Best Mountain Bike Pedals of 2025
The top mountain bike pedals for all situations: enduro, downhill, trail, cross country, and even gravel riders
September 24th, 2025, updated to remove discontinued products
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Mountain bike pedals are more than just a spike under your shoe—they’re where power meets traction. The best ones give you grip, control, and confidence, whether you're sprinting through slick rock or popping over roots. Durability, performance, and smart engineering all matter when you're sending it on technical terrain.
We evaluated over seven standout pedals—from the value-packed OneUp Composite to the lightweight Crankbrothers Eggbeater 11, and rugged metal options like the Stamp 7. Testing took place on real trail networks in Colorado, with multiple riders putting each model through its paces on jumps, downhill runs, and technical singletrack. We even compared clipless mechanisms in both real-world scenarios and side-by-side drag tests.
Our focus was real pedal performance: grip underfoot, smoothness of bearings, platform size versus foot compatibility, clipless entry and exit ease, and resistance to rock strikes and trail abuse. We also tracked weight versus durability balance—even tough aluminum pedals like the Stamp 7 proved resilient after plenty of abuse on Colorado rocks.
Top Pick: The OneUp Components Composite Pedals earn our overall winner spot. With excellent grip from a convex platform loaded with replaceable pins, solid value at ~$60, and standout feel underfoot—even on steep switchbacks—they delivered ride after ride of confidence and control.
Your pedal and shoe work together, so be sure to check out our Best Mountain biking shoes guide.
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Comparison Table
| MTB PEDAL | OUR AWARD | CLIPLESS / FLAT / CAGE | WEIGHT (OZ) | MATERIAL | WARRANTY | BEST USES | MSRP* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Up Components Composite Pedals | Best Overall Flats Read why |
Flat | 12.5 | Nylon composite | 1 year | All-arounder | $60 |
| Shimano XTR PD M9100 Race | Best Clipless Read why |
Clipless | 10.9 to 11.1 | aluminum/chromoly steel | 3 years | Race, ultralight, XC, CX, gravel | $200 |
| RockBros Nylon Fiber | Best Affordable Read why |
Clipless | 12.9 | Nylon | 1 month | For rough rides | $25 |
| Race Face Chester | Best Nylon Read why |
Clipless | 12.7 | Nylon composite | 2 years | All-arounder | $40 |
| Crank Brothers Stamp 7 | Best Metal Flats Read why |
Flat | 12.1 (small) 13.2 (large) | aluminum/chomoly steel | 2 years | Trail, Park, downhill, Enduro | $180 |
*Prices reflect MSRP. We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.
See our most popular mountain bike guides in our Bike gear section:
The 7 best mountain bike pedals
Best Flat Pedal: OneUp Components Composite Pedals
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Flat
Weight: 12.5
Material: Nylon composite
Warranty: 1 year
What we liked: excellent grip, feels secure, convex design, value, versatility, easy to replace pins
What we didn’t like: not for riders who prefer aluminum, some durability issues
There are many great MTB pedals out there, but in the end, the Composite Pedals from OneUp Components came out on top, just edging out the Race Face Chester (see review below). No matter how tight the switchbacks or bumpy the drops, with excellent grip, the Composite Pedals from One Up felt secure underfoot. Our feet enjoyed the convex design. Retailing around $60, the Composites offer an incredible value, excellent grip, and a great platform for enduro riding, downhilling, and trail riding.
Compare Prices On The Oneup Components Composite Pedals
OneUp also offers these in an aluminum version, which is slightly heavier and more expensive.
The OneUp Composite pedals have a convex design and more pins, giving them excellent grip and a secure feel underfoot.
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The 10 rear-loading pins per side protect the Allen heads, making them easy to replace. Unique among pedals we considered, they’re also available in six colors.
We loved ripping down the side of Maryland Mountain with these underfoot.
The Composite Pedals are slightly lighter, slightly bigger, and have more pins than the Race Face Chesters.
Best Clipless Pedals: Shimano XTR PD-M9100 Race
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Clipless
Weight: 10.9 to 11.1
Material: aluminum/chromoly steel
Warranty: 3 years
What we liked: versatility, durability on cross country and trail
What we didn’t like: price, naming convention, can be difficult to find
Shimano is the biggest maker of clipless pedals for biking, and for a good reason. It makes some of the best pedals out there for both road biking and mountain biking. In fact, it has over 18 types of clipless pedals alone!
