lightweight for cost, Sheds dirt well, Easy Entrance and exit.
Weaknesses:
Maybe the spring gets a little loose after years of riding, or maybe I just need new cleats, haven't checked, its not that much of a problem
I had these on my previous Cube Hardtail and gave the bike away to a friend when I got my K2, bought a set for the razorback and they have been running strong for over 3yrs now. I have smashed and grinded them against rocks and they aren't phased. I now have a new set on my Blur, so this makes it the 3rd set and all 3 are still working good! I think the set on my K2 might need the spring tightened up, but they also feel a little lose on my blur aswell, so the cleats may need to be replaced, haven't checked. I suggest spending the extra $20 for the Multi-Release SPD Cleats (SM-SH56). They are just a solid upgrade for entrance/exit of the pedals, I really suggest these if you are new to clip-ins no matter which shimano you use! I have tried ATACs and Egg beaters...I really did, but I didn't like the stiffness of being locked into the pedal, I felt too connected to the pedal for my taste. I also had an inncident with the eggbeaters where I caught the underside "beater" part on a root sticking up and it nearly threw me down on the ground, but I think that was one of those fluke situations that very rarely would happen.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
drz400sm
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: February 22, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
Nothing
Bike Setup:
Giant Trance X
Bottom Line:
These are a great investment. Im usually the type of person to buy the best of the best and always am willing to spend to extra few dollars for quality. But with these, i could not see any reason to spend more money on the xt or xtr pedals. Im sure they are great pedals, no doubt, but the 540's are pretty much identical designs. These are my first clipless pedals and love the in and out ease of these. I did manage to fall pretty hard on the first day because i couldnt get my feet out in time, but that was completely my fault and once i got comfortable with these I feel very confident i can get out in a heart beat. I have them on a pretty low release setting because im just learning, but havent had any problems with my feet coming out unexpectedly . Id recommend these to anyone and will most likely buy again if they last more then 6 months, which i know they will.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesmond
a Weekend Warrior
from China Date Reviewed: January 14, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Local trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Nice look, reliable, does not clogged up with mud, nice click sound
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Wellgo
Bike Setup:
Rockrider 9.1
Bottom Line:
Nice product, with nice outlook. Reliable in all situation (in/out). Mud just don't clogged the pedals; i was cycling (and walking) through some muddy sticky soft farmlands and clicked in directly, but those muds just don't clogged there, as compared to my previous Wellgo's. The click in sounds just nice to hear. I think I will stick with this pedal for many many years.
Anyone looking for reliable pedal should get this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jari
a Weekend Warrior
from Tuusula, Finland Date Reviewed: September 7, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mätäkivi
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Pyöräliike Lindgren
Strengths:
Reliable
Weaknesses:
Mud clearence worse than with Cranbrothers
Similar Products Used:
Older SPD's with and without platform, Crank bros Candy, Smarty
Good and reliable product. Bough these when I was returning from ride when I broke my Smartys(OEM pedals) and shop didn't had Eggbeaters on their shelve. Same construction than XT and XTR pedals but cheaper price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
NA1NSXR
a Cross Country Rider
from Tustin, CA Date Reviewed: August 27, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
Same design as XT/XTR versions
Bottom Line:
This pedal is excellent, straight up. It is functionally equivalent to the XT and XTR pedals above it, weighs practically the same, and is just as durable. You save money on materials but the difference is minimal and the 540 is so much more attractively priced. If you are looking for a new SPD pedal and don't usually pay hefty premiums for very dimished returns then this is your product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slyder327
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: August 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Albion Hills..Black
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
Great price, and easy to disengage
Weaknesses:
A little heavy...but great price
Similar Products Used:
Lot's
Bike Setup:
08 Giant Trance 2
Bottom Line:
Great unit for the price, and I haven't had any problems coming unclipped on my way over. I did have to practice with them on the lower setting until I felt comfortable enough to really lock myself in, but no issues yet.
I ride mostly trail with long painful hills, and what goes up must come down .....usually along with some drop offs, mud, and roots. Never have these babies let me down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chewman
a Cross Country Rider
from Burnsville, MN, USA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Lebanon Hills
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Easy in & out, Moderately light, ok for beginners. Reasonable price
Weaknesses:
Very shoddy springs, broke after less then 1 mile, 1st time out on the trail.
Similar Products Used:
platforms, 1st clipless pedal used.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper 08, mostly stock.
Bottom Line:
At first was quite happy with them, got used to the clipping in and out very fast for a first timer on clipless.
Then i went to go riding on the trails with them to see how well they performed.... Didn't get more then half way down the trail before my right foot suddenly pulled out of the pedal on a short uphill climb. Didn't think anything of it, just thought it was due to having them adjusted on the easiest to get out of setting.
Kept going and started hearing a new clicking sound. I pulled over and couldn't seem to locate it so was just about to take off again and i noticed that i couldn't get my right foot to click into the pedal. Got off the bike and to my great surprise found out that the spring on one side(including the retention screw) was broken in half and the other half missing....
I would not have been so upset if this had happened a year from now or longer, but come on.. the 1st time out?
Not sure if was just a fluke and got a bad spring in one of my pedals or not. But i will definitely be returning these tomorrow and possibly getting Time ATAC XS or XT pedals. I just hope my LBS doesn't jack me seeing as i need good working pedals in two days.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbia, MO, USA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Durable, great bearings, adjustability, cleats last a long time
Weaknesses:
A little too heavy, but that results in increased strength and durability, so I guess it's worth it
Similar Products Used:
Shimano PD-M545, PD-M424, Bebop Stainless
Bike Setup:
Rigid XC racer
Bottom Line:
I traded my Bebops for these pedals so my wife's and my bikes would have compatible pedals. Since I'd ridden SPDs in years past, they took no time at all to get used to. Unlike the Bebops, where you have to step directly down to clip in, SPDs allow you to push forward, which makes for a more natural engagement during pedaling.
