Choosing the right bike pedal is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of biking, especially when planning to go on a
cycling tour adventure!
The type of pedal you choose can significantly influence your cycling efficiency, safety, and comfort. As you venture into biking, you’ll encounter many pedal options. Platform, toe clips, and clipless pedals are among the most popular types, each offering unique benefits that cater to different riding styles and conditions.
In this article,
Rocky Mountain Cycle Tours guides you in choosing the bike pedals that suit you best.
Platform Pedals
Also known as flat pedals, platform pedals are the most common type, typically seen on standard road, commuter, and mountain bikes. They’re flat and wide, providing a stable surface for any type of shoe.
For casual cyclists and beginners – These pedals are an excellent choice for casual cyclists or beginners. They offer the most straightforward functionality – you simply step on them and start pedalling. There’s no need for specialized cycling shoes, making them the most versatile option. In a quick stop or emergency, your foot can immediately come off the pedal, providing an added safety feature.
Drawback – Because they don’t offer any mechanism to keep the foot in place, you may find your foot slipping off the pedal during your cycling tour, especially in wet or muddy conditions. Also, cycling efficiency is somewhat reduced since you only push down on the pedals and can’t pull up.
Toe Clips (Toe Cages)
Toe clips, also known as toe cages, are a semi-secure option. They attach to the platform pedal and include a bracket and strap to hold your foot in place. These clips allow for a greater range of motion when pedalling, letting you both push down and pull up on the pedal, enhancing your efficiency during a long ride or
cycling tour!
Toe clips are a middle-ground choice, balancing the ease of platform pedals and the efficiency of clipless pedals.
Drawback – They can take some getting used to. Getting your feet in and out quickly can be tricky at first, potentially leading to awkward moments or falls.
Clipless Pedals
Despite the somewhat misleading name, clipless pedals provide the highest level of foot-to-pedal connection. They work in conjunction with specialized cycling shoes that ‘clip’ into the pedal, hence ‘clipless.’
For experienced cyclists – These pedals are favoured by more experienced cyclists, including mountain bikers and road cyclists, who prioritize efficiency and control. Clipless pedals dramatically increase cycling efficiency by enabling the cyclist to transfer power throughout the pedal stroke, not just the downstroke. This secure connection also improves bike handling, offering cyclists better control in challenging terrain or high-speed situations.
Drawback – There is a learning curve with clipless pedals. Mastering the technique of clipping in and out can take some time and practice, and forgetting to unclip can lead to falls at stops. Also, the necessity for specific shoes may not suit every cyclist’s preference or budget.
Rocky Mountain Cycle Tours – Explore the Canadian Rockies
To summarize, your pedal type ultimately depends on your specific cycling needs and experience level.
Regardless of the pedal type you choose, what’s most important is that it complements your cycling style and enhances your biking experience. That’s why at Rocky Mountain Cycle Tours, we allow cyclists to experience different cycling styles, from casual
road cycling tours to more intense mountain biking adventures, ensuring that every cyclist finds their perfect pedal match.
Remember, cycling is not just about the destination but also the journey.
Contact us to plan your cycling tour experience this summer!
