SRM X-Power Direct Road Pedals

The SRM X-Power Direct pedals represent a fundamental reimagining of pedal-shoe interface engineering, developed in collaboration between SRM and Q36.5 to deliver unprecedented power transfer efficiency and aerodynamic advantages. Born from late-night conversations between two of cycling's most innovative minds, these pedals achieve a revolutionary 6mm stack height reduction compared to market-leading systems while dramatically increasing contact surface area between shoe and pedal.

The pedals' breakthrough innovation lies in the repositioning of the cleat's positive retention element behind the direct contact point between shoe and pedal. This fundamental design shift allows the pedal body to extend along the natural 170mm shape of standard bike shoe soles, creating a massive 1,653mm² contact surface area while reducing the distance between shoe and pedal axle to just 9.7mm, compared to 15.6mm for Shimano SPD-SL systems. This 6mm reduction positions the foot closer to the center of circular pedaling motion, minimizing shear forces and enabling more direct power transfer with measurably improved efficiency.

Constructed from anodized aluminum (forged or machined 7075), the pedal body weighs just 254 grams per pair, virtually identical to Shimano Dura-Ace at 252 grams, while delivering transformative performance characteristics. The hardened steel spindle with powder-coated surface ensures durability under racing and training demands, while the retainer utilizes PA6 with 20% glass fiber for strength and reliability. The 54mm Q-factor maintains standard pedaling biomechanics without requiring position adaptation.

The cleat system, constructed from PA612 with 20% glass fiber and featuring rubber walk surfaces, offers three float options: 0°, ±1.2°, and ±3° play for customized rider preference. The repositioned positive element requires one additional mounting hole in the shoe sole, currently exclusive to Q36.5's Unique Pro 4.0 shoes, making them the first brand globally to offer compatibility with this revolutionary system.

Testing with professional riders revealed consistent performance improvements: higher cadence under fixed wattage loads, increased power output under Newton loads, and subjective feedback emphasizing better seating position, improved comfort, and significantly enhanced ability to maintain high cadence at intense efforts. The lowered stack height also enables more aerodynamic body positioning, with riders achieving approximately 20mm rearward weight shift and 1.5cm head position reduction in time trial setups.

Key Features

• Revolutionary 9.7mm Stack Height: 6mm reduction versus Shimano SPD-SL positions foot closer to pedaling motion center for direct power transfer
• Massive 1.653mm² Contact Surface: Extended pedal body increases shoe-pedal interface for improved stability and reduced shear forces
• Professional-Grade Construction: Anodized aluminum body weighs 254g with hardened steel spindle and three cleat float options (0°, ±1.2°, ±3°)