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10 Best Clipless Pedals 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Crankbrothers Mallet DH Mountain Bike Pedals - Silver Edition - MTB DH Downhill Optimized Platform - Clip-in System Pair of Bicycle Bicycle Mountain Bike Pedals (Cleats Included)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,193
Pedal Type
Cleat Compatibility
Float

Most important from
1988 reviews

Pedal Type
The pedals deliver excellent power transfer and control thanks to a solid, secure platform that feels both durable and reliable under tough trail conditions.
Cleat Compatibility
Compatibility with various shoe models is generally good, especially when using the appropriate cleats, though optimal fit is achieved with the Crankbrothers Match system.
Float
Adjustable cleats and pins provide customizable grip and float, allowing for a perfect balance between foot stability and comfort.
Weight
Users appreciate the combination of lightweight design and robust materials, striking a balance between durability and manageable weight.
Durability and Maintenance
The design combines sleek aesthetics with rugged construction, ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging environments.
Adjustability
Adjustable cleats and pins provide customizable grip and float, allowing for a perfect balance between foot stability and comfort.

The Crankbrothers Mallet DH pedals are clipless MTB pedals designed especially for downhill riders who need a strong, stable connection to their bike with easy entry and release. Their four-sided clip-in system makes it simpler to clip in from any angle and helps shed mud efficiently, which is great for off-road conditions. The cleats included offer customizable float and release angles, letting riders adjust how much their foot can pivot, which is important for comfort and injury prevention.

Weighing 479 grams per pair, these pedals strike a good balance between being lightweight and durable. They are made from sturdy aluminum and stainless steel components, promising a long lifespan even under tough trail use. The platform includes 8 adjustable pins per side, improving grip when riding or walking, and the concave shape keeps your foot solidly in place at high speeds. Maintenance is user-friendly thanks to premium cartridge bearings and a service kit, plus a strong 5-year warranty backs their build quality.

One downside is that these pedals are optimized for the Crankbrothers Match shoe system, so if you use a different brand or model, the shoe/pedal fit might not be as perfect. Also, while the weight is decent, riders who prioritize ultra-light equipment might find them a bit heavy. These pedals provide excellent traction, adjustability, and durability, making them well-suited for downhill mountain bikers who want reliable, easy-to-use clipless pedals that perform well in muddy and rocky conditions.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,193
Pedal Type
Cleat Compatibility
Float

Most important from
1988 reviews

Pedal Type
The pedals deliver excellent power transfer and control thanks to a solid, secure platform that feels both durable and reliable under tough trail conditions.
Cleat Compatibility
Compatibility with various shoe models is generally good, especially when using the appropriate cleats, though optimal fit is achieved with the Crankbrothers Match system.
Float
Adjustable cleats and pins provide customizable grip and float, allowing for a perfect balance between foot stability and comfort.
Weight
Users appreciate the combination of lightweight design and robust materials, striking a balance between durability and manageable weight.
Durability and Maintenance
The design combines sleek aesthetics with rugged construction, ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging environments.
Adjustability
Adjustable cleats and pins provide customizable grip and float, allowing for a perfect balance between foot stability and comfort.
#2

SHIMANO 105 PD-R7000 Performance Road Bike Pedal

Rating
9.7
Pedal Type
Weight
Adjustability

Most important from
451 reviews

Pedal Type
Perfect for beginners moving from flat pedals, allowing for more power and riding efficiency.
Weight
Shimano quality is evident in these lightweight pedals.
Adjustability
The pedals perform as expected, though adjusting the tension is necessary for optimal use.

The Shimano 105 PD-R7000 Performance Road Bike Pedal is a versatile choice aimed at avid road cyclists. As a road bike pedal, it offers excellent power transfer thanks to its extra-wide platform, which ensures that your energy efficiently translates into bike speed. The pedals are made from carbon fiber, making them lightweight at just 265 grams, which is beneficial for reducing bike weight and enhancing performance during long rides or climbs.

The adjustable entry and release tension settings are a significant advantage, allowing riders to customize how easily they can clip in and out, making it adaptable for both beginners and experienced cyclists. On the durability front, the pedals feature low-maintenance sealed cartridge axles and a stainless steel body plate, which promise long-lasting performance and reduced upkeep.

While the carbon fiber construction is a bonus for weight and strength, it may not be as durable as some metal alternatives in the long run, especially under extreme conditions. Nonetheless, the Shimano 105 PD-R7000 pedals are ideal for road bike enthusiasts looking for a high-performance, durable, and customizable clipless pedal.