Of the Shimano pedal line-up, the XTR M9100 Race is our winner for the best clipless mountain bike pedals. We think the XTR PD-M9100 is the best clipless Shimano pedal because of its versatility. It's a tried and true lightweight pedal that's ideal for cross country and some trail riding.
View The Shimano Xtr Pd-M9100 Race
The Shimano XTR M9100 Race set-up on Treeline Review writer Stasia Stockwell’s bike.
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Treeline writer Stasia Stockwell tested these pedals for us extensively in Crested Butte and Buena Vista, Colorado.
She notes: “The XTRs are noticeably lighter [than other pedals] but also meant for a nice, stiff shoe. I like that the tension is easily adjustable.” She adds: “There’s just enough float to be comfortable, but I never had an issue with unintended releasing.”
These Shimano pedals are available with two spindle widths for those that prefer a narrower or wider stance when riding.
Best budget MTB Pedals: RockBros Nylon Fiber
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Clipless
Weight: 12.9
Material: Nylon
Warranty: 1 month
What we liked: price, features available for the price
What we didn’t like: durability, weight
If you’re looking for an inexpensive bike pedal that still has the chops to handle serious mountain biking, the RockBros has you covered with its Nylon Fiber pedals. These plastic pedals only cost $25 or less, making them an excellent value considering they have features similar to other pedals in the category. For example, the RockBros have 10 rear-loading pins per side and sealed bearings.
Compare Prices On The Rockbros Nylon Fiber
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They have almost 4,500 reviews on Amazon and an average of 4.5 stars out of 5 stars. Outdoor Gear Lab, which rated them a Best Buy says: “These aren't the flashiest pedals with the latest technology, but they are perfectly functional and pleasantly effective.” It’s a few frills pedal that will get the job done but may not be as robust as other nylon pedals in the long run.
See our more mountain bike guides in our Bike gear section:
Best Nylon Flat pedals: Race Face Chester
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Clipless
Weight: 12.7
Material: Nylon composite
Warranty: 2 years
What we liked: value, durability, colors
What we didn’t like: not as grippy as other pedals we considered
We think the Best Nylon Flat pedal is the Race Face Chester. These flat pedals are affordable and durable because they are made of nylon rather than more expensive metals. That material and good pin placement create a lightweight yet robust bike pedal that can take a beating and keep on going. Nylon also means the Chesters are available in 10 colors, the most of any pedals we considered. The Race Face Chester is a much-praised nylon mountain bike pedal that has lived up to its hype and has faced years of abuse on our bike.
Compare Prices On The Race Face Chester
The Race Face Chesters are MTB pedals with 8 rear-loading traction pins per side and a convex design.
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The Race Face Chester has a lot of similarities to Overall Best Flat Pedals, the OneUp Composites, which are the same price. The big difference between the two is the Race Face Chester has a convex design while the One Up Composite has a concave design.
Some riders prefer a concave design, which allows riders to adjust their feet more easily. A convex design cups the foot more, locking it in place. The OneUp has a more secure, locked-in feel. But the Race Face allows for more foot placement options. That's why we think the Race Face is great for those who like to use multiple positions while riding.
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With just 8 rear-loading traction pins per side, the Race Face doesn’t offer quite the grip of the OneUps, but we’ve never had a problem slipping off the pedals. We think it's worth a little less grip to have more foot placement options with the Chesters.
Best Metal Flat pedals: Crankbrothers Stamp 7
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Flat
Weight: 12.1 oz (small), 13.2 oz (large)
Material: aluminum/chomoly steel
Warranty: 2 years
What we liked: weight, surprising durability of the thin material, comes in smaller sizes
What we didn’t like: still not as durable as other materials
In one iteration or another, Crankbrothers’ Stamp pedals make most reviewers’ top MTB pedals list. We agree. We had a chance to mash on the Stamp 7 Large pedals, which offer the widest and longest platform we tested.
The Stamp 7 Large was one of the thinnest pedals we tested. Despite pedal strikes and crashing into boulders on trails in Colorado, the durable aluminum pedal held up well. While we used it with various shoes, we also used it with Crankbrothers’ Stamp shoes which have a tread pattern that matches the pin pattern on the pedals. (See our Best MTB shoes guide for a full review of those shoes)
View The Crankbrothers Stamp 7
Unlike most flat pedals, the Crankbrothers Stamp 7 has front loading pins of various lengths to aid in the concave design.
