Can't get my cleats in - what am I doing wrong?

[ianrauk]

I know this was posted a year ago, but I am having the same problem, and am wondering if you found a solution, Boris Bike?

The pedals were mounted by a specialist so I know that they are on the correct way - the pedals are SPD 520 and the shoes dhb road shoes with stiff base and protruding cleat. Even when standing up I can get the front of the cleat into the pedal, but the back just won't clip in. I think I've undone the tension as far as it will go!

Thanks in advance for any help - I'm new on here.

SPD 520 is an MTB pedal.
Which of the cleats do you have in the pic below?

 

[lizziebee]

Wow, thanks for a super quick response ianruk!

The ones on the right hand side

 

[ianrauk]

Wow, thanks for a super quick response ianruk!

The ones on the right hand side

Ok, you have the correct cleats for the pedals.
New spd pedals do need a good few clipping in and out to losen them a little. After a little while it does become a little easier.
The only thing I can suggest is for you to add a little bit of oil or candle wax to the pedals and cleats and have a good old hard 'stomp' onto the pedal to engage the cleat.

Sit on the bike and do one foot at a time to practice.

 

[lizziebee]

That's great news. Sure, I will try out the oil n' stomp, and let you know how I get on. Cheers!

 

[boybiker]

I take it that you're trying to clip the shoes in by hand? If so it is very difficult to do that. I tried it once! It's supprising the amount of force that you can apply with legs rather than arms.

Also try backing off the spring tension on the pedals till you get used to them

^^^^ This. I done it by hand but getting it out was another thing!

Put them on the shoes and you will find it easy!