9 best clipless road pedals

Clipless road pedals are an essential component of road cycling, designed to provide a secure connection between a cyclist's cycling shoes and the bicycle's pedals. They are called "clipless" because they do not use traditional toe clips and straps that were once common in cycling.

Key features of clipless road pedals include:

  1. Cleat System: Clipless road pedals work in conjunction with cleats that are attached to the sole of cycling shoes. These cleats engage with the pedal mechanism, allowing the rider to secure their feet to the pedals.

  2. Secure Connection: Clipless pedals offer a more secure and efficient way to transfer power from the cyclist's legs to the pedals. This enhanced connection helps improve pedaling efficiency and reduces the likelihood of the rider's feet slipping off the pedals.

  3. Float: Many clipless pedal systems offer a degree of "float," which allows the cyclist's feet to pivot slightly while remaining engaged with the pedals. This can reduce the risk of knee strain and provide a more comfortable riding experience.

  4. Adjustable Tension: Most clipless pedals allow riders to adjust the tension of the engagement mechanism. This feature enables cyclists to customize the level of effort required to release their feet from the pedals.

  5. Pedal Types: There are various types of clipless road pedals on the market, including SPD-SL, Look, Speedplay, and Time, among others.Different pedal systems may have unique characteristics and compatibility requirements.

  6. Shoe Compatibility: To use clipless road pedals, cyclists need compatible cycling shoes with the corresponding cleat attachment points. These attachment points vary depending on the pedal system.

  7. Benefits: Clipless road pedals provide several advantages, including improved power transfer, reduced fatigue, and enhanced control during sprints and climbs. They also allow for a more natural pedaling motion.

  8. Learning Curve: Using clipless pedals may require some practice and adjustment, as riders need to get used to clipping in and out of the pedals. Beginners should be cautious when starting with clipless pedals to avoid accidents or falls.

  9. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep clipless road pedals functioning smoothly. This includes cleaning, lubricating, and periodically inspecting the pedal and cleat components.

Overall, clipless road pedals are a popular choice among road cyclists, offering improved performance and efficiency compared to traditional platform pedals. Riders often choose a specific pedal system based on personal preferences and compatibility with their cycling shoes.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best clipless road pedals on the market
  

XEWEA Road Bike Pedals Cleats Set for Shimnao SPD Clipless Pedals, Lightweight Self-Locking Cycling Pedals for Shimnao 105 SM-SH System Shoes Fitness Peloton Spin Bike

XEWEA -PD-R

Based on 76 reviews Check latest price
  • Wide lightweight resin body provides large shoe contact area to maximize power transfer and support whilst reducing weight
  • Large binding target allows quick engagement while wide cleats provides more efficient pedaling
  • Pedals Body: Resin Composite Body, Spindle : 9/16"- 3 bearing axle system- 2 ball, 1 wide roller bearing
  • Open design allows for easy access and cleat adjustment.Durable stainless steel body plate reduces flex and pedal body wear.
  • We're so confident about our product quality that we can provide 2-year warranty ! (Cleats not included )Made in Taiwan

User questions & answers

Question: Whats the float
Answer: I've only had mine a short time, but I have not found any way to SAVE settings. The lower buttons let you select that section of the board and then it pays according to where the knobs are set. But you cannot select several DLA setting and them save them and later select one for a particular live song and then later another. It is just a live peddle, but a good one.
Question: Are these pedals compatible with the peloton bike and shoes
Answer: Yes you can use it as speaker simulator if you are plugged into a mixer then you have to use the SANMP SECTION ENGAGED THE SOUND IS AWESOME if you don t your drive sound will be horrible !!!If you play PLUGGED INTO your amp you can use it as a normal effect pedal !!!! In any situation your sound will be great !!!
Question: Is this value for the pair
Answer: You can use either pedal with both guitar and bass. The difference is the Para Drive uses SansAmp technology which is a subtle tube amp emulation. The Q/Strip is a full featured, four band eq without the SansAmp tech. The Para Driver has a more limited eq than the Q/Strip.
Question: do these come with cleats
Answer: The short answer is no. The Tech 21 “Q-Strip” is not a pre-amp in the usual sense. It is essentially an EQ direct box. You can plug it into an amp input or go directly into a recording device. While it does have attenuation and volume increasing ability, it does not add or subtract “gain” of any kind as does the Furman. Think of the “Q-Strip” as a fader/ EQ strip in a multichannel recording desk. The great tone of these vintage desks afforded thousands of great recordings to be created. The Tech 21 can do the same. With it you can shape your tone and help you create whatever guitar sound you require. I find it an essential component in my rig. If I need gain, I use various OD pedals or turn up my amp. I believe that the EQ potential of the Tech 21 is far superior to the Furman’s. In any event, see the Pete Thorn U-Tube video on the Tech 21. He’ll explain and demo it better than I can explain here.

Product features

XEWEA ST550 Road Pedals Features:

  • Lightweight composite body is super stiff and resilient
  • Stainless steel pedal body plate reduces flex and resists wear
  • Chromoly steel spindle is light, tough and stable
  • Road Bike Cycling Pedals Resin Composite with Road SPD CLEAT
  • Wide lightweight resin body provides large shoe contact area to maximise power transfer and support whilst reducing weight.
  • Low maintenance sealed cartridge axle unit. The low profile platform with open design allows for easy access and cleat adjustments.
  • Easy to clip into and release but with stable fit for maximum power transfer to the pedals.
  • Wider cleat and binding mechanism for better shoe/pedal contact than traditional systems.
  • Designed with cleat retention adjuster and indicator
  • Pindle: Cr-Mo BC 9/16"x 20T.P.I.d

