Shimano Pair of SPD Wedges for Mountain/Cyclo Shoes

Product Information

In summary, both the SH51 and SH56 cleats offer a secure connection between the shoe and the pedal, but they have some key differences in their design and performance. The SH51 cleats offer a more secure connection and a single release mode, while the SH56 cleats offer more flexibility in their release mechanism and a wider range of adjustment. Ultimately, the choice between the two cleats will depend on the rider’s specific needs and preferences. Release Tension

Periodically lubricate the moving parts of the cleats to ensure smooth operation. Use a light oil or grease compatible with the cleat’s materials. And there you have it, folks! The lowdown on Shimano SPD Cleats SH51 and SH56. So whether you’re an experienced rider seeking a firm grip or a newbie craving flexibility, there’s a cleat out there for you. Embrace the learning curve, enjoy the ride, and remember – it’s all about finding the perfect fit for your cycling adventures. Happy pedaling! 🚴‍♂️ The aesthetic differences between the SH51 and SH56 cleats are minimal. Both of them are made of metal and have two recessed bolt holes that, if you’re cycling with cleats, you can use the accompanying bolts to secure to the bottoms of your shoes. Fitting Some cleats are purely road and are not practical for any purpose other than racing or pseudo-racing, since they project from the sole and make walking difficult. All off-road, i.e. recessed cleats, can on the other hand be used for any purpose: mountain biking, touring, commuting, shopping... since many of the shoes that accept these cleats are also good for walking.

What’s the difference between SH51 and SH56 cleats?

Cycling with cleats can also be more comfortable, especially on long rides, because your foot is held in the right place and you won’t have to adjust the position.

Correspondingly older cleats such as SM-SH50 or SM-SH55 give large amounts of float with newer pedals. However as noted above I do not think that these older cleats should be used with 'open' binding pedals, only 'platform binding' types. So for example PD-M515 would probably work (albeit with much increased float) with SM-SH50 cleats, but with PD-M520, I wouldn't use either SM-SH50 or SM-SH55; not only would the float be increased, but the cleat wouldn't be supported properly either. FWIW Shimano appeared to have given up with the 'double jaw' pedal later on too, but up it popped again in the form of PD-M858; another relatively heavy, complicated expensive pedal that didn't sell well.... The SM-SH50 cleats may have disappeared at about the same time as PD-M515 was introduced; this was (I think) the first of a new generation of SPD pedals which (confusingly) used some of the same cleat part numbers (eg SM-SH51) but the parts themselves were different. Thus you can get cleats with the same part numbers which are actually different; thanks shimano!.. FWIW using old SM- SH51 cleats in newer pedals gives more float than in older ones. Using 'new' (made after ~1997) SM-SH51 cleats in older SPD pedals gives almost no float at all. To ensure that you attach the cleats to your shoes the proper way, each one has an arrow at the front. They can be used on both the left and right shoes. Colors The fixed release tension of the SH51 cleats provides a consistent release force, which can be beneficial for riders who prefer a predictable release. However, this tension may not be suitable for riders who require a more customizable release tension. Compatibility and InstallationOverall, Shimano SPD SH51 cleats are a reliable and durable choice for riders who require a secure connection between their shoe and pedal. The fixed release tension may not be suitable for all riders, but the mud-shedding design and easy installation make them a popular choice for many. Exploring Shimano SPD SH56 Cleats Keep an eye on cleat wear in your shoes, particularly if you’re using plastic three-bolt road cleats. If the cleats wear down, they can feel loose in the pedal, so you won’t be getting the advantages of using them. Most cleats have wear markers and you can get cleat covers for easier walking too. 8. Keep it clean The release tension refers to the amount of force required to release the cleat from the pedal. The SH51 cleats have a higher release tension compared to the SH56 cleats. This means that the SH51 cleats require more force to release, which can be beneficial for riders who want a more secure connection to the pedal. On the other hand, the SH56 cleats have a lower release tension, making it easier to release from the pedal. This can be useful for riders who need to frequently disengage from the pedal, such as commuters or beginners. Ease of Release The exception is PD-M858, a race-special MTB pedal introduced in 2000 along with its own special cleat (SH52) that nevertheless also fitted pre-existing pedals. This pedal was quietly dropped in 2002 in favour of a new MTB racing pedal (PD-M959) that works with the usual SH51 cleat but not SH52, which nevertheless remains in Shimano’s catalogue for the benefit of anyone who bought M858. Clean your cleats regularly using a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the cleats.