The pedal market world would not be what it is today without brand heavy weights like the Shimano brand of SPD-SL pedals. Dura-Ace R9000 and R91000 happen to be their latest and best releases yet and we can’t wait to see what they have added.
Every purposeful cyclist will appreciate the finer details of their clipless pedals that could make their riding experience that much more personalized. If you are all about speed, power and low weight bike pedals, this is the review for you.
My name is Todd and in my three years of marketing services at this sports equipment store, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling all kinds of training machines and their adjustable parts.
I recently had the pleasure of taking a comparison test drive to try to uncover any in-depth differences between the R9000 and R9100 Dura-Ace pedals.
What are the key differences between Dura Ace Pedals 9100 and 9000
PD-R9100 |
PD-R9000 |
|
Type |
SPD-SL Clipless |
SPD-SL Clipless |
No. of Cleats |
3 |
3 |
Rotational Float degrees |
6, 2 and zero degrees |
6, 2 and zero degrees |
Weight |
265 grams |
247 grams |
Material |
Carbon |
Carbon |
Price |
Dura Ace Pedals 9100 vs 9000: How they compare
Design
The adjustment mechanism remains the same for both models using the allen key. You can then set the security level of your pedals from fairly secure to fully locked. If maybe you are still new to SPD-SL mechanisms, get the easy release Shimano models.
Both these pedals have been designed with the classic Shimano color coordinated categorization of rotation float angles. So, you have the option to choose between red, blue and yellow colored cleats.
A huge difference in the two pedal models is in the type of third bearing they provide for the R9100. As common with other Dura-Ace pedal models, R9000 featured a third needle bearing row for balance and strength.
Now, with the R9100, the third bearing row is a roller bushing that Shimano says improves pedal durability and keeps them spinning for longer. They also take after the sets glossy black powder finish that came to replace the previous ashy grey color.
Because of the pedals wide coverage, they make for a bit of favorable walking surfaces though this is not advisable for most SPD-SL pedals. Their colored surfaces are also grit-proof which adds to their functionality.
Blue colored cleats are perfect for all pros and ardent racers. If however, you seek a more relaxed and freeing pedal option that has the same powerful qualities, you are good picking the yellow colored cleats best.
Performance
Seeing as they are made of plastic on the cleat system, the SPD-SL pedals are both affordable in replacement and easily damaged. The R9100 have a satisfying click to them when successfully connected to the bike.
They both featured the 3-bolt system which is on all SPD-SL compatible pedals but because the platform is wider than most, they make for somewhat bearable walking shoes. At 65mm, this platform allows for increased power transfer and stability.
To get some more space between the crankset and the edge of your pedal, Shimano provide an extra 4mm lateral adjustment axle. To get a secure footing on your pedals, there is a front hook to engage them
You need to dip your toe down into the front of the cleat. The tight engagement gives you secure connection with a quick and seamless disengaging technique.
It may prove a bit harder to get used to the clipping mechanism of both the R9000 newer R9100 especially if you are a first timer. However, the footing is secure as can be and they are highly recommended for races.
Dura Ace 9100 vs 9000: A Comparison Overview
Dura Ace 9100 Overview
[amazon box=”B07HX67DK3″ template=”horizontal” ]Upgraded from the Dura-Ace 9000, these pedals feature a bunch of similarities though there are some differences too. They are still made of carbon and stainless steel and the platform has grown considerably bigger again this time.
By chipping off bits of the pedals in designer style cuts has reduced the pedal in size and weight which is great for better more connected pedaling. With Dura-Ace being known for its 3-bearing set up, these pedals introduce a new innovation.
In place of the third bearing the R9100 feature a roller bushing that Shimano says improves pedal durability and keeps them spinning for longer.
These pedals have an added benefit in their reaction to secure clipping or fitting which is a click sound. While using the unchanged low tension of the SPD-SL pedals, you can connect to other bikes and ride successfully.
The pedals rest with their rear pointing down making it easy for us to slip in the bolt attachment points to the pedal’s cleat system.
Pros
- Great connection to SPD-SL
- Cleats have bindings that keep them clear of dirt and grime
- 2-degrees of float to either side.
Cons
- Plastic base wears off quickly
Dura Ace 9000 Overview
[amazon box=”B079R2GDM4″ template=”horizontal” ]These are the lightest most technology savvy Shimano pedals ever produced and not only do they save on weight but they also influence the possible speed a rider can go because they encourage the rider to propel harder and faster.
Ideally used and designed or road bikes, these pedals feature a large pedal with a slimmer shaft making the pedals highly receptive to power transfer. The wider platform is bets for long use comfort and for better weight disposition.
They are made of wear resistant and durable carbon material and the tension adjustment can be done by aligning tension settings.
These pedals feature SM-SH12 type cleats which mean that they offer a 2-degree left or right angular float.
Pros
- Great connection to SPD-SL
- Cleats have bindings that keep them clear of dirt and grime
- 2-degrees of float to either side.
Cons
- Plastic cleats damage easily
Verdict: So, which between Dura-Ace R9100 and R9000 pedals are Shimano’s best?
The two models from Shimano’s Dura-Ace collection stand out apart from the rest. Because of Shimano’s trickle down technology, the R9100 are an upgrade of the R9000.
However slightly,R9100 outdoes the R9000 in simple features such as a specialized roller bushing bearing system, lighter in weight and they connect to the bike with a satisfying click to them.
FAQs
How do Bike Pedals work?
Bike pedals provide the necessary pivot point between your exerted pressure and the bike’s wheel. They provide a comfortable base level at which we pedal causing the bike to move.
How do you install SPD pedals on Bikes?
It is simple and it required a three-step process. First, clean out your pedals with a wiper. Then apply anti-seize on the thread. Finally, put the right and left pedals through the crank and twist in the clockwise direction until you achieve a firm grip.
Can you put SPD Cleats on Road shoes?
Yes, you can. SPD cleats connect to the sole of the running shoes allowing you to point your foot in the right toe-in toe-out direction which gives a more comfortable fit.
What is the difference between SPD and SPD SL?
These two pedals have more differences than similarities in their functional settings and features. However, the main contrast between the two that is a bit obvious is that the SPD pedals have two bolts while the SPD SL has three bolts to facilitate attachment of shoe cleats.