Speedplay pedals are radically different in how they operate, but they’re still a popular choice for road cyclists. Instead of the normal set up where the mechanism is in the pedal, with a Speedplay system all the springs are in the shoe.

The advantages are interesting: firstly it means that, unlike most clipless pedals, they are double sided and can therefore be engaged more easily. It also means that the pedals sits in the cleat rather than below it, reducing the stack height and giving a more natural pedalling sensation.

How to: Change your Pedals

Speedplay pedals also provide a more generous amount of float than their 3 bolt counterparts – that means you have more rotational, side to side movement. This is particularly sought after by those with bad knees.

On the bad side, Speedplay’s unique system is more susceptible to dirt getting into the mechanism and making engaging difficult.

They are also quite expensive – up to double the price of some comparable three bolt systems.