Bicycle pedals are an important component considering that they are a point of contact between the rider and the bike. Depending on your cycling habits and performance needs, choosing the right pedal for maximum efficiency and enjoyment will enhance your experience of the bicycle. Several types of pedals are available for many kinds of bikes. While some pedals are good for general cycling, others are more performance oriented and require learning how to use them.
How to Choose a Bicycle Pedal
Step 1
Determine what the pedal will be used for: Advanced mountain biking, road bike training rides or daily commuting.
Step 2
Consider your cycling habits. Do you prefer maximum performance or are you interested in general function?
Step 3
Consider your budget. Pedals may range from $20 to $200, depending on their quality and function.
Step 4
Determine the size thread. Mountain biking cranks/pedals are standard, but other cranks arms may vary, requiring different pedal thread sizes.
Tips and Warnings
- Advanced mountain biking and road riding can be greatly enhanced by choosing a "clipless" or spring loaded cleat/pedal binding system. These are called SPD, Shimano Pedaling Dynamics. Similar to a ski binding, this kind of pedal system requires a special cycling shoe that can have a small cleat mechanically mounted to the sole. This cleat seats firmly into a spring tensioned binding on the pedal, providing a secure, responsive interface between the rider and their contact with the bicycle. With learned skill of using the pedal, at the riders discretion's the cleat can be disengaged from the pedal at any time. According to the League of American Bicyclists, clipless pedals provide efficiency, stability and overall contact with the bike. Flatbed, or standard flat pedals are excellent choices for general purpose cycling and commuting. They provide a free range of foot placement for maximum comfort, and don't require any special shoes or skills to use. This makes this pedal system safe, and user friendly for all types of cyclists. This pedal is also popular with downhill racers and other aggressive cyclists who perform stunts on their bicycles. Cage Pedals are flatbed pedals with a strap that can be tightened over the foot to secure the shoes placement on the pedal. This is a popular style among new mountain bikers or daily commuters, but can be dangerous due to the riders foot being unable to disengage from the pedal.
- Clipless pedals require practice and skill to become efficient with engaging and disengaging. It is important to take the time to grow accustomed to how the pedal reacts with force from your foot. Falling is common to new clipless pedal users. Riding on grass or other soft surfaces may be wise while learning this pedal system. Many clipless pedals have settings that determine how easy it is to clip in and out.
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