When it comes to biking, there are lots of necessities that you need to enjoy this activity. First, you are going to need a high-quality bike (check our Guide for Best Hardtail Mountain Bike here), and second, you are going to need a high-quality helmet for maximum protection. Once you have got those things, the next step is to choose the best bike pedals that work best for you.
However, with hundreds of products and brands, choosing the best pair of bike pedals can be a daunting task. From looking for products and reading customer reviews to comparing prices and features, it might take forever, and worst you may end up picking the bike pedals that does not suit your needs.
To solve this problem, after comprehensive research, we have compiled a list of the best bike pedals that are currently available on the market. Rest assured, one of these products could be the best bike pedals for you.
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Reviews of the Best Bike Pedals
Crank Brothers Candy Bike Pedals
Crank brothers Candy Clip-In MTB Bike PedalThis pair of bike pedals from Crank Brothers is technically designed for mountain biking. But, you can still use this on the road. The release and float angle of these bicycle pedals are customizable, allowing you to adapt to various environments with ease.
Nevertheless, let’s take a look at the main features of these bike pedals.
Adjustability
These bike pedals have no adjustability. However, it is a restrictive feature on the Crank Brothers bicycle pedals, but if you are of average weight and skill, the mechanism will do a great job keeping you safe all the time.
Crank Brothers, on the other hand, also offer a zero degree cleat which improves the pedal inefficiency. Moreover, the inability of this best bike pedals to adjust the discharge tension makes this product look simple.
Weight
At 320g, the Candy Brothers is a lightweight pedal. It is the advantage of having no adjustability. It means you are not weighed down by the additional hardware.
Performance
The small platform of this bike pedal makes this product easier to access. Even though its mechanisms comes with 4 sided engagement, the small platform makes it a two-sided bike pedal.
Also, this best mountain bike pedals can be removed with ease. Without grip pins fixated on, a basic heel turns, and you are free of the pedals.
Even so, the feel and sound of the release are somewhat vague. However, the release derives from the viewpoint uttered by the cleat fixing, either 15 or twenty degrees.
Nevertheless, the Candy Brothers Bike Pedals are reliable as well as far superior compared to others.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Simple
- Inexpensive
- It is easy to dodge
- Impressive mud clearance
- Durable
What We Do Not Like
- Non-adjustable
- Need regular service
- Small Platform
- You Need to purchase shoe shields
- Its engagement wings may break
Customer Reviews
According to Crank Brothers Candy Bike Pedals users and customers, it’s a great option for mountain riders.
Moreover, these bike pedals are durable, reliable, super smooth, and very affordable, say users.
Final Verdict
Even though these pedals lack adjustability, they are still considered one of the best bike pedals because they offer a nice combination of mud shedding capability, lightweight, and ease of access.
Furthermore, we recommend this not only for cheap road bikes but a wide variety of bicycles. Nevertheless, these bike pedals are durable, reliable, and affordable.
Look KEO 2 Max Pedal
Look KEO 2 Max PedalFrom a well-known brand, these bike pedals feature wide platforms for superb comfort, support, as well as pedaling efficiency. Moreover, this item also comes with composite bodies that are light in weight.
Nevertheless, let’s take a look at the main features of these bike pedals.
Design
In addition to its great feel, these bike pedals sport a low-profile design which puts you nearer to the hinges for more pedal power.
It also has an inbuilt float which allows your feet to adjust to the ideal position while you are pedaling. On the other hand, the float will also protect your knees.
Nevertheless, for durability and smooth running, these pedals come with chromoly axles.
Weight
At 260 grams, these best bike pedals offer a lightweight ride that every biker will surely love. As you can see, Look KEO 2 Max Pedal is lighter compared to Crank Brothers’ bike pedals.
Performance
When it comes to performance, these pedals are top-notch. Its wider platform, steadier and bigger surface earned good reviews, and most users are satisfied with it.
However, its design offers a firm and a nice foundation regarding applying power to the surface. Its stainless steel plates are also top-notch making this product more durable.
On the other hand, the cleats and pedals are nicely paired up. However, in term of adjustment (tension), the process is very easy to do.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Good Bearings
- Wider Platform
- Adjustable release tension
- Sports a low-profile design
What We Do Not Like
- Produce a squeaking sound
- Cleats wear down very fast
- Its back end is a bit heavy
- It’s a bit expensive
- It’s only ideal for road use
Customer Reviews
These bike pedals are very easy to use, Look KEO 2 Max Pedal users. In addition to that, most users praised its lightweight as well as adjustable tension.
Either way, these pedals offer good performance, plus they are reliable, comfortable, and provides good support.
Final Verdict
If you’re concerned about durability and performance, these best bike pedals are for you. Most of its parts are tear-resistant, and you can utilize it on rough roads and well as on concrete and smooth surfaces.
