Bike Pedals: Everything You Need to Know

PEDALS! PEDALS are yet another component of your bike that you will use to move forward on the next cruising. There is one common question that people ask ad infinitum, “Which pedals ‘shod’ me?”

However, before you even begin to think about pedals there are many other aspects that you will need to decide on first. Where do you think most of your riding is going to be done –on-road or off-road? Or will you be commuting and touring? You may be interested in the efficiency and power transfer of a clipless or platform system, but you might also want the relative ease of maneuverability and the ability to use a platform. You might want to have the best of both!

Let's first explore the different types of pedals.

Platform Bike Pedals

You probably used platform pedals on your first bicycle. These pedals provide a stable and wide surface for your feet to rest on. They can be used with any shoe. These are not meant to be used with clipless footwear.

The new versions are made of lightweight materials and have sealed bearings that keep out dirt, moisture, and other unwanted things. Some have pins that can be replaced on the surface to increase grip in slippery conditions.

These pedals work well for commuters, tourists, and even gravel. These pedals provide a good balance of grip and control while still being easy to put on and take off.

Pedal toe clips and straps

Toe clips, or toe cages, are small frames that surround your toes. They attach to the platform pedals. These allow you to both pull your foot up and push down during the pedal stroke.

The majority of clips will have an adjustable strap that threads through the top of the clip and the bottom (this wraps around the ball of the foot). This gives you a basic system of retention that is affordable, lightweight, and durable.

Clipless Bike Peddles

Let's first clarify that clipless is a confusing term for these pedals since you clip into the cleats of the pedals just like you would with a skiing binding.

Names like "clipless pedals" come from the days when cyclists could only choose pedals with "toe clip" for better pedaling efficiency. Clipless pedals eliminated the toe clip by providing a direct connection between the shoe and the pedal. This is how they became known as "clipless" pedals.

The system is simple. A small cleat, made of plastic or metal, is mounted on the bottom of your shoe and snaps into spring-loaded clips located on the pedal.

Clipless pedals provide an increased level of control when riding fast, or performing moves such as jumping up on curbs or logs. Your feet will be locked into the pedals, reducing the chance of bouncing off them when you are applying power or riding over bumps.

Once you've mastered the art of clipless pedals you will never forget it.

Quick Overview Here is a list of some of the most common clipless shoe attributes available on the market.

MTB/Gravel Bike Cleats: Clipless pedals are available for MTB/gravel bikes that feature cleats in a 2-hole configuration. The cleat is secured to the shoe with screws through the two holes. You can slide the cleat slightly back and forth to find the right angle and position for comfort and ease of engagement.

The 2-hole design, also known as Shimano Pedaling Dynamics (SPD), is often referred to. Shimano is one of the original companies that developed this system. They continue to lead the market to date. Shimano's system has been copied by other manufacturers such as Crank Brothers, Time and Time.

Road Bike Pedals - Clipless pedals are often equipped with 3-hole cleats. This style is sometimes called a Look cleat, after the company that pioneered it. It's also known as the SPD-SL system. These cleats are larger, made of plastic, and extend further from the sole than the 2-hole design.

A 3-hole design has the advantage that the wider cleat spreads the force applied to the pedal across a larger platform. The overall pressure is reduced on the foot, the connection points, and the pedal.

You may prefer a 2-hole system if you are a casual rider, or if you get on and off the bike often. It is easier to put on/take off and more convenient.

Clipless/Platform Bike Peddles

This hybrid pedal offers the versatility of a platform pedal with the efficiency and effectiveness of a clipless pedal system. This is a great gateway pedal. This is a great pedal for those who want to transition into clipless. These pedals are the perfect middle ground for people who do not always wear cycling shoes.

Key Terms

You will hear some terms thrown around when it comes to pedals. These are good to know as you start to consider what pedals will work best for you.

Pedal flotation: The cleat is locked into the pedal mechanism when you step on it. The amount of rotation that the foot is allowed on the pedal is called float. Some systems keep the foot at an angle, others have fixed float amounts and some allow customization. As you gain experience, your preference for the amount of float and how to ride a pedal will change.

Multiple-release cleats Most cleats with pedals are released laterally. These models are very similar, but the so-called "multiple-release" cleat releases more easily and with slightly greater angles. (Your heel can be moved inwards or outwards and even slightly upwards). The differences are usually subtle but the bottom line is they seem to be more forgiving.

Finding the right pedals for your riding style and personal preference can be a difficult task. We hope this will be a good starting point as you research your options.