How To Set Up Clip In Pedals For Mountain Biking

Mountain bike pedals, there are a lot of options out there, even after you’ve made the decision between flat and clipless. In this video Doddy explains how to correctly set up the two most popular types of MTB clip in pedals, and how important it is for proper performance and avoiding injuries.

In association with crankbrothers

Do you use clip in pedals on your mountain bike?

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[christopherhday]

Doddy, Thank you so much for doing this video.  I have been riding with SPD pedals for over 20 years and I have never seen a video with such detailed and excellent explanation regarding this equipment.  I try to learn something new everyday, and I have found that I learn something new with every video that you guys make. Ya'll do excellent work and I have greatly enjoyed watching your videos. Chris

[thomasmedeiros]

Absolutely great explanation. One of the few videos that actually explained the SH 56 M cleat multi release option for Shimano SPD. I been riding Shimano pedals for 30 years and I have worked in a ski / bike shop. The Shimano with SH 56 M is a great choice for first time recreational riding. Personally I run this cleat on my trail shoes for the extra release in rock gardens at my local trails. Yes occasionally I pre release but I am not racing or riding in a competitive situation so there’s not to lose. I do have flats for playing around and practicing but love the feeling of the Shimano SPD. I do run the SH 51 cleat on my road and gravel bikes because release is not an issue and they are included with the pedals.

[savoirfaire]

Honestly, I had never really thought about cleats and pedals at this level of detail. Even after a good decade of on/off use, I was ignorant on a lot of important information.

[Spreadsheetcom]

As a previous viewer alluded, I have been riding with Shimano SPD pedals & SM-SH51 cleats for about 25 years and I have never seen a video with such detailed explanation. I always use elbow protectors under my jersey, even for city rides, just in case the shoes don't get released timely. I think it has happened twice or so during my cycling 'career'. Elbow protection made the difference between going home or to ER!

[daliusjonaitis]

Thank you for this video! Very little information on spd cleat positioning on the internet.

[michaeldavid]

Either I'm totally dense or I just didnt get the way many other guys' explained this process. For some reason you hit the nail on the head with your version of setting up Mtn bike cleats. Thank you for taking the time to explain this so even I can understand it. Count on me as a subscriber

[JogBird]

spds are good for beginners, use the multi release cleat and lower the spring tension all the way down, move up as you get comfortable

[damienmorinon]

Great tip on the natural position of the foot, I did not know that one. Great video

[Accretion]

Not mentioned in the vid, Crank Brothers sell metal shields that go onto your shoe before the cleat. Gives the clip-in a nice audible metallic click when you're in. Some might not like it though because it might make your shoes feel "icey" on the pedals. To each his own.

[anhelytriana]

Thank you so much! I know this was posted a while ago but I just got into cycling and this was the only video that was educational and truly taught me why I would make a change and the impact it makes!

[stephengreen]

Such a great video on SPD pedal setup - thanks for such a comprehensive and clear explanation!

[carolinacordero]

This is by far the best video on the subject!!

[FIGHTTHECABLE]

I just learned a lot about clip pedals. I bought some Hellcat shoes and Crank Brothers Mallets. Rode them once on the trails, could not unclip, stopped riding for the season. That was a real down moment for me. I willl need to look into this again. Thanks

[DrgnWd]

I'm an xc rider and I put my cleats back now I learned not to do it but put them more forward definitely going to try that this thnx

[mitchb]

this vid has honestly changed my clipped in setup

[stevenjayobrien]

Good stuff! This has help me as a rookie on clips

[iainrossiter]

As always Doddy, brilliant explanation of some very important advice.

[fpartidafpartida]

Absolutely brilliant advice with all the little differences the adjustments make. Cross country vs down hill. Using your calf muscles vs being able to disengage..etc 🤙

[overstillriding]

TY TY TY TY I've had such a problem with corners I'm a newbie about a year.. I guess I'm a dumb ass. Never thought about getting off sadle in corners. Now since this video I'm flying around corners that would have sent me off trail... ty

[armanafshar]

Excellent video - very helpful and thorough! Thanks mate!