The Shimano PD-6700[paid link] Ultegra pedals are known for their reliable engagement, lightweight alloy body, and efficient power transfer. However, even with Shimano’s precise engineering, riders occasionally experience a “rough,” “loose,” or “off” pedal feel. This article examines why this happens and provides a complete guide to diagnosing, correcting, and maintaining the ideal set-up for your PD-6700[paid link] pedals.
Understanding the PD-6700 Pedal Design
The Shimano PD-6700 pedal is a part of the Ultegra 6700 series, designed to provide professional-level performance at a more accessible price point than the Dura-Ace equivalent. It uses a wide carbon composite body for optimal shoe contact, stainless steel plates for durability, and an adjustable spring tension mechanism to control entry and release force.
Each pedal operates on a sealed cartridge axle with cup-and-cone bearings—providing smooth rotation when properly adjusted but requiring occasional servicing to maintain ideal performance. The set-up quality largely depends on how accurately the tension, bearing preload, and cleat alignment are dialed in.
Why the PD-6700 Pedal Set-Up Can Feel Off
An “off” pedal feel generally arises from three main areas: tension imbalance, bearing preload, or cleat interface issues. Understanding these helps pinpoint the exact cause before making adjustments.
1. Incorrect Tension Adjustment
If one pedal engages more easily than the other, or if the release feels abrupt, tension settings may be mismatched. Shimano PD-6700 pedals feature a spring tension adjustment screw on the rear of the binding mechanism. When set unevenly, it can result in inconsistent entry and exit sensations between left and right pedals.
2. Bearing Wear or Preload Issues
The PD-6700 pedal body rotates around a chromoly steel spindle with cup-and-cone bearings. Over time, grease degradation or improper bearing preload causes excessive play or stiffness, leading to uneven rotation or “gritty” pedal movement. This not only affects feel but also reduces power transfer efficiency.
3. Cleat or Interface Alignment Problems
Shimano SPD-SL cleats must align precisely with the pedal platform. Worn cleats, contaminated interfaces, or misaligned mounting can cause instability, clicking noises, or a disconnected feeling while pedaling. Even minor misalignment can exaggerate pedal tilt or make clipping in feel unnatural.
Tools Required
- 4 mm hex wrench
- 17 mm cone wrench[paid link]
- Torque wrench[paid link] (optional)
- Shimano SPD-SL cleat alignment tool (optional)
- High-quality waterproof grease
Checking and Adjusting Pedal Tension
Proper spring tension is crucial for consistent engagement. Follow these steps to verify and correct it:
- Rotate the pedal so the tension screw is visible at the rear.
- Use a 4 mm hex wrench to turn the screw:
- Clockwise increases spring tension (tighter entry and release).
- Counterclockwise decreases it (easier entry and release).
- Adjust both pedals equally by counting the number of turns from the lightest setting.
- Test engagement with your cycling shoes to ensure consistent feel on both sides.
A balanced setting allows quick entry without unintentional release under sprint load.
Diagnosing Bearing Issues
To determine if bearing preload is contributing to poor pedal feel, spin each pedal by hand:
- A smooth, silent spin indicates healthy bearings.
- A rough or gritty rotation suggests contamination.
- Free play or lateral movement indicates loosened preload.
If any issue is detected, servicing the bearings is recommended.
Servicing the PD-6700 Bearings
Shimano’s PD-6700 pedals are user-serviceable with basic tools. Here’s how to restore their smoothness:
- Use a 17 mm cone wrench[paid link] to hold the locknut at the end of the spindle.
- Carefully unscrew the end cap and remove the axle assembly.
- Clean all components using a degreaser and lint-free cloth.
- Repack the bearings with Shimano-approved waterproof grease.
- Reinsert the axle, then adjust the preload:
- Tighten until resistance is felt, then back off 1/8 turn for free rotation without play.
- Secure the locknut and reinstall the pedal.
Properly adjusted bearings provide a consistent, fluid spin that enhances pedaling efficiency and stability.
Optimizing Cleat Interface for Ideal Feel
A “mushy” or unstable connection often stems from cleat misalignment or wear. Follow these steps to correct it:
- Inspect cleats for visible rounding or uneven wear on the contact points. Replace if worn.
- Clean both the pedal contact plates and cleat surfaces with isopropyl alcohol.
- Reinstall cleats, ensuring:
- The shoe’s longitudinal alignment centers the cleat under the ball of your foot.
- The rotational angle matches your natural pedaling motion to prevent knee strain.
- Tighten cleat bolts evenly and test engagement on both pedals.
Properly aligned cleats ensure even pressure distribution and restore a crisp, stable connection.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Symptoms
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| One pedal engages too easily | Uneven tension setting | Match tension using equal screw turns |
| Clicking noise under load | Loose cleat bolts or worn cleats | Tighten bolts / Replace cleats |
| Stiff rotation | Over-tight bearing preload or dirty grease | Clean and re-grease bearings |
| Lateral pedal play | Worn bearings or loosened locknut | Adjust preload and retighten locknut |
| Pedal feels “dead” | Dry interface or excessive tension | Clean and re-lubricate, lower tension slightly |
Maintaining Long-Term Pedal Performance
For sustained performance, routine maintenance is essential. Every 3,000–5,000 km, remove and inspect the spindles. Replace grease and check bearing smoothness. Always clean pedal bodies after wet rides to prevent corrosion or debris accumulation near the spring mechanism. Periodic tension checks keep both sides consistent, ensuring predictable engagement over time.
Conclusion
When your Shimano PD-6700 pedals feel “off,” it’s rarely a design flaw. In most cases, small tension imbalances, dry bearings, or worn cleats disrupt the otherwise excellent precision these pedals offer. By routinely servicing bearings, verifying tension, and maintaining the SPD-SL interface, you can restore the crisp, stable feel Shimano intended. A correctly adjusted PD-6700 set-up not only enhances comfort but also ensures every watt of effort translates directly into smooth, efficient forward motion.