Ideal for commuters, gravel riders, tourers and fitness riders who want the freedom to swap between SPD shoes and everyday shoes on the same bike.
If you want one pedal set to cover commuting, touring, gravel and everyday riding, the Shimano PD-EH500 is an easy recommendation. It gives you single-sided SPD engagement for efficient pedalling with compatible cycling shoes, plus a flat platform on the reverse for regular sneakers or casual shoes. That makes it a smart option if your bike has to do more than one job.
The feel on the bike is geared toward approachable, low-fuss use. Shimano’s Light Action SPD mechanism is designed to make clipping in and out easier, and the included SM-SH56 multi-release cleats are especially friendly if you are new to clipless pedals or want a more forgiving release. The flat side also has an updated grippy shape with pins to help keep your foot planted when you are riding unclipped.
Where this pedal stands out is versatility, not pure race performance. It is a little less convenient than a double-sided SPD pedal if you are clipping in and out constantly, and the platform side is not a substitute for a full-size MTB flat pedal. But if you want one pedal that works with both SPD shoes and everyday footwear, with Shimano’s typically solid bearing durability and low-maintenance axle design, the PD-EH500 is a very strong all-round choice.
SPD on one side, flat on the other
You can run clip-in shoes for longer or faster rides, then use normal shoes for quick trips, café stops or family rides.
Light Action SPD engagement
Clipping in and out feels easier and less intimidating, which suits newer clipless riders and stop-start riding.
SM-SH56 cleats included
The supplied multi-release cleats offer a more forgiving exit feel than a standard single-release cleat setup.
Updated flat-side grip
The platform side is shaped for better traction, giving you more confidence in casual shoes and in wet conditions.
Adjustable release tension
You can tune the SPD side lighter or firmer to suit your confidence, riding style and shoe setup.
Low-maintenance axle unit
The sealed cartridge axle keeps servicing demands down, which is exactly what most everyday riders want.
Great mixed-use pedal
This is a strong fit for bikes that handle weekday transport, weekend gravel and light touring duties.
General
Features
System
Compatibility
Dimensions & weight
Support & service
SPD
You'll get a secure clip-in connection that still works well when your ride includes walking. The recessed-cleat SPD design is easier to walk in than road-style cleats, and it delivers efficient power transfer with simple entry and exit.
Light Action SPD
This lighter-action step-in design makes clipping in and out feel easier, which is a smart choice if you want clipless efficiency without a more aggressive retention feel.
Sealed cartridge axle unit
The sealed axle unit helps keep maintenance low, so you can ride more and spend less time servicing your pedals.
Great for
Maybe not for
Uses the SPD / 2-bolt cleat standard and works with shoes drilled for SPD cleats. The included SM-SH56 multi-release cleats suit riders wanting easier exit. The flat side works with everyday shoes, but it is still a compact platform rather than a full-size MTB flat pedal.
vs Shimano PD-T8000
The PD-T8000 is a more premium Shimano hybrid pedal aimed at trekking and touring riders who want a slightly more refined platform feel.
vs Crankbrothers Double Shot 2
Another genuine hybrid pedal with flat on one side and clip-in on the other, but using the Crankbrothers cleat system instead of SPD.
vs LOOK Geo Trekking Vision
A commuter-focused hybrid pedal with an SPD-compatible side and a flat side, plus an integrated removable light system.
A very good first clipless pedal
If you are moving from flats to clipless, this is one of the friendlier ways to do it because the Light Action mechanism and SH56 cleats make exits feel less abrupt.
Best on bikes with mixed jobs
This pedal makes the most sense on a commuter, gravel bike, flat-bar fitness bike or touring setup where you genuinely use both cycling shoes and casual shoes.
Know the trade-off before you buy
Because only one side clips in, it is not as quick to engage as a double-sided SPD pedal. If every ride is performance-focused and always in cycling shoes, a dedicated SPD pedal may suit you better.
The flat side is useful, not oversized
The platform side is handy for short rides and daily transport, but riders wanting a big aggressive flat pedal feel should look at a dedicated flat pedal instead.
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.
