If you are just being introduced to the word “Cleats” allow us to explain that A bicycle cleat is a tiny, triangular wedge made of metal or plastic that is affixed to the bottom of a cyclist’s shoe. Cycling enthusiasts can clip their feet in and out of their pedals using a spring mechanism. The regular bike pedals are swapped out for smaller clip-less pedals to go with the cleats. Shimano SPD cleats are a popular choice for mountain bikers, commuters, and touring cyclists. The two most common types of SPD cleats are the SH51 and SH56. Both of these cleats offer a secure connection between the shoe and the pedal, but they have some key differences in their design and performance. Design Differences

The key things to get right for you are the forward/aft positioning of your cleats, the side-to-side placement, or stance width, and the toe in/out. If you love living life on the edge, trying out crazy stunts, and need that added freedom to escape the pedals easily, the SH56 is calling your name. They’re excellent for beginners too, as they provide a little more room for error. It’s like having a safety net while you test your biking limits. SH51 if You’re a Steady Rider

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Advertising links are marked with *. We receive a small commission on sales, nothing changes for you. Product Overview There’s no right or wrong answer to which type of cleats to choose. Which cleats work best for you depends on the type of riding you do and also how confident you are riding with clipless pedals.

The Shimano SH51 has a fixed release tension, which makes it easier to exit the pedal, but can also make accidental releases more likely. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on factors such as riding style, terrain, and desired release options. By understanding the differences between Shimano SPD SH51 and SH56 cleats, you can make an informed decision and enhance your overall cycling experience. Feature Table: Shimano SPD SH51 Vs. SH56 Cleats Feature SH51 cleats have a single direction of release, meaning that the rider can only disengage from the pedal by pushing their heel out in a flat plane relative to the pedal or by pushing it in. This design provides a secure connection with the pedal, making it a good choice for aggressive riding styles that require a lot of power and control. Cycling with cleats can also be more comfortable, especially on long rides, because your foot is held in the right place and you won’t have to adjust the position.

This change was then implemented in most new SPD pedal models, and retrospectively in some extant models.

The entry and exit tension of a pedal cleat determines how easily the rider can engage and disengage from the pedal mechanism. A qualified bike fitter is the best way to be sure you’ve got the perfect position. Your local bike shop or indoor cycling instructor are also good people to ask for help from.Overall, both the SH51 and SH56 cleats are reliable and high-quality options for clipless pedal systems. Riders should choose the cleat that best suits their individual needs and preferences. Shimano’s two-bolt SPD cleats are preferred for mountain biking and urban riding. But why are there two types? Lawrence Crossman-Emms If you intend to do some walking in your cycling shoes, a mountain bike or gravel shoe almost always has a recess along the middle of the sole for the cleat, so it won’t skid noisily on the floor and there’s less risk of slipping. The Shimano SH51 and SH52 pedal cleats both weigh approximately 50 grams per pair, which is relatively lightweight compared to other pedal cleats on the market. Price By engaging with the pedal mechanism, these pedal cleats allow the rider to transfer power more efficiently and provide a more stable and secure connection between the rider and the bike.