In this article I will review the Shimano Deore XT PD-M8100 SPD pedals, which are the default for mountain bike and gravel pedals. The new limited edition Shimano GRX SPD M8100-UG pedals are basically the same Deore XT M8100 SPD pedals.
I also have two pairs of Shimano XTR PD-M9100 SPD pedals (which we discounted) that are a bit lighter for the top end group and used by Pete Stetina on his Canyon Grail gravel bike.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Key Features Shimano Deore XT PB-M8100 SPD pedals
On the product page of the Shimano Deore XT PD-M8100 SPD pedals the following description can be read, that highlights the key features:
When you’re charging up a muddy climb or racing down rocky single track, you need a pedal that you trust. The PD-M8100 is designed for maximum efficiency and reliability. Its large platform and lower platform height promote excellent power transfer and pedaling stability. Retention claws and a mud-shedding design ensure reliable performance in all conditions.
- The Shimano XT PD-M8100 is a SPD Pedal Designed for Maximum Pedaling Efficiency: Ideal for XC / CX racing and Gravel riding.
- Stable Pedaling Platform: Large pedal platform and lower platform height promote pedaling stability and efficient power transfer.
- Excellent Mud Shedding Ability: Offset binding design sheds mud and debris for reliable engagement and release in all conditions.
- Smooth Engagement and Release: Retention claws and adjustable tension settings for smooth and confident clipping in and out.
- Robust Performance: Chrome-molly spindle with 8mm hex wrench mount is strong and durable.
Laurens ten Dam used the Shimano Deore XT PD-M8100 SPD pedals on his Specialized Tour Divine 2024 bike and described it like: “These pedals are super reliable, and when you hit a rock with a pedal, that rock will collapse.” And if the professionals are using these on the ultra endurance events (4000+ km.) than it must be reliable given the self supporting character of these events.
Of course the engineering and design language of the Shimano Deore XT PD-M8100 SPD pedals is inherited from the Shimano XTR PD-M9100 SPD pedals. This is always the approach from Shimano.
Installation Shimano Deore XT PB-M8100 SPD pedals
Installation of the Shimano Deore XT PD-M8100 SPD pedals is super easy, and a 2 step process:
- Apply some Muc-Off Copper Compound on the thread of the chrome-molly spindle;
- Tighten the pedal with help of an 8 m long hex key (from the PB Swiss Tools 212LH-10 RB long hex key set)
Installation Shimano SPD cleats
Installation of the Shimano SM-SH51 MTB SPD Pedal Cleats that come with the PD-M8100 pedals requires a bit more steps (and fine tuning of the position).
- Apply some Morgan Blue Aquaproof Paste or Weldtite TF2 Lithium Grease on the bolt threads;
- Put some Dynamic Carbon Assembly Paste with micro pearls between the Sidi Drako 2 SRS Carbon Sole and the Crankbrothers Shoe Shield;
- Hand tighten the bolts after you have put the SM-SH51 MTB SPD Pedal Cleats in a neutral position;
- Use the Ergon TP1 cleat tool for Shimano SPD to fine tune the exact cleat position. (I know this exact position from a bikefitting at Bakala Athletic Performance Facility);
- Tighten the bolts the torque specification with the Stahlwille Manoskop 730N/2 Mechanical Torque Wrench or the Wera 7515 Kraftform Safe-Torque Speed Torque Screwdriver 2-6 Nm;
- You are ready to go and click into the pedals;
You could also apply some CeraBike Pedals & Cleats when needed, but I use this mainly for the Speedplay Cleat rings of the Sidi Wire SP road shoes.
Concluding thoughts and wrap-up
Shimano Deore XT PB-M8100 SPD pedals have a price point of around € 90,00 (even saw some outliners down to € 75,00). I have this set of pedals as back-up or when I go on holiday with the family and would like to rent a bike.
I wouldn’t opt for anything less than the Shimano Deore XT PB-M8100 SPD pedals for mountain bike or gravel bike. And only with a good discount offer for the Shimano XTR PD-M9100 SPD pedals I would make a switch. Don’t forget that Laurens ten Dam used the Shimano Deore XT PD-M8100 SPD pedals on his Specialized Tour Divine 2024 bike with a successful 3rd place overall.
What pedals are you using ? Let me know in the comment section below !
Please also check out the 4iiii Precision 3 Power meter Deore XT M8100 another great product based upon the Shimano Deore XT M8100 platform.
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