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I use then on my full suss, they help get pedalling again more easily than the trad ones. Although I use the trads on my hardtail...
I honestly can't tell the difference to them and the standard ones without the cage. Thats with my Shimano storm trooper shoes, others may find a difference with other shoes but I personally wouldn't bother buying them again
Replaced the older XTR SPD's with these and very happy with them. A bit more foot support and easy engagement 🙂
They're bloody brilliant!! Miles easier to get clipped in with the platform. And a lot more comfortable on long descents. Its not worth going for XT IMHO though. Just get a set of [url= http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/shimano-m530-spd-trail-mtb-pedals/rp-prod67249?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Shopping&utm_name=UnitedKingdom&gs=1&gclid=CjwKEAiA4_WjBRCNgf7A_KeE9jwSJADtegYdl3ov7sVhAe6064TejDpabjSgXRhaAyqyf6Q5zmNMZRoCClrw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds ]M530's[/url] for twenty quid and you're laughing
I have a set of (regular) M520 pedals and the M530 trail pedals which look identical to the XT version.
I much prefer the trail ones as the cage gives a noticeably better 'feel' when putting down the power. It might be because my SPD shoes (Specialized Tahoe Sports) aren't the stiffest though. Perhaps with a stiffer shoe there wouldn't be much difference.
On a separate note, you can pick up a pair of M530s with cleats for £17 delivered if you look around. There isn't a great deal of difference between them and the XT version besides a slight weight penalty and non-serviceable axle.

