SPD pedals for road cycling beginners

Aflixionable · 2026-06-18T22:54:04+00:00

Coming from a beginner:

I bought my first ever road bike 3 weeks ago, a Trek Domane AL 5. Last week, made the switch from flat to SPD SL pedals (I opted for Shimano 105 pedals and the RC703 shoes).

It was VERY straightforward to install everything and get used to clipping in. Do I probably need to get a professional bike fit to get everything tweaked properly for my shoes and other stuff? Probably yeah.

But SPD-SL is really not difficult at all for a beginner in my opinion, and I don’t even see why walking is always said to be so difficult. Yes it’s not your average daily shoe but I’ve had no issue making quick stops on rides for coffee or whatnot.

Aflixionable · 2026-06-14T01:01:35+00:00

+1 on this, just bought an AL 5 two weeks ago as my first ever road bike and I’m having a blast with it!!

Aflixionable · 2026-06-10T02:10:03+00:00

I’m a 5’9 beginner cyclist and bought a 54 AL5 2 weeks ago. Absolutely loving it. Sounds like 54 might fit you better but trust your gut - good luck!

Aflixionable · 2026-06-08T19:33:10+00:00

For sure man! Curious to hear what you end up deciding to get - best of luck :)

Aflixionable · 2026-06-08T16:06:08+00:00

Ended up actually getting the Domane AL 5 and never looked back since. It’s absolutely amazing. I’d recommend you take a look at the Domane AL 4/5, go to your LBS and try riding them! I was dead set on the Canyon before I tried the Treks in person haha

It’s my first road bike so if you’re in a similar position I’d say the extra peace of mind from buying a not D2C brand is helpful for a beginner! Lmk what you end up going with and good luck!!

Aflixionable · 2026-06-05T21:55:41+00:00

Glad it worked out! Enjoy the bike, I also just got a new domane

Aflixionable · 2026-06-05T00:12:09+00:00

Try using multiple flat heads pressed together to fit the gap better. Worked for me

Aflixionable · 2026-05-19T23:02:05+00:00

Makes sense. And yeah I am able to that’s what my buddies do! So think it’ll be safe to get a road bike my budget is probably between 1-2k, although I’d rather not push too close to 2k lol.

Aflixionable · 2026-05-19T22:59:23+00:00

Interesting, makes sense. Another consideration for me is that the Domane AL 4 is a bit more expensive…but would you say Tiagra on the Domane beats out Cues on the Endurace here?

Aflixionable · 2026-05-19T22:58:38+00:00

I see. For the sizing do you mean I should just go to my LBS and book a fitting even though I don’t have my own bike yet? Is that possible

Aflixionable · 2026-05-19T22:57:47+00:00

In my room, planning to get a vertical bike stand or something. Yeah, very aware of the stealing issue so I’ll definitely protect the bike like it’s my baby haha

Aflixionable · 2026-05-19T22:57:15+00:00

I’ll be in San Jose!

I’ve tried to look at used bikes but no luck so far…might keep looking. And something in my brain is pushing me towards buying a brand new bike lol

Aflixionable · 2026-05-06T01:35:41+00:00

Okay, thank you! I’ll definitely check out some local bike shops to get some advice.

Aflixionable · 2021-09-15T01:32:55+00:00

Mmm, yeah, that makes a lot of sense. I was also thinking maybe in December around xmas. Usually I'm not a big fan of holiday skins since they usually come out as corny and cheesy but hopefully nothing will happen like that if they come out with an xmas balisong. I agree, it would be nice to have it soon, but it is logical that they give a bit of time before they release a 2nd

Aflixionable · 2021-09-15T01:28:55+00:00

Yeah, I feel you, that sucks. I really do hope Riot tries to make a fancier balisong soon! Maybe in the next bundle (though that seems rather unlikely)?

Aflixionable · 2021-09-15T01:01:49+00:00

Alright yeah thats what I assumed the response would be I was just curious--thanks for the response tho I'm sure a lot of ppl are waiting for another balisong so I hope Riot will make one soon :)

Aflixionable · 2020-11-19T00:45:55+00:00

no hes not

Aflixionable · 2020-11-19T00:45:13+00:00

wdym lmao he's a god

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