Weight is the only obvious downside, but I can live with it. Some of that is made up by the smaller, lighter cleats as compared to the Bebop cleats. The cleats are also recessed enough to make for easier walking.
Since the majority of MTB'ers ride SPDs, you're more likely to be able to jump on a friend's bike without worrying about cleat/pedal compatibility.
Bottom line: mount these pedals to your bike and pretty much never think about them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Southern California Date Reviewed: March 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Marshall Canyon
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
online somewhere
Strengths:
Reliable, strong, light. Simple to use, even for first time clipless users.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 520s
Bike Setup:
'05 Specialized FSRxc
Bottom Line:
They're simple and dependable. It's got the same design as the XTRs but less than half the price. Much lighter than the 520s, which are stock on many bikes. I've had zero problems with them for almost two years. Find a good price online and go with it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas Date Reviewed: February 24, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Dorba Trails OCNP
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Great pedal. Easy to get in and out of even with some sand or a little mud. Spins fast and not too heavy for the money.
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet. Am sure for the weight people they would say these could be lighter.
Similar Products Used:
Nashbar atb clipless which sucked!!!! And platforms.
Bike Setup:
Trek 4300 with some aftermarket stuff.
Bottom Line:
I would highly recommened these pedals to anyone looking to start clipless. I bought the $20 nashbar clipless pedals becuase I could see myself dropping $70 on some pedals I might not want. But the Nashbar pedals got my in and I saw how bad they sucked. Were hard to get in and out. And broke in about a month. Have had these pedals for 6 months now and not one problem. Once I had installed them I could instantly feel the less rolling resistance and easy of us!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyoseki
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA Date Reviewed: November 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Guadalasco
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
Bike Attack
Strengths:
Does exactly what it says on the tin
Weaknesses:
None so far
Bike Setup:
Intense 5.5
Bottom Line:
These things work great, absolutely as advertised, they've put up with my Clyde ass for the last 2 years and despite many many pedal strikes still work as well as the day I bought them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bepe
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: July 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere with trees and mud
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
I can clip in & clip out
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
PD-M515
Bike Setup:
Orange 5
Bottom Line:
I got these after taking the M515's back to the shop (see my review of those things!), and these are my first experience with clipless pedals. You can decide whether a review from a first-timer is relevant to you.
I'll quickly summarise what kind of riding I do...
I don't do downhill or freeride big drops, because I'm too old for that kind of excitement. But I do go cross-country and I don't shy away from much on the trails - I'll happily hit all kinds of mud, water, tree roots, rocks etc, and I go fast when I can.
Anyway, my experience with these has been great so far. I started by setting the tension at roughly half-way, to let me exit fast when I need to. They were fine from the start - in fact for a while I just cruised along like a fool just doing emergency unclipping practice, saying "BANG" each time I pinged my shoes off the pedals. (Yeah, I know!)
The times when I've genuinely needed to free my feet in a hurry - they've worked every time. No fuss, no panic. It's surprising how fast it becomes instinct, when you can set the pedals to a cooperative tension.
I'm gradually increasing the tension, but honestly I don't think I'll ever get anywhere near full tension (or even three quarters), because I haven't found them unclipping involuntarily.
I haven't ridden these pedals in really sticky mud yet, but they've been ridden in everything else from dust to liquid mud, and I've had no problems so far.
And that's the reason I'm only giving them 4 chillis overall rating - I don't know what they're like in really sticky mud, so I don't feel I can say they're outstanding. But, for everything I've experienced first-hand, they've been great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Corstian Devos
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia Date Reviewed: July 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Any trail is a good trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Sonic
Strengths:
Sheds mud and dirt as well as 858s/959s for a lot less $$.
Weaknesses:
None found yet. I imagine that given the design they will not hold up for the 7 years that my 858s did but hey... they are also less than 1/2 the price.
Similar Products Used:
Numerous SH Spd and knock-off pedals. SH 858s (much maligned but worked great for me for 7 years.)
Bike Setup:
Stock Giant Glory Freeride except for the following: Giant grips replaced with OURY DH. Seat replaced with Fizik Atlas. Pedals, SH PD-M540. 2.5 Kenda tires switched for Conti Double Fighter frt and old faithful WTB Tyrannoraptor bk. Replaced stock Fox DHX 4.0 450 X 2.80 rear shock coil with 650 X 3.19 coil to get proper sag. ( As per Fox rep.)
Bottom Line:
For the money and performance can't go wrong!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney Date Reviewed: May 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
sparrow hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Very easy to clip in and out. Have bashed them into rocks and they dont break
Weaknesses:
Sometimes on tight corners i accidently clip out, however i only have the tension on the middle setting.
Similar Products Used:
Time
Bike Setup:
Trek fuels Ex8 with Gravity Dropper
Bottom Line:
These pedals are great for those new to clipless. I tried Time Atac Z (the platform ones) and i could never clip out in time, which began to scare me, so i sold them. My friend has some old time atac's that were much easier to clip out of than the time Z's and had better float than shimano's so i am tempted to try some of those. These M540's seem like a great balance between being secure enough for general trail riding and easy exit for when you get into trouble. If you hammer through trails you may occasionaly find they dont have enough float for tight twisty stuff. If they had a little more float and the same ease of entry and exit they would be perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Ballarat Date Reviewed: April 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$75.00
Strengths:
eays to clip in and out of, they dont get clogged up easily when riding in the mud.
