Cycling is a sport where every piece of equipment plays a significant role in performance, including cleats. Professional cyclists rely on high-quality cleats to ensure comfort, efficiency, and power transfer during races and long training sessions. Choosing the right cleats can make a difference in both speed and endurance, which is why it’s important to understand the cleats that pro cyclists use.
This article will cover everything about the cleats pro cyclists rely on, from the types of cleats available to the features that make them so essential in the world of professional cycling.
Types of Cycling Cleats
There are various types of cleats designed for different cycling disciplines. Each type of cleat has unique characteristics that suit different styles of riding, such as road cycling, mountain biking, or indoor cycling. Below, we’ll look at the most popular cleat types that professional cyclists use.
Road Bike Cleats
Road bike cleats are typically larger and designed to offer maximum power transfer between the shoe and the pedal. Since road cyclists ride for extended periods without much walking, these cleats are not built for walking but instead focus on providing stability, efficiency, and support. Pro cyclists who race in road events use this type of cleat.
The most popular road cleats include:
Look Keo Cleats: These cleats are widely used in professional road cycling. Look Keo cleats are compatible with Look pedals and are known for their large surface area, which provides excellent stability and power transfer. They are lightweight and durable, ideal for high-performance racing.
Shimano SPD-SL Cleats: Shimano’s SPD-SL cleats are another top choice among pro cyclists. These cleats feature a wide base for increased power transfer and are designed to be easy to clip in and out of, which is important for fast-paced racing conditions. The SPD-SL system offers reliable engagement and release, helping cyclists maintain their efficiency throughout the ride.
Speedplay Cleats: Speedplay cleats, particularly the Zero model, are known for offering a customizable float, which allows a cyclist’s foot to rotate slightly while pedaling. This reduces strain on the knees and increases comfort over long distances, making Speedplay cleats a popular option for professional riders who need to balance performance and injury prevention.
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Mountain Bike Cleats
Mountain bike cleats are designed to be durable, allowing riders to walk on rough terrain. They are usually smaller and have two-bolt systems, which make it easier to unclip in tricky situations. Mountain biking professionals use these cleats for their off-road adventures.
Shimano SPD Cleats: Shimano SPD cleats are the most common cleats used by professional mountain bikers. These cleats are incredibly versatile, providing strong engagement and easy release, essential for the unpredictable nature of off-road riding. They are designed to work with Shimano SPD pedals, which are known for their durability and ability to shed mud easily.
Crankbrothers Cleats: Crankbrothers cleats are another favorite for mountain bikers. They are known for their simple design and lightweight build. The eggbeater shape of the pedals ensures that mud does not clog up the cleat-pedal interface, making them perfect for rough, muddy trails. Crankbrothers cleats offer different levels of float, providing flexibility in movement.
Key Features of Cycling Cleats
When selecting cleats, professional cyclists look for specific features that enhance their performance. Here are some of the key factors that influence their choices:
Power Transfer
One of the most important features that pro cyclists focus on is power transfer. Cleats need to efficiently transfer the energy from the cyclist’s legs through the pedals and into the bike. Cleats with a larger surface area, like the Look Keo and Shimano SPD-SL, provide better power transfer because they spread the force over a wider area. This maximizes efficiency, especially during sprints or climbs.
Float
Float refers to the degree of rotational movement that a cleat allows before it releases from the pedal. Some cleats have fixed positions with no float, while others offer varying degrees of float. A cleat with a high float, like Speedplay, allows for more movement, reducing stress on the joints and lowering the risk of injury. Pro cyclists who prioritize knee health often choose cleats with customizable float settings.
Engagement and Release
The ease with which cleats clip into and release from pedals is crucial for safety and performance. In high-speed races, pro cyclists need cleats that can engage and release smoothly. Systems like Shimano SPD-SL and Speedplay are praised for their reliable engagement, allowing riders to clip in effortlessly even during chaotic race starts or when recovering from stops.
