Choosing the ideal bicycle pedals for you:
There are three basic types of bicycle pedals. There are platform, with clip and without clip. Each type has a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right pedal for you can have a big influence on the way you ride and the performance of the bike. It’s important to know the pros and cons of each type before buying a mountain bike or when looking for new bike pedals. The pedals are the main connection between you and your bike!
Platform or Flat Style Bicycle Pedals (also known as “Flats”):
This is a traditional pedal shape that most people are familiar with. Platform pedals are easy to use and are ideal for those who prefer to ride in soft-soled shoes. They are probably the most universal of the types of bicycle pedals, as anyone can use them with almost any style of shoe. They do not offer any direct connection between your foot and the bike, however they are designed to provide a good amount of grip and come in unlimited configurations and grip levels. Platform pedals offer instant foot removal from the pedal for any reason, at any time, without obstruction.
Platform Pedal Pros and Cons:
Advantages:
- Easy to use
- No need for special footwear
- Nothing holds you to the bike
- Large surface area provides better contact for your feet.
Cons:
- Lack of power transfer to the pedal on the upstroke
- Pedal teeth can hurt if foot slips
- Loss of pedaling efficiency
Cage or toe clip style bike pedals:
This type of mountain bike pedal is probably the second most popular style. With this type of pedal, you slide your foot into a cage that is attached to the pedal and the cage has a strap that fits around the top of your foot. Toe clips or cages offer advantages over standard platform pedals because they allow the rider to lift up and push down on the pedal. They also help secure your foot to the pedal to prevent your foot from slipping off the pedal and scraping your shin with your fists. They also offer the ability to easily remove your foot if needed and are popular with people who cycle in traffic and need to make frequent stops.
Pros and Cons of the Cage or Toe Clip Pedal:
Advantages:
- Easy to learn to use
- Riders can use power to both push down and lift off the pedal.
- No special footwear necessary
Cons:
- Some loss of power, the toe clip style cannot capture all the energy of the pedaling cycle like clipless pedals can.
- Slightly harder to get in and out of than platform pedals
Automatic pedals for bicycles:
Clipless bike pedals are often the most popular choice for mountain bike riders. They work by directly attaching the foot to the pedal. Special shoes are worn that have a cleat placed in the sole and “hook” into the pedal receiver. This provides the most efficient transfer of power from the rider to the pedals and there is no energy loss. The feet remain attached to the pedal throughout the travel, allowing both the push up and push down pedals. Releasing your foot only requires a quick twist to the side and the pedal releases, allowing you to put your foot down or off the bike. Many people choose clipless vs. Clip pedals because they hold the foot on the pedal even on uneven terrain and also make it easier to jump over obstacles.
Pros and cons of clipless pedal:
Advantages:
- Maximum efficiency with direct transfer of power to the pedals
- Secure attachment to the bike so you can focus and enjoy cycling
- Don’t worry about your foot slipping and causing injury.
- Easier to jump over obstacles
Cons:
- Specialized shoes are required.
- You need to learn to click on and off the pedals.
- It can be difficult to take your foot off the pedal in an emergency and crashes do happen.
So which ones do I choose?
You’ll need to figure out what style of driving you plan on doing the most. Will you mountain bike easy on non-technical trails, extreme descents, or pedal hard and technical trails? Once you decide what kind of riding you’ll be doing, you can review the three main styles of pedals and pick the one you think is best for you. Basic platform pedals come in various grips, but are generally best suited for casual, easy riding. By choosing clip vs. clipless pedals, the choice may come down to personal preference. Clipless pedals, once you get comfortable with them, are usually the best choice because they transfer power directly to the bike, making leg movement more efficient. It’s also always possible to change bike pedals if you decide a different type might work better for you.