These cleats are made to work with clipless pedals and shoes, even though the name can be a little confusing at first. Once they’re all set up, this simple system makes pedalling more efficient and controlled. You can ride with more confidence on the bike, even as rides get longer or more frequent.
Here at Ivanhoe Cycles, we’re always happy to match you up with the right cleats. We can also check compatibility with your pedals or shoes and make sure everything is fitted and adjusted so it feels natural from your very first ride. We’ve got over 40 years of experience, so you can trust us to give you the help and support you need.
The Different Types of Bike Cleats
There are two main types of bike cleats to choose from, each made for a different kind of riding style and pedal system.
SPD (2-Bolt) Cleats
SPD cleats use a 2-bolt mounting system and are mostly paired with MTB pedals. They are popular for mountain biking, gravel riding, commuting, touring, and indoor cycling. Because the cleat sits recessed into the shoe, walking is much easier and more comfortable when you’re off the bike.
These cleats are fully compatible with almost all mountain bike and commuter cycling shoes. This is what makes them a practical, versatile option for everyday riding.
SPD-SL (3-Bolt) Cleats
SPD-SL cleats use a 3-bolt mounting system and are all about road cycling. The wider platform improves stability and power transfer - better for longer rides and higher speeds.
Matching Up Your Pedals and Shoes
Correct compatibility between cleats, pedals, and shoes is essential. Road cleats cannot be used with mountain bike shoes, and SPD cleats will not clip into road-only pedals. If you’re unsure what system you have, our team can quickly identify your pedals and shoes in-store.
- SPD cleats work with SPD-style bike pedals and 2-bolt cycling shoes, commonly used for MTB, gravel, commuting, and indoor riding.
- SPD-SL cleats work only with SPD-SL road pedals and 3-bolt road cycling shoes.
Get the Right Sizing and Setup Guidance
Bike cleats don’t come in shoe sizes, but correct positioning is a must. Cleats should always be matched up to your natural foot angle and pedalling motion.
Common setup considerations include fore-aft position under the ball of the foot and toe angle alignment. Without the proper setup, you risk unwanted discomfort or even knee issues.
Our team is always happy to help with cleat installation and fine adjustments to make sure everything feels right.
Care and Maintenance
Your cleats will wear over time, and there’s not much you can do about that. However, there are some things you can do to make sure they go on for a little longer.
- Check over cleats regularly for wear
- Replace them when engagement feels loose or inconsistent
- Keep mounting bolts tight and free from dirt
- Avoid unnecessary walking in road cleats where possible
Simple, Straightforward Buying Guidance
When picking out your bike cleats, think about:
- Your riding style and terrain
- Compatibility with your bike pedals and cycling shoes
- How often you walk off the bike
- Your experience level with clip in pedals
SPD cleats are often the easiest starting point for new riders because they’re forgiving, easier to walk in and well-suited to mixed riding. Experienced riders SPD-SL cleats suit riders focused on efficiency and performance, especially on the road.
If you’re unsure, speak with our team. We help riders transition to clipless pedals every day and are always happy to guide you through the process.
