New Shimano flat pedals and Saint SPDs
The PD-GR500 is Shimano’s entry level flat pedal. It replaces the PD-MX80.
Earlier this year, Shimano sent out an in-depth press release highlighting their newest gravity pedals. At Outdoor Demo, we finally had the opportunity to see the new goods up close.
Up first, is the PD-GR500. This is Shimano’s entry level flat pedal. Think of it as a Deore level product. It features height-adjustable pins, sealed-cartridge bearing, chromoly axle, and is available in either black or silver. If you look closely, you may notice this pedal’s resemblance to the outgoing Saint platform. That’s because this is essentially the same pedal, with some minor tweaks to help lower costs. Claimed weight is 535g for the pair. Retail is $80.
Shimano’s new XT platform is available in two sizes.
If you can stretch your budget another $20, Shimano is offering a new XT level flat pedal. The PD-M8040 is available in two sizes. The small-medium (100mm x 105mm) is recommended for riders with a 36-43 size foot, while the larger platform (110 x 115mm) is best for those from 43 and up.
With the pedals stacked on top of each other, it’s easier to see the difference in size.
Both pedals have a concave platform, with 10 pins per side. The pins are available in either 3.5mm or 5mm. Claimed weight is 460g for the smaller platforms or 503g for the larger version. Retail for either is $100.
The new Saint platform has a burlier axle, larger platform, more pins, and a concave shape.
The flat pedal we’re most excited for is the new Saint. The previous version was incredibly reliable, but was bulky and lacked grip. The new version seems to share the same excellent build quality, but has a much larger platform. The concave platform has 12 pins per side. And like the XT version, the pins are available in either 3.5mm or 5mm heights.
Do you love or hate the look of the new pedal?
Claimed weight for the set is 493. Retail is $180.
Prefer clips? Shimano’s new Saint pedals should offer an excellent alternative to the Crankbrothers Mallet.
In addition to the new flats, Shimano was also showcasing a new SPD Saint pedal. This beauty features four adjustable pins per side and a wide alloy platform. It’s basically a DH worthy version of an XTR quality SPD. Claimed weight is 570g w/pins and washer). Retail price is $160.
All four pedals are slated to start shipping in November. Learn more at bike.shimano.com.
This article is part of Mtbr’s coverage of the 2017 Interbike trade show in Las Vegas. For more from Interbike CLICK HERE.
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