SPD-SL Road Shoes/Cleats

[uclown2002]

Are these specific to Shimano or do other makes of road shoes conform to this standard?

 

[gaz]

There is a road cleat standard. A 3 bolt system in a triangle. Shimano, Look and Time all make systems for this. Other systems are available but are not as popular. Note that each system uses it's own cleat, it's best not to mix and match.
The 3 bolt system looks like this -

 

[uclown2002]

OK so SPD-SL = Shimano (only) which as you point out adopts the A3 bolt system like some other makers?

 

[gaz]

OK so SPD-SL = Shimano (only) which as you point out adopts the A3 bolt system like some other makers?

yes.

 

[accountantpete]

Basically most road shoes will have that same sole arrangement.

Most triangular cleats fit that pattern so you just get a pair of shoes and use any system with them.

The only thing you have to do is match the cleat and the pedal.

So Spd-sl cleats only work with spd-sl pedals. Look cleats are divided into 2 types (Arc and Keo) and again you have to match the cleat with the pedal. etc etc.

 

[uclown2002]

Thanks guys

 

[Andy_G]

Specialized shoes also use them, just to let you know.