Bike pedal systems, commonly referred to as clipless pedals, consist of a set of pedals, clips and cycling shoes. Bicycle pedal systems are designed to function by allowing the cyclist to connect to the pedal in order to provide optimal pedaling, positioning and bike handling. Bike pedal systems are divided into two basic categories: SPD-style pedals, or Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, and Look-style pedals.
SPD-Style Pedals
SPD-style pedals utilize a significantly smaller platform in relation to Look-style pedals and utilize small metal cleats. This style pedal typically provides two-sided entry for ease of use. However, there are two notable exceptions to this rule. First, Crank Brothers has developed a pedal with four-sided entry, increasing the ease of cleat engagement. And second, SPD pedals adapted for road use typically have only one-sided entry in order to decrease weight. SPD-style pedals are more commonly used during mountain biking and most often simply referred to as "mountain bike pedals."
Look-Style Pedals
Look-style pedals are much larger in relation to SPD style pedals and utilize a large plastic cleat. This style of pedal uses a one-sided entry only, requiring the cyclist to rotate the pedal to the proper side in order to engage the cleat. Look-style pedals are only used in road riding and therefore commonly referred to as "road pedals."
Interaction of Shoe and Pedal
Regardless of pedal style, the principles of cleat engagement and release are similar. The pedal will possess a spring-loaded catch for the cleat. The front of the cleat will engage first and the back of the cleat will engage last as the cyclists pushes down on the pedal. This locks the cyclists firmly into the pedal. A properly functioning pedal will prevent the cyclist from disengaging from the pedal when pulling straight up. To disengage from the pedal, the cyclists simply rotates the heel of the foot away from the bike.
Float
Interaction between the clip and pedals allows the clips to slightly rotate without disengaging, which allows for normal leg movement to occur throughout the pedal cycle. This process is referred to as float. Too much or too little float can lead to overuse injuries. Float is typically altered by changing out cleats.
Cleats
Cleats wear over time and must be replaced for both performance and safety reasons. When cleats are worn out, the cyclists can disengage from the pedal during a normal pedal stroke, which could lead to an accident. Cleats are specific to the style and model of the pedal that you ride. When replacing worn cleats, purchase the cleats that are designed for your specific model.
Shoes
Choose cycling shoes based off of the pedal systems. The holes drilled into the bottom of the cycling shoe are specific for certain types of cleats. Mountain-bike shoes posses treads so that you have traction when you must dismount on a trail. These treads effectively limit pedal choice to SPD-style pedals. Most road shoes will accept SPD- or Look-style pedals.
Safety
It is a common misconception that using clipless pedals is more dangerous in relation to using pedals with cages and straps. Using clipless pedals actual allows for faster removal of the foot from the pedal in relation to the use of cages.
References
- "The Complete Book of Road Cycling and Racing"; Will Peveler Ph.D.; 2009
- Look Cycle: Bicycle Pedals
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