Shimano continues to improve options for cyclists, including this 56mm long axle version of the R8000 road pedal (standard length is 52mm). Featuring several upgrades driven by Dura-Ace R9100, the Ultegra R8000 SPD-SL Pedals make solid improvements over the 6800 version, with a 12 gram reduction in weight, better cornering clearance, and fully integrated permanent and strategic contact plates made from very high quality, polished stainless steel. Functionally two models actually very very similar, share the same nickel-plated chromoly steel axle and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) material used for the body.

The SPD-SL pedal system has built it's case with cyclists. With an extra-wide 70mm effective platform that efficiently delivers exceptional power uniformly to the 56mm long axle. The CFRP carbon fiber bodies are seriously durable and inherently stiff, allowing the PD-R8000 to be sculpted more for lighter weight, also resulting in 1° of added cornering clearance. That may not sound like much, but it can easily be difference of holding a line in a tight corner and pedaling a second quicker than with the 6800 model.

Instead of the replaceable stainless wear plate formerly used, the engineers bonded three strategically placed special stainless plates to the carbon body. The plates not only protect the carbon body, but also allow the cleat to glide smoothly over the plate when in contact and won't wear out. What Shimano learned is that the removable plates could loosen, or be damaged in extreme situations, basically never wore out or really needed to be replaces, so only specific contact points were required, not a full plate.

A defining characteristic of Dura-Ace pedals has always been the use of three bearing systems. With Ultegra R8000 two high quality Shimano steel ball cartridge bearings are used closer to the center of the platform, while a bushing carries the pressure inboard towards the crankset. The force under load is well balanced, and the action is smooth, with long life and durability. Combined with the stiff CFRP body this pedal system is wonderfully stiff and utterly reliable. The axle and bearing interface is serviceable, but test cyclists with tens of thousands of miles on these pedals report that service has never been required.

The SPD-SL SH11 (yellow) cleat with 6° of float (+/-3) are included with the pedals while the fixed (0°) SH10 (red) are still sold separately as an option. Some cyclists choose to purchase the current Dura-Ace cleat system, which uses the blue SH12 (2°) cleats to allow the toe of the cleat to automatically center and reduce lateral movement. Your local bike fit specialist can assist you if you have questions about cleat placement or proper axle length. The cleats themselves feature the Delta-style 3-bolt design, though optimized for Shimano's SPD-SL shoes, the shape works with most other 3-bolt shoe models that have a slightly curved sole.

As with all Shimano pedals, the rear retention spring is adjustable, allowing you to customize release tension with a few turns of a 2.5mm hex key. The nickel plated chromoly axle is highly resistant to corrosion and is installed with an 8mm hex key from behind the crank interface. Always use a little grease on the threads and check for tightness after your first ride, as well as whenever you clean and lube your chain. Shimano offers the R8000 pedals with this +4mm (56mm) model, which impacts your Q-factor, or the distance from the center of the bike to the center of the pedal. The Long axle version may ensure a better alignment for riders who benefit from a wider stance. Again, your bike fit expert will be able to assist you with the best Q-factor alignment for your physiology. The standard length axle version is also available.