Shimano's SPD-SLR launch ends 23-year era but sparks backlash over lost compatibility

Key points

• Shimano launched the SPD-SLR system, its first significant change to the SPD-SL platform in 23 years, featuring new Dura-Ace PD-R9300 and Ultegra PD-R8200 pedals.
• The new system reduces stack height by 2.3mm and lowers the engagement angle to 10.5 degrees, improving clipping ease and foot stability.
• New CL-SL120 cleats are lighter (55g vs 71g) and offer greater lateral adjustability but remove fore-aft adjustment, shifting this function to the shoe sole.
• The system is not backward compatible with SPD-SL pedals or cleats, requiring riders to replace all components to benefit from the lower stack height.
• New S-Phyre RC910 and RC810 shoes feature a wider fit, carbon heel cups, and Boa Li2 dials, though some reviewers note increased forefoot volume.

Background

The SPD-SL system, introduced in 2003, became the industry standard for road cycling pedals. Recent leaks and a public incident at Paris-Roubaix involving Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen highlighted the incompatibility of the new SPD-SLR prototypes with existing equipment. This launch follows Shimano's recent updates to its Dura-Ace groupset and wheels, signaling a broader refresh of its top-tier components.

How outlets are covering it

BikeRadar and Cyclingnews emphasize the technical improvements, such as reduced stack height and easier engagement, while noting the system's holistic design. Escape Collective highlights the lack of a matching groupset release and the confusion caused by the incompatibility. Road.cc offers a critical view, arguing that the loss of fore-aft cleat adjustment and the need for new shoes make the upgrade difficult to justify for most riders. Some commenters on Road.cc suggest the move is driven by patent licensing revenue rather than performance gains, while others praise the improved fit and stability of the new shoes.

Why it matters

The SPD-SLR launch marks a significant shift in a long-standing industry standard, forcing riders to consider the trade-offs between minor performance gains and the cost and inconvenience of replacing their entire pedal and shoe setup. The lack of backward compatibility could fragment the market and influence future standards in cycling equipment.

What to watch

Shimano is expected to release a new Dura-Ace groupset in 2027, potentially aligning with the SPD-SLR system. Power meter brands like Garmin and Favero are in talks with Shimano for licensing the new SPD-SLR patent, which could affect the availability of compatible power meter pedals.