User submitted reviews
Review by Anonymous
I have used Shimano SPD Clipless Pedals on all my trail bikes. From hard tails to full suspension since 1994. They have always worked flawlessly.
Review by Craid D
You never have tolook down to clip in. Love em!
Review by nojohofo
I have been using the entry-level SPD pedal (PD-M520) for several years without issue. I got the PD-M540 for my other bike when they were on sale to see if there was any noticeable difference between the two models. So far, I cannot tell a difference while riding. Still a great pedal, but I'm not sure if it is worth the extra expense.
Review by Jeffd0
I needed a pair of SPD clipless pedals for an event I was doing. I ordered the Shimano PD-M540 because of reliability, ease of use and price. They ticked all the boxes so I used them on the event and they worked flawlessly even in some sloppy, wet gravel and mud.
Review by epbob
For performance and value, these are the "just right" ones. I've tried the more expensive ones and didn't notice any improvement in performance. On the other hand, I've tried the less expensive model and just like the sleek spindle on the 540 better, not to mention the few grams of weight savings. They come in black and silver color options and the silver is more pleasing to my eye.
Review by TB
Ordered these for a new gravel bike. Didn't really want to go with road pedals and my road shoes for mostly gravel. They are great pedals and if you are paying more it is just to save a few grams. Not that important for a gravel bike. I ordered from BikeTiresDirect to be sure I didn't get counterfeit Shimano like I did with Shimano chain from Amazon.
Review by bhanna5
Easy to use and install, the M540s completely changed the feel and ride of my hybrid bike. Being new to cycling, I had no idea how powerful and connected clipless pedals make a rider feel. I took to riding longer and much faster, and the pedals never disappoint. Shimano makes a great product here, and a couple of my friends now ride the same clipless pedals. Quite honestly, there's no way I'd want to ride my bike without them. I stay clipped in and getting out is a snap. I have had a few mishaps where I forget or slow down to a stop too soon, which has caused a couple spills. After installation, I would suggest practicing for a few minutes before attempting your normal ride.
Review by Sisophous
These work perfectly with nothing required to adjust. The is one big issue I had and that was my pedals I was replacing after 23 years of usage were impossible to remove from my bike. I had the right tool but could not get them off and even the bike shop struggled and had to take the bike to the back of the shop and mount it. So I dished out $12 in labor cost to get the old pedals off and these installed. Don't be surprised if you have the same issue. There is no reason to purchase any other similar pedals. These are lightweight and are flawless.
Review by DrumEmpo
Finally upgraded my pedals on my 2021 Giant Advanced Revolt 3. These pedals perform as expected and keep the compliment the existing color scheme. Sturdy clip-in with a quick release when needed.
Review by Special K
I was familiar with Shimano's other SPD pedals & needed a set of SPD's to use with a new gravel bike. These work just as well as Shimano's pricier models at a very reasonable cost & weight.
Review by Alan
Easy in and easy out. Works well.
Review by Anonymous
I needed pedals to go with walkable cleats.
These fit the bill.
Review by Double E
Been using egg beaters thinking they were easier to clip in and out until i tried a pair of 540. so far they have been very reliable and easy to get clipped inout. would buy again
Review by OMillsPA
I've had these in the past. I know they will last. They are heavy though.
Review by East Coast biker
I use these on my road bikes. Super easy to clip in and out at lights and other stops.
Review by Anonymous
This item was easy to install. It also fits both of my bike shoes with a quick release
Review by Anonymous
Crank brothers blew up in the middle of a long ride. Very frustrating. Now I'm back to these pedals on my commuter, mountain bike, and cross bike. Reliable and inexpensive.
Review by David
Great pedals for anyone who wants to wear "walkable" bike shoes (recessed cleats). Double sided and easy to get in and out of. I use them on my road bike. Light and versatile.
Review by Anonymous
Solid pedals; good quality; function well, minimal maintenance. I have been riding Shimano SPD pedals on all my bikes for several decades. My son got me to try other brand pedals which were ok but I ride mountain, gravel and road in the same set of shoes so SPD pedals work the best for me. I still use a set of road SPD pedals from the early 90s that still work great.
Review by ScottP
So I have been using Crank Brothers Egg beater pedal for years. I broke one once during a race, and have blown out bearings. So at the advise of many fellow racers I made the switch to SPD. These 540, XT & XTR pedals. Immediately with all three levels I noticed a larger, better platform under my foot. ( I use carbon soled MTB shoes) These pedal just feel solid. I did a race last week which was very muddy. These didn't seem to shed the mud like I remember egg beaters doing, but I could be wrong. I made this switch this within 6 months, so I feel to be more fair to crank bros I need to allow more evaluation time, but so far, IM liking the change.