How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano PD-R9100 SPD-SL Pedals

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The Shimano PD-R9100 [paid link] SPD-SL pedals are part of the DURA-ACE series, designed for road cyclists who demand maximum power transfer, lightweight construction, and reliable engagement. These pedals feature a carbon composite body, a wide platform for stability, and adjustable tension settings for personalized performance. Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance ensure smooth operation, optimal efficiency, and long-term durability. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to install, adjust, and maintain the Shimano PD-R9100 [paid link] SPD-SL pedals.

Tools Required

To install and maintain the Shimano PD-R9100 [paid link] pedals, you will need:

  • 4 mm hexagon wrench
  • 8 mm hexagon wrench
  • 10 mm spanner
  • 15 mm spanner
  • 17 mm spanner
  • 20 mm spanner
  • Shimano TL-PD40 tool
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Shimano premium grease
  • Isopropyl alcohol and clean rags

Installing the Shimano PD-R9100 SPD-SL Pedals

Attaching the Cleats to Your Shoes

Before installing the pedals, ensure your cycling shoes are compatible with SPD-SL cleats. Shimano recommends using SM-SH12 [paid link] cleats for the PD-R9100 pedals, but SM-SH10 [paid link] (fixed position) and SM-SH11 [paid link] (float movement) cleats are also compatible.

  1. Position the cleat on the bottom of each shoe in the designated slot.
  2. Secure the cleat washer and mounting bolts using a 4 mm hex wrench, but do not fully tighten them yet.
  3. Adjust the cleat position to match your natural foot alignment.
  4. Once the optimal position is found, torque the bolts to 5–6 N·m to prevent movement.

Mounting the Pedals on the Crank Arms

Proper pedal installation ensures secure attachment and prevents damage to the crank arms.

  1. Apply a small amount of grease to the pedal threads to prevent seizing.
  2. Identify the right pedal (R) and left pedal (L), as they have different threading:
    • Right pedal: Standard right-hand thread (clockwise to tighten).
    • Left pedal: Reverse left-hand thread (counterclockwise to tighten).
  3. Using an 8 mm hex wrench or a 15 mm spanner, tighten each pedal onto the crank arms.
  4. Torque the pedals to 35–55 N·m to ensure they do not loosen under pedaling forces.

Once installed, rotate the pedals to check for smooth movement and no resistance.

Adjusting the Shimano PD-R9100 SPD-SL Pedals

Adjusting Spring Tension

The PD-R9100 pedals feature an adjustable spring tension system, which allows riders to customize the engagement and release force of the cleats.

  1. Locate the adjustment bolt at the rear of each pedal.
  2. Insert a 2.5 mm hex wrench into the bolt.
  3. Turn clockwise to increase tension (tighter engagement).
  4. Turn counterclockwise to decrease tension (easier release).

Each full turn of the adjustment bolt results in four incremental clicks. Ensure the spring tension on both pedals is equal to prevent uneven release effort.

If experiencing difficulty engaging or disengaging, lower the spring tension slightly and test again.

Cleat Positioning and Retention

Proper cleat positioning helps prevent knee strain, discomfort, and inefficient pedaling. Shimano allows for an 11 mm front-to-back adjustment range and 5 mm side-to-side movement.

  1. Clip into the pedals and note foot alignment during a stationary test.
  2. If needed, loosen the cleat bolts and shift the cleat forward or backward to adjust leg extension.
  3. Shift the cleat left or right to correct knee tracking issues.
  4. Tighten the cleat bolts once the correct position is found.

Maintaining the Shimano PD-R9100 SPD-SL Pedals

Lubricating the Axle and Bearings

Regular lubrication prevents bearing wear and axle stiffness, ensuring smooth pedal rotation. Shimano recommends servicing the pedals every 5,000 km or after riding in wet conditions.

  1. Remove the pedals from the crank arms using an 8 mm hex wrench.
  2. Use a 20 mm spanner to loosen the lock nut on the axle.
  3. Remove the axle and bearing assembly from the pedal body.
  4. Clean the bearing race and axle surfaces with isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag.
  5. Apply Shimano premium grease to the bearings before reassembling the axle unit.
  6. Reinstall the axle and tighten the lock nut to 10–15 N·m.

Once reinstalled, spin the pedals to ensure smooth, friction-free movement.

Replacing Worn-Out Cleats

Over time, cleats wear down and lose retention strength, which can cause accidental disengagement. Shimano recommends replacing cleats when the colored wear indicators become exposed.

  1. Remove the old cleats using a 4 mm hex wrench.
  2. Clean the shoe sole and cleat mounting area with isopropyl alcohol.
  3. Attach the new cleat, washer, and bolts, positioning them based on previous markings.
  4. Tighten the bolts to 5–6 N·m, ensuring they remain secure during rides.

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