If you’re looking for an exciting and adventurous way to explore off-road terrain, a gravel bike is a great choice. However, to have the best experience, it's essential to have the right equipment. While there are various components that make a great gravel bike, pedals are among the most crucial.
One of the primary factors that you should consider before buying pedals for your gravel bike is their durability. Since gravel biking typically involves rocky and rough terrain, you want pedals that can withstand this type of abuse. Another factor is the design of the pedals: clipless pedals with a firm hold on your shoes for better power transfer, or flat pedals to allow for better grip and flexibility? It all depends on your preferences and riding style.
Are you on the hunt for the best pedals for your gravel bike? Do you want to improve your performance and make your riding experience more enjoyable? Do you know what type of pedals are ideal for your needs? If you’re looking for answers to these questions and more, then keep reading. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision on the best pedals for gravel biking.
10 Best Pedals For Gravel Bike
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This product is ideal for mountain bike, BMX, and gravel cycling with SPD cleats and a 9/16-inch CrMo axle.
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These pedals are ideal for mountain biking, BMX, and gravel cycling with compatibility for SPD cleats and a wide platform.
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This product is ideal for mountain biking and trail riding due to its lightweight design, 4-sided entry, and customizable float.
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4
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The product is ideal for bikers who seek lightweight, durable and high-performance pedals for their bikes.
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The product is ideal for providing a secure and efficient connection between cycling shoes and bike pedals.
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Ideal for cycling enthusiasts who prefer SPD pedals, suitable for touring or leisure rides on various terrain.
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This product is ideal for biking enthusiasts who want the option to use either regular shoes or clip-in cycling shoes.
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The product is ideal for cycling enthusiasts who seek high-performance pedals with easy entry and exit.
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The product is ideal for mountain bikes that use SPD compatible pedals and come in multiple colors.
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The product is ideal for mountain biking, providing a reliable and sturdy set of pedals for challenging terrain.
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1. Funn Mamba Mtb Clipless Spd Pedals
The Mountain Bike Flat Pedals by Mamba are the ultimate choice for riders who prefer enduro, freeride, trail riding, and downhill. These versatile pedals are suitable for MTB, BMX, and gravel bike riders who are passionate about challenging terrain.
The Pedal Engagement mechanism is of the highest quality and features a crisp and reliable SPD-compatible, single-sided clip-in system that offers excellent control and quick engagement. You will also receive a pair of SPD Compatible cleats with your purchase.
One of the standout features of these pedals is the patented Grease Renew System (GRS) that allows for a quick, mess-free, and hassle-free bike pedal servicing within 60 seconds. This innovative system enables you to renew pedal grease without getting your hands dirty, making maintenance a breeze.
Mamba clipless pedals are CNC machined from 6061 alloy, which ensures durability and longevity. The large, supportive platform is perfect for riders who are new to clipping in or experienced riders on challenging terrain.
The Axle System of the Mamba Mountain Bike Flat Pedals is an international standard 9/16 inch CrMo axle with sealed cartridge bearing and DU bushing. The durable axles make for solid and long-lasting MTB pedals that will withstand the test of time.
2. Mamba Clipless Mtb Pedals – Ride With Confidence!
The mountain bike flat pedals designed by Mamba are built to withstand the toughest challenges thrown at them. These pedals are versatile and suitable for various types of riding such as enduro, freeride, trail riding, downhill, BMX, and gravel biking.
The pedal engagement system is crisp and high-quality, making it perfect for riders who demand quick and accurate control. The double-sided clip-in mechanism is SPD compatible, ensuring seamless and efficient engagement. The pedals come with a pair of SPD compatible cleats for added convenience.
Mamba's patented Grease Renew System (GRS) allows for easy and mess-free servicing in under 60 seconds. This system allows you to renew pedal grease without getting your hands dirty, making maintenance a breeze.
These clipless pedals are CNC machined from 6061 alloy, making them incredibly durable. Additionally, the pedals have a large, supportive platform, making them a great choice for riders who are new to clipping in, or experienced riders on challenging terrain.
The axle system uses an international standard 9/16 inch CrMo axle with sealed cartridge bearings and DU bushings. This system is incredibly durable, making for solid and long-lasting MTB pedals.
