10 Best Road Bike Pedals 2025 in the United States

The SHIMANO 105 PD-R7000 Performance Road Bike Pedal is designed for road biking enthusiasts who seek high-value pedaling performance. One of its main strengths is the excellent power transfer, achieved through an extra-wide platform that efficiently converts your pedaling effort into motion.

The pedal is versatile and allows riders to customize their experience with adjustable entry and release tension settings, making it easier or harder to clip in and out based on personal preference. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who are new to clipless pedals or who prefer varying tension settings for different riding conditions.

The pedal is constructed from durable carbon fiber and features low-maintenance sealed cartridge axles and a stainless steel body plate, ensuring long-lasting performance and reduced upkeep. Weighing 265 grams, these pedals are relatively lightweight, which can be a significant advantage for competitive riders focused on minimizing bike weight. It is implied that these pedals are compatible with Shimano’s SPD-SL cleats, which are standard for road biking. Some users might find the initial setup and tension adjustments a bit challenging if they are not familiar with these types of pedals. The SHIMANO 105 PD-R7000 pedals are a solid choice for adult road cyclists looking for a reliable and customizable pedaling solution.

The Garmin Rally RS100 pedals are clipless road bike pedals designed to provide accurate power and cadence data, primarily for cyclists focused on training and performance. These pedals use a single-sensing power meter that measures power from the left pedal and estimates total power by doubling that value. This setup is a good starting point for riders who want performance data without the higher cost of dual-sided meters. They are compatible with Shimano SPD-SL cleats, a common and trusted system, ensuring a secure and efficient connection between shoe and pedal.

Weighing 330 grams, the pedals feature a durable carbon composite and plastic build, making them strong enough for regular use on road and some off-road bikes like gravel or cyclocross. Installation is straightforward, similar to standard pedals, and the transferable spindle makes it easy to move them between bikes, which is convenient for riders who use more than one bike or different riding styles. Additionally, users have the option to upgrade to a dual-sensing system later, which can provide more detailed power data if desired.

The pedals integrate smoothly with Garmin Edge cycling computers and popular third-party apps, helping riders track their progress easily. This makes the Rally RS100 a solid choice for road cyclists who want a reliable, durable power meter pedal that’s easy to install and upgrade. However, those seeking dual-sided power measurement or specific float settings might consider other options.

The SHIMANO PD-RS500 SPD-SL Road Bike Pedal is designed specifically for road biking, making it a good fit for road cyclists. One of its key strengths is the Chromoly steel axle, which offers durability and strength. The pedal is single-sided and comes with SM-SH11 cleats, which are widely compatible with SPD-SL systems, ensuring flexibility for users with different cycle shoes.

Additionally, the pedals have a lightweight design, which is always a plus for performance cyclists, as they weigh just 1.7 ounces each. This makes for easier pedaling and less strain over long rides. Another highlight is the ease of entry and exit, making them user-friendly, particularly for those new to clipless pedals. The float provided by the SM-SH11 cleats allows for a degree of lateral movement, enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of knee pain on long rides.

A potential drawback might be its single-sided design, which could be less convenient compared to double-sided pedals, especially for beginners who might struggle to clip in quickly. Additionally, while the Chromoly steel axle is durable, the plastic body may not be as robust as full metal alternatives. The black color and modern style of the pedals make them visually appealing and suitable for a variety of road bikes. In conclusion, these pedals are well-suited for road cyclists looking for a reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-use option, though beginners might need some practice to get used to clipping in and out.