Flat pedals
Flat, or platform pedals, are ultra-versatile, confidence-inspiring pedals that are simple to hop on and off.
See flat pedalsPedals make up two of the five touch points that keep you connected to your bike. They give you a platform for putting down your power and getting moving, but not all bikes come with pedals — and there are all kinds of styles out there. Whether you’re grabbing a pair for a new bike or upgrading your well-loved pedals, this guide will help you put the pedal to the metal.
Clipless MTB pedals
MTB clipless pedals secure to clipless-specific mountain bike shoes for efficient power and a walkable fit.
See clipless mtb pedalsClipless road bike pedals
Clipless road pedals get the most out of your power with a large platform that’s efficient and secure.
See clipless road pedalsWhether shopping for clipless or going for flats, there are a variety of options and prices out there. What makes all of them different?
Good
Our most affordable pedal options are a great place to start. They’re an upgrade from the entry-level pedals that come on some bikes, giving better grip and control.
Better
Mid-level pedals provide tons of durability and traction, and ring in with price tags that find the sweet spot in the middle.
Best
High-end pedals are made from the best, lightest materials and are great for riders who don’t mind spending more to elevate their ride.
Flat pedals are simple, easy-to-use pedals that offer a grippy surface for your shoes, without straps or clipping mechanisms. They’re great with recreational footwear and even better with flat-soled bike shoes that add traction and efficiency. Flat pedals are the best choice for new riders, riders who want to be able to step off at any moment, and aggressive mountain bikers who may need to jump off the bike in sketchy situations.
Pros
• No learning curve, just step on and ride
• Easy to hop on & off, and set down a foot
• Great for learning proper form and bike handling
• Allows riders to shift weight, move their feet, and be more dynamic
Cons
• Feet can slip off on bumps, jumps, and rough rides
• Less pedaling efficiency than clipless pedals
• Foot placement requires more attention
• Maintaining smooth cadence (pedaling rhythm) is more difficult
Clipless mountain bike pedals use a double-sided pedal that clips into a two-bolt cleat, which is mounted to the bottom of clipless-specific mountain bike shoes. They improve control and efficiency on trails, gravel, and even paved roads. Clipless MTB pedals provide great walkability and performance in the rough, muddy conditions you might encounter on trails.
Clipless mountain bike pedals are the best choice for confident trail riders and gravel, and even road riders who want the walkability of a smaller cleat.
Throwing logic to the wind, clipless pedals actually mean clipped in.
Pros
• Better control of the bike than flat pedals
• Your feet remain in proper position once clipped in
• More efficient – clipless pedals allow you to both pull up and push down, reducing fatigue, elevating power, and smoothing out your pedal stroke
• Great walkability, mud-shedding, and versatility between bike disciplines
Cons
• It takes some practice to get used to clipping in and out
• Putting a foot down to catch yourself is more difficult than with flat pedals
• Clipping in can enable poor techniques when learning bike handling skills like jumping, wheelies, and bunny hopping.
• Smaller cleat surface area is less efficient than larger-profile road clipless cleats
Clipless road bike pedals are single-sided pedals that connect to a three-bolt cleat that’s secured to the bottom of clipless-specific road cycling shoes. This wide cleat surface area and secure connection lets riders get the best power transfer for riding on paved roads, where stepping off in sketchy terrain isn’t a big concern. Plus, road shoes and pedals are lighter than clipless MTB options.
Clipless road pedals are the best choice for confident road cyclists looking to get the most power from every pedal stroke.
Like MTB clipless, road clipless pedals actually mean clipped in.
Pros
• Better control of the bike than flat pedals
• Your feet remain in proper position once clipped in
• More efficient – clipless pedals allow you to both pull up and push down, reducing fatigue, elevating power, and smoothing out your pedal stroke
• Maximum speed – large cleat profile provides the best power transfer and lower stack heights boosts clearance for quick cornering
• Lighter pedal and shoe options save precious energy
Cons
• It takes some practice to get used to clipping in and out
• Putting a foot down to catch yourself is more difficult than with flat pedals
• Single-sided entry can be more difficult to clip into
• Much more difficult to walk in when off the bike