Weaknesses:
If the tension isn't fairly tight your foot will come out when you try and deliver some serious power.
Similar Products Used:
Numerous platforms
Bike Setup:
hardtail xc
Bottom Line:
A good performer once you get them adjusted properly. Very happy with them. May not suit someone who is really weight conscious but for eveyone else they are a great pedal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy Bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Black Hawk SD Date Reviewed: April 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anywhere
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Two Wheeler Dealer
Strengths:
Very easy to learn on. Nice loud "click" upon engagement, holds you solid when you want to and let you go just as quick when you need them to. Easy to adjust.
Weaknesses:
None that I've found.
Similar Products Used:
Just a bunch of platforms.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Hardrock (2000) w/Truvativ 3.3 Team cranks, Avid SD5 brakes and levers, XO rear derailleur, XO carbon trigger shifters, XT Cassette, PC-991 chain, Mavic wheels with Deore hubs, SPD-540 pedals, Specialized Fast Trak Pro tires.
Bottom Line:
This is my first attempt at clipless and I'm impressed. I'm now kicking myself for not taking the plunge seven years ago when I bought the bike.
Going from platforms to clipless is probably the easiest, most noticible upgrade that you can do for a bike! The increased power and control is amazing compared to platforms.
I haven't tried any other brands of clipless so I can't honestly compare "brand to brand" but I doubt that any of them out there are really any "better" than these.
I highly recommend them if you're looking at going clipless. These pedals look the same as the 520s but I got the 540s because of the smoother bearings. The 540 just seems like a much better product that will last a lot longer.
While I'm not a huge Shimano fan, I have to give these things 5 flaming jalapenos on each, they're really good!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, UT Date Reviewed: March 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
These pedals are very reliable, just as you should expect from shimano. Tension adjustment is quick and easy. Clip in/out also did not present any problems.
Weaknesses:
These pedals occasionally let go when you're really pedalling hard. It's frustrating - I wish they didn't do that.
Similar Products Used:
I have some speedplay zero's on my road bike - they never clip out unintentionally.
Bike Setup:
2000 Kona roast hardtail, hayes hydraulic disk brakes, xtr derailleurs, marzocchi fork
Bottom Line:
These are good reliable pedals for the money, but they will let you down when you need them the most. If you're just a beginner rider, you'll never have problems with these pedals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Garry
a Cross Country Rider
from Virginia Beach, Virginia Date Reviewed: December 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Seashore State Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Very well built pedals, easy in easy out, great bearings that are serviceable by the user, good float.
Weaknesses:
Just make sure you take the time to adjust the tension for your style of riding but thats not a weakness but it dose help wth the ride in the long run. But other than that they rock!!
Similar Products Used:
Time, Crank Brothers.
Bike Setup:
Vektor Orion, with Avid Juciy five breaks, XLT componants.
Bottom Line:
These pedles need time to adjust and set up right but when they are set up right they are well worht the money. The Bearings are very smooth and they came out of the box with a very silky smooth roll. They are easy on the knees thanks to a very generious float. They were going to be a temp upgrade until I could get the Time ATAC Carbon but instead they turned out to be a better choice and they are going to stay on the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Farizal
a
from Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia Date Reviewed: December 25, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
eBay.com.my
Strengths:
Look good. Easy to get on and very easy to get off.
Weaknesses:
Weight
Similar Products Used:
VP-M140
Bike Setup:
Hard Tail
Bottom Line:
Same style with PD-M959 pedals but half the price and only 6 grams heavier. Easy in and out, but stay put when climbing or jumping.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ralph
a Weekend Warrior
from Boulder, CO USA Date Reviewed: November 2, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
new on eBay
Strengths:
Clipping & unclipping works okay.
Weaknesses:
Failure prone.
Similar Products Used:
Will replace with Time; the larger clip-in should prove quicker.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale hardtail
Bottom Line:
Mine broke. I used a pair both for road and MTN riding, and owned these for about one year when a retention spring broke when on a riding holiday overseas, rendering one clip useless. A torsion spring is a easy thing to design and manufacture, so there is no excuse. Worse, ShimaNO does not make spare parts available for their products like this, they are a throw-away brand (even though the spring is removable).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Max Fortree
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: October 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
as long as it's all mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
action bikes
Strengths:
relatively light, good in mud, easy to unclip and clip, easy adjustment
Weaknesses:
a bit pricey for spd, heavier than eggbeater
Similar Products Used:
dmr v8, various flat pedals
Bike Setup:
rockhopper frame, reba fork, avid brakes, m540
Bottom Line:
Good beginner pedal for first time clippers and works well in most conditions, with it being easy to unclip and clip back in. Great clipless pedal but racers should go for something lighter.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TOM
a
from FRANCE Date Reviewed: September 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
EASY IN EASY OUT,VERY GOOD VALUE. ONLY 6 GRAMS HEAVIER THAN 959 AND MUCH CHEAPER.TRIED EVEYTHNG AND THESE ARE THE BEST COMPROMISE. USED TIME- GOOD FOR MUD BUT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO GET OUT OF, EGGBEATER- LIGHT AND GOOD IN MUD BUT CLEATS WEAR FAST AND NOT ENOUGH SURFACE AREA;RITCHEY POOR BUID QUALITY;
Weaknesses:
DESPITE DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS CAN STILL GET A BIT CLOGGED UP IN VERY MUDDY CONDITIONS.EGG BEATERS LOOK COOLER.