3. Trailblaze With Crankbrothers' Candy Clip-In Pedal
The lightweight and high-quality composite body of this product weighs 294g per pair, making it an excellent choice for those who value performance and convenience. Its clip-in system is carefully designed to ensure optimal shoe and pedal interface, with a 4-sided entry that offers superior mud shedding capabilities. The stamped steel wing and customizable float and release angle provide added flexibility and versatility, while the premium brass cleats with shims included make it easy to get started.
This product is built to provide superior grip and performance, with a ribbed body that offers better traction when unclipped. Its durable and premium components include high-quality Igus bearings and a double seal system, chromoly steel spindle, stainless steel springs, and a 5-year warranty for added peace of mind. Designed to work seamlessly with Crankbrothers shoes, the Match system ensures the optimal shoe and pedal interface for maximum performance.
Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, this product is an excellent choice for those looking for high-quality clip-in pedals that offer superior performance and durability. With its lightweight design, customizable features, and premium components, it's sure to provide years of reliable service and help you get the most out of your cycling experience. So why wait? Order yours today and experience the ultimate in clip-in pedal performance!
4. Oneup Components Composite Pedal
This mountain bike pedal is a top-rated product, having received a perfect 5/5 rating from MTBR, a leading website in the mountain biking industry. The pedal boasts an ultra-thin and large platform, measuring 115x105mm, providing ample space for a comfortable and secure grip. The super grippy surface ensures that riders can maintain complete control of their bike, even on the most challenging terrain.
The pedal's weight is impressively low, coming in at only 355g per pair, making it easy for riders to maneuver their bike. The pedal features 10 rear-loading steel pins that provide a reliable grip and prevent slippage. The DU plus cartridge bearing axle system ensures that the pedal rotates smoothly, providing a seamless cycling experience.
The pedal body is made of high-quality nylon composite, which is both durable and lightweight. The axle material is high-strength chromoly steel, ensuring that the pedal can withstand harsh riding conditions and provide long-lasting performance.
5. Shimano Spd Pedal Clipless Pedals
The PD-M520 SPD Pedal is the perfect choice for both MTB and road cycling enthusiasts who demand high performance and reliability. Its classic SPD design guarantees a trustworthy and well-tested product that will meet even the most demanding expectations.
Featuring a compact body design with an open binding, the PD-M520 enables easy entry and engagement. You'll never struggle to get started, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced riders alike.
One of the standout features of the PD-M520 is its excellent mud shedding ability. The binding mechanism is specifically designed to shed mud and debris, ensuring reliable engagement and release in all conditions. You'll never have to worry about getting stuck in the mud or losing your grip.
Customizable engagement and release settings allow you to adjust the tension to your preferred level. This ensures a smooth and confident clipping in and out experience, so you can focus on your ride without any distractions.
Built to last, the PD-M520 boasts a strong chrome-molly spindle and a low-maintenance sealed bearing cartridge axle. You can trust this pedal to withstand even the toughest conditions and provide reliable performance for years to come.
6. Shimano Pd-Ed500 Cycle Touring Spd Pedal
The PD-ED500 Cycle Touring Pedal is an ideal choice for cycling enthusiasts seeking a reliable, entry-level SPD pedal. Its Double-sided Light Action SPD design ensures easy engagement and release, making clipping in and out stress-free. This feature is particularly beneficial for riders who may need to clip in and out quickly during their ride.
The PD-ED500 also comes with adjustable tension settings, which allows riders to set their cleat tension to suit their ride and comfort level. This feature provides riders with the flexibility to adjust the cleat tension as per their preference, thus enhancing their overall riding experience.
The pedal also includes multi-directional release cleats, which increase confidence when clipping out. This feature is especially helpful for riders who may be new to using SPD pedals, as it provides them with additional support and security while they learn to use the pedals.
The PD-ED500 is designed to be durable and user-friendly. It comes with a low maintenance sealed cartridge axle unit and chrome-molly spindle, ensuring that the pedals last for a long time and require minimal maintenance. This feature makes the pedal an excellent investment for riders who want a product that is both reliable and easy to maintain.
7. Shimano Pd-M324 Spd Dual Platform Pedal
Looking for a versatile pedal that works with both clipless and regular shoes? Look no further than these combination clip/clipless pedals, perfect for a wide range of activities.
