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 huge 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 shopping for new bike pedals. The pedals are the main connection between you and your bike!

Flat-Style or Platform 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, since anyone can use them with almost any style of shoe. They do not offer any direct link between the 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 removal of your foot 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 Foot 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 on 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 necessary and are popular with people who cycle in traffic and need to make frequent stops.

Pros and cons of the cage or clip-on toe pedal:

Advantages:

• Easy to learn to use
• Riders can use the power to both push down and lift the pedal.
• No special footwear is necessary

Cons:

• Some loss of power, the toe clip style cannot capture the full energy of the pedaling cycle like clipless pedals can.
• Slightly harder to get in and out of than platform pedals

Clipless bike pedals:

Clipless bicycle pedals are often the most popular option for mountain bike riders. They work by directly attaching the foot to the pedal. Special shoes are used that have a cleat attached to the sole and “clip” into the pedal receiver. This provides the most efficient transfer of power from the rider to the pedals and there is no loss of power. The feet remain attached to the pedal throughout the entire travel, allowing for both pulling up and pushing down on the pedals. Releasing your foot only requires a quick rotation to the side and the pedal releases, allowing you to put your foot down or get 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.

Automatic pedal pros and cons:

Advantages:

• Maximum efficiency with direct power transfer 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.
• It is necessary to learn to click in and out of 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 riding you plan to do the most. Will you be doing easy mountain biking on non-technical trails, extreme descents, or pedaling on tough, technical trails? Once you decide what type of riding you’ll be doing, you can review the three main styles of pedals and choose the one you think is best for you. Basic platform pedals come in various grips, but are generally best suited for casual, easy riding. When choosing clip vs. clipless pedals, the choice may come down to personal preference. Clipless pedals, once you’re comfortable with them, are often the best option because they transfer power directly to the bike, making your leg movement more efficient. It is also always possible to change the pedals on the bike if you decide that a different type might work better for you.