Similar Products Used:
SEE ABOVE
Bike Setup:
SANTA SUPERLIGHT, MAVIC CROSSMAX SL'S,CHRIS KING,THOMSON,SDG BEL AIR,HOPE MINIS
Bottom Line:
I REALLY HAVE TRIED EVERYTHING BUT IF YOU WANT A SMOOTH, RELIABLE,SAFE PEDAL THAT IS NOT TOO HEAVY OR EXPENSIVE THIS IS IT;IF YOU ARE LOADED GO FOR 959 OTHERWISE YOU CAN'T DO BETTER;
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from CA Date Reviewed: September 20, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
reliable predictable
Weaknesses:
non yet
Bike Setup:
trek 6700 with m540's
Bottom Line:
When I bought my bike it came with shimano spd 505's and after riding them for a couple of weeks I was not gaining confidence on technical parts of the trail.(my first time on clipless) The 505's were not predicable enough and I couldn’t get out when I needed too. So I bought the m540's and almost right clipping and unclipping became natural. I road whatever I wanted not worrying about the pedals. They clip in and out very predictably and smoothly. These pedals make a big difference in how much I enjoy my rides. Buy them because they work well!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen Darrel
a Cross Country Rider
from Longmont CO Date Reviewed: September 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anything cross country Colorado wilderness
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Awesome, Very sturdy on long rides (were talking all weekend 200+ milers in the Colorado OutBack man >)
Weaknesses:
NONE. Ahem, IF YOU KNOW HOW TO USE/SETUP PROPERLY.
I read every bad review below that blamed spring retention etc and in each case I can assure you (regardless of the riders mechanical know how) the issues are due to improper setup. It's like the morons who review tube MTB tires saying they are unstable at any speed DH on the pavement (some Kendaw Claw review I read years back is a good example) but admit they only fill them to 20 or less psi for better traction off road... GET TUBELESS PEOPLE...
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 520 (not bad but 540 is a better build quality, don't waste your money onthe 959 unless you got the cash you can get both the 520/540 for 30/50 dollars on ebay. 959 shows up used for 70 but not worth it.
Bike Setup:
- 2007 Trek Ex 9 (not sure if I'll change out the pedals just yet but way to go on dumping RockShox Trek) - 2001 Trek Fuel 98 (my tired friend and now backup) M540's on her - Trek 2100 (for the roadie days) - Deceased Cove G-Spot (my cross country padre of only 2 years who perished in 02 :() had Shimano 520's after a very VERY intense crash, I was unscathed, she is buried in the backyard (j/k) ).
Bottom Line:
Excellent pedal, just get them on eBay or Performance/Jenson on sale. Trust the fact that in case of the 520/540 et al reviewed products here if most reviews are 4-5 chilis and the occasional Dude who doesn't know how to setup gives a bad review go with the majority (well as long as those peeps have at least 6 months of riding).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bill wooler
a Cross Country Rider
from red hill Date Reviewed: September 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
the one that's in front of me...
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$59.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
easy to clip into and exit.
Weaknesses:
none so far.
Similar Products Used:
none.
Bike Setup:
03 specialized enduro expert, manitou fork, mavic rear, monkey lite bar, thompson stem, chris king headset, xtr drivetrain and shifters, raceface crank set, shimano m540 clips.
Bottom Line:
great for the money. i just got into clipless and they are great. as an old time snowboarder i used k2/shimano step-ins, and these are very similar. easy to get into and out of. i love the the audible "click" that tells me that i'm engaged. very natural to disengage, almost 2nd nature. get some!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbus Date Reviewed: July 29, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Double sided, easy clip in
Weaknesses:
Even at the tightest setting, I found it too easy to accidentally release. Too much wiggle even when I was clipped in.
Similar Products Used:
Crank Brothers Candy SL
Bike Setup:
'05 Specialized Sequioa, upgraded bottom bracket and crankset
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is that I found these pedals highly dissapointing. Although they came free with my bike, and were thus used, they still had less than 500 miles on them. I found clipping in and out very easy, even without looking, but the problem was unclipping. Even with the retention spring set to its tightest setting, my feet came unclipped too easily, and this became a problem while cornering. Another major issue I had was that there was too much vertical play as the pedal didn't seat tight up against the sole of my shoes. As soon as I got home I switched the pedals for a pair of Crank Brothers Candy SLs and haven't had an issue since. These may be better new, but after seeing how they are after a few hundred miles, I can't recommend them for the long term.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kirk
a Weekend Warrior
from Bayarea, CA, USA Date Reviewed: July 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
all narrow and hilly
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Great pedals. Strong, lasting, shed mud, fairly light, look fine, easy in and out, but stay put when climbing and jumping.
Weaknesses:
listed at 352 grams, that is nearly the same as much more expensive (but same style) PD-M959 pedals. However, that weight is wrong. Mine weigh 398 grams. Anyone else have a true weight on theirs? Still not bad for a great pedal.