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Unlike most other flat pedals we awarded, the Stamps have front-loading pins of varying lengths, with shorter traction pins towards the middle of the foot to aid in the concave design. We did notice some damage to the Allen heads of pins after riding but could still get them out with pliers.
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We also love that the Stamp pedals come in a smaller size for people with smaller feet. This means that more people can get outside and use top notch pedals, which hasn't always been the case.
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It’s also available in several versions, including a less expensive composite version and one with a titanium spindle, which is more expensive.
Best Clipless Platform pedals: Shimano XT M8120
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Clipless
Weight: 15.5
Material: Chrome-moly steel
Warranty: 2 years
What we liked: support underfoot for technical or rough terrain, value for the price, easy entry and exit
What we didn’t like: expensive
If you’re looking for a clipless pedal with more support underfoot for cross-country and all-mountain adventures, the Shimano XT M8120 is the pedal to check out. Among similar Shimano pedals, the XT M8120 is an excellent option because it offers a lot of value.
We also tested the Shimano XTR M9120, which is a more expensive model (review below). Comparing the two, they both offer relatively similar ease of entry and exit and performance on the trail.
They’re about 40 grams heavier per pair than the Shimano XTR M9120 and have a similar grooved platform. The SPD pedal mechanism's cage is larger and wider than its predecessor and offers a little extra support while riding technical or rough terrain.
Compare Prices On The Shimano XT M8120
The Shimano XTR M8120 is the best clipless platform MTB pedal because it offers a lot of value and durability. Here, they are shown on Treeline Review writer Stasia Stockwell’s bike. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
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In the end, the XT M8120 proved more durable in the end, making it a better value, especially considering the price difference.
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We agree that the Shimano XTR M8120 offers a lot of value and durability and are an excellent choice for a clipless platform pedal for folks riding rougher trails.
Lightest Clipless Pedals: Crankbrothers Eggbeater 11
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Clipless
Weight: 6.3 oz
Material: stainless steel
Warranty: 5 years
What we liked: weight, warranty
What we didn’t like: expensive, learning curve
If you’re counting the grams and want the lightest mountain bike pedal available, you will likely start looking at the long-running Eggbeaters line of pedals. While there are many Eggbeater options to choose from, the Crank Brothers Eggbeater Titanium 11s are the lightest of the light, at 179 grams per pair.
Compare Prices On The Crankbrothers Eggbeater
Eggbeaters 11
Eggbeaters 3
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The Eggbeaters are all engagement mechanisms, allowing for entry from four sides. They’re very minimal in size and underfoot. However, the Eggbeater 11s are weight rated for people who are 200 pounds and less. They are also expensive at $449.99.
If you're looking for an alternative without a weight limit and that is more affordable, the Eggbeater 3’s are ¼ the price and are still incredibly light at 280 grams. Plus, they don’t have a maximum rider weight like the Eggbeater 11s.
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The Eggbeater 3’s are a top pick of Outdoor Gear Lab, which says: “If you ride or race in the mud and have experience with clipless pedals, we think you could appreciate these. Due to their small body and lack of adjustability, we wouldn't likely recommend them as anyone's first pair of clipless pedals.”
Other MTB pedals we tested
There are many excellent mountain bike pedals out there. Shimano alone has 18 pedals designed for mountain biking, CrankBrothers has over 30 models, Time has 12 pedals, and Look has 11. Those are just some major manufacturers. In all, there are likely hundreds of mountain bike pedals out there. We focussed on testing the best-rated pedals, and these were among those we considered that didn’t quite make the grade in our testing and evaluations.
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Clipless
Weight: 15.4 oz
Material: Chrome-moly steel
Warranty: 2 years
In testing, the Shimano XTR M9120 was an excellent MTB pedal. It rode very smooth on the bearings, but we noticed on our review unit that the spindle seal on the M9120 came loose on both pedals after just a few rides. Other testers noticed the same issue with the seal. For that reason, we were a little reluctant to name it a top winner for a high-end pedal that offers minimal weight savings over the M8120 Shimano pedal.
