I’m debating whether the platform is useful to have or not? I’ve only ever used ‘normal’ spds – XT / 520’s.

Are the 9100 as reliable as the rest? An extra £20 over XT so I’m very tempted.

I’ve found the platform slightly useful, just when you’re doing that “can’t quite get my foot clipped in due to mud/grit/etc. but need to pedal for a short period” sort of situation. Not much use other than that for me but I do wear shows with fairly stiff soles, which would lessen the difference I would think.

The bearings are pretty darned reliable but you do need to do the grease push through thing every year or so or they will collapse.

I have the 9100’s they aren’t caged but they are a bit bigger than the old xtrs. I like them.

They seem broadly indestructible.