More Information
 On: 2007-05-09
I have been riding with Speedplay Light Action pedals since November 2006. I bought these pedals after a month of riding with Shimanos Dura Ace PD-7800 pedals. The PD-7800s have a very secure feeling but for me getting in and of out them was scary. I fell three times because I just couldnt get my feet out fast enough. They were also difficult to clip into especially on steep hills because they can hang upside down. They are single sided so you have to flip the pedal back over by taping it with your toe while trying to pedal and not fall over. Also, you can not just start pedaling with the Shimano pedals because they are not flat and your foot will slip off.
Speedplay pedals are very different. Theyre double sided and are extremely easy to clip into and out of. You dont even have to look just step down with a light push of the shoe against the pedal and you will hear a click. If for some reason you miss the pedal, no problem just start pedaling and clip in after you are moving--It couldnt be easier.
Once you are pedaling the only difference I noticed between the PD-7800 and the Speedplays is the float. The Shimanos have self centering float. You can rotate your foot clockwise or counter clockwise slightly but a spring will bring your foot back to center. The Speedplays have more float (15 degrees instead of 6 degrees) but there is no spring action to bring you foot back to center. I much prefer the free float feeling of the Speedplay pedals.
The Shimanos do have a few slight advantages, if you consider these advantages.
* Speedplays will require that you lubricate the bearings three to four times per year. Speedplay sells a grease gun for this purpose.
* The screws on the Speedplays cleats can come out if you do not use Locktite.
* The Shimano pedals are a little easier to walk in. Speedplay uses a medal cleat instead of plastic one and they clomp louder than the plastic Shimano cleats. However, Speedplay makes cleat covers that solve this problem when you need to walk on a wooden floor or in a coffee shop.
* Speedplays are more likely to be affected by mud than the Shimanos. However, I have never experienced a problem with dirt or mud but I only ride on paved roads.
Over all the Speedplay Light Action are great pedals and the only pedals I will ever use.
I can not recommend these pedals highly enough.
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