Mathieu van der Poel fell foul of Shimano's different cleat systems at Paris-Roubaix – here's how you can avoid the same issue
It's pretty simple, actually, unless you're changing bikes in a rush – and the new cleats are easier to walk in, too
Mathieu van der Poel experienced a notable setback at Paris-Roubaix when his bicycle wheels were changed, leading him to walk back to his original bike after a puncture. During this confusion, he attempted to mount Jasper Philipsen's bike, unaware that the cleat systems were incompatible. Philipsen was using the new Shimano Dura-Ace pedals with SPD-SLR cleats, while van der Poel still had the older SPD-SL cleats.
The new R9300 pedals are incompatible with the older SPD-SL cleats, requiring the newer SPD-SLR cleats. While there is some backwards compatibility, it's not recommended and feels less than ideal. To fully utilize the new system, riders should use the Dura-Ace or Ultegra R8200 pedals with the new cleats. However, these pedals and cleats may not require the newest shoes, but shoes with less aft and fore adjustment may limit cleat position.
Performance coach Andy Turner suggests that while the reduced stack height does enhance connection and directness for sprinting, the benefits are minimal for most users. He advises updating pedals or bikes when necessary rather than immediately transitioning to the new system. Additionally, van der Poel found the new cleats to be more comfortable for walking, despite the minor advantages of the new system.
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- Shimano's new SPD-SLR comes with a brand new cleat design – but why? cyclingweekly.com
