Most self-locking shoes and pedals are equipped with a two-bolt or three-bolt fastening system, using hexagonal bolts to connect your shoes to the pedals. Remember, your cycling shoes, cleats, and pedals must all use the same system and have the same style of holes.

Double bolt system
This system is also called SPD, short for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics. The double-bolt cycling shoes have a recessed lock plate, which makes it easier to walk and use in the field. The lock plate is made of metal and has a longer service life. When someone refers to “mountain bike cleats,” they may be referring to double-bolt cleats. You can also choose to purchase a double-sided double-bolt pedal to make clamping easier. From commuting, to mountain biking, touring, gravel road biking and hybrid off-roading, the two-bolt system is widely used.

Three bolt system
The cleats of the three-bolt road cycling shoes are exposed, making it difficult to walk around after wearing them, and the cleats are made of plastic, so they need to be replaced more frequently. But the wider platform of the cleat provides better power transmission and improves the pressure distribution on the soles of your feet to reduce the occurrence of hot spots. The three-bolt system is mainly used for road riding and competition.

How to adjust the ease of twisting from the pedal?
Floating refers to the amount of left and right movement of your foot provided by your cleat when you are fixed on the self-locking pedal. A small amount of float is generally considered beneficial. This helps reduce potential knee injuries by allowing your feet to pass through your pedal travel naturally, rather than being locked in one position. This can compensate for the slight misalignment of your cleats and pedals.