The Foundation of Your Ride: A Deep Dive into Bicycle Pedals

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The Foundation of Your Ride: A Deep Dive into Bicycle Pedals



Bicycle pedals are far more than just a place to rest your feet; they are the crucial interface connecting rider to machine, translating effort into motion.1 From casual commutes to competitive races, the right set of pedals can significantly impact comfort, efficiency, and control.2 This article will explore the various types, sizes, and materials of bicycle pedals, highlighting how their design caters to different cycling disciplines.

Types of Bicycle Pedals

Broadly, bicycle pedals can be categorized into three main types: flat (platform) pedals, clipless (or clip-in) pedals, and toe-clip pedals.



  • Flat (Platform) Pedals: These are the most common type, especially on recreational and mountain bikes. They feature a wide, flat surface that allows riders to simply place their foot on the pedal. Modern flat pedals often incorporate pins or a grippy surface to enhance traction between the shoe and the pedal, preventing slippage.3 They offer the advantage of easy foot removal, which is beneficial for navigating technical terrain or making quick stops.



  • Clipless Pedals: Despite the name, clipless pedals actually "clip in" to your shoes. This system uses a cleat attached to the sole of a specialized cycling shoe, which then locks into a mechanism on the pedal.4 This creates a secure connection, allowing for a more efficient power transfer as riders can both push down and pull up on the pedals. There are two primary sub-types of clipless pedals:

    • SPD (Shimano Pedaling Dynamics) and similar 2-bolt systems: These are characterized by smaller cleats that are recessed into the shoe's sole, making them easier to walk in. They are popular for mountain biking, touring, and casual road riding where walking off the bike is common.5
    • Road (3-bolt systems like SPD-SL, Look Keo, etc.): These systems use larger, external cleats that offer a wider platform for greater power transfer and typically hold the foot more securely. They are favored by road cyclists for their efficiency and stability, though walking in road cycling shoes can be awkward.


  • Toe-Clip Pedals (Cages): A precursor to clipless systems, toe-clip pedals feature a metal or plastic cage that straps over the front of the foot, holding it in place. While offering some of the pull-up benefits of clipless pedals, they are less secure and convenient for entry and exit. They are less common now but can still be found on some vintage bikes or for riders who prefer a semi-fixed foot position without specialized shoes.

Pedal Sizes

While the general shape and design vary, the actual "size" of pedals primarily refers to the spindle (axle) thread diameter, which is almost universally 9/16" x 20 TPI (threads per inch) for adult bicycles. Smaller bikes, especially children's bikes, might use a 1/2" x 20 TPI spindle. The platform area of flat pedals, however, can vary significantly, with larger platforms offering more stability and grip, particularly for mountain biking.

Materials Used in Pedal Construction

Pedals are constructed from a range of materials, each offering a different balance of weight, durability, and cost:

  • Aluminum: A very common material for pedal bodies, offering a good balance of strength, lightweight properties, and corrosion resistance. Many flat and clipless pedals feature aluminum bodies.
  • Steel (Cr-Mo - Chromoly Steel): Chromoly steel is frequently used for pedal spindles due to its exceptional strength and durability, capable of withstanding the high forces applied during pedaling.
  • Plastic/Nylon Composite: Lightweight and often more affordable, composite pedals are popular for entry-level bikes, flat pedals, and some BMX applications.6 While generally less durable than metal, advancements in composite technology have led to surprisingly robust options.
  • Carbon Fiber: Primarily found in high-end road clipless pedals, carbon fiber offers the ultimate in lightweight performance.7 Its stiffness contributes to excellent power transfer, though it comes at a higher price point.
  • Titanium: Used for some premium pedal spindles, titanium is incredibly lightweight and strong, but also very expensive.8

Pedal Differences According to Bicycle Use

The choice of pedal type is heavily influenced by the intended use of the bicycle:

  • Mountain Biking: Flat pedals are popular for technical trail riding, allowing riders to quickly put a foot down for balance or in emergency situations.9 Clipless SPD-style pedals are also widely used, offering efficiency and control, especially for climbing and rough terrain.10 The recessed cleat allows for walking off the bike on hike-a-bike sections.
  • Road Cycling: Clipless road pedals (3-bolt systems) are the standard for road cycling. Their large platform and secure connection maximize power transfer and efficiency over long distances.
  • Commuting/Urban Cycling: Flat pedals are common for their convenience, allowing riders to wear regular shoes.11 Some commuters opt for SPD-style clipless pedals for efficiency, especially on longer commutes, as the recessed cleats are easier to walk in at destinations.
  • BMX/Freestyle: Flat pedals with aggressive pins are almost universally used in BMX for maximum grip and the ability to easily move feet for tricks and maneuvers.
  • Touring/Adventure Cycling: While some tourers prefer clipless SPD pedals for efficiency, many opt for robust flat pedals or toe-clip pedals, especially if they anticipate significant walking or carrying non-cycling specific footwear.12

Conclusion: The Evolution and Convenience of Folding Pedals


The world of bicycle pedals is diverse, catering to every conceivable riding style and need. From the simplicity of flat pedals to the integrated efficiency of clipless systems, each design serves a specific purpose in enhancing the cycling experience.

A notable innovation, particularly for urban cyclists and those with limited storage space, is the folding pedal. These clever designs allow the pedal body to fold inward towards the crank arm, significantly reducing the width of the bicycle when stored or transported. This makes bikes easier to fit into tight apartments, car trunks, or on crowded public transport. A well-known brand that produces high-quality folding pedals is MKS (Mikashima Industrial Co., Ltd.) from Japan, renowned for their durable and precise cycling components.Folding pedals represent yet another example of how bicycle component design continues to evolve, making cycling more accessible and convenient for a wider range of users.



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