VIEW THE SHIMANO XTR M9120
Clipless/ Flat/ Cage: Clipless
Weight: 11.3
Material: Aluminum
Warranty: 5 years
We like the engagement mechanism on the Crank Brothers Candy 7. It is a highly reviewed pedal, among both media and customers. But we received our test units a little too late in the season to give them adequate testing. We hope to spend more time with them in 2022 for a possible reevaluation.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE CRANKBROTHERS CANDY 7
Mountain Bike Pedal Basics
Mountain bike pedals fall into two main categories, clipless and flats. Clipless pedals are designed to (ironically) clip onto a cleat on a specially designed cycling shoe to keep the rider connected to the pedal and give some extra power on the upstroke.
Flat mountain bike pedals have a platform usually studded with pins designed to provide grip. They interact with the gummy soles of flat mountain bike shoes, which give ample grip no matter how you place the shoe on the pedal.
Clipless vs. Flats
Clipless pedals are generally much smaller than flat pedals for mountain biking. The larger surface area of a flat pedal makes it efficient for transferring power to the chain and makes it easy to provide a stable interface between the shoe and pedal. In a clipless system, locking the shoe into the pedal and the sole's stiffness provides stability and power transfer.
Clipless vs. Flats: Which is best for mountain biking?
There is a lot of debate over which is best for mountain biking; we think both have a place for different uses. We think clipless pedals are great for most cross country, gravel riders, and even some trail riders. Some folks, including Treeline writer Stasia Stockwell, like clipless pedals for enduro and downhill riding, but we think some of the demands of those trails and types of riding are better suited for flat pedals.
Pros of clipless
Clipless pedals make it easier to get more power on the upstroke of your pedaling and make moves like bunnyhops and whipping the bike's tail around. You can do all this with flats, too. You just have to know how to bunnyhop and whip the bike around with more skill.
Pros of flats
In very technical sections like rock gardens, tight switchbacks, and technical downhill sections, a mountain biker needs to be able to get their feet off the pedals as quickly as possible to dab a foot or even throw the bike away from them. Here, flats have a clear advantage over being locked into the pedal in a clipless pedal.
Treeline Review writer Stasia Stockwell riding in Colorado. Stasia was one of the testers for MTB pedals for this story, specifically considering pedals for people with smaller feet. Photo courtesy Stasia Stockwell.
Best pedals for types of riding
With mountain bike shoes, we chose favorites for certain types of riding. Pedals are a little different since it’s really up to riders’ preferences for what they want. In light of that, we chose winners for different categories: Best Flat Pedals and Best Clipless Pedals; Best Bargain; Best Nylon Flat Pedals; Best Metal Flat Pedals; Best Clipless Platform Pedals; and Lightest Clipless.
Pedals for gravel and cross-country
For gravel grinders and cross-country riders who often want to go as light as possible and may opt for a very lightweight shoe with a stiff plank of a sole, a lightweight clipless pedal with little to no platform will work great.
Pedals for clipless trail, enduro, or downhill
For those who want to go clipless on the trail, enduro riding, or even downhilling, we recommend clipless pedals with a bit of platform. For instance, CrankBrothers Eggbeater pedals are great for easy clipping in since that’s all they are — clips. But without a larger platform to support your foot while jumping and making sharp switchbacks, you may feel less support underfoot than you want.
Pedals for those who prefer flats
We recommend flat pedals primarily for trail, enduro, and downhill riding. These often have more technical sections where a rider may need to plant a foot in a split second to avoid crashing into a boulder or sliding off a steep, narrow section of trail. Pro tip: MTB glasses can protect your eyes from debris during technical climbs and descents.
There are a ton out of flats out there! We’ve found some great pedals that are pretty inexpensive, like the RockBros Platform Pedal, for as little as $21! A cable and housing can cost more! It’s one part on a bike that is likely upwards of $1,000 that you don’t have to spend a lot of money on to get a quality product.
Some flat pedals are so inexpensive because they use inexpensive but durable nylon rather than more expensive metals. That creates a lightweight yet robust bike pedal that can take a beating and keep on going. That’s thanks to strong nylon and composite materials and good pin placement.
Hybrid Pedals
One type of bike pedal we didn’t look into much for mountain biking is the hybrid pedal. These usually have a flat-style side with pins for grip as well as a clipless side. Going back and forth between the two sides while riding technical or rough terrain is sometimes frustrating, though we love that approach for the city and casual bikes.
The difference in size between different pedals is evident. There is a flat pedal on the bottom and two types of clipless pedals on the top.
