When it comes to cycling, the right pedals can make all the difference in terms of comfort, efficiency, and performance. Whether you’re a casual rider or a competitive road cyclist, choosing the appropriate pedal system is very important. In this article, we will explain the four types of pedals we offer at Bike Spain Tours: flat pedals, SPD-MTB, SPD-SL, and Look Keo.

1.  Flat Pedals: The classic choice for casual cyclists

Flat pedals are the most basic and widely recognized type of pedal. As the name suggests, these pedals have a flat surface where the rider’s foot rests.

Key Features:

• Simplicity: No need for cleats or special shoes. Just wear any pair of shoes with a firm sole, and you’re good to go.
• Safety: If you’re a beginner, or new to cycling, flat pedals offer a sense of security. You can easily remove your foot from the pedal in case of an emergency, such as when you need to stop quickly, or maintain your balance. This is particularly important when riding an electric bike, which are typically heavier than conventional bikes.
• Versatility: Great for a variety of riding styles, including commuting, leisure cycling and touring.
• Comfort: Because there’s no need for cycling-specific shoes, riders can wear whatever footwear they prefer.

Pros:

• Easy to use and beginner-friendly
• Can be used with any type of shoe
• Ideal for casual or urban riding

Cons:

• Less efficient for long rides or racing due to limited power transfer
• Less grip in muddy or slippery conditions

Best for: Casual riders looking for a relaxed, comfortable experience without worrying about cleats.

 

2. Cage Pedals

Cage pedals, often referred to as “toe-clip pedals,” are a type of bicycle pedal that features an open design with a surrounding cage or platform. This cage helps keep the rider’s foot securely positioned on the pedal, providing additional grip and stability. The design is particularly useful for riders who may not want to use clipless pedals but still need extra support and control while riding. Cage pedals are versatile and can be used with regular shoes, making them a popular choice for casual riders.

Pros:

• Improved pedalling efficiency
• Easy transition from cycling to walking
• Can be used with almost any type of footwear

Cons:

• The straps can create pressure points on your feet, which may become uncomfortable during extended rides.
• While more efficient than flat pedals, they don’t provide the same power transfer and control as clipless systems.

Best for:  Cyclists who want some performance benefits without the full commitment to a clipless system.

 

3. SPD-MTB Pedals

Shimano’s SPD (Shimano Pedaling Dynamics) system uses a clipless design, which means the rider’s shoe is clipped into the pedal, offering increased stability and power transfer. The SPD-MTB pedal is a favorite amongst many cyclists as it offers both secure foot retention and easy release.

Key Features:

• Two-sided entry: SPD-MTB pedals have a two-sided design, allowing riders to clip in regardless of which side of the pedal is facing up, making it easier to engage the pedal quickly.
• Wide range of cleat positioning: The SPD system offers more adjustable cleat positions, giving riders greater flexibility in finding the optimal foot position.

Pros:

• Secure connection between foot and pedal
• Quick and easy to clip in and out of

Cons:

• Requires specific cycling shoes with recessed cleats
• Not as comfortable for walking in as normal shoes, especially on hard surfaces

Best for: anyone who needs a pedal system that works well in many conditions.

 

4.  SPD-SL Pedals

While SPD-MTB pedals are great for all types of biking, SPD-SL pedals are designed specifically for road cycling. The SPD-SL system uses a larger, three-bolt cleat design that offers more efficient power transfer, making it ideal for long-distance rides, racing, or any cycling activity where performance is a priority.

Key Features:

• Larger pedal platform: SPD-SL pedals have a larger surface area (compared to SPD-MTB pedals), providing more stability and power transfer for road cyclists.
• Single-sided entry: These pedals are single-sided, which means that one side of the pedal has a cleat interface, while the other side is flat. This design is typically lighter but can be less convenient if you’re looking for a quick and easy entry.
• More aggressive pedal release mechanism: SPD-SL pedals have a stiffer mechanism that requires more force to release your foot from the pedal. This can be beneficial for more serious riders but might take some getting used to.

Pros:

• Superior power transfer for efficient cycling
• Ideal for road cycling and competitive racing
• Stiff soles and large cleat platforms provide excellent pedaling efficiency

Cons:

• Requires specific road cycling shoes with a three-bolt pattern
• May be more difficult to clip in and out of, especially for beginners

Best for: Road cyclists, racers, and anyone looking to maximize power output and efficiency on smooth, paved surfaces.

 

5. Look Keo Pedals

Look Keo pedals are another popular choice among road cyclists and racers. Known for their sleek, lightweight design, Look Keo pedals are built for high performance. They are often seen on competitive road bikes and are favored for their low weight and ease of use, especially for those who want quick transitions between clipped-in and clipped-out positions.

Key Features:

• Large platform: Similar to SPD-SL pedals, Look Keo pedals offer a large platform to improve power transfer and comfort during long rides.
• Lightweight: Look Keo pedals are among the lightest on the market, making them an excellent choice for riders who are looking to minimize bike weight.

Pros:

• Excellent for power transfer and racing
• Lightweight design
• Offers a smooth entry and exit system, especially for experienced riders

Cons:

• Like SPD-SL pedals, Look Keo pedals require specialized road shoes
• May require some practice for perfect clip-in/clip-out technique

Best for: Road cyclists, racers, and anyone looking for a lightweight, high-performance pedal system for competitive or long-distance riding.

 

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Pedal for Your Ride

Each of these pedal systems has its own strengths and is suited to different types of cycling. If you’re a casual rider or someone who enjoys a mix of cycling and walking, flat pedals are the way to go. For those who want a flexible clip-in pedal, SPD-MTB pedals are a fantastic choice. For road cyclists looking to maximize efficiency and performance, both SPD-SL and Look Keo pedals offer excellent options, with Look Keo being particularly popular among competitive riders due to their lightweight design.

Ultimately, the best pedal system for you depends on your riding style, terrain, and goals. Choose wisely, and your cycling experience will be more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable.