Kleet Ree-lease
Noun, Verb
Cleat release is the process of removing cleats from cycling shoes.
Example usage: I need to do a cleat release before I can take my shoes off.
Most used in: Cycling communities around the world.
Most used by: Road cyclists and mountain bikers.
Popularity: 8 out of 10.
Comedy Value: 2 out of 10.
Also see: Cleat Retention, Cleat Ejection, Pedal Release, Unclipping,
What is Cleat Release?
Cleat Release is a term used in cycling to refer to the force required to unclip from the bicycle pedals. This force is measured in Newton meters (Nm). The higher the Nm rating a cleat system has, the greater the force required to unclip from the pedals.
Cleat Release is an important factor to consider when choosing a cycling shoe, as it can affect the safety of the cyclist. A higher cleat release value will make it more difficult to unclip from the pedals, potentially leading to an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash or fall.
The average cleat release value for cycling shoes is between 4 and 8 Nm, although some shoes have values as low as 2.5 Nm or as high as 12 Nm. The higher the cleat release value, the more secure the cyclist will be on the bike.
When choosing a cycling shoe, it is important to consider your own needs and preferences. If you are an experienced cyclist, you may prefer a higher cleat release value for increased security. If you are a beginner, you may prefer a lower cleat release value to make unclipping easier.
The History of the Cycling Term 'Cleat Release'
The term 'cleat release' is used to describe the action of releasing a bicycle pedal from the cyclist's shoe. The term was first used in the 1970s in the United States. It was popularized by professional cyclists, and then spread to the general population.
The term is derived from the cleats that are attached to the bottom of the cyclist's shoe. The cleats are designed to fit into the pedals, and when the cyclist steps on the pedal, the cleat engages and the pedal is securely fastened to the shoe.
When the cyclist wants to release the pedal from the shoe, they must press down on the cleat release mechanism. This mechanism is usually found on the side of the pedal, and when it is pressed, the cleat is disengaged from the pedal.
The term 'cleat release' is now commonly used by cyclists around the world, and is an important part of cycling safety. It allows cyclists to quickly and easily disengage from the pedals when necessary, preventing them from being pulled over by the pedals.