What to look for in MTB pedals
Regardless of whether you’re riding clipless or flat pedals, all-mountain bike pedals must do a few things well. First and foremost, they must provide a solid connection between the shoe and the pedal, which is accomplished in different ways. Both MTB pedals must shed mud well, rotate smoothly without spinning, and handle being bashed relentlessly on rocks, trees, and other obstacles.
Beyond that, things get different. Clipless pedals may or may not have a platform and may or may not have traction pins. On flat pedals, both these factors are essential. So from here, we’ll explain the most important features for each.
Two types of clipless pedals: the Crankbrothers’ clipless system on the left and Shimano’s on the right.
Clipless pedals
The defining feature of a clipless pedal is the clipping or locking mechanism and how it interacts with the cleat on the shoe. We tested clipless pedals for how easy it is to clip in, how much float (lateral movement) they have while clipped in, how easy or hard it is to unclip, and whether they’re adjustable. We also considered clipless pedals with some platform and those without a platform.
Entry
Entry of a good clipless pedal should be easy. Stomp down on it, and you’re in; that’s what you want. It always feels reassuring to hear that click when you mash down on the bike pedal.
Exit
Exit should also be relatively easy. However, you don’t want it to be too easy because you could unclip when you don’t want to. Exit is controlled both by the tension — on adjustable pedals — and the cleat itself. Some pedals and cleats allow for more float, meaning you can move your foot around a little before the mechanism unclips and sets your shoe-free.
Float And Adjustability
The majority of clipless pedals and cleats are Shimano SPD-compatible and can offer up to about 6° float before releasing. (SPD stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics and is pronounced like the potato.)
Some SPD pedals offer less float before releasing, which makes it easier to unclip. On many Shimano-style pedals you can adjust the release tension tighter or looser depending on your needs. For example, more novice riders will generally prefer a looser setting so that it’s easier to unclip.
Crank Brother pedals offer cleats with different release angles and float levels. Their pedals, like the Crank Brothers Eggbeater, aren’t tension adjustable. But you can add traction pads or shims to change the thickness of the pedal underfoot and the feel of how the pedal interacts with your shoes.
When you’re buying new cleats, it’s essential to ensure they’re compatible with your pedals and have the float or lack thereof that you want.
Some clipless pedals, like the Crank Brothers Egg Beater, are minimalist, while others, like the Shimano XTR PD-M9120 Pedals, have a platform. Some platform pedals even have pins. We didn’t evaluate any of those for this test as we feel the pins can make unclipping a little more complicated.
However, platforms are nice in many instances, as they provide a little more solidarity underfoot, especially when using a shoe with a little more flexibility like the Giro Chamber II. You won't need as much platform if you’re riding with a shoe like the Giro Empire VR 90 because the outsole is incredibly stiff.
Other advantages of smaller platforms — or not having a platform on clipless pedals — are that they reduce the likelihood of pedal strikes on rocks and other obstacles. Generally, they also shed mud better than platforms.
Two models of flat pedals: the Crankbrothers Stamp and RaceFace Chesters. Over time, flat pedals will see some wear in the pins. Here, the Allen heads of the pins on the Crankbrothers Stamp pedal (top) are damaged, and some will have to be removed with pliers. Damage is also evident to pins on the well-loved RaceFace Chesters on the bottom right, compared to a new pair on the left.
Flat pedals
With flat pedals, it’s all about the platform: that, and the pins.
Platform
The platform of the pedal should not be any wider than your shoe. A pedal like the CrankBrothers Stamp Large might be too big and wide for someone with a smaller foot; hence, they also offer a smaller-sized version of the pedal.
Length
Length-wise, it’s important to have as much surface area of the pedal under the shoe's sole as possible. But the longer the pedal, the more likely you are to strike it against obstacles. Most flat pedals we tested were about 4 1/2” long. That gives you ample space underfoot for multiple foot positions and quick, secure foot placement while mashing hard on the pedals.
Pins
The pins are also crucial on flat pedals. They grip into the sticky rubber on mountain bike shoe soles to keep your foot in place. Pins provide grip even if the pedal body is slick with water or mud. We recommend removable pins and prefer rear-loading pins like those on OneUp’s Composite pedals. You can still use an Allen wrench to replace them, even if they’re bent or otherwise bashed after multiple seasons. The Allen heads on the top of pins, like the CrankBrothers Stamp pedals, can get smashed, and you’ll need pliers to get them out.
