The bearings in the cartridge axle feel like they will go on forever, and the beautifully finished, forged-alloy pedal body staunchly refuses to register wear and tear.

>>> Best mountain bike clipless pedals

Compared to previous XT pedals, the current design has gained nearly eight per cent contact area between shoe and pedal by increasing the platform size, and the stack height has dropped to bring you closer to the axle body — all of which results in extra support and stability.

Mud clearance still isn’t quite on a par with Mavic and Look, needing a little more attention if the pedal and shoe becomes packed with sticky or stony gunk, but under most conditions, the entry and exit was crisp and slick, with a very consistent force required to unclip.