A click on every pedal stroke. A squeak at the top of the stroke. A cleat that feels a little loose when you clip in. These are some of the most common Peloton® shoe complaints, and most of the time the fix takes five minutes and an Allen key.
Here is how to figure out what is causing the noise and how to fix it.
What Causes Clicking or Squeaking?
1. Loose cleat bolts
This is the most common cause. Each Delta cleat is held on by three bolts, and they slowly loosen over time from the force of pedaling. Even a slightly loose cleat can shift and click with every stroke.
2. Worn cleats
Cleats are plastic, and plastic wears down. As the edges round off, the cleat sits less firmly in the pedal, which can cause clicking, play, or a cleat that unclips unexpectedly. Walking around in your cycling shoes speeds this up a lot.
3. Dirt or dried sweat
Dust, grit, and sweat build up in the pedal and on the cleat. That buildup can cause a squeak or a gritty feeling when you clip in.
4. Stripped or damaged bolts
If a bolt spins without tightening, or the head is rounded off, it will not hold the cleat securely no matter how hard you turn it. That bolt needs to be replaced.
How to Tighten Your Cleat Bolts
- Check the cleat position first. Before tightening, make sure the cleat is still where you want it. Scuff lines around the cleat can show if it has moved.
- Tighten a little at a time. Snug each of the three bolts gradually, rotating between them, so the cleat seats evenly.
- Go snug, not cranked. Bolts should be firm, but overtightening can strip the bolts or damage the threads in your shoe. If you use a torque wrench, follow your shoe manufacturer's recommendation.
- Clip in and test. Do a short ride and listen. If the clicking is gone, you are done.
- Recheck after a week. Freshly tightened bolts can settle slightly after a few rides.
If the cleat is tight and in good shape but the noise is still there, the sound may be coming from the pedal itself. In that case, inspect the pedal or reach out to Peloton support.
When to Replace the Bolts
Replace your bolts if they are stripped, rounded, rusty, or will not stay tight. Phillips screws are especially prone to stripping, which is why many riders switch to Allen key bolts.
The TrubliFit Replacement Delta Bolts with Allen Key kit includes:
- 6 M5 bolts, enough for two cleats
- 6 rectangle washers (21mm x 13mm) for Look Delta or Peloton® cleats
- 6 larger rectangle washers (25mm x 14mm) for aftermarket cleats
- 1 Allen key
Cleats are not included in the bolt kit.
When to Replace the Cleats
If tightening does not fix the clicking, the cleat itself is likely worn. A good rule of thumb is to replace cleats about once a year, or sooner if you ride often or walk in your cycling shoes. Signs it is time:
- Rounded or chipped edges
- Extra side to side play when clipped in
- Clipping out by accident
- Clicking that comes back right after tightening
The TrubliFit Replacement Delta Cleats fit the Look Delta pedals that come standard on the Peloton® Bike and Bike+. They have 9 degrees of float for a comfortable range of motion and come with upgraded Allen key bolts instead of Phillips screws, plus the Allen key to install them.
For more on timing, see our guide: When Should I Change My Peloton® Shoe Cleats?
Quick Habits That Prevent Noise
- Check your cleat bolts once a month
- Wipe your cleats and pedals after sweaty rides
- Avoid walking around in your cycling shoes
- Replace cleats yearly, and bolts whenever they show wear
The Bottom Line
Most clicking and squeaking comes down to loose bolts or worn cleats. Tighten first. If the noise comes back, replace the bolts or the cleats and you are back to quiet, solid rides.
Shop Replacement Delta Bolts
Shop Replacement Delta Cleats
TrubliFit is an independent brand and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Peloton Interactive, Inc. Peloton® is a registered trademark of Peloton Interactive, Inc.