Rating
9.7
Pedal Type
Weight
Adjustability

Most important from
451 reviews

Pedal Type
Perfect for beginners moving from flat pedals, allowing for more power and riding efficiency.
Weight
Shimano quality is evident in these lightweight pedals.
Adjustability
The pedals perform as expected, though adjusting the tension is necessary for optimal use.
#3

LOOK Cycle - KEO Blade Carbon - 8Nm - LIGHTWIEGHT and Powerful Road Bike Pedals - Clipless Pedal

Rating
9.4
Weight
Durability and Maintenance

Most important from
47 reviews

Weight
The pedals are incredibly light, enhancing the riding experience.
Durability and Maintenance
Great pedals that have been reliable for over a decade.

The LOOK Cycle KEO Blade Carbon clipless pedals are designed for road bikes and cater to serious cyclists, including professionals. These pedals are notable for their ultralight carbon fiber construction, providing an excellent power-to-weight ratio and ensuring efficient power transfer. The carbon blade technology offers a secure and quick clip-out mechanism, which is a significant improvement over traditional metal springs, making them 20% lighter and more responsive.

The pedals also feature a large contact surface, enhancing stability and comfort during rides. With ceramic bearings and a water-resistant grease seal system, these pedals are built for durability and low maintenance, ensuring long-lasting performance. However, they may not offer extensive adjustability in terms of float compared to other models, which could be a consideration for cyclists who prefer more customization.

The weight at 115 grams per pedal is light, which is beneficial for competitive cycling. These pedals are best suited for dedicated road cyclists looking for high performance and durability, but they may not be ideal for those new to clipless systems due to their specialized nature and potential lack of extensive adjustability.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Durability and Maintenance

Most important from
47 reviews

Weight
The pedals are incredibly light, enhancing the riding experience.
Durability and Maintenance
Great pedals that have been reliable for over a decade.

Buying Guide for the Best Clipless Pedals

Choosing the right clipless pedals for your bike can significantly enhance your cycling experience. Clipless pedals provide a secure connection between your foot and the pedal, improving power transfer, efficiency, and control. When selecting clipless pedals, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure they meet your riding style and needs. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Pedal TypeClipless pedals come in different types, primarily road and mountain bike (MTB) pedals. Road pedals are designed for smooth surfaces and offer a larger platform for better power transfer, while MTB pedals are built for off-road conditions and often feature a double-sided entry for easier clipping in and out. Choose road pedals if you primarily ride on paved roads and seek maximum efficiency. Opt for MTB pedals if you ride on varied terrain and need versatility and ease of use.
Cleat CompatibilityCleats are the part that attaches to your shoe and clips into the pedal. Different pedals use different cleat systems, such as SPD, SPD-SL, or Look. It's crucial to ensure that your shoes are compatible with the cleats of the pedals you choose. SPD cleats are common for MTB and offer easy walking, while SPD-SL and Look cleats are typically used for road cycling and provide a larger contact area for better power transfer. Match the cleat system to your riding style and shoe compatibility.
FloatFloat refers to the degree of lateral movement allowed by the cleat when clipped into the pedal. This movement can help reduce stress on your knees by allowing some natural movement. Float is measured in degrees, with common options being 0, 4.5, and 9 degrees. If you have knee issues or prefer more freedom of movement, choose pedals with higher float. If you prefer a more locked-in feel for maximum power transfer, opt for lower or zero float.
WeightThe weight of the pedals can affect your overall bike weight and performance. Lighter pedals can contribute to a more efficient ride, especially for competitive cyclists. Pedal weight can vary significantly, with high-end models being lighter due to the use of advanced materials like carbon fiber or titanium. If you are a competitive cyclist or prioritize performance, consider investing in lighter pedals. For casual riders, the weight may be less critical.
Durability and MaintenanceDurability and ease of maintenance are important factors, especially if you ride frequently or in harsh conditions. Pedals made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or aluminum tend to be more durable. Additionally, some pedals have sealed bearings that require less maintenance. If you ride in wet or muddy conditions, look for pedals that are known for their durability and ease of maintenance to ensure long-lasting performance.
AdjustabilitySome clipless pedals offer adjustable tension settings, allowing you to customize the force required to clip in and out. This can be particularly useful for beginners who may prefer a lighter setting for easier entry and exit. More experienced riders might prefer a higher tension for a more secure connection. Consider your skill level and comfort with clipless pedals when choosing the adjustability features that best suit your needs.

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