Shimano M530 and Shimano M540 are the older siblings of the famous, relatively affordable Shimano M520. However, Shimano M520 has been around for quite some time, and yours may have gotten old enough that it is now the time to replace and upgrade.
Thus, you are now considering getting either Shimano M530 or Shimano M540, but you can’t decide which one to get. Well, they are both impressive deals, but they are not identical. So we should be able to distinguish one from the other and choose the one that is the most suitable for your needs. Let us delve a little further now.
We can immediately tell the difference by putting the two bike pedals side by side. Shimano M530 is designed to have an integrated, built-in pedal cage, while Shimano M540 is naked with an open binding mechanism. Shimano 530 will have slightly better stability when it is not clipped in due to having the pedal cage already. However, the pedal cage, in turn, can help to accumulate mud and dirt, which could be better for durability and maintenance. On the other hand, Shimano M540’s open binding design will shed mud and grime easier.
Another thing to consider when choosing the right pair of bike pedals is the weight. Your bike pedals’ weight can be essential to your riding performance. Generally, we want something relatively light. Shimano M530 is heavier than Shimano M540, primarily due to the added wings. Thus, you will find that Shimano M540 is much easier to be pedaled. Both products use chrome-moly spindles with sealed bearing cartridge axles.
Both pairs use the SPD retention system and are very easily cleaned. They are virtually maintenance-free, even though that is a wise idea if you still want to clean them every once in a while. You will not have to use SPD-specific tools when you want to do the job. Neat and handy, right? By the way, Shimano M530 will need a 3 mm Allen wrench to adjust the tension of the pedals. At the same time, Shimano M540 utilizes an 8 mm Allen wrench. Both models are also straightforward to use; you can easily step in and out.
Shimano M530 Vs M540
| Brand | Shimano | Shimano |
| Features | – Integrated pedal cage for stability when not clipped in – Adjustable entry and release tension settings – Chrome-moly spindle and low maintenance sealed bearing axle – Cleats are included – 455 grams | – The open binding mechanism is designed to better shed mud. – Strong and durable chrome-moly spindle with 8mm Allen key. – Easy Step-in and Step-out – Low maintenance sealed bearing cartridge axle. |
| Price | ||
| Ratings* | 4.7 out of 5.0 stars | 4.7 out of 5.0 stars |
| Best deal* | Save Money Please click here | Save 46% Please click here |
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Conclusion
When you have to choose between Shimano M530 and Shimano M540, without much question anymore, you should select M540 Shimano unless you prefer to have the pedal cage. The pedal cage is not a huge performance boost, so you will likely find that Shimano M540 performs even better than Shimano M530.