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Available pedal systems often show considerable variations in shape and design. Despite this, these general guidelines for adjusting and maintaining pedal systems apply to them all.
- Make sure that the cleat of the shoe is fastened to it so that when you place your foot in the pedal, the ball of your foot rests directly on the pedal spindle itself.
- Ensure that your feet are comfortable and resting in a natural position while pedaling. With most people, the best natural position is to have your heels pointing slightly inwards and the
toes of your feet turned slightly outwards.
- Tighten the fastening bolts into place properly. If this is not done and the plate is slightly loose, it will be almost impossible to disengage your shoe and could result in a serious injury/
accident.
- The releasing force should be adjusted before you begin cycling. For beginners it is recommended that you set the release force low. Use a suitable tool to turn the bolt slightly, and then
examine the difference in the releasing force when you engage and disengage from the pedals with your shoes. Find the releasing force that you are most comfortable with before you
begin cycling.
- You will need to regularly check the springs and other exposed components of the pedal system. These should be cleaned often, and grease should be applied after each cleaning.
- To silence any creaking or squeaking from the cleats, apply a small amount of grease to the point of contact between the pedal and the cleat.
- You should examine the cleats regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any lateral play on the pedal while cycling, this could mean that the cleats or the shoe soles are worn
out and need replacing.
PLEASE REFER TO THE SPECIFIC PEDAL AND SHOE INSTRUCTION/WARNING MANUALS FOR INSTALLATION AND SET UP PROCEDURES.
Please note that some kinds of shoes are not suitable for cycling purposes. Cycling shoes should ideally have a stiff sole that provides firm support. If your shoe soles are too soft, it is possible
that the pedals could press through them and cause discomfort, pain or injury to your feet. Another consideration to be aware of is that the soles of your shoes are not too broad, especially near
the heels, as this could impede your pedaling. Having too broad soles on your shoes can also cause knee pain in the future, as it prevents you from placing your feet in a natural position on the
pedals.
Pedals that have a lock and release mechanism for your shoes are the best kind. These kinds of pedals are known as clip-less or step-in pedals. These pedals provide a firm connection between
the sole of your shoe and the pedal, and help to prevent your feet from slipping off while you are riding on rough ground, or while you are pedaling rapidly. As well as this, they allow you to pull the
pedals, as well as push them. This serves to make your pedaling much more fluid and less arduous. Another great feature that clip-less pedals provide is that they allow you to rest the balls of your
feet in the correct positions on the pedal spindles. The advantage of this is that your feet will not get in the way of front wheel while you are steering.
All clip-less or step-in pedals come together with specially designed cycling shoes that can lock onto the pedal in a similar fashion to a ski binding. In order to engage the shoe with the pedal and
lock it firmly into position, you need turn the pedal so that it is horizontal, using the cleat, or the sole plate of the shoe, then place your foot onto it. You will hear and feel the shoe clearly click into
place; this tells you that the shoe is now engaged.
To disengage the shoe from the pedal, twist the heel outward. When you do this for the first time, it is advisable that you lean against a wall or get someone to hold you so you don’t fall down. After
several attempts you should be comfortable with the procedure.
Some differences between the functions of different pedal systems can include the shape of the cleat on the shoes, the release angles when disengaging and also the rigidness of the connection
itself. If you are a cyclist that has suffered from knee problems before, it is recommended that you select a pedal system that has some give in it. This means that the heel of the shoe can move from
side to side slightly while it is engaged with the pedal.
ADJUSTING AND MAINTAINING YOUR PEDAL SYSTEM
THE PEDAL SYSTEM
ABOUT CLIP-LESS OR STEP-IN PEDALS
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