What is the difference between SPD cleats?
By Rick Schultz
I often get asked, “What is the difference between SPD cleats?” Specifically SM-SH51 and SM-SH56.
| SM-SH51 | SM-SH56 (Multi-Release) |
Shimano SM-SH51 SPD Cleats come stock with all Shimano SPD pedals and are the go-to choice for mountain bikers, indoor cyclists, and anyone looking for a durable and reliable 2-bolt cleat. | Shimano SM-SH56 SPD Multi-Release Cleats are durable and reliable 2-bolt cleats that allow you to clip out of your pedal by twisting your foot in either direction or by lifting and twisting your heel |
| Ease of Disengagement: Feature a 13-degree clip-out angle, allowing you to quickly get out of your pedals when the need arises | Featuring a 13-degree clip-out angle and multi-release functionality that allows you to quickly get out of your pedals when the need arises. These cleats are a great choice for anyone new to clipless pedals |
| Customizable: Engineered specifically to work with nearly all Shimano SPD pedals, which allow you to micro-adjust the spring force required to clip in and out of your pedals | Customizable: Engineered specifically to work with nearly all Shimano SPD pedals, which allow you to micro-adjust the spring force required to clip in and out of your pedals |
| Secure Engagement: Deliver 4 degrees of float, which ensures just the right amount of movement while also providing a secure connection to your bike | Secure Engagement: Deliver 4 degrees of float, which ensures just the right amount of movement while also providing adequate pedal engagement security |
| Built to Last: Made from heat treated forged steel that delivers durable long lasting performance even under the most severe riding conditions | Built to Last: Made from heat treated forged steel that delivers durable long lasting performance even under the most severe riding conditions |
Bottom Line
| Not as easy to unclip. Assumes you are familiar with SPD clipless pedals and how to unclip. | More for beginners and easier to unclip in many different directions. Some say that these are too easy to unclip. |
Coach Rick Schultz is an avid cyclist who has trained, raced, and coached in Southern California and now resides in Bend, Oregon where he works as a bike fitter and bike fit educator. Rick is an engineer by trade and a prolific cycling product reviewer. He’s the author of Stretching & Core Strengthening for the Cyclist in the RBR eBookstore. Check his coaching site, www.bikefitnesscoaching.com. Click to read Rick’s full bio.
