How to Prevent Premature Wear on Your TIME ICLIC Cleats and Extend Their Lifespan

TIME ICLIC cleats [paid link] are engineered for high-performance cycling, offering a secure connection between the shoe and pedal for both competitive and recreational cyclists. However, like any bike component, the cleats are subject to wear and tear over time. Proper care and maintenance are essential for extending the lifespan of your TIME ICLIC cleats [paid link] and ensuring optimal performance.

Understanding Cleat Wear

Cleat wear is a natural part of cycling, but it can be accelerated by improper use or neglect. Over time, the material of the cleats will degrade due to friction, pressure, and environmental exposure. Preventing premature wear requires a proactive approach to cleaning, maintenance, and adjustments.

1. Proper Cleat Installation

The first step in preventing premature wear is to ensure that your TIME ICLIC cleats [paid link] are installed correctly. Misaligned cleats can cause uneven wear, leading to damage in specific areas. Here’s how to install them correctly:

Align the holes: Ensure the cleat holes in the shoe match up with the pedal interface on the ICLIC system. This will allow for even wear across the cleat surface.
Screw tightness: Tighten the screws firmly, but avoid over-tightening. Over-tightening can cause the plastic of the cleat to crack or deform, which accelerates wear.
Check for clearance: Ensure that the cleat doesn’t rub against the edges of the shoe sole when in the unclipped position. This clearance prevents excessive friction, which can contribute to unnecessary wear.

2. Regular Cleaning and Lubrication

One of the most important steps to prolong the lifespan of your cleats is regular cleaning. Dirt, mud, and debris can get caught in the cleat mechanism, causing friction that accelerates wear.

Clean after every ride: Use a soft brush or cloth to clean the cleat area and surrounding components. Focus on the areas where dirt can accumulate, such as the grooves and contact points.
Use water and mild soap: Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the plastic of the cleat. Water and mild soap are sufficient for cleaning the cleat surface.
Lubricate moving parts: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts of the ICLIC system, specifically where the pedal and cleat engage. This reduces friction and wear. Be sure to use a lubricant that is safe for cycling components and does not attract dirt.

3. Cleat Adjustment for Proper Fit

An improper fit between your shoe and pedal system can result in increased wear. TIME ICLIC cleats allow for some adjustment in terms of float (lateral movement) and fore/aft positioning. Ensuring that your cleats are properly adjusted will prevent uneven wear and unnecessary stress on the cleat material.

Adjust float: Make sure the cleats have the correct amount of float for your riding style. Too little float can cause excessive pressure on the cleat, while too much float can result in sloppy pedal engagement.
Position fore/aft correctly: The correct position for the cleat on your shoe is critical. If the cleat is positioned too far forward or backward, it can lead to uneven wear or discomfort. Make sure the cleats are positioned to match your pedaling mechanics.

4. Wear and Tear Monitoring

Regularly check your TIME ICLIC cleats for signs of wear. As cleats wear down, the edges of the plastic will round off, or the material may become brittle. Identifying these issues early allows for timely replacement before the cleats cause any functional problems with your ride.

Inspect for cracks: Cracks or splits in the cleat are a sign that the plastic is beginning to break down. If you notice cracks, it’s time to replace the cleat.
Check the wear pattern: Uneven wear on one side of the cleat suggests that your pedaling technique or cleat adjustment may need to be addressed.

5. Use the Right Pedal System

TIME ICLIC cleats are designed to work with specific TIME pedal systems. Using them with incompatible pedals can cause uneven engagement or stress on the cleat material. Always use your cleats with the recommended pedal models to avoid undue stress and wear.

ICLIC system compatibility: Ensure your pedals are part of the ICLIC system to maintain a secure connection. Using pedals from other systems can create compatibility issues and increase wear.
Pedal condition: Inspect the pedals regularly for wear or damage. Pedals that are worn out or damaged can cause excessive friction on the cleats, leading to premature wear.

6. Store Your Cleats Properly

When not in use, store your shoes and cleats in a cool, dry place. Exposure to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or humidity can degrade the cleat material, reducing its lifespan.

Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the plastic material in the cleats to degrade.
Store indoors: Avoid storing your cycling shoes and cleats in damp areas, as moisture can cause rust on the pedal mechanism and degrade the cleat’s plastic over time.

7. Replace Cleats Regularly

Even with proper maintenance, all cleats will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. TIME ICLIC cleats are designed to offer reliable performance, but after extensive use, the material will wear down to a point where performance is compromised. Replace your cleats when:

The engagement becomes loose: If the cleat no longer locks securely into the pedal, it’s time for a replacement.
Excessive wear: When the contact surface has become too smooth or worn down, the cleat should be replaced.

Conclusion

Taking the time to properly care for and maintain your TIME ICLIC cleats can significantly extend their lifespan and enhance your cycling experience. By following these steps, including correct installation, regular cleaning, and timely replacements, you can ensure that your cleats perform at their best for many rides to come. Remember that even the best components will wear out over time, but with the right care, your TIME ICLIC cleats can offer reliable service for an extended period, reducing the need for frequent replacements.