Ideal for commuters, tourers and newer clip-in riders who want walkable SPD shoes, easy engagement and a calmer feel at low speed.
The Shimano PD-ED500 is a road-and-commute friendly dual-sided SPD pedal built for riders who want the security of clipping in without giving up easy starts, easy stops and walkable shoes. The light-action mechanism reduces the force needed to clip in and release, and Shimano includes SM-SH56 multi-release cleats to make disengagement feel more forgiving in traffic, at lights and through stop-start riding.
What makes this pedal stand out from a basic MTB-style SPD is the mini-platform shape around the binding. That extra support helps the pedal feel a bit more planted under SPD shoes, which is handy for longer commutes, touring days and mixed road-and-gravel rides. It is still very much an SPD pedal rather than a true flat-pedal hybrid, so it makes the most sense if you’ll be riding in SPD-compatible shoes most of the time.
For buyers comparing options, this sits neatly between a minimal off-road SPD and a more road-specific single-sided pedal. You keep the confidence of double-sided entry, which many riders prefer for urban riding and frequent restarts, while getting a more road-friendly shape than a bare-bones trail pedal. If your priority is simple engagement, low-fuss durability and everyday usability rather than outright weight savings, this is a very sensible choice.
Dual-sided SPD entry
You can clip in from either side, which makes take-offs easier at lights, intersections and other stop-start situations.
Light-action mechanism
Entry and release take less force, so the pedal feels less intimidating if you’re new to clip-in riding or ride in traffic often.
SM-SH56 cleats included
The supplied multi-release cleats allow a more forgiving exit feel than a single-release setup, which suits everyday riding.
Mini-platform body
The surrounding pedal body adds shoe support compared with a very compact SPD pedal, helping comfort on longer rides.
SPD shoe compatibility
Works with Shimano SPD-style two-bolt shoes, giving you a recessed cleat that is easier to walk on than road three-bolt systems.
Adjustable release tension
You can tune the spring tension to suit your confidence level, from an easier beginner-friendly feel to a firmer hold.
Sealed bearing cartridge axle
The axle design is built to keep out water and grime for smoother running and lower day-to-day maintenance.
Reflector option available
It accepts SM-PD60 reflectors if you want extra visibility for commuting and public-road riding.
General
Materials & construction
Dimensions & weight
Compatibility
Features
What's included
SPD
Our SPD system gives you secure clip-in pedalling with a recessed-cleat design that’s easier to walk in, making it a practical choice for commuting, touring and everyday riding.
Light Action SPD
Light Action tuning makes clipping in and out feel easier and less intimidating, which is ideal if you stop often or want extra confidence at lower speeds.
Sealed bearing cartridge axle
The sealed cartridge axle helps keep water and debris out, so you get smoother running and lower-maintenance durability over time.
Multi-directional release cleat
The included multi-release cleats help you unclip in more than one direction, giving you a more forgiving feel when it’s time to put a foot down.
Great for
Maybe not for
Designed for SPD-compatible two-bolt shoes only. Compatible with SM-SH51 and SM-SH56 cleats, with SM-SH56 included in the box. Optional SM-PD60 reflectors can be fitted. For Australian commuting use, this is a strong match if you want walkable shoes and frequent stop-start confidence, but it is not the right choice if you need a broad flat platform for riding in casual shoes.
vs Shimano PD-M520
The PD-M520 is the classic budget SPD benchmark: simpler, lighter and very durable, but with less platform support around the binding.
vs Shimano PD-ES600
The PD-ES600 is a lighter, sleeker road-biased SPD pedal for riders who want walkable shoes with a more performance-oriented feel.
vs Shimano PD-EH500
The PD-EH500 suits riders who genuinely split time between SPD shoes and ordinary shoes thanks to its flat side on one face and SPD on the other.
Best with proper SPD shoes
This pedal makes the most sense with a stiff-ish two-bolt SPD shoe. The pedal body adds support, but it is still not intended to replace a proper flat pedal for everyday sneakers.
A smart first clip-in pedal
If you are nervous about clip-in pedals, the light-action mechanism and included multi-release cleats make this one of the easier Shimano options to learn on.
Good match for road, gravel and commuter bikes
The shape feels more at home on commuting, touring and all-road bikes than a tiny race pedal or a bulky gravity pedal. It is a practical middle ground for mixed riding.
Tension setup matters
Set both pedals to a low, even spring tension when you first install them, then increase tension gradually once clipping in and out becomes second nature.
Shimano is a Japanese component brand founded in 1921 in Sakai, Osaka. The company began with bicycle component manufacturing and has grown into a global business focused on bicycle components, fishing tackle and rowing equipment, while keeping its headquarters in Sakai.
In cycling, Shimano is best known for building complete component ecosystems that span road, mountain, gravel, commuting and e-bike use. Its range covers drivetrains, brakes, wheels, pedals, shoes and related parts, and the brand has had a long presence in Australia through a local business established in Sydney in 1992.
