This review dives deep into the Shimano XTR M9120 Trail Pedals, examining their performance, durability, and ultimately, a critical design flaw. We'll explore the unboxing experience, detailing the contents and presentation. A detailed look at the pedal's design, including its weight, platform size, and the absence of pins, will be analyzed, comparing it to competitors like Crankbrothers' Mallet E pedals. We'll also cover adjustability, cleat options, and maintenance procedures, highlighting both the ease of some tasks and the complexities of others.However, the core of this review focuses on a significant recurring problem encountered after extensive use: the repeated failure of the pedal seals. This issue, impacting durability and reliability, is discussed in detail, along with the author's experience with warranty replacements and the potential for widespread impact. Ultimately, we’ll assess whether the XTR M9120's positive attributes—weight, adjustability, and feel—outweigh this serious design flaw, offering a final verdict and suggesting potential alternatives.
Pros And Cons
- Easy clipping in and out.
- Good combination of float (8 degrees) and release angle (13 degrees).
- Seals repeatedly popped out, requiring multiple warranty replacements.
- Lack of pins can make them slippery in muddy conditions.
- Large difference between pedal contact area and actual contact patch with shoe, reducing perceived support.
- Mud clearance is not great.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The unboxing experience was fairly standard. The XTR branding on the packaging was a nice touch, deviating from the usual gray and blue boxes of lower-range Shimano products. However, beyond the color, there wasn't anything particularly special or memorable about the presentation. The packaging itself is simple and straightforward.
The pedals themselves arrived in individual bags labeled 'left' and 'right', making installation clear and concise. The package also included SH51 single-release cleats, cleat spacers, and the usual paperwork. All in all, a functional but not extravagant unboxing.
Pedal Design and Specifications
The Shimano XTR M9120 Trail pedals prioritize weight reduction while maintaining durability. Compared to the previous XTR trail pedal, the platform and cage size have been noticeably increased for enhanced stability and contact area. Despite this increase in size, the pedals weigh in at only 395 grams, making them relatively light for their size and intended application.
The pedals lack pins, a choice Shimano makes in contrast to many competitors. This design choice is to preserve the sleek profile and reduce weight. While some might miss the added grip pins provide, the decision was clearly made with weight and performance in mind. The larger platform compensates for the absence of pins for many riders.
Adjustability and Cleats
The XTR M9120 pedals offer the same adjustability as other Shimano pedals, allowing you to fine-tune the spring tension for easy clipping in and out. This is easily adjusted using a 2.5mm hex key. The body covers that hold the cleats can be replaced if needed, though the reviewer states they've never had to replace them on previous Shimano pedals.
Riders can choose between the included SH51 single-release cleats (black) or the optional SH56 multi-release cleats (silver). The multi-release option, ideal for novice riders, makes clipping in and out easier but reduces grip during aggressive riding. A 1mm cleat spacer is also included, providing flexibility for shoe compatibility.
Comparison with Competitors
In this price range, Crankbrothers' Mallet E pedals are a strong competitor. While slightly heavier (about 20 grams), they provide a more robust platform and enhanced grip thanks to their pin design. The reviewer personally owns several Crankbrothers models, but notes that they require more regular maintenance than Shimano pedals.
The choice between the XTR M9120 and the Mallet E hinges on personal preference. If weight is paramount and you are not concerned with possible mud buildup, the XTR pedals may be a good choice. If you value enhanced grip, a more rugged design, and are willing to perform more regular maintenance, then Crankbrothers pedals stand out as a strong competitor.
Long-Term Performance and Durability Issues
After nine and a half months and over 1400 kilometers of use, the reviewer encountered a significant issue with the XTR M9120 pedals: the seals repeatedly popped out. This allowed dirt and debris to enter the pedal body, compromising performance and potentially shortening its lifespan. The reviewer received multiple replacements under warranty, only to experience the same problem each time.
This consistent failure of the seals is a major concern. While the pedals performed well mechanically when functional, this recurring defect severely impacts their overall durability and reliability. The reviewer suggests that this issue may affect multiple users and urges others who have had similar experiences to leave comments to gather data on the extent of the problem.
Maintenance and Disassembly
The XTR M9120 pedals can be disassembled for maintenance using a 50mm spanner. The pedal assembly comes out as a single unit and can be replaced separately. While the reviewer doesn't demonstrate full disassembly in the video, they show how to remove the unit. Replacing the entire pedal assembly is a simple method to address minor issues.
More thorough maintenance involves taking the pedal assembly apart completely. This allows for a deep clean and lubrication of bearings and internal components. This is a more involved process, though the reviewer believes that the easy replacement of the entire assembly is a major advantage.
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Shimano XTR M9120 Trail pedals offer a lot of positive features including excellent engagement, adjustability, weight, aesthetics, and feel. The high price point is in line with similar high-end pedals. Mud clearance is a common issue for SPD pedals, exacerbated by the lack of pins on this model.
However, the significant and recurring issue with the seals popping out is a major flaw. This impacts durability and reliability, making these pedals difficult to recommend. Unless Shimano addresses this problem, the XTR M9120s fall short of expectations, especially considering the price. The reviewer suggests exploring the XT M8120 pedals as a potentially more reliable alternative.