Protip 1: You can buy replacement pins from the pedal manufacturer or a bike shop like Jenson USA. But if you’ve got a hardware store nearby, you might be able to find the pins in bulk for less money. Depending on the grip you want, you could also choose shorter or longer pins than what came with the pedals.
Protip 2: Be careful when riding with pinned pedals. One of our buddies required stitches — twice! — after slicing his calf on the traction pins during a couple of falls. He now wears kiddie shinguards over the back of his leg to prevent it from happening again.
Shape: Concave Vs Convex
The shape of many flat pedals isn’t flat, some are slightly concave, and others are convex. Concave pedals are skinnier close to the center of the pedal, better cupping your shoe. Convex pedals are thickest at the middle of the pedal and taper towards the ends. This shape makes it easier for riders to find multiple foot positions while riding.
The leading edge of many modern flat mountain bike pedals is chamfered–angled rather than having a square edge–to reduce the likelihood of a straight-on pedal strike, so they’re more likely to bounce off rather than stick on an object when they hit it.
Materials
Some of the best flat pedals are made of nylon composites. They’re light, inexpensive, shock-absorbing, and can handle repeated bashing. We still have–and can use–the first pair of Race Face Chester pedals that were on our 2018 Sant Cruz Higher LT after countless rides, pedal strikes with rocks, roots, and steel.
Other flat pedals are generally made of aluminum. A popular example is One Up Components Aluminum pedal. They’re a little more durable and generally a little heavier than nylon. Aluminum pedals are less likely to crack if there is a direct strike. However, some riders worry that metal pedals are more likely to stick on rocks than nylon.
Durability and the Environment
As stated, even the nylon pedals are durable, lasting more than 4 years of tough riding, and we haven’t had to repack or replace the bearings in any of our pedals, thankfully. Not that it’s a difficult task with most of our top winners as most component manufacturers sell bearing kits for their pedals.
Concerning the environment, we haven’t come across any durable mountain bike pedals that claim to be made of recycled aluminum or nylon. But with the ability to refresh bearings and pins, pedals should last you many years, and the primary reason you should buy new pedals is to upgrade or change from clipless to flats or vice versa.
How to Choose the Best Mountain Bike Pedals for You
When choosing the best mountain bike pedals, the first thing to consider is what type of riding you plan to do the most. Do you plan on epic cross-country rides or bikepacking trips, or will you primarily be riding the slopes in the summer? See our section on Best Pedals for Types of MTB Riding for some ideas.
If you’re primarily riding trails and enduro-style or doing a lot of downhill riding, we recommend one of our picks for flat pedals. If you’re doing a lot of cross-country or gravel riding, we recommend one of the winners for best clipless mountain bike pedals. If you’re just getting into mountain biking and aren’t sure, we recommend flat pedals since they’re easier to learn on.
How much do you want to spend on mountain bike pedals?
If you want flat pedals, you can get a quality pair like the excellent Race Face Chesters for $60. If that’s too much, RockBros Platform Bearing Wide Pedals are only $20.99. They often cost a little more if you’re opting for clipless mountain bike pedals, but Shimano’s ME700 are only $65. Crankbrothers’ high-end offerings like the 179-gram Eggbeater 11 fetch a far higher price, at $449.99.
FAQ
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No, mountain bike pedals are specifically designed for trail riding demands with greater durability and mud-shedding capabilities than road pedals. Mountain bike clipless pedals like the Shimano XTR M9100 use metal construction instead of plastic, feature double-sided entry for easier clipping on rough terrain, and include walkable cleats that won't damage when hiking sections. Road pedals prioritize weight savings over durability and often have single-sided entry, making them unsuitable for technical mountain bike trails where quick, reliable engagement is crucial.
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No, clipless pedals require specific cycling shoes with compatible cleats for proper function and safety. Regular shoes won't engage with clipless mechanisms like the Crank Brothers Eggbeater or Shimano SPD systems, creating dangerous slip-off situations. For flat pedals like the OneUp Components Composite or Race Face Chester, pair with mountain bike shoes featuring sticky rubber soles for optimal grip. Clipless shoes have stiff soles and recessed cleats - SPD cleats for Shimano pedals, or Crank Brothers cleats for their pedal systems.
