What kind of bicycle pedals are there?

Pedals are essential on every bicycle. Saddle, handlebars and pedals form a unit and play a major role for the rider. Every riding style and type of bicycle needs a suitable bicycle pedal. Platform pedals are mostly used on MTBs and clipless pedals are often found on road bikes.

Important features:

• Low weight
• Low friction, smooth-running
• Safety
• Grip

Block pedals (standard pedals)

Block pedals are found on city bikes or trekking bikes. A non-slip rubber surface is important for a secure grip. Reflectors are often attached, which are mandatory in Germany for road traffic.

Suitable for:

• City bikes
• Trekking bikes
• Children’s and youth bikes

Platform/flat pedals, bear paws

A large tread surface and replaceable metal pins with thread make the platform pedal ideal for mountain biking. Sporty rides in difficult terrain need a reliable connection between shoe and pedal. The metal pins ensure this. It is also called a bear paw.

Suitable for:

• Trekking bikes
• Mountain bikes

Click pedals

Pedal plates (cleats) on the bicycle shoe form a firm connection with the pedal. They click into place and the shoe is fixed. This means that the pedal is used efficiently. This is also known as a round pedal. The connection is released by turning the foot sideways to the outside. These pedals are often found on racing bikes. Here, a lot of emphasis is placed on efficiency and weight.

Suitable for:

• Road bikes
• Mountain bikes

Folding pedals

Folding pedals can be folded to save space, e.g. during transport or storage. A sophisticated folding mechanism folds the pedal easily without tools.

Suitable for:

• Folding bikes

Combination pedals

Two worlds are combined here. If you want to ride your bike without special cycling shoes, the combi pedal is the right choice for you. The pedal is a mixture of platform and click pedal. On one side you can pedal with a normal shoe and on the other side you can click in your cleats.

Suitable for:

• Freeride bikes
• Downhill bikes
• Mountain bikes

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