One side of the pedal features a fully featured SPD-specific clip interface, allowing you to easily clip in and out of your bike as needed. The other side features a standard platform that works with regular street shoes, making it easy to transition from riding to walking without having to change your footwear.
Crafted from durable aluminum with a sleek barrel finish, these pedals are built to last and withstand even the toughest conditions. The cleat retention adjuster ensures that your cleats are securely attached to the pedals, giving you peace of mind while you ride.
This set includes a pair of two-bolt cleats, making it easy to get started with clipless riding right away. And at just 1.17 pounds total weight, these pedals are lightweight and easy to transport, making them a great choice for cyclists on the go.
Whether you're commuting to work, hitting the trails, or just enjoying a leisurely ride around town, these combination clip/clipless pedals are the perfect choice for any cyclist looking for versatility, durability, and ease of use.
8. Time Atac Xc 12 Pedals
The product being reviewed is a high-quality, durable pedal with a wide-angle cleat design that makes it easy to step in. With its self-cleaning design, the pedal clears the cleat whenever it is engaged, ensuring that the rider always has a secure and reliable connection to the bike. The spindle material is made of titanium, ensuring that it is both lightweight and strong.
One of the standout features of this pedal is its dual-sided clipless design, which allows the rider to easily engage with the pedal from either side. This feature is particularly useful for riders who may need to quickly dismount their bike in an emergency situation.
The wide-angle cleat design of the pedal also ensures that the rider has a larger surface area to step in, making it easier to engage with the pedal. This design also helps to distribute the pressure more evenly across the foot, reducing the likelihood of discomfort or injury.
Thanks to its self-cleaning design, this pedal is incredibly low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for riders who want a high-quality, reliable pedal that they can use for years to come. The titanium axle and spindle material also ensure that this pedal is incredibly durable, able to withstand even the most intense rides and terrain.
9. Issi – Trail Ii Spd Compatible 9/16" Bicycle Pedals | For Mountain Bikes | Multiple Colors
The SPD Compatible Cleats Double-Sided Pedal is the perfect accessory for any biking enthusiast. With its compatibility with two-bolt shoes and adjustable spring tension, it allows riders to customize their biking experience to their liking. The adjustable spring tension and indicator let riders dial in the perfect tension with ease, and an included 3mm Allen key makes installation a breeze.
One of the standout features of this pedal is the addition of an outboard sealed cartridge bearing. This feature provides better pedal-body-to-spindle alignment, improved pedaling smoothness, and long bearing life. The pedal is also designed with a scalloped body to deflect and push away debris with ease, while the curved linear shape allows the pedal to glance off rocks and other obstacles without causing any damage.
The cast aluminum pedal body is not only durable but also available in multiple colors. This allows riders to customize their bikes to their liking and add a personal touch to their rides. Additionally, this pedal comes with a limited 3-Year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, giving riders peace of mind that they are investing in a high-quality product.
10. Raceface Chester Mountain Bike Pedal
The bike pedals under review are designed to provide a reliable and durable experience for cyclists of all levels. The pedal body is constructed from a sturdy nylon composite material that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. Additionally, the pedals feature added traction treads to ensure maximum grip and safety while riding.
The platform of the pedals is slim and lightweight, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and agility. The concave shape of the platform helps to provide a comfortable and secure fit for the rider's foot.
One of the standout features of these pedals is the replaceable threaded steel traction pins. With eight pins per side, these pedals provide exceptional grip and control, even in wet or slippery conditions. Additionally, the pins can be easily replaced if they become worn or damaged over time.
The durable sealed Cro-Mo steel axle adds an extra layer of strength and stability to these pedals. This feature ensures that the pedals will remain securely attached to the bike, even during the most intense rides.
Best Pedals For Gravel Bike FAQs
Are clipless pedals better for gravel riding?
Clipless pedals are a popular choice among gravel riders as they offer several advantages. Firstly, they allow for a more efficient transfer of power from the rider's legs to the bike, which is especially important on rough terrain where every bit of energy counts. Secondly, clipless pedals provide a secure connection between the rider and the bike, which can help prevent foot slippage on loose or uneven surfaces. This is particularly important when climbing or descending as it helps the rider maintain control and stability. Finally, clipless pedals can also improve overall pedaling technique as they encourage a more circular motion rather than relying solely on downward force.
