Cycling UK Forum

Hi all,
I'm new to all this cycling lark and all being well should be picking up my Giant Defy 2 next week. I am looking for some clipless pedals to put on. I think I've narrowed it down to a choice of either Shimano R540 or Shimano 105's. What are people opinions of these pedal, I am on a budget so favouring the R540's but if there was a big advantage could probably run to the 105's
Cheers

Neither. If you are new to cycling I'd strongly recommend going the spd route and start with a pair of m520 spd.

SPD-SL pedals are favoured by some roadies, but TBH I have no idea why. I tried their antecedent the 'Look' pedals and cleats years ago, and was so disappointed I went back to clips and straps for ten years. The cleats wear out, the shoes are awful to walk in, and they are somewhat prone to making peculiar squeaking sounds.

I agree with the previous post BTW; conventional (small cleat) SPDs suit very many purposes and are much the best clipless system to start with. People do road race with them, and in fact shimano used to offer a Dura-Ace SPD pedal (PD-7410). PD-A600 is under 300g and is a good choice for sporty riding. PD-A520 does the same job for a lot less money; there are loads of other pedals available in a variety of styles so you can choose one that suits your needs. PD-M520 is very inexpensive and is easy to use, being double-sided.

cheers

Plus one for SPDs, slackened right off until you are used to them. Good choice of inexpensive pedals and you can walk in the shoes and cleats

If you want SPD-SL, the 105's are much better quality for not much more money. They are full metal, whereas the 540's are part plastic and wear out quicker. If you shop around on the net you can get 105's for £43, but make sure they come with cleats!

I have both types, but will be moving to 105 pedals on all bikes in the future (apart from my tourer which is still clips and straps).

+1 for clipless and shoes. Go for best you can afford, loosen off and don't worry everyone has at least one off while learning to use them. lol
Walking? Proper spd shoes have insets for the cleats and walking is no problem... in fact they came from mtb racing where riders need to be able to walk as well as cycling.

Another vote for spd and 520s

....another vote for M520....
Reasonably priced and mine have lasted ages with no adjustment from the factory settings until today.

I use M520's, no problem with them. Shoes: Lidl. Now in their 5th season, and starting to show a bit of wear on the straps.