How to Adjust SPD Cleats After Raising a Saddle

The more miles you ride on a bicycle, the more important it becomes to position yourself properly. Maintaining a proper saddle height, for instance, reduces the potential for knee and hip pain. Once your saddle is properly adjusted, checking the position of the foot in relation to the pedal axle further ensures a comfortable ride. Shimano SPD cleats allow up to 20 mm of adjustment front-to-back and 5 mm left-to-right.

Things You'll Need

  • Stationary bicycle trainer (optional)
  • 4 mm hex key
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your bicycle in a stationary trainer. If no trainer is available, mount your bicycle and ride to a quiet, obstruction-free area.

    • 2

      Look down at your feet, locked into the pedals, to assess the position of the ball of your foot in relation to the pedal axle. The pedal axle should bisect the ball of your foot. Note whether the axle is behind or in front of the ball of your foot.

    • 3

      Dismount the bicycle and remove both shoes.

    • 4

      Use a 4 mm hex key to loosen the two bolts affixing the SPD cleat to the shoe. Loosen the bolts just enough to allow movement of the cleat.

    • 5

      Move the cleat forward or backward, as needed. If you noted the ball of your foot in front of the axle, move the cleat forward. If you noted the ball of your foot behind the axle, move the SPD cleat backward. Repeat for both shoes.

    • 6

      Use the 4 hex key to tighten the cleat bolts following adjustment.

    • 7

      Mount your bicycle a second time. Note the position of the axle pedal to the ball of your foot to ensure the adjustment was accurate.