Shimano SPD M324 MTBs for now and the future...?

[Boris Bike]

Hi all,

Got back into cycling a couple of months ago as I'm training for a Paris-London ride.

My current bike is a mid-90s Saracen Fastrax mountain bike, with road tyres. I use it for a 8 mile commute (each way) for work. And it will be my Paris-London bike (if it stays together). It's in general good nick (full service, replaced pads, bottom bracket, cassette & chain), so my plan is to hold on to it until the spring sales. That way I have the winter to see if cold weather puts me off, and if I'm an all-weather rider then I can be happy spending money to replace it.

One thing I am a little concerned about is the peddles don't seem to be as stable as they once were. I don't think there's any chance of them falling off soon, but there is some up/down movement there. I'd like to replace them with Shimano SPD M324 MTBs so I can go clipless for commutes, and use the normal pedals for longer rides.

So (after all that waffle) I have a couple of questions:

1 - Will those be suitable for my current mountain bike, and be beneficial for my commute?

2 - If I get a new bike next year (currently looking at a Boardman CX Team or Cannondale CAADX 5 105), can I transfer the pedals over?

Cheers

 

[Angelfishsolo]

There is a 99.9% chance you will be fine.

See the thread size section of this page

 

[Boris Bike]

Thanks Angelfishsolo. Are these something I can fit myself, or should I take it in to a bike shop?

I don't mind getting my hands dirty (literally!), but only have a little experience with bike tinkering.

 

[Angelfishsolo]

Thanks Angelfishsolo. Are these something I can fit myself, or should I take it in to a bike shop?

I don't mind getting my hands dirty (literally!), but only have a little experience with bike tinkering.

You can easily fit them. Just remember that all pedals have left or right-hand threads. They're generally marked – the right-hand pedal with an R or D and the left-hand pedal with an L or S. Pedal threads are designed to stay tight when you pedal. To undo your pedals turn the spindle in the opposite direction to your pedalling action. The opposite applies when you're tightening – turn the spindle in the same direction as you would pedal. Don’t forget to use anti-seize grease on the pedal threads to prevent them becoming stuck and to re-apply the grease regularly.




You will either need and allan key or an 18mm spanner.

 

[Nufab]

I have m324s on my MTB, and when I bought the road bike, I bought M520s on it. To be honest, I now never ride without my cycle shoes on, so the double sided 520s are much better, because the pedal is never the wrong sway round for the clips. Also, the 520s are cheaper.. I paid £14 for mine without cleats.