Shimano PD-M520 SPD Pedals review

Written By Chris Shirley MA FRGS

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Cost ★★★★☆

Performance ★★★★☆

Overall Score ★★★★☆

Verdict: Great value and dependable performance for both beginner and experienced riders!

These pedals are a popular choice among XC mountain bikers due to their robust design and reliability. Despite being lightweight, they feature a durable aluminium body and a Cromoly steel axle, ensuring longevity and consistent performance across various disciplines.

 

One of the standout features of the M520 pedals is their double-sided entry, which allows for quick and easy engagement without having to look down at your shoes as you can sometimes find with single-sided pedals. The adjustable cleat tension is a practical addition, catering to both novice riders who need easier disengagement and seasoned cyclists seeking a more secure connection. The sealed cartridge bearing spindles effectively keep out water and mud, providing smooth action and extending the pedals' lifespan.

 

At 420 grams, the M520 pedals are only marginally heavier than Shimano's higher-end models like the XT and XTR, yet they offer similar high-grade performance. The included SH51 SPD cleats, with 4 degrees of float, provide a comfortable and efficient ride. Overall, the Shimano M520 pedals are a reliable and economical choice, offering all the essential features and durability without breaking the bank. They're a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their cycling experience with quality clipless pedals.

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Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author:

Chris is the founder of Hiatus.Design, a mission-driven branding and website design company that works with clients all over the world.

Over the course of his life, he has travelled to more than 60 countries across six continents, earned two Guinness World Records, completed the legendary Marathon des Sables, summited Mont Blanc and unclimbed peaks in Asia, become a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS), rowed across the Atlantic Ocean and obtained a Masterʼs degree in Business Management (MA).

https://www.hiatus.design
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