Why I Use Mountain Bike Cleats on My Road Bike

If you've ever seen someone clomping through a coffee shop in road cycling shoes, you know the struggle. The distinctive click-clack-click-clack of road cleats on hard floors is unmistakable—and honestly, a bit awkward.

That's exactly why I made the switch to mountain bike (SPD) cleats on my road bike, and I've never looked back.

The Road Cleat Problem

Traditional road bike cleats (like Shimano SPD-SL or Look KEO) are designed for maximum power transfer. They're large, they stick out from the sole, and they turn you into a penguin the moment you unclip.

Trying to walk in road shoes means:

• Slippery, unstable steps
• Loud clicking sounds with every step
• Awkward shuffling through shops and cafes
• Wearing down your expensive cleats faster

The Mountain Bike Cleat Solution

Mountain bike cleats (SPD, two-bolt system) are recessed into the sole of the shoe. This simple design difference changes everything:

Walk Like a Normal Human

With my SPD-compatible shoes, I can walk smoothly through malls, cafes, and anywhere else—just like regular shoes. No more penguin waddle. No more noisy steps announcing my arrival.

Still Get Solid Pedal Connection

Yes, SPD cleats have a slightly smaller contact area than road cleats. But for most of us who aren't racing in the Tour de France, the difference in power transfer is negligible. The clip-in is solid and secure.

Versatility Wins

My cycling shoes work for:

• Road rides
• Coffee stops mid-ride
• Quick errands after cycling
• Walking around when I arrive at my destination

The Performance Trade-off?

Is there a performance difference? Technically, yes. Road cleats offer:

• Larger platform = more power distribution
• Stiffer connection

But here's the reality: unless you're a competitive racer where every watt counts, you probably won't notice the difference. What you will notice is how much better your life is when you can actually walk normally.

My Setup

I use shoes designed for SPD cleats with a walkable sole. They look almost like casual shoes but clip into my pedals just fine. The best of both worlds.

Final Thoughts

Cycling should fit into your life, not the other way around. If using mountain bike cleats on a road bike means I can enjoy a coffee stop without the awkward penguin walk, that's a trade-off I'm happy to make.

Sometimes the "pure" road cycling setup isn't the practical one. And that's perfectly okay.

What about you? Do you use road or MTB cleats on your road bike? Drop your thoughts!