Bike Setup:
long travel all mountain
Bottom Line:
Great pedals not as light as advertised.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Ridgecrest, CA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
ridge run
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Blue Sky
Strengths:
light easy to clip in and out of, a snap to adjust
Weaknesses:
honestly, i cannot find any
Similar Products Used:
wellgo
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar XLT
Bottom Line:
simply a good pedal. shoes slip in like butter, they release when you want them to release, perfect amount of float, i could go on and on.they look sharp too. oh yes, they are durable. i live in a rocky area and we have some...big rocks, to say the least. a couple of sharp hits and these babies are still runnin' strong. i would definately recommend them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jgt
a
from usa Date Reviewed: June 25, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$95.00
Strengths:
light, shimano
Weaknesses:
falls apart
Similar Products Used:
737,747,515,etc
Bike Setup:
5 spot
Bottom Line:
i bought a pair, springs came undone on trail 3x. XC riding only. Returned to shimano for warranty, got lost in the mail, never recoup'd $100. So, I bought ANOTHER pair, figured it had to be a fluke cuz I've always had great luck w/ shimanos. Exact same thing happened first ride out. Spring comes undone, take entire pedal apart on trail, waste of time. Happened 6 times, usually after hitting a log/rock w/ pedal. Go read a couple of 520 reviews, that's exactly what happened. Can't recommend 540's, but love the reliability of the older, heavier but mud hugging styles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doggity
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Fe NM USA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Any one I can ride out of
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Beautifully made; would not at all look out of place on a multi kilobuck bike, road or mountain. Tough as nails. Positive click in and out. Generous amount of float.
Weaknesses:
I may be going against the grain here, since I'm using these on my road bike. I have to say, in that application, I don't think these are the easiest to engage quickly. Yah, you've got the double sided entry, so that's not a factor. But the...introitus is not as big or generous as some roadie clips. But those are seriously dorky looking, and most are not double sided, and that's why I went with these. At a traffic light, trying to start up quickly, I usually find I have to pedal a few revolutions before I can finally click in with my free foot...but I'm slowly getting better. I am quickly gaining a lot of respect for you MTB'ers who clip in. In a DH situation, or rough single track, I don't think I'd have the courage! I just bought a Redline Monocog SS (yay!), and I think I'm going to stick with the stock platforms on that bike for a while before I try clipless on my MTB.
Similar Products Used:
These are my first clipless pedals, so take my input accordingly. I used toe clip pedals on my fixie for years. These are way better than those.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Roubaix roadie. All stock, save these pedals, and Armadillo tires.
Bottom Line:
Despite my reservations about these not having the easiest entry, I think you could do a WHOLE lot worse than these, as your 1st clipless pedals. They're well enough made, and function well enough, they may well be your last. Highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod
a Cross Country Rider
from Gainesville , FL, USA Date Reviewed: April 24, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
friends house
Strengths:
better than no pedals,strong.
Weaknesses:
did not like the feel, not confidence inspiring,
Similar Products Used:
kore, time atac
Bike Setup:
burner
Bottom Line:
Thought I would try Shimano after years on Time Atacs. Could not get used to the weak/am I in ? engagement feel. Had to have them adjusted tight (as I came out in mid air once after a jump)this made it hard to get in. They seemed ok after a while but I put my old Atacs on today and it was like night and day. They seem to be a good pedal, as you can see from the reviews, but I'll stick to my atacs over these anyday.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert G.
a Weekend Warrior
from San Antonio, Texas! Date Reviewed: April 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Leon Creek Greenbelt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Works Great.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Just flat pedals.
Bike Setup:
Yes it is.
Bottom Line:
I chose these instead of cheaper 520's & 515's because of the reviews here. They work like they are expected to, no complaints here. Boy what a difference clipless makes! No more feet slipping off of pedals and banging up my shins! So much more power and acceleration with these pedals. Didn't fall with them until the fourth ride. Guess I got overconfident. I would highly recommend going clipless and these are an excellent choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Oregon Date Reviewed: March 20, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Ease of entry/exit,adjustalility
Similar Products Used:
None, these were my first
Bike Setup:
5-spot
Bottom Line:
I held off on going clipless for years and took the plunge with the 540s. I have regretted not buying them years ago, what a differance. They weigh more but the benefits vastly outweigh that small detail.
I have not had one issue with getting out of them (no crashes yet...knock on wood).
Good quality. I have had them covered with mud and have had no problems with them. Finding the clip with the cleat is easy and engagement is quick with a loud click.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fernando
a Weekend Warrior
from Dallas Date Reviewed: March 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The Breaks
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Easy in and out, love the adjustability, a distinctive click lets you know you are good to go.
Weaknesses:
I would have to really look and weight is not that big of an issue to me.
Similar Products Used:
M959s and I demoed the eggbeaters but had no adjustability and had heard of rapid wear on the cleats.
Bike Setup:
2006 Stumpjumper with a custom handle bar. M540s
Bottom Line:
These pedals are amazing! I had the 520s and they were a mess but I a friend had the 959s. Tried the 959s but too expensive for me so I figured the M540s would work for me. Almost identical to the 959s but a whole lot cheaper. If you are lucky, like me, you can get them on ebay for $60!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a Cross Country Rider
from Covina Date Reviewed: February 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
San Juan
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$69.99
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Great pedal for novices who are afraid of clipless. Easy in and out. Can adjust for very easy exit.
Weaknesses:
Little heavy
Similar Products Used:
Tried egg beaters but no adjustability for easy exit.
Bike Setup:
Turner XCE and Ellsworth Truth, have these pedals on both bikes and love them.
Bottom Line:
Get these pedals. If you are new to clipless these pedals are the best to learn on. Very adjustable. Hello Frank.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Dhead, MS Date Reviewed: January 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
This pedal is amazing, easy to use, easy to insall, and sheds mud without a problem
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
stock platforms, and cages
Bike Setup:
Trek 6500 disk, with shimano M540 pedals.
