Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

KLEET-ing

Verb

To attach cycling shoes to the pedals using cleats.

Example usage: I need to cleat in before I start my ride.

Most used in: Areas with lots of cycling activity, such as cities and mountain biking trails.

Most used by: Cyclists who use clipless pedals.

Popularity: 8

Comedy Value: 3

Also see: Clipping in, Clipping out, Engaging, Disengaging,

What is Cleating in Cycling?

Cleating is a cycling term that refers to the process of attaching the cyclist's foot to the pedal. This is done by positioning the cleat on the sole of the cycling shoe into the pedal. The cleat is secured with a bolt, and the cycling shoe is then clipped into the pedal.

Cleats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the type of cleat used is determined by the type of cycling the cyclist is doing. For instance, mountain bikers typically use a two-bolt cleat system, while road cyclists use a three-bolt cleat system. This is because mountain bikers need to be able to move their feet to navigate the terrain, while road cyclists don't need to move their feet as much.

Research has shown that using a cleat system can provide a number of benefits for cyclists. It increases power transfer from the cyclist to the pedal, which can result in increased speed and efficiency. It also provides better stability, as the foot is held in place on the pedal. This can help reduce the risk of injury.

Cleating can take some time to get used to, and it can be difficult for some beginner cyclists. However, with practice and patience, it can become second nature. As a result, cleating can be a great way to get the most out of your cycling experience.

.

The Origin of the Term 'Cleating' in Cycling

The term 'cleating' first appeared in the cycling world in the late 19th century in the United Kingdom. It was originally used to refer to the process of attaching metal cleats to a cyclist's shoes to provide them with a more secure fit to the pedals. This allowed cyclists to pedal more efficiently and helped them to stay in control while riding.

The cleats were typically made from leather or rubber and were secured to the sole of the shoe with nails or screws. The cleats were then attached to the pedals with bolts or clips. This system of cleating was used for many years until the invention of the modern clipless pedal system in the 1980s.

The modern clipless pedal system uses a cleat that is attached directly to the sole of the shoe, allowing for a secure and comfortable fit. This system is now widely used in cycling and has become the norm for most cyclists.

The term 'cleating' is still used in cycling today and is used to refer to the process of attaching cleats to cycling shoes. It is a term that has been around for over a century and is still a vital part of cycling today.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER