Shimano PD-6700 Pedal Compatibility Secrets: What Works, What Fails, and What to Avoid

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The Shimano PD-6700 Ultegra SPD-SL pedals are precision-engineered components designed to deliver optimal power transfer, stability, and reliability. However, their performance depends heavily on correct compatibility with cleats, shoes, cranksets, and drivetrain systems. This guide explores every detail of PD-6700 compatibility—what integrates perfectly, what causes issues, and what should be avoided to maintain efficient and reliable performance.

Understanding the Shimano PD-6700 Pedal System

The Shimano PD-6700 belongs to the Ultegra 6700 series, part of Shimano’s 10-speed road drivetrain ecosystem. It uses the SPD-SL road pedal interface, known for its large contact surface and stiff power transfer characteristics. The design emphasizes a low stack height, wide platform, and stainless-steel wear plates to ensure stability and minimize shoe plate wear.

The PD-6700 pedals were developed to pair seamlessly with Shimano’s SPD-SL cleats, creating a secure and efficient interface between rider and drivetrain. However, using them correctly requires understanding both mechanical and functional compatibility.

Cleat Compatibility: The Foundation of Proper Engagement

Shimano SPD-SL pedals are specifically designed for SPD-SL three-bolt cleats, not for SPD (two-bolt) systems or Look Keo-style cleats. The PD-6700 is compatible with all Shimano SPD-SL cleat variants, but each affects feel and engagement:

  • Yellow Cleats (SM-SH11[paid link]) – Provide 6° of float, ideal for most riders seeking comfort and joint flexibility.
  • Blue Cleats (SM-SH12[paid link]) – Offer 2° of float for more control and efficient power transfer.
  • Red Cleats (SM-SH10[paid link]) – Zero float for maximum efficiency; suited for riders with highly stable pedaling motion.

It’s important to note that Look Delta and Keo cleats do not fit properly with the PD-6700. Attempting to use non-SPD-SL cleats can cause poor engagement, excessive wear, or even safety hazards during sprints and climbs.

Shoe Compatibility: Ensuring Proper Interface and Power Transfer

PD-6700 pedals are compatible with any road cycling shoe featuring a three-bolt mounting pattern. Most major shoe manufacturers—Shimano, Sidi, Giro, Specialized, Fizik, and Bontrager—offer SPD-SL compatible soles. Riders using gravel or MTB shoes should avoid pairing them with these pedals, as two-bolt patterns (SPD) will not fit.

To maximize efficiency:

  • Ensure the cleat sits flush on the shoe sole to avoid rocking.
  • Avoid shoes with excessive sole curvature, as this may affect cleat retention.
  • Periodically check cleat bolts for torque and wear, as improper fitment can lead to premature release or uneven pedal contact.

Crankset and Drivetrain Compatibility

While pedals like the PD-6700 are technically universal across crank arms with standard 9/16″ x 20 TPI threads, optimal performance occurs when paired with Shimano Hollowtech II cranksets (Ultegra 6700, 6800, or Dura-Ace 7900 series). These cranksets are designed with perfect alignment and Q-factor spacing for the SPD-SL platform.

Compatibility notes:

  • The PD-6700 can be installed on any modern crank arm with 9/16″ threads, including SRAM, FSA, and Rotor models.
  • However, pairing non-Shimano crank arms may slightly affect chainline feel or stack height balance.
  • Never install the pedals on crank arms with damaged or cross-threaded holes, as this can compromise safety and performance.

Float and Biomechanical Compatibility

Float refers to the degree of angular rotation allowed between shoe and pedal while engaged. The PD-6700’s SPD-SL mechanism supports adjustable spring tension and cleat-based float customization.

Riders should select cleats based on knee tracking and comfort:

  • Riders prone to knee pain or misalignment benefit from yellow cleats (6° float).
  • Racers seeking maximum efficiency typically choose red cleats (0° float).
  • The blue cleat (2° float) provides a balanced compromise.

Incorrect float setup or cleat alignment can cause uneven wear on the pedal body or stainless-steel plate, leading to creaks and uneven engagement over time.

Bearing and Axle Compatibility Considerations

The PD-6700 uses a chromoly steel axle with sealed cartridge bearings and cup-and-cone adjustment. It’s fully serviceable and shares internal parts with other SPD-SL models like the 105 PD-5700[paid link] and Dura-Ace PD-7900.

Compatibility details:

  • Axle assemblies from PD-5700 and PD-7900 models are cross-compatible, though bearing preload may vary slightly.
  • Never attempt to swap PD-6700 axles with SPD or SPD-R pedals; these use entirely different internal designs and dimensions.
  • Use Shimano TL-PD63 or TL-PD40 tools for bearing service to maintain precise alignment.

What Works: Ideal Combinations for PD-6700 Pedals

  • Cleats: Shimano SM-SH10[paid link], SH12, SH11 (SPD-SL only)
  • Shoes: Any three-bolt road cycling shoe (Shimano, Giro, Sidi, Specialized)
  • Crank Arms: Shimano Hollowtech II (Ultegra/Dura-Ace/105 series)
  • Drivetrain Systems: 10- and 11-speed Shimano road groupsets (mechanical or Di2)

This configuration ensures consistent engagement, predictable float behavior, and efficient power transfer.

What Fails: Incompatible Components and Setups

Avoid the following common mistakes:

  • Using SPD mountain cleats or pedals (two-bolt system).
  • Mixing Look Keo or Delta cleats with SPD-SL pedals.
  • Mounting PD-6700 pedals on damaged crank arms or mismatched thread sizes.
  • Over-greasing threads or using incorrect torque during installation (recommended torque: 35–55 Nm).

These issues lead to poor clip-in engagement, creaking noises, and potential pedal failure under load.

What to Avoid: Long-Term Compatibility Pitfalls

Certain setups may initially function but cause accelerated wear or poor performance over time:

  • Worn cleats: Even slight rounding of cleat edges affects release tension and can damage the pedal’s retention mechanism.
  • Carbon soles with excessive curvature: Can create uneven pedal pressure, leading to creaks and instability.
  • Cross-brand cleat bolts: May strip or seize in the cleat base due to slight thread variations.

Regular inspection and replacement of worn cleats and bolts ensure the PD-6700 pedals continue to perform reliably for thousands of kilometers.

Conclusion

The Shimano PD-6700 pedals remain one of the most refined SPD-SL systems, combining stiffness, adjustability, and durability. Their compatibility is straightforward but demands precision. Use genuine SPD-SL cleats, match them with proper three-bolt road shoes, and ensure correct installation torque. Avoiding mismatched or off-spec components preserves both safety and performance. When correctly paired, the PD-6700 delivers the same stable and efficient pedaling feel that defines Shimano’s Ultegra legacy.