Shimano Spd

Shimano Spd
When do I know to change the cleats on my cycling shoes? Currently riding Shimano Spd Pedals.?

Do I just use a wrench and tighten the pedals (so there is more tension), or is that just inefficient?

There’s a point where your shoe will fit more loosely in the pedal when clipped in, and sometimes it gets harder to release, too (contrary to what you’d expect). Look at a new cleat and see how thick the front and rear edges are. As you wear them down, they’ll get thinner and sharper and you’ll notice those changes I mentioned. Spd’s use steel cleats and they really do last a long time unless you do a lot of walking on gravel or rocks. If you do walk a lot and your shoe will take front toe spikes, install those….it helps to lift your foot when you step and will lessen some of that wear on the cleats.

If you’re riding worn cleats and having release issues, replace them rather than changing the release tension on the pedal. If you do that, you might find yourself falling over and having a hard time getting unclipped. )