New shoe-pedal system: Q36.5 and SRM develop shoe and X-Power Direct pedal

In cooperation with SRM, the Italian company Q36.5 presents a completely new shoe-pedal system that fundamentally improves power transmission between rider and bike. The combination of SRM X-Power Direct Pedal and Q36.5 Unique Pro 4.0 Shoe significantly reduces the distance between the sole of the shoe and the pedal axle. The modified geometry brings the foot 6 mm closer to the axis of rotation of the pedal. This design enables more direct power transmission and a more stable pedal movement, especially with high loads and short cranks. The integration of both components creates a contact surface of 1,653 mm², which distributes the pressure more evenly and minimises dead spots in the pedal stroke.

The biomechanical advantages can be seen in several areas: The lower centre of gravity improves balance and enables more aerodynamic riding positions. The increased contact surface between shoe and pedal ensures continuous power transfer throughout the entire pedalling process. Riders benefit from noticeably more stability on descents and when using short cranks, where every millimetre of distance to the pedal axle influences the leverage effect. The system utilises a special cleat design that requires an additional hole in the shoe sole and is currently only compatible with the Unique Pro models from Q36.5.

SRM X-Power Direct Pedal: geometry rethought

The SRM X-Power Direct pedal is made of die-cast and anodised aluminium and weighs 311 grams per pair including cleats and screws. The decisive innovation lies in the cleat geometry: the mechanism has been moved to the rear and positioned behind the actual contact point. This design reduces the distance between the sole of the shoe and the pedal axle by 6 mm compared to conventional systems. This increases the contact area to 1,653 mm², which optimises power transmission and at the same time increases biomechanical efficiency. The cleat mechanism works with a special fastening that requires an additional hole in the sole of the shoe.

The rearward offset cleat position fundamentally changes the distribution of force: instead of point loads, the force is transmitted over a larger area. This reduces hotspots and improves comfort on long rides. The aluminium construction offers high rigidity and low weight, while the anodised surface ensures corrosion protection and durability. The pedal works with three different cleat angles (-1.2°, 0°, 3°) to accommodate different foot positions. Integration with the Q36.5 shoe enables tool-free adjustment of the position for optimum biomechanical adaptation to every rider.

Unique Pro 4.0: carbon sole with reduced stack height

The Q36.5 Unique Pro 4.0 was specially developed to work with the SRM pedal and uses a handmade carbon sole that is currently in the patent process. The stack height is only 4.4 mm and, in combination with the SRM pedal, enables an overall reduction of 11.9 mm compared to the average value of 17.8 mm of conventional systems. A wider metatarsal zone improves the fit and increases comfort while maintaining the typical Q36.5 features such as thermoregulation and precise fit. The shoe is suitable for year-round use and combines performance with comfort in all weather conditions.

The carbon sole utilises a special construction that offers maximum stiffness with minimum weight. The handcrafted production enables precise wall thickness variation for optimum power transmission in different areas of the sole. The wider metatarsal zone takes into account the natural shape of the foot and reduces pressure points on long rides. Q36.5 is the first shoe manufacturer in the world to be compatible with the SRM X-Power Direct pedal. The thermoregulation technology uses special materials and ventilation channels to ensure optimum temperature and moisture management. The shoe is available in sizes 37 to 48 and comes in two colour variants: white check and blue check.

Biomechanical advantages and increased performance

Reducing the stack height brings the foot closer to the axis of rotation of the pedal and significantly reduces the distance between the sole of the shoe and the centre of movement. This increases biomechanical efficiency and makes the pedalling movement more stable and fluid, especially with high loads or when using short cranks. The close integration of shoe and pedal enables a more even distribution of pressure over the entire contact surface. Power is transmitted across the entire sole of the foot, minimising dead spots in the pedal stroke and ensuring continuous power delivery. Riders experience a more natural pedalling motion and a level of efficiency that could not be achieved with conventional systems.

Lowering the body's centre of gravity improves balance and enables a more aerodynamic riding position as well as better control even under high loads. With short cranks, which are increasingly used in modern road bikes, the advantage is particularly clear: every millimetre less distance to the pedal axle improves the leverage effect and reduces the power required for the same performance. On descents, riders benefit from noticeably more stability, as the lower position and better power transmission enable more precise control. The system is suitable for both professionals and ambitious amateur riders who want to maximise the efficiency of their power transmission.

Availability and market launch

The SRM x Q36.5 shoe-pedal system is now available online at q36-5.com and from selected specialist retailers. The combination of both components enables a fully integrated solution for optimised power transmission for the first time. Q36.5 plans to make the system available to other shoe manufacturers as soon as the patent application has been finalised. Availability will initially be limited to the Unique Pro models, as only these have the necessary additional hole for the special cleat system. SRM and Q36.5 are already working on further developments to continuously improve the system and optimise it for different areas of use.

The product will initially be launched in Europe and North America, with other markets to follow gradually. Q36.5 utilises its network of professional teams and athletes for extensive testing under competition conditions. The Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team and athletes such as Tom Pidcock, Cameron Wurf and Daniela Ryf have already been testing the system for several months. The feedback will be incorporated into further development in order to continuously optimise the system. Dealers receive special training for the correct adjustment and installation of the system, as the modified geometry requires precise adjustment.

Technical specifications:

SRM X-Power Direct Pedal:

• Material: Die-cast aluminium
• Weight: 311 grams per pair (including cleats and screws)
• Contact surface: 1,653 mm²
• Stack height reduction: 6 mm compared to conventional pedals
• Cleat angle: -1.2°, 0°, 3°
• Price: 550 Euro

Q36.5 Unique Pro 4.0:

• Sole: Handmade carbon sole (patent pending)
• Stack height: 4.4 mm
• Sizes: 37-48
• Colour variants: White chequered, Blue chequered
• Special features: Wider metatarsal zone, thermoregulation
• Price: 550 Euro