Packing Include : R550 Pedals/300g Pair Cleats/38g Pair

SHIMANO Ultegra PD-R8000 Pedals

SHIMANO

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Shimano Ultegra PD-R8000 Pedals borrows heavily from the flagship Dura-Ace PD-9100 to deliver pro-level performance for the weight-conscious cycling enthusiast. The extra-wide, lightweight, carbon composite platform offers a huge target for clipping in, so rolling away from red lights and the start of a crit are hassle-free affairs. The large body also provides more efficient power transfer and distributes pressure better so long days in the saddle aren't met with hot spots on your feet. The low profile design increases road clearance for improved confidence when leaning through the turns and getting back on the gas. Durable, integrated, stainless steel body plates help reduce flex, wear to the pedal body, and provide a smooth surface for the cleats, promoting smooth float. The wide bearing placement offers stable and uniform load distribution so bearings last longer and roll smoother. The adjustable entry and release tension let you customize the settings for a casual easy in-and-out to a vice like grab needed for track racers or sprinters. The 10 mm body height from the axle center to cleat contact surface lowers the stack height 0. 7mm versus the 6800's and the weight has dropped to 248 grams. Pedals includes 6-degree float SPD-SL cleats for 3-bolt shoes and all the mounting hardware.

  • 100
  • ULTEGRA PERFORMANCE - Pro level performance for the enthusiast road rider
  • LIGHTWEIGHT - Lightweight; yet durable design weighs only 248 grams
  • EXTRA WIDE PLATFORM - Wide platform delivers efficient power transfer and stability
  • INTEGRATED CONTACT SURFACE - Durable integrated stainless body plate reduces weight; flex; and wear
  • WIDE BEARING STABILITY - Wide bearing placement for stable and uniform load distribution

User questions & answers

Question: grams each or both? Stated “item weight” is 450 grams. 248 x 2 = 496. How is the parcel lighter than the sum of the pedals
Answer: The pedal itself has a set of cleats, which are together.
Question: What is the different between regular axle and 4mm axle? Either one still fit on the bike
Answer: No problem,The spindle size is 9/16", which is suitable for any mountain bike, road bike, exercise bike with 9/16" thread.
Question: What is the difference between the ultegra pd-6800 spd-sl and ultegra r8000 spd-sl? thanks
Answer: yes,they are.
Question: do these come with cleats
Answer: This pedal has a very good design and is very comfortable to use, even if it is used for a long time.

LOOK Keo Classic 3 Road Pedals - Black/Red

LOOK

Based on 335 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Discover the fun and the benefits of riding with the Keo Classic 3 clipless pedal. Simple to use, it is possible to adjustment the cleat entry/release tension to low for an easy clip out. Its large and wide contact surface provides excellent pedalling stability. A new method of fitting the spindle into the pedal body also ensures the prolonged reliability of our pedals. LOOK spindles are only approved after a rotational test of 2 million cycles at 100tr/min with a load of 90kg on the centre of the pedal and an eccentric rotation (creating a shock on each rotation).

  • Simple to use, it is possible to adjustment the cleat entry/release tension to low for an easy clip out.
  • Its large and wide contact surface provides excellent pedaling stability.
  • The Keo Classic 3 spindle is made up of an oversized steel axle with miniature ball bearings (12 mm inside x 18 mm outside) and a needle bearing cartridge for improved wear resistance. A spacer is used to hold the needle bearing cartridge in place.
  • A new method of fitting the spindle into the pedal body also ensures the prolonged reliability of our pedals. LOOK spindles are only approved after a rotational test of 2 million cycles at 100tr/min with a load of 90kg on the center of the pedal and an eccentric rotation (creating a shock on each rotation).
  • LOOK axles are only approved after a rotational test of 2 million cycles at 100 rpm with a load of 90 kg on the center of the pedal and an eccentric rotation (which creates stress on each revolution). This is equivalent to a sprint by Andre GREIPEL of 1700 watts at 100 rpm for 333 hours! This test is much more demanding than the current standard, the ISO 4210.

User questions & answers

Question: How much do they weigh in grams
Answer: Hello please see pedal specs below in grams. Pedal 140 g Weight pair + cleats 350 g
Question: How much float there is on the cleats
Answer: Not much very tight
Question: Cleats included
Answer: The cleats are included.
Question: que incluye
Answer: Vienen con los clips.muy buen sistema.excelente compra
Question: The ad says black but the pictures show black/red. which color would i receive? also, with cleats or not? the reviews are split
Answer: Never saw black and red! mine came all back.....
Question: I'm confused - reviews say the pedals come with cleats, but that's not listed in the description. is the $80 for pedals and cleats or just the pedals
Answer: Hello, All pedals come with the clip and pedals together as the are specific to the pedal itself.
Question: Does this pedal use standard look keo cleats? Would they be the same cleat the garmin vector 3 use
Answer: Yes, the Garmin cleat works better than the Look Keo cleat, way better! Doesn't wear out as fast and has a crisper in and out of the pedal feeling.
Question: Does this include 1 pedal per order or 2? I need a set of two, and I can't tell from product page if these pedals come in pairs or if need 2 orders
Answer: All bike pedals come as pairs

SUPOW Ultralight PD-R97 Bike Pedal Bicycle Platform Pedals Aluminum Alloy Bike Road Pedals

SUPOW

Based on 155 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SUPOW Ultralight PD-R97 Bike Pedals, provide a safty and professional cycling bike riding experience for you!

Material: main aluminum alloy, shaft chrome molybdenum steel.

Features: The road lock can help the rider to increase the cadence speed. If the cadence speed is above, the shoe and the pedal will be separated when the cadence is not used. Therefore, using the lock can increase your cadence.

The lock shoe is fixed on the lock pedal to correct the riding posture, and there is no need to worry about the physical strain caused by the wrong posture.

Benefits: Improve riding stability. Fixed foot and pedal position. The biggest use of