Cycling cleats attach to clipless pedals, transferring more pedaling power to the drivetrain and allowing for easy clip-in and clip-out capabilities. They come in various shapes and sizes, with mountain bike cleats made of metal for durability and road cycling cleats made of plastic to save weight. Riders should clean cleats regularly to prevent wear.
Cycling cleats are specifically shaped pieces of metal that mount to the bottom of cycling shoes. These cycling cleats lock into pedals designed to work in unison with the cleats; A rider is then clamped onto the pedals, which means more of the rider’s pedaling power will be transferred to the pedal, and in turn, to the transmission. Pedals designed to work with cycling cleats are known as “clipless pedals” because they replaced toe clips, which were metal or plastic cages that the rider slipped their shoes into during cycling activities.
The advantages of cycling cleats that attach to clipless pedals include more pedaling power transferred directly to the drivetrain and easier clip-in and clip-out capabilities. One of the biggest dangers with toe clips was the need to clip them over cycling shoes, which could make it difficult to get off the pedals, especially in emergency situations. Clipless pedals and cycling cleats eliminate this problem by making pedal release extremely easy: the rider simply kicks their heel out and the cleat and pedal will release. To re-depress the pedal, the rider will place the cleat on the pedal so that the tip of the cleat slides into the pedal, then press down on the rear of the cleat. Movement is quick and easy.
Cycling cleats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and aren’t always necessarily made of metal. Road cycling cleats are typically much larger than mountain biking cleats; Mountain bike cleats need to be much smaller, as a mountain biker is more likely to get off their bike to hike or run a section of trail. Road cycling cleats tend to be much larger, although pedals are much smaller. Road studs are more likely to be made of plastic rather than metal to save weight.
Mountain bike cleats are made of metal for durability. The cleat can wear out quite quickly, especially if the cleats are made of softer metals, so plastic cleats are out of the question for a mountain biker who is likely to hit rocks and other obstructions on a regular basis. Riders should take care to clean cleats regularly, as sand and grime can accelerate cleat wear. Moisture can also get into the cleat bolts, which can then seize, meaning the cleats need to be cut before they can be replaced.
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