Durability
Pro cyclists often put their cleats through extreme conditions, from muddy mountain trails to long road races in varying weather. Therefore, durability is a critical factor. Cleats like the Shimano SPD and Look Keo are designed to withstand heavy use without wearing down quickly. Cleats used for mountain biking, like Crankbrothers, are built to handle mud, dirt, and rocks, making them resilient for tough off-road conditions.
Weight
In professional cycling, every gram counts. Lightweight cleats reduce the overall weight of the bike-shoe-pedal system, helping cyclists gain an edge in races. Speedplay cleats, for instance, are known for their minimal weight without sacrificing performance, which is a key reason many professional riders prefer them.
What Factors Influence Cleat Choice Among Pro Cyclists?
Choosing the right cleat isn’t just about performance on paper. Professional cyclists consider several factors when deciding which cleats to use.
Type of Cycling Discipline
Different cycling disciplines demand different cleat features. For road racing, where speed and efficiency are critical, pro cyclists prefer cleats like Look Keo or Shimano SPD-SL because of their superior power transfer. For mountain biking, durability and mud-shedding abilities make Crankbrothers or Shimano SPD cleats the go-to options.
Pedal Compatibility
Cleats must be compatible with the pedals on a cyclist’s bike. Most cleat systems are designed to work with specific pedals, such as Shimano SPD-SL cleats with Shimano SPD-SL pedals or Look Keo cleats with Look pedals. Switching between different pedal systems mid-season can be challenging, so most pros stick to what they are familiar with.
Comfort and Injury Prevention
Professional cyclists spend hours in the saddle, which can take a toll on their joints and muscles. Many pros opt for cleats with a certain degree of float to reduce stress on the knees. Speedplay cleats, with their customizable float, are popular for this reason, as they allow pro cyclists to fine-tune the rotation of their foot for maximum comfort.
Personal Preference and Sponsorships
While performance is the primary concern, personal preference and sponsorships also play a role in cleat selection. Professional cycling teams are often sponsored by companies that provide cleats and pedals, meaning cyclists will use cleats from those brands. However, within those constraints, individual riders may have preferences for specific cleat models based on comfort, fit, and their unique riding style.
Cleat Maintenance for Pro Cyclists
Cleats undergo a lot of wear and tear, and professional cyclists maintain their equipment rigorously to avoid problems during races. Here are some tips on how pro cyclists keep their cleats in top shape:
Regular Inspection: Professional cyclists frequently inspect their cleats for wear. Worn cleats can make it difficult to clip in or out, affecting performance. Pro cyclists replace cleats regularly, especially before important races.
Cleaning: Dirt, mud, and grime can build up in cleats, particularly for mountain bikers. Pro cyclists make it a habit to clean their cleats after every ride to ensure smooth engagement with the pedals.
Lubrication: Some cleats require lubrication to function optimally. Speedplay cleats, for example, need to be lubricated to prevent rust and ensure smooth movement. Pro cyclists often carry a small bottle of lube to keep their cleats in good working order.
Proper Alignment: Incorrect cleat alignment can lead to discomfort or injury. Professional cyclists often consult bike fit specialists to ensure their cleats are properly aligned, which helps improve pedaling efficiency and prevents long-term joint damage.
Conclusion
The cleats used by pro cyclists are more than just a small piece of equipment; they are an integral part of their performance. Whether it’s the high-power transfer of Look Keo and Shimano SPD-SL cleats or the durability and mud-shedding abilities of Crankbrothers cleats for mountain biking, each type of cleat plays a vital role in optimizing a cyclist’s ride.
Pro cyclists choose cleats based on their riding discipline, personal preferences, and compatibility with their pedals. Features like power transfer, float, ease of engagement, and durability are essential factors that professionals consider. Keeping cleats well-maintained ensures that they perform at their best during every ride, helping pro cyclists stay competitive.
By understanding the cleats used by professional cyclists, both amateur and aspiring riders can make informed decisions to improve their cycling performance.
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