Shimano PD-R550 vs. RS500: Compared

Shimano PD-R550 and the Shimano PD-RS500 are both entry-level SPD-SL pedals that share some features, but also have some differences.

We will compare them based on their specifications, features, pros and cons, and customer feedback.

Table of Contents

Specifications

Here is a table that summarizes the main specifications of the two pedals:

Specification	PD-R550	PD-RS500
Type	Road	Road
Body Material	Composite / Steel	Stainless Steel
Pedal Weight	155 g	160 g
Stack Height	16.5 mm	16.8 mm
Cleat Type	SPD-SL	SPD-SL

The Shimano PD-R550 and the Shimano PD-RS500 have similar dimensions and weight, but they differ in their body material and stack height.

The PD-R550 has a composite body with a stainless steel plate, while the PD-RS500 has a stainless steel body. It has a lower stack height of 16.5 mm, compared to 16.8 mm for the PD-RS500.

The PD-R550 has a lower center of gravity and less distance between the pedal and the shoe, which can improve power transfer and stability.

Features

Both pedals have some common features, such as:

Wide platform for maximum efficient transfer of power
Sealed mechanism for low maintenance

Cleat retention adjuster for easy tension adjustment
Larger entry target for easier engagement
SPD-SL compatible cleats (SM-SH11) included

However, the PD-R550 has some additional features that make it superior to the PD-RS500, such as:

Wide bearing placement for stable, uniform load distribution
Durable composite body that reduces flex and wear

Lighter spring tension optimized for beginner riders
Wider spring tension range

Pros and Cons

Based on the specifications and features, here are some pros and cons of each pedal:

Pros: PD-R550

Lighter and more durable than the PD-RS500
Lower stack height for better power transfer and stability

Wider bearing placement for smoother rotation
Wider spring tension range for more flexibility
Lighter spring tension for easier clipping in and out

Cons: PD-R550

More expensive than the PD-RS500
Composite body may not be as stiff as metal
Cleats may wear out faster than metal ones

Pros: PD-RS500

Cheaper than the PD-R550
Stainless steel body for more stiffness and durability
Cascaded features from top-tier systems

Easy step in and step out

Cons: PD-RS500

Heavier and less durable than the PD-R550
Higher stack height for less power transfer and stability

Narrower bearing placement for less smooth rotation
Narrower spring tension range for less flexibility
Heavier spring tension for harder clipping in and out

Which one should you buy?

We would recommend the Shimano PD-R550 over the Shimano PD-RS500 if you are looking for a pair of road pedals that offer good performance, durability and value.

The PD-R550 has some advantages over the PD-RS500, such as lighter weight, lower stack height, wider bearing placement, wider spring tension range, and lighter spring tension.

These features can make a difference in your riding comfort, efficiency and enjoyment. The PD-R550 is also more popular and well-reviewed by customers than the PD-RS500.

However, if you are on a tight budget and don’t mind the extra weight, higher stack height, narrower bearing placement, narrower spring tension range, and heavier spring tension of the PD-RS500, then you might still consider this pedal as an option.

The PD-RS500 is still a decent pedal that has some features from top-tier systems, such as easy step in and step out, wide platform, sealed mechanism, and cleat retention adjuster.

The PD-RS500 is also cheaper than the PD-R550, which can save you some money.

Still, the choice between the Shimano PD-R550 and the Shimano PD-RS500 depends on your personal preference, budget and riding style.