SPD-SL Cleats

[jowwy]

I may have asked this question before, but how far foward/backwards etc do you have your cleats.

I find forward position gives me more power/cadence and sliding them back tends to hurt my knees.

So how do you wear yours???

 

[HLaB]

I'm no expert but when a lbs transferred my cleats to a new pair of shoes they remarked that they were a bit forward and better for sprinting rather than endurance. I replied they were set up that way because I've never had sore knees since doing so and they agreed best to leave as is. I think generally though the further back is better for climbing/endurance and comfort.

 

[jowwy]

So if you move cleats back, do you then drop the saddle to compensate??

 

[Cycleops]

So if you move cleats back, do you then drop the saddle to compensate??

Are you serious?

 

[jowwy]

Are you serious?

Its a simple question based on angles and leg extension. Foot would be further forward of the pedal axle, meaning more extension of the leg, therefore would the saddle need to be lowered to compensate for the extra bit of leg extension

 

[Cycleops]

Sounds like a bit of "Taurus excreta cerebrum vincit" to me.

 

[jowwy]

Sounds like a bit of "Taurus excreta cerebrum vincit" to me.

If you got nothing to add, then go read a different post

 

[raleighnut]

Cleats too far forward can lead to ankle damage if riding "out of the saddle" but are OK if spinning whilst seated. Whatever you are comfortable with is fine but I keep mine just behind the back of my toes in order to be able to "ankle" on a pedal stroke (bit old school) but still stand up without putting undue stress on my Achilles tendon. If a shop has said they are too far forward I ,for one , would be inclined to listen. Whatever.

 

[DiddlyDodds]

I have always just put my cleats on and done minor adjustments whilst riding until it feels right, so have had a look tonight and the cleats are quite forward ,i have moved them back and will see if its made a difference when i get out tomorrow.

 

[PaulSecteur]

I have mine set so the ball of my foot is slightly (very slightly) in front of the pedal axle, heels slightly in.

 

[HLaB]

@jowwy Never heard of anybody changing their saddle height due to cleat position and I've never seen a guide linking the two either.

 

[jowwy]

Thanks guys - ive moved them back slightly and will see how i go tomorrow with them

 

[maltloaf]

The ball of my foot is very slightly in front of the pedal axle. Seems the best position for me for all round comfort and efficiency.

 

[LarryDuff]

I moved mine back and got rid of my sore knee problem.