That being said, clipless pedals may not be the best option for every gravel rider. Some riders may prefer the added flexibility and ease of use offered by flat pedals, especially if they are new to gravel riding or are planning on doing technical terrain that requires frequent dismounts. Ultimately, the choice of pedal type comes down to personal preference and riding style. It's important for riders to experiment with different pedal types and find the one that works best for them and their specific needs.
Are there any pedals specifically designed for gravel riding?
Yes, there are pedals specifically designed for gravel riding. These pedals are designed to provide better performance and control on rough terrain. The most common types of pedals used for gravel riding are clipless pedals and flat pedals.
Clipless pedals are designed to keep the rider's foot securely attached to the pedal. This can help to improve pedaling efficiency and prevent the foot from slipping off the pedal on rough terrain. Some popular clipless pedals for gravel riding include the Shimano XT and XTR pedals, the Look X-Track pedals, and the Crankbrothers Eggbeater pedals.
Flat pedals, on the other hand, provide a larger platform for the foot to rest on, which can provide better stability on rough terrain. Flat pedals are often preferred by riders who want the freedom to easily move their foot around on the pedal for better control. Some popular flat pedals for gravel riding include the RaceFace Chester pedals, the Crankbrothers Stamp pedals, and the DMR Vault pedals.
Overall, the choice of pedals for gravel riding will depend on personal preference and riding style. It's important to choose a pedal that provides the right balance of performance, control, and comfort for your individual needs.
Are there any pedals that are particularly durable for rough gravel terrain?
Yes, there are several pedals that are designed to withstand the rigors of rough gravel terrain. One example is the Shimano XT PD-M8020 pedal, which features a large platform for stability and a durable construction that is resistant to impacts and abrasions. The pedal also uses a sealed cartridge bearing system that is designed to handle the dirt and debris that can be kicked up by gravel riding.
Another option is the Crankbrothers Double Shot pedal, which features a hybrid design that combines a flat pedal on one side and a clipless pedal on the other. This versatile pedal is made with a durable aluminum body and features a custom traction pad that is designed to provide grip in all conditions.
Ultimately, the best pedal for rough gravel terrain will depend on your riding style and preferences. However, by choosing a pedal with a durable construction and a reliable bearing system, you can ensure that your pedals will withstand the demands of off-road riding.
Can you use mountain bike pedals on a gravel bike?
Yes, you can use mountain bike pedals on a gravel bike. Mountain bike pedals are designed for off-road riding and have a larger platform and more aggressive tread to provide better grip and control on rough terrain. Gravel bikes are also designed for off-road riding, but they have a more road-oriented geometry and are often equipped with pedals that are more road-specific. However, there is no hard and fast rule that says you can't use mountain bike pedals on a gravel bike. In fact, many gravel riders prefer to use mountain bike pedals because they offer more stability and control, especially on technical terrain. That said, it is important to make sure that the pedals you choose are compatible with your shoes and that they fit your bike's crankset. So, if you have a gravel bike and want to use mountain bike pedals, go ahead and give it a try!
How do I choose the right size pedals for my gravel bike?
Choosing the right size pedals for your gravel bike is important for a comfortable and efficient riding experience. The size of your pedals will depend on a few factors, including your shoe size and the type of riding you plan to do.
The most important factor is your shoe size. Pedals come in different sizes, so you will need to make sure that the pedals you choose are compatible with your shoe size. If you have large feet, you may need larger pedals to ensure a comfortable fit. On the other hand, if you have small feet, you may need smaller pedals to ensure a secure fit.
Another factor to consider is the type of riding you plan to do. If you are planning on doing more technical riding, you may want to consider larger pedals with more grip. If you are planning on doing more endurance riding, you may want to consider smaller pedals with less grip.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right size pedals for your gravel bike is to try them out. Visit your local bike shop and try on different sizes and types of pedals to find the one that feels most comfortable and secure for your riding style.
What are the advantages of using platform pedals on a gravel bike?