Bottom Line:
These pedals are amazing, they work perfectly, I had been looking for a pedal to try out clipless, and I chose these, a very wise choice. They are very easy to use, they have a very audible click when you click in, and they always release when you need them to. They also shed mud wonderfully, which is perfect for the wet muddy trails in the south.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steely
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodland Hills, CA Date Reviewed: November 24, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
Wheel World
Strengths:
Best SPD XC pedal I've ever used. Solid tension adjustment, stable platform, strong, light, and durable. Breeze to clip in/out of. They shed mudd and gravel like it's not there. If you don't get clipped in the 1st time, no problem, the platform is stable enough to support cranking anyway.
Weaknesses:
None that I can see.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 545's (solid but NOT light), Time ATAC's (heavy, pricey, not pretty) Eggbeaters (demo'ed only - don't love the feel of the platform when you miss a clip in)
Bike Setup:
Ironhorse Sinister Comp. Stock for now sans the pedals :-D.
Bottom Line:
Great pedal. Outstanding value. The 540's cost less than every pedal in their class. They're also lighter than almost every pedal in their class. If you're an XC SPD person, there's no need to look any further. Definitely max chilis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
shiny_car
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: October 12, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
ebay + shipping
Strengths:
very crisp/precise mechanism; nice build and finish; very good value
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Wellgo; Shimano SPD-M520
Bike Setup:
Specialized HT;
Bottom Line:
these were an upgrade from the Shimano M520 pedals and there appears to be a significant improvement so far; clipping in/out is more/very precise and smooth; the loosest setting is quite loose and would suit a beginner, unlike the M520 which was trickier despite the loosest setting; suits the experienced alike by tightening up the mech; haven't tried them in really muddy conditions yet but I had no major probs with the M520, so only expect these to be as good if not better; I ride XC and think I'll be sticking with these for a long time; there could be better out there (so I'll give 4 chilis), perhaps the XTR series or Time, but these are top value
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a
from Somerset, NJ Date Reviewed: August 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Chimney Rock
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$48.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
super smooth bearings, definite entry/exit, style, solid workmanship, simple to adjust tension, allen bolt allowed easy installation, and application of correct torque (not critical, but I like to follow the specs to the letter whenever possible)
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
SPD M-515 - inconsistent cleat engagements, upgrade them ASAP and you'll be happy.
Bottom Line:
The 540 was an awesome upgrade. Strong, precise, looks great and works nicely. I've never used a really high priced pedal, but I can't imagine what could be that much better than the 540.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAMES HAWORTH
a Cross Country Rider
from EAU CLAIRE, WI Date Reviewed: July 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
LEVIS MOUND
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
EAU CLAIRE BIKE & SPORT
Strengths:
EASY TO GET INTO AND OUT OF. AUDIBLE "CLICK" LETS YOU KNOW YOU ARE IN.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
CRANK BROTHER'S CANDY SL - TOUGH TO GET IN AND OUT OF
Bike Setup:
GIANT NRS 2 - XTR REAR AND SHIFTERS, XT FRONT, AVID MECHANICALS, WTB EPICWOLF REAR TIRE, WTB RACING RAPTOR FRONT TIRE, TERRY FLY SADDLE
Bottom Line:
THERE ARE A LOT OF DIFFERENT CLIPLESS PEDALS OUT THERE AND CHOOSING ONE CAN BE QUITE DIFFICULT. IF YOU LIKE SPD, MAKE THE EASY CHOICE AND BUY THIS PEDAL. WHETHER YOU ARE A BEGINNER OR A PRO THIS IS THE SHIMANO PEDAL FOR YOU. I UPGRADED TO THIS PEDAL FROM THE STOCK SHIMANO 505'S THAT CAME ON MY BIKE. NEVER SAW THE 505 SO I DON'T KNOW HOW IT DIFFERED FROM THE 540 BUT AFTER USING THE 540 I WOULD NOT WANT ANY OTHER PEDAL.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Louisiana Date Reviewed: July 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Lincoln Parish Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Easy to install, smooth as silk, easy to clip in/out, attractive pedal, reliable
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Wellgo SPD
Bike Setup:
Diamondback DBR V-link 3.1
Bottom Line:
I purchased these pedals new from Ebay and love them. I read one review that took away a chili because of the 8mm allen wrench to install. I found the allen wrench to make installing these pedals far easier than the old way. I also like the removeable platforms. Great idea when riding with your kids and don't feel like clipping in. Haven't had them long, but so far I am enjoying them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a Cross Country Rider
from PA Date Reviewed: May 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Ho Chi Minh
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Easy clip in and out. Works well in mud.
Weaknesses:
None as of yet.
Similar Products Used:
eggbeaters, cheap nashbar SPD knock offs, mallet C, time alum
Bike Setup:
2003 Gt-I-drive 3.0 with lots of upgrades.
Bottom Line:
Very good pedal for the price. If you worry about unclipping before a fall, these are the pedals for you. I had times and eggbeaters and just could not unclip before I hit the ground. These shimanos are much easier to unclip and clip in even in mud.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary
a Cross Country Rider
from Hilliard, Oh, US Date Reviewed: April 5, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Very solid engagement
Weaknesses:
I would like it to wiegh less
Similar Products Used:
Tine Atac
Bike Setup:
20 lb racing hardtail that I built up
Bottom Line:
I had only used Times until a few weeks ago. From the first ride I noticed a much more positive cleat engagement. They made me feel like I actually was pedaling smoother. Definitely the best cleats so far. If they are as dependable as every one says then these are the bomb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luvim San Juan
a Weekend Warrior
from Butuan City, Philippines Date Reviewed: April 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Malalag Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$38.00
Purchased At:
Genuine Cycle
Strengths:
-smooth & easy to clip in and out -improved my pedaling -reasonable weight (350g) -looks pretty and sexy -half the price of 959 and eggbeater pedals
Weaknesses:
-none so far
Similar Products Used:
none, used platform pedals with toe clips before this one.
Bike Setup:
Bontrager Comp crankset, Shimano SPD shoes and Shimano SH-M55 multiple release cleats.
Bottom Line:
I'm a 25 year old girl and a Mountain bike newbie who loves trail riding. I've been riding for 4 months now and my first upgrade was clipless pedals and shoes. I was afraid i would crash if i can't clip out fast enough but it never happened with these pedals paired with multiple release cleats from shimano, it was smooth and easy to clip in and out. It cost me another $8.00 but i never regretted the additional cost of the multiple release cleats.
I highly recommend them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, Colorado (USA) Date Reviewed: December 4, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Jughandle Loop, Moab, UT
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
E-bay
Strengths:
Value!, nice low weight, easy clipping in and out, serviceability, silky smooth bearings, wide range of cleat positioning adjustments, mud shedding design...oh, did I mention value!
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 959s, Time ATAC and Aluminums, Speedplay, Onza
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper M4, XT shifters and brakes, XT & XTR derailleurs, White Industries hubs, Mavic rims, Easton bars
Bottom Line:
I recently had my bike stolen along with my favorite pedals...my Shimano 959s. When I put together this new rig, I decided to try the M540s, which are basically the same design but 1/2 the price as the 959s. I wanted to apply the savings to some upgraded hubs. What a supride! Usually, when you downgrade your components, you lose a little in performance, weight savings, and even longevity. However, with the 540s this is not the case. They are only about 7 grams heavier than the 959s, and so far they feel and work just like the 959s. The bearings are also silky smooth.
The only minor difference in the way the pedals feel is the 540s have a slightly more pronounced "cleat adjustment click" that you hear sometimes as you're spinning at medium power. This happens with a lot of Shimano pedals. There is a slight back and forth "play" in the way the cleats fit into the pedals. So, at some power loads, the cleats "click" as they're adjusting back and forth in the pedals. The 959s had it ever so slightly, but the M540s have it more. But, again, this is really no big deal. Adjusting the tension screw helps a little.
I would highly recommend the 540s to a wide range of cyclists...from commuters to weekend warriors to racers. You get a great low weight pedal for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Bonnell
a Weekend Warrior
from St. John's, NL, Canada Date Reviewed: November 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Whatever won't kill me!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Earle Industries
Strengths:
Easy to clip in/out. No unwanted unclipping in rough terrain (but also, I haven't attempted any drops > 2' with them on either).
"emergency" clip out is good....I have 'almost' fallen over while near a standstill on many occasions, but so far I've been able to get my foot out of the pedals in time (even when I'm not expecting to fall)
I have been switching these pedals between bikes, and I really appreciate the use of an 8mm allen key to install/remove the pedals (instead of a pedal wrench)...quick and easy.
Weaknesses:
Weight? But I have nothing to compare them to, so I don't think they're terrible.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
'02 Giant Iguana, stock. 1980's Italian steel road bike
Bottom Line:
This is my first attempt at clipless pedals (my bike came with toeclips, but I was uncomfortable with them so I took 'em off).
I was pretty wary of trying clipless, fearing that they would lead to injury or simply increase the hassle of riding my bicycle (requiring special shoes, etc.). After 30 seconds w/these pedals, I fell in love with 'em. Speed and control both increased dramatically. I'll never go back to platforms.
Since I have no other experience w/clipless pedals, I won't give 5 chilis....but I am very satisfied with the experience so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Dallas, Tx Date Reviewed: October 14, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
E-Bay
Strengths:
Built very good for the price. Solid, easy adjustments, which allow for precise clip in and clip out. They look pretty good as well.
Weaknesses:
Maybe a little heavy, but for the price and being a weekend rider I can sacrafice some weight issues.
Similar Products Used:
Wellgo
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Jekyll
Bottom Line:
I needed new pedals and after reading reviews about several different manufactures I decided to purchase the M540's. I have only been on these for three rides, but the ease of clipping in and out is so much better than my old pedals. They also give me a little more float, where as before I could not hardly move my feet. Look for these on E-Bay and save twenty to thirty dollars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DAN
a Weekend Warrior
from PLACERVILLE CA. Date Reviewed: September 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
FLUME TRAIL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$64.00
Purchased At:
JENSON
Strengths:
HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION, SUPER SMOOTH BEARINGS, SIMPLE CONST. FAIRLY LIGHT WEIGHT
Weaknesses:
NONE SO FAR
Similar Products Used:
RITCHY, SHIMANO
Bike Setup:
GT I-DRIVE LX,XTR
Bottom Line:
THESE ARE PROBABLY THE BEST PEDALS YOU CAN BUY FOR UNDER 75 BUCKS. CONSTRUCTION QUALITY IS SECOND TO NONE.JUST LIKE OTHER REVIEWERS STATED FLOAT IS JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT.SLIGHTLY HEAVIER THAN THE HIGH END TIME AND CRANKS BROS. BUT FAR LESS EXPENSIVE. HIGHLY RECOMENDED.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry
a Racer
from Michigan Date Reviewed: August 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Main Street
Strengths:
Build quality. They work!
Weaknesses:
Allen wrench to install them.
Similar Products Used:
Coda 900 & M520's
Bike Setup:
97' C-Dale F-900
Bottom Line:
As others have already stated, the pedals just plain work without effort. I highly recommend them for the price.
The float is just right for me, my knees never seem to bother me after 2-3 hour rides and I don't feel trapped.
Not utilizing a standard pedal wrench is kind of odd to me but it certainly doesn't distract from the bottom line.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sue
a Cross Country Rider
from Bethlehem, PA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Allamuchy
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Cambria Bike
Strengths:
Easy, and fast click in. Low maintenance. Easy to clip out. Lots of adjustability with tensin and cleat angle/position. Just the right amount of float. Great price.
Weaknesses:
You need an 8mm allen wrench to attach to crank. For some unknown reason they forewent the 15mm pedal wrench and went this route. The 520 uses standard 15mm pedal.
Similar Products Used:
Speedplay Frogs. Old Ritchey.
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000, Judy XC, LX/XT parts.
Bottom Line:
I used SPD's 4-5 years ago and HATED them. I've been using Frogs, but am disappointed with cleat life. Shimano has one me back to SPD. I gave 4 chillis for the stupid 8mm allen wrench req.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria,BC,Canada Date Reviewed: August 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Reckless cycle Victoria
Strengths:
Lots of float, smooth bearings, way less stress on the knees.
Weaknesses:
None found yet
Similar Products Used:
Wellgo
Bike Setup:
Oryx T-Line 500
Bottom Line:
I have ridden on cheap wellgo pedals for years, and never really had a problem. New bike came equiped with the wellgos, was pulling up a hill and the toe clip snapped off. Went back to the store and bought a pair of these to replace them. And WOW! what a difference. The old wellgos don't float at all, and its always bugged my knees, one ride in these and I'll never go back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Steamboat Springs, CO Date Reviewed: July 12, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Weight, float, operation, efficiency.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 515, & 520
Bottom Line:
These may look very similar to the 520's from pictures, but don't be fooled, the 540's are far, far better. Getting in is quick and effortless. Getting out is easy and predictable. The operation is smooth and efficient, no perceptible up-and-down play while maintaining great side-to-side float. Light and reasonably priced (which don't go together all that often). Great pedal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Tyszko
a Cross Country Rider
from Nashua, New Hampshire Date Reviewed: July 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Chiva Falls, Tucson AZ
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
e-Bay
Strengths:
weight, durability
Weaknesses:
mud clearance
Similar Products Used:
wellgo
Bike Setup:
xtr, mountain cycle MOHO, marocchi marathon SL
Bottom Line:
Good, predictable performance. In extremely muddy conditions they didn't clear mud that well, but I'm not sure that much would. I've raced and ridden these for only about 20 hours but so far so good. As others have intimated, I'm not sure what Shimano is going to do with their 900 series pedals as I'm not sure that there's much to improve upon here.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erick B
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa, Fl. Date Reviewed: May 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Techno Pig
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Chain Wheel Drive
Strengths:
Fairly light weight, look cool, easy in/out, good adjustability
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
crappy well-gos, 959's, specialized comp, 520's
Bike Setup:
stumpjumper fsr
Bottom Line:
This is a great pedal, no difference between this and the 959's except 50 bucks, i love um 2 death. SO much better than stock one's BUY THESE! best pedal for the price, even though i got ripped off!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian B.
a Weekend Warrior
from Oxnard, CA Date Reviewed: April 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Coyote Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Supergo-Ventura
Strengths:
Easy in, and easy out. Light. Look good and are easy to adjust. Plenty of float. Lots of bang-for-the-buck!
Weaknesses:
None... yet.
Similar Products Used:
pile of garbage Specialized pedals
Bike Setup:
00 Specialized Enduro
Bottom Line:
After a few years of riding/suffering with the stock Specialized pedals (made by Wellgo, I think), I finaly upgraded my pedals. It's like night and day. I guess I just got used to dealing with the mediocore stock pedals and didn't realize what I was missing until I tried these. No more knee problems! I guess my bottom line would have to be this; unless you're just a total weight-weenie, I'd go for the 540's over the 959's. Same design, same engagement, just different materials. Use the money you saved for new tires or something. Heck, you can shave-off those few extra ounces just by taking a healthy pre-ride dump. Happy trails!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Poland Date Reviewed: April 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tatra Moutains
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Friend's store
Strengths:
Cool look. Good quality. More mud resistance than previous models. Light. Easy to adjust. Easily serviceable.
Self-built. Based on Cr-Mo Trek 930XC frame. Full SRAM drivetrain(X9,PC58,5.0hubs&cassette).
Bottom Line:
Great value at this price. I hope 540's will last long enough for me :) Buying XTR (959) SPD's is alost insane :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
'ric
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: December 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Strengths:
Good adjustability Improved float Great value
Weaknesses:
Nothing major. The 1-sided plastic cage it comes with seems fairly redundant since the pedal isn't weighted
Similar Products Used:
Crank Bros' Eggbeaters S, old Shimano SPDs, 848s or something
Bike Setup:
Merlin E-Stay Suspension '93, full XTR
Bottom Line:
Old Shimano SPDs used to give me problems with float - fairly narrow arc of movement started to bother my knees. These 540s seems to have addressed that. It also seems to have aided ease of clipping in/out, never a problem here, ridden them for 3 months without once falling.
I'm not quite sure what Shimano intends to do with their 959 series of pedals now; these are almost exact replicas, with very similar performance, weighing a couple more grams but at almost half the price.
Only drawback, well more like a packaging quirk really, is that it comes with a plastic platform which only attaches to one side of each pedal, which I suppose is to get you used to SPDs if you're just learning, but which aren't weighted so half the time you're stepping on the SPD-only side anyway. A bit daft, shouldn't have bothered. Doesn't detract from the 5-star rating I'm going to give it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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