Shimano SPD Pedal – Best Budget/Cheap Bike Pedals
SHIMANO SPD Pedal Clipless PedalsThese Shimano SPD pedals feature makes your pedaling more efficient. Aside from that, it also sports an exceptional mud-shedding design.
Either way, if you’re interested in this product, check out its main features below.
Design
The Shimano Pedals sports a dual-sided and compact design. Furthermore, it is specifically designed for everyday use.
On the other hand, its stable platform can be utilized with any kinds of SPD shoe as well as offer great support for your feet.
Performance
These clipless pedals come with incredible performance. These best bike pedals from Shimano does not only boost power to the pedal, but it increases the rider’s control as well.
However, if you’re looking for SPD pedals that come with consistent performance, the Shimano SPD pedals might be the best option for you.
Durability
As what we mentioned a while ago, these bike pedals come with a mud-repelling design that is perfect to use all over the season.
Even so, its CrMo spindle offers durability and reliability. Moreover, it only requires minimal maintenance.
Weight
These bike pedals are a bit heavy, but one thing is for sure, they can be utilized on any types of bicycles.
What We Like
- Inexpensive
- Great look and design
- Durable
- Reliable
- Suitable for any types of bikes
- Great value for the money
What We Do Not Like
- A bit heavy
- Slippery surface
- The cleats can be damaged with ease
- They may be scratched while you are unclipping or clipping
- Not suitable for bikers who are looking for lightweight pedals
Customer Reviews
These pedals are great and perfect for beginners, say users. While some customers praised it durability, other users love how these bike pedals work and most importantly the cost.
Final Verdict
Undeniably, Shimano SPD Pedals are great options for beginners who don’t want to invest large amounts but seeking for high-quality and durable products. But if you’re looking for lightweight pedals, then this is not for you.
Speedplay Zero Chromoly Pedals
Speedplay ZeroChromoly Pedals WalkableThese Speedplay pedals can offer you all benefits, performance, and features that are available in higher models. Moreover, this product is accessible at an economical price, and you can adjust it depending on your preference.
Nevertheless, listed below are some of the ma features of Speedplay Zero_Chromoly Pedals that you will surely love.
Durability and Performance
These bike pedals provide significantly more traction compared to other models. On the other hand, these pedals still function very well even though you are on a slippery surface or tile floors.
Even so, its drastically rounded profile will make your steps more natural. Aside from that, it will also lessen the uncomfortable clip-clop steps that are commonly connected with walking in a pair of cycling shoes.
Either way, its rubber covers can be replaced with ease and accessible in a wide variety of colors.
Weight
At 322 grams, these best bike pedals are lighter compared to other pedals that are currently available on the market. Either way, the weight of this product make these Speedplay pedals stand out from the competition.
Dual-Sided Entry
These pedals feature a double-sided entry. It means, you can step on the pedals and you are ready to go.
With this product, no more looking down and fumbling needed to get to the exact position. Either way, its pedal’s design, as well as cleat’s design, make sure that you will engage safely and quickly without having to think or stop.
What We Like
- Three-way adjustment
- Less uncomfortable walking
- Features durable Chromoly spindles
- Offer more traction
- Comes with two-year manufacturer warranty
What We Do Not Like
- Equipped with lots of small parts
- They are hard to clip on sometimes
- The cover is not easy to install
- Learning how to step into these pedals can be a bit hassle
- The cover often falls when not installed properly
Customer Reviews
Due to its great features, lots of people are praising these pedals from Speedplay. The majority of them said that it a great product that is something worth getting.
Final Verdict
Undeniably, these bike pedals are easy to set up, loaded with floats, and light in weight. Furthermore, we highly recommend this product to people who have risky knees.
Shimano PD-A530 SPD Bike Pedal – Best Bike Pedals
SHIMANO SPD Dual Platform Bike PedalAnother great bike pedal from Shimano that is perfect for recreational cyclists and commuters. These bike pedals come with a dual platform which makes it more versatile.
Nevertheless, check out its main features and decide if it works best for you.
Versatility
The PD-A530 SPD bike pedals are perfect for touring and city bikes, tours, casual rides, and road bikes.
Its adjustable release tension, as well as entry, can offer you more options. Since it comes with sealed compact bearings, these pedals only require minimal maintenance.
The pedals look great on different bikes, thanks to its consistent SPD construction and sleek figure.
Adjustability
These Shimano Pedals has an adjustable cleat tension it, which means you can lessen or secure it for a controlled engagement and release. With these pedals, you will be able to increase the tension depending on your own preference.
Performance
When it comes to performance, you can always count on Shimano PD-A530. These pedals are great for everyday use. Moreover, it is a dual function product, a feature that is highly appreciated by most amateur bikers.
Either way, these pedals are very reliable and created with top-notch performance and durability in mind.
