The Shimano Dura-Ace PD-R9100 represents the top tier of Shimano's SPD-SL road pedal lineup. The injection-molded carbon composite body sheds weight through strategic material placement while maintaining rigidity under hard efforts. Three integrated stainless steel contact plates protect high-wear areas on the pedal body without requiring separate hardware, and these polished plates provide a smooth interface for the cleat to glide across during engagement and disengagement. At 228 grams per pair, the PD-R9100 comes in 20 grams lighter than its predecessor while maintaining the structural integrity that Dura-Ace pedals are known for.

The pedal uses a three-bearing axle system that combines two sealed cartridge ball bearings with a wide needle roller bearing positioned in the center. This arrangement distributes load uniformly across the axle regardless of pedaling forces, which contributes to the smooth rotation and extended bearing life. The extra-wide platform measures 66 millimeters across, spreading contact area between shoe and pedal to improve power transfer efficiency and reduce pressure concentration that can cause hot spots during long efforts. Stack height sits at 14.6 millimeters from the axle centerline to the cleat contact surface, keeping your foot close to the spindle for improved pedaling biomechanics and better cornering clearance.

The pedals ship with Shimano's SM-SH12 cleats, which feature a centered pivot point and two degrees of total float. This tighter cleat interface creates a more direct connection between shoe and pedal compared to the wider-float options. The SM-SH12 cleats are color-coded blue for easy identification. If you prefer more freedom of movement, the pedals also work with SM-SH11 yellow cleats (six degrees of float) or SM-SH10 red cleats (zero float), sold separately. Tension adjustment bolts at the rear of each pedal allow you to customize entry and release force. The standard version uses Shimano's 52-millimeter Q-factor, and a plus-four-millimeter axle option extends stance width to 56 millimeters for riders who need additional width for proper knee alignment.