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All mountain bike pedals use the standard 9/16" thread size regardless of foot size, but platform dimensions matter significantly for flat pedals. Larger feet benefit from bigger platforms like the Crank Brothers Stamp 7 Large, while smaller feet work better with compact options like the Stamp 7 Small. Platform length typically ranges from 4.5 inches, providing multiple foot positions without excessive pedal strike risk. Choose pedal width that doesn't exceed your shoe width for optimal power transfer and control.
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Quality mountain bike pedals last 3-5 seasons with proper maintenance depending on riding intensity and care. Flat pedals like the Race Face Chester need pin replacement when worn or bent, while high-end models offer replaceable pins to extend lifespan. Clipless pedals require cleat replacement every 6-12 months before full pedal replacement. Replace pedals when bearings fail, clip mechanisms malfunction, or significant damage occurs. Premium pedals like the Shimano XTR series often outlast budget options due to superior materials and sealed bearing systems.
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Flat pedals use pins and platform grip, while clipless pedals lock shoes into the mechanism for different riding advantages. Flat pedals like the OneUp Components Composite offer instant foot placement, easy bail-outs in technical terrain, and work with any shoes, making them ideal for downhill and enduro riding. Clipless systems like the Shimano XT M8120 provide efficient power transfer, secure connection for climbing, and better bike control but require practice and specific shoes. Most cross-country riders prefer clipless, while trail and downhill riders often choose flats.
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Flat pedals are strongly recommended for beginners due to natural foot placement and instant dismount capability. Starting with quality flat pedals like the Race Face Chester ($60) allows new riders to focus on bike handling without worrying about unclipping in emergency situations. The OneUp Components Composite pedals provide excellent grip and confidence-building stability. Once comfortable with mountain biking fundamentals, riders can transition to clipless systems like the budget-friendly Shimano ME700 ($65) for improved pedaling efficiency.
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Yes, pedal type determines required shoe style for optimal performance and safety. Flat pedals like the Crank Brothers Stamp 7 work best with mountain bike shoes featuring sticky rubber soles and aggressive tread patterns for maximum grip on pins. Clipless pedals require cycling shoes with stiff soles and compatible cleat mounting - SPD cleats for Shimano systems or Crank Brothers cleats for their pedals. Avoid using running shoes or casual footwear with either pedal type as they lack proper grip and support.
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Yes, both pedal types use standard 9/16" threading allowing easy switching between systems. Many riders keep both types - clipless like the Shimano XT M8120 for cross-country rides and flats like the OneUp Components Composite for technical trail days. Use pedal washers to prevent over-tightening and ensure proper removal. Some riders choose hybrid pedals offering both flat and clipless sides, though these work better for commuting than aggressive mountain biking where consistent pedal orientation matters.
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Replace pedal pins when they're significantly worn, bent, or broken to maintain optimal grip and safety. Quality flat pedals like the Race Face Chester and OneUp Components Composite feature replaceable rear-loading pins that protect Allen heads from damage. Bent pins reduce grip and can damage shoe soles, while broken pins create uneven platform feel. Replace individual pins as needed or refresh entire sets seasonally for consistent performance. Keep spare pins on hand as pedal strikes and crashes commonly damage these wear items.
Care and maintenance
Mountain bike pedals don’t need a lot of maintenance, thankfully. You’ll need to clean them off after riding, adjust clipless pedals to make them easier or harder to release, and replace broken or bent pins. The only other maintenance they could need is replacing their sealed bearings.
Adjusting clipless pedals
Some clipless pedals, like those from Shimano, have adjustable tension screws. When first learning to ride clipless, we recommend loosening the tension to make it easier to unclip; after getting used to them, tighten the tension to your needs. You may find that they become a little looser over time, and you can adjust them to make them tighter. However, it’s important to ensure that the cleats aren’t too worn, which can make unwanted unclipping happen.
Some clipless pedals, like Crankbrothers’, don’t have tension adjustments. However, they have traction pads and shoe shields that help modify the cleat's feel and engagement underfoot.
Replacing pins
For flat pedals, most maintenance will be replacing pins that have smashed and bent or broken against rocks. You’ll usually use an Allen key, but occasionally, you may have to remove stubborn pins with pliers.
Bearings
Over time even sealed bearings can get damaged as water or mud corrode them or sand and dirt get in them. Thankfully you can buy sealed bearing replacement kits to refresh your pedals. However, depending on the price of the kit, you may want to consider replacing the entire pedal.
why you should use a Pedal Washer
If you plan to ride on multiple pedals or use the same pedals on multiple bikes, use a pedal washer before installing them. Pedals are designed to tighten as you ride them, and absent a pedal washer, they can get pretty stuck on crank arms.
We tested numerous mountain bike pedals side-by-side with different riders taking them on trails of varying technical terrain. These are just some of the mountain bike pedals we tested for this article.
How we Researched & Tested
We followed a well-developed trail network of testing and research by pedaling through expert reviews from over 10 sites and magazines as sources for expert material. We coupled those with verified customer reviews of mountain biking shoes and consulted with our numerous mountain biking buddies.
Two of our in-house experts tested pedals throughout Colorado. They took them on trails and downhill courses along the Front Range and in and around Crested Butte. After compiling our in-house testing with expert and customer reviews, we made our picks for the top mountain biking shoes in numerous categories.
We tested the shoes on some of our old and new favorite trail networks like Floyd Hill and Winter Park’s Trestle Bike Park, Deer Valley Resort in Utah, Buena Vista, Breckenridge, and more doing a combo of enduro and downhill riding primarily.
During testing, we assessed based on different criteria depending on whether we were testing clipless pedals or flat pedals.
For clipless pedals, our evaluation methods included testing for ease of entry and exit and float and adjustability.
For flat pedals, our evaluation methods including testing for platform width, length, pins, concave vs. convex shape, and materials and durability.
Our Testing Process
Comprehensive testing across Colorado's diverse trail networks
Testing Locations
- Floyd Hill & Maryland Mountain
- Winter Park Trestle Bike Park
- Deer Valley Resort, Utah
- Crested Butte & Buena Vista
- Colorado Front Range trails
- Breckenridge area singletrack
What We Test
- Clipless entry & exit ease
- Flat pedal grip & pin durability
- Platform size vs. foot compatibility
- Bearing smoothness & longevity
- Rock strike & abuse resistance
- Weight vs. durability balance
About The Author/Why You Should Trust Us
As an outdoors writer covering adventure and gear, I have written multiple pieces about mountain biking, and I have a long history with the sport. I have also contributed multiple guides to Treeline Review, Backpacker, and other outdoor publications/organizations.
My experience with mountain biking stretches back to the Appalachians in the late 1980s when Specialized, Trek, Gary Fisher, and Cannondale were among the first companies to mass-produce mountain bikes — my first ‘mountain bike’ was a 10-speed Huffy Scout, which I got around ‘87. It was around the time that the first clipless pedals for a road bike were allowed in competitions and shortly after were introduced for mountain biking. Before that, bikers used toe clips for more power and connection to their pedals. I think I had my first pair of clipless pedals around ’92.
These days, I spend most of my time mountain biking, backpacking, hiking, climbing, and crisscrossing Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. I enjoy using my knowledge of gear and skills to learn about new equipment and how it will benefit me (yes, I’m selfish) and Treeline’s readers.
I have authored multiple outdoor guidebooks. My most recent Falcon Guide is Colorado’s Best Front Range Adventures: The Greatest Hiking, Climbing, Paddling and More From Denver to Colorado Springs and Fort Collins. In it, I cover the best hiking, biking, climbing, and rafting in the region.
I’m also the author of Falcon Guide’s Climbing Colorado's Fourteeners: From the Easiest Hikes to the Most Challenging Climbs and edited Justin Lichter’s excellent guide to thru-hiking titled Trail Tested: A Thru-Hiker's Guide To Ultralight Hiking And Backpacking. This experience has helped me become a first-rate gearhead and product tester.
I have 20-plus years of exploring, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, climbing, guiding, and playing in the wild. I worked with National Geographic and their mapping division in developing their Colorado 14ers Map Pack Bundle. I’ve written about hiking and climbing for Elevation Outdoors, including stories about Colorado 14ers and outdoor apps to boost adventures.
At Treeline Review, we strive to offer unbiased reviews to help you find the best product for the price. Treeline Review doesn’t accept native advertising or paid reviews. I am not sponsored by any companies, nor are any of my family members sponsored by or employees of, or ambassadors of any of the companies in this review.
You can see all of Chris’s stories on his author page.
