Road clipless - SPD-SL or Look?

Kerguelen

Hi all

I'm considering moving from SPDs (the offroad ones) to either the SPD-SL or Look systems. For SPD-SL I'd probably get the 105s, or if I went for Look I'd be getting the Keo Classics.

New shoes will be needed as well - do they both use the same cleat drilling?

Is there any practical difference between the 2 systems? Or is it just a matter of what works best clipping in & out?

Thanks

Pigeons in flight

You get more float with Look red cleats than Shimano - 9 degrees. Which suits me. Shimano are easier to walk in. I prefer Look blades to Shimano spd-sl...and I've had some expensive experiments to find that out.

If you go for Look - avoid the cleats with the rubber anti slip pads on - they're a pain as they squeak when engaged in the pedal and wear quickly. Get standard ('slippy'!) ones and use the covers (supplied) when you're walking about - best compromise.

nicknick

I've been using SPD=SL for years and recently moved to Keo2max with red cleats for the float which I prefer, but the Look cleats aren't nice to walk in I nearly broke my neck in my tiled hallway! Plus the Looks have a tiny bit of play in the bearings after just 6 weeks, though i don't know if this is normal due to the needle bearings.

Go for Shimano if weight and the extra float isn't an issue.

peterst6906

I personally prefer Look, probably because that was the system I had first, but both systems are good and I don't notice any performance or comfort differences between either Look or Shimano.

The 105's and Keo Classics are on the same level in terms of quality and performance, so choose whichever your gut tells you that you prefer and enjoy your choice, you won't go wrong either way.

Wacky Racer

Personally I prefer Look, because of extra float. But, they can be lethal to walk in, I've slipped on polished surfaces a few times. If you plan to walk in them go for Shimano, if not go for Look.

Kerguelen

Ta very much for the advice, I'm off down the LBS for some Looks!