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Shimano is updating its road pedal system with the launch of the SPD-SLR platform. New Dura-Ace and Ultegra pedals, new S-Phyre and RC810 shoes, and new cleats are on the agenda, with several changes designed to bring the foot closer to the pedal axle, make clipping in easier, and simplify adjustment.
Source: Press Release
With the new SPD-SLR system, Shimano isn’t just updating the pedals or cleats. The Japanese manufacturer has worked on the entire interface between the shoe, the cleat, and the pedal, with the stated goal of improving stability and power transfer.
A cleat-to-pedal interface lowered by 2.3 mm
The main change concerns the height of the interface. Shimano reports a 2.3 mm reduction in stack height—that is, the distance between the pedal axle and the surface of the sole in contact with the cleat.
This change is designed to bring the foot closer to the pedal axle and create a more direct connection between the rider and the bike. According to Shimano, this design provides greater stability and enhances power transfer, particularly during high-intensity phases such as climbs, accelerations, or sprints.
To learn more about the height between the foot and the pedals, you can read THIS ARTICLE.
The manufacturer has also revised the clip-in geometry. The SPD-SLR system features a wider engagement area and a clip-in angle of 10.5°, compared to 15.5° for the SPD-SL. This is designed to make it easier to engage the cleat, particularly during accelerations or when picking up speed again.
The new SPD-SLR cleats are also said to be up to 25% lighter than the corresponding SPD-SL models.
Finally, Shimano has modified the alignment markers. With higher contrast, they are designed to make it easier to position and reposition the cleats, while maintaining the same configuration from one installation to the next.
Dura-Ace PD-R9300: New High-End Pedals
The SPD-SLR system is primarily featured on the new Dura-Ace PD-R9300 pedal. Shimano pairs it with an extra-wide platform and a new interface designed to reduce the height between the sole and the axle.
The pedal features an injection-molded carbon composite body and a stainless steel contact plate. The latter is designed to enhance the stiffness of the interface between the cleat and the pedal.
The axle uses larger bearings to better distribute loads. Shimano reports an 11% increase in stiffness compared to the PD-R8200.
The manufacturer also states that it has reduced rotational resistance by 53% compared to the Ultegra PD-R8200 pedal, thanks in part to a heat-treated axle and optimized bearing surfaces.
The Dura-Ace PD-R9300 is priced at €249.99.
Ultegra PD-R8200: A More Affordable SPD-SLR Option
The new Ultegra PD-R8200 pedals feature the same SPD-SLR architecture in a mid-range version.
They also feature a carbon body and a stainless steel contact plate. Shimano highlights the assembly’s stiffness, power transfer, and the engagement characteristics of the new interface.
Their listed price is €149.99.
Two new pairs of road shoes
The launch of the SPD-SLR system is also accompanied by two new models of Shimano road shoes, with the S-Phyre SH-RC910 serving as the top-of-the-line model.
These shoes feature a carbon fiber heel counter with anti-torsion stabilization, as well as a Carbon Hollow Core midsole. They also incorporate DynaLast 2.0 technology, a new upper construction, and new perforations designed to improve ventilation.
The new SPD-SLR platform also offers a wider range of cleat adjustment.
The S-Phyre SH-RC910 is priced at €399.99.
The SH-RC810 incorporates several technologies developed for the S-Phyre line, including two BOA Li2 dials, DynaLast 2.0 technology, an external heel stabilizer, and a rigid carbon midsole with hollow channels.
Shimano also plans to offer replaceable heels to extend the shoes’ lifespan.
Four types of cleats
The new SPD-SLR system is available with four cleat models, corresponding to different levels of angular freedom.
- The red CL-SL100 cleats are fixed, with no play, designed to provide a rigid connection between the shoe and the pedal.
- The yellow CL-SL110 cleats allow for 3° of rotation and are the cleats included with the Dura-Ace PD-R9300 and Ultegra PD-R8200 pedals.
- The blue CL-SL120 cleats allow for 1° of rotation.
- Finally, the gray CL-SL130 cleats are designed specifically for riders using three-bolt road shoes that are not equipped with the new Shimano interface. They offer a wider adjustment range but do not benefit from the reduced stack height or weight savings associated with the integrated SPD-SLR interface.
Compatibility limited to the new pedals
To take full advantage of all the features advertised by Shimano, the manufacturer recommends pairing the new cleats with SPD-SLR shoes and pedals.
The CL-SL100, CL-SL110, and CL-SL120 models feature simplified lateral adjustment, while longitudinal adjustment remains dependent on the range available on the shoe being used.
The CL-SL130 retains a wider range of adjustment for shoes with fixed soles and remains compatible with SPD-SLR pedals.
However, the new SPD-SLR cleats are not compatible with older SPD-SL pedals. Shimano is therefore presenting this launch as a new platform rather than a simple evolution of existing SPD-SL components.
Learn more: bike.shimano.com
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