What We Like
- Backed with two years warranty
- Durable
- Reliable
- Ideal for commuting and road cycling
- Requires minimal maintenance
What We Do Not Like
- Difficult to clip-in
- Collects mud
Customer Review
Most consumers love the professional design of these pedals. Moreover, they also like enough control provided by the manufacturer. Not only that, but many customers also praised its good platform.
Nevertheless, lots of customers are happy to find out that it only requires minimal maintenance.
Final Verdict
These pedals from Shimano are a great purchase; it is more inexpensive than other similar items on the market.
Furthermore, it has an outstanding quality that one won’t see in other products.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bike Pedals?
Factors to Consider When Buying Bike Pedals
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Bike Purpose or Usage
Before making a purchase, it is very important to identify how will you going to utilize your bicycle.
If you’re a leisure cyclist who loves putting additional miles during weekends or loves to roam around the flat rails, then a flat or platform pedals can be a be great option.
However, if you want to give pedals that are clipless a try or you are fascinated in recording more miles, then you may want to consider a flat hybrid or clipless bike pedals.
Even though you discovered that you like clipless bike pedals very much, it might not be practical or convenient to wear a pair of cycling shoes every time you ride.
On the other hand, mountain bike aficionados ride in a different way compared to commuters and triathletes. Either way, make sure to consider your use as well as go for on one kind of pedal.
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Bike Goals
When you are planning to buy a pair of bike pedals, make sure to consider your biking goals. Similar to your bike purpose and usage, identifying your biking goals can help you a lot in choosing the best bike pedals that suit you the most.
Are you planning to more distance riding or participate in a competitive racing? If so, you will certainly want to invest in road bike pedals such as clipless bike pedals.
However, if you want to challenge yourself or dodge in nature, then mtb pedals or mountain bike pedals such as clipless, flag, or magnet can be good choices.
Either way, are you happy to go on a short bike ride together with your friends or family by might dip into with logging in long hours in your time? Then, hybrid bike pedals can be a great option for your goals.
Nevertheless, always keep in your mind that biking goals aren’t constant. It means if you want to change your goals, you can also change your bike pedals.
Furthermore, once you understand how to remove bike pedals and install them, you have endless options.
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Pedal Weight
Even though lighter bike pedals are commonly better, sometimes they come with stability consequences. That is why it is better to do your research before investing in a lighter option.
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Adjustability
It is one of the most important factors that you need to consider when buying clipless pedals. Even so, platform bike pedal may let you change the spike pins or change the color of your pedal’s body.
Either way, more adjustability is much better.
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Mud-Shedding Capabilities
Look for a pair of bike pedals that has open spaces where mud might be pushed out especially when you put your feet on them.
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Ease of Maintenance
Most bike pedals come with parts that can be swapped out and rebuilt with ease. Either way, make sure to invest in bike pedals that only require minimal maintenance. Also, beware of products that require to change the whole pedal when they are damaged.
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Durability
It is always a good idea to select a solid bike pedal that has smooth bearings which will not require tons of maintenance.
Keep in mind that great bike pedals can withstand scratches and abuse several rock strikes.
Bike Pedal’s Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How Often Should I Change My Bike Pedals?
Replacing your bike’s pedals is based on several factors. First, consider the tear and wear of your pedals. Can they still go without restrictions? Are the pedal bearings still in nice condition? Does the pedal’s retention mechanism still work properly?
If you answer to those questions is “I’m not certain” or “NO,” it’s perhaps the best time to change your bike pedals.
2. What Is The Difference of Clipless and Platform Pedals
Platform pedals are suitable for beginners since they do not require sturdy or special shoes. With platform pedals, you will be able to get off your bicycle with ease which is perfect for beginners. Moreover, they are more affordable compared to clipless pedals.
On the other hand, clipless pedals come with a special cleat that is connected to shoes that are specifically made for mountain biking. These pedals come with more advantages compared to platform pedals.
The connection of clipless pedals can improve handling especially on bumpy descents and rougher terrains. Also, they have smaller sizes and lighter weight.
3. How Does A Bike Pedal Works
Bike pedals turn the eccentric, and the energy is being transferred to the drive chain. However, the wheels propel forward which makes the bike moves.
On the other hand, if you have taken your feet off the bike pedals or stopped biking, you’ll notice that your bicycle will eventually slow down as well as stop moving.
Nevertheless, bike pedals make riding your bicycle more competent. Plus they offer stability and control for the riders.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the best bike pedals, then we highly recommend Shimano PD-A530 SPD Pedals. Not only they are accessible at a very affordable price, but they have exceptional qualities as well as features that aren’t included on other bike pedals.
When it comes to adjustments and bike/pedal mechanisms, these products from Shimano stand out. Moreover, it provides control, flexibility, versatility, better-protected, and wonderful ride for cyclists and bikers.
Hopefully, this content helps you a lot in choosing the best bike pedals that work best for you.
