This is the second generation of Shimano's XT branded pedals. And as usual, the workhorse XT parts get some trickledown from Shimano's flagship XTR line. For this version you'll save a handful of grams per pedal over the older XT PD-M770 pedals, but most importantly, the design of the XT PD-M780 Pedals offers more platform to support your foot on the pedal body.

Like all other Shimano SPD pedals, it's a two-sided design so you can have easy access with the stomp of your foot. The two-bolt SH-51 cleats (included) have 4 degrees of float to allow some movement in your ankle as you pedal. At a glance it looks almost identical to the XTR pedals, but material differences make the XTR about 30 grams lighter. Function-wise you'd be hard pressed to tell them apart. The XT pedals are all about performance per dollar.

The Shimano XT PD-M780 Pedals are Dark Grey and have an aluminum body that relies on sealed cartridge bearings to spin on a plated chromoly axle. The retention mechanism can be adjusted on both sides to accommodate your preferred release tension.