Flat and clipless MTB pedals

Flat pedals: platform, pins and thickness

On a flat pedal, grip depends on the size of the platform, the number of pins, and the thickness of the body. The Deity Flat Trak, made of aluminium, is only fourteen millimetres thick, a record thinness for the brand, with a slightly concave platform and fourteen pins per side. The Shimano Deore XT flat pedal comes in two sizes according to shoe size and has ten pins per side, either short or long. The Look Activ Grip Trail features a composite body and interchangeable plates developed in collaboration with Vibram. The Explorer and GR models from Shimano, along with XLC and P2R, offer a wide platform for hiking.

The other components

Mountain bike components are also available in:

• Saddles.
• Seat posts.
• Stems.
• Handlebars.
• Grips and Bar Ends.
• Forks.
• Headsets and Bottom Brackets.

All components are brought together on the peripheral components page.

SPD automatic pedals: recessed cleat and release

The SPD system from Shimano relies on a small cleat with two screws, recessed into the sole: it locks the foot onto the pedal while allowing for walking when carrying the bike. To release, simply rotate the heel outward. The Look X-Track adopts this standard and accepts Shimano cleats as well as those from Look, with spring tension adjustable via a side screw. Its standard cleat allows for a slight angular play, protecting the knees, and an Easy version enables a more flexible multidirectional release for beginners. In sticky mud, the open mechanism of these pedals clears away dirt and easily re-engages.

Favero Assioma Pro MX: measuring watts on a mountain bike

The Italian manufacturer Favero integrates the power sensor into the axle of the pedal, which avoids interfering with the crankset and allows for switching between bikes with just a simple key. The Assioma Pro MX uses the SPD system and works with the supplied cleats or those from Shimano. The dual version measures each leg and reveals imbalances; the single version measures the left leg, and later purchasing the right pedal turns it into a complete system. The brand claims one percent accuracy, maintained by its IAV technology even with irregular pedalling or an oval chainring, and a rechargeable battery lasting around fifty hours.

Great deals

The best bargains can also be found in great deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals feature the latest collections, and items shipped within 24h are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a steady order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently asked questions

Which mountain bike pedal is best for beginners?

A wide, well-pinned flat pedal, like the Deity Flat Trak or a Shimano Deore XT flat, allows you to place your foot at any time and learn to ride. Automatic pedals come later, once you’ve mastered the trajectories.

How to adjust the tension of an automatic pedal?

A screw located at the back or on the side of the pedal adjusts the spring force. Start at the minimum, practice releasing while stopped against a wall, and then gradually tighten if the foot pops out unintentionally.

How to change the pins on a flat pedal?

Unscrew the worn pin with an appropriate Allen key, holding it with pliers if it turns freely, then screw in the new one with a drop of thread lock. Long pins grip more, while short pins are easier on the shins.

How to tell the left pedal from the right pedal?

The axles have the letter L or R. The left pedal has a reverse thread: it screws in the opposite direction to a clock. Both follow the standard of nine sixteenths of an inch thread pitch.

Which mountain bike pedal to use on gravel?

An automatic pedal with SPD standard, like the Look X-Track, combines the efficiency of a locked-in foot with the ability to walk thanks to a recessed cleat. It's the most popular choice for long mixed rides.