Using platform pedals on a gravel bike has several advantages that make it a popular choice among riders. Firstly, platform pedals offer more freedom of movement to the rider as they are not restricted to a specific cleat or clip-in mechanism. This allows the rider to make quick adjustments to their foot position, which is particularly useful when riding over varied terrain.
Another advantage of platform pedals is that they are easier to maintain and replace compared to clip-in pedals. This is because they do not require any special shoes or cleats, making it a more affordable option for riders on a budget.
Platform pedals also provide better traction and stability, especially when riding in wet or muddy conditions. The larger surface area of the pedal allows for better grip and control, which is important for maintaining balance and avoiding slips or falls.
Lastly, platform pedals are a great option for riders who prefer to wear regular shoes instead of cycling-specific shoes. This can be more comfortable for longer rides and allows riders to easily switch between their bike and other activities without changing shoes.
Overall, platform pedals offer a versatile and practical solution for gravel riders looking for a reliable and affordable pedal option.
What are the best pedals for a gravel bike?
When it comes to choosing the best pedals for a gravel bike, there are a few factors you need to consider. Firstly, the type of riding you'll be doing – whether it's long-distance touring or fast-paced racing. Secondly, your personal preference – some riders prefer clipless pedals for improved power transfer, while others prefer flat pedals for ease of use.
That being said, some of the top pedals for gravel biking include Shimano XT PD-M8020, Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3, and Time ATAC XC 8. These pedals offer excellent traction, durability, and adjustable release tension.
If you prefer flat pedals, the Race Face Chester or the Crankbrothers Stamp are popular choices. Both offer a large platform for improved stability and grip.
Ultimately, it's important to choose pedals that suit your individual needs and riding style. It's worth trying out a few different options to see what works best for you.
What features should I look for when choosing pedals for my gravel bike?
When choosing pedals for your gravel bike, there are several features you should consider. Firstly, the type of pedal system you want to use. Clipless pedals are popular for off-road riding as they provide a secure connection between your shoe and the pedal. However, flat pedals are also an option if you prefer not to use cleats.
Secondly, consider the size of the pedal platform. A larger platform provides a more stable base for your foot, which can be beneficial when riding over rough terrain.
Thirdly, durability is important for gravel riding. Look for pedals made from materials such as aluminum or titanium, which are lightweight yet strong enough to withstand the rigors of off-road riding.
Finally, the amount of float offered by the pedal system should be considered. Float is the amount of angular rotation your foot can move while clipped in. Some riders prefer more float for comfort, while others prefer less for a more secure feel.
Overall, when choosing pedals for your gravel bike, it's important to consider your personal preferences and riding style to find the best fit for you.
What is the price range for high-quality pedals for a gravel bike?
The price range for high-quality pedals for a gravel bike can vary depending on the brand, material, and features. Generally, entry-level pedals can cost around $50 to $100, while mid-range pedals can cost between $100 to $200. High-end pedals, on the other hand, can cost upwards of $200.
Some of the factors that can affect the price of the pedal include the type of pedal system, such as clipless or flat pedals, the weight of the pedal, the durability of the pedal, and the type of material used in construction, such as aluminum, titanium, or carbon fiber.
It's important to note that while price can be an indicator of quality, it's not always the case. It's recommended to do some research and read reviews from other cyclists to determine which pedal is the best fit for your needs and budget. Ultimately, investing in high-quality pedals can improve your riding experience and provide better performance on your gravel bike.
What type of pedal cleats work best for gravel riding?
When it comes to choosing the right pedal cleats for gravel riding, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you want cleats that provide a secure connection between your shoes and pedals, as the rough terrain and varied surfaces of gravel riding can easily cause your feet to slip off the pedals. Secondly, you want cleats that are comfortable to walk in, as you may need to dismount and walk your bike over particularly challenging sections of the trail.
In general, two-bolt cleats like those used in mountain biking are a good choice for gravel riding. They provide a secure connection with the pedals and are easy to clip in and out of, even in muddy or dusty conditions. Look for cleats that have a wider platform to distribute pressure across the sole of your shoe and reduce hot spots or discomfort over long rides. Additionally, consider using shoes with a more flexible sole that allows for better walking comfort, and look for cleats that are recessed into the sole to prevent damage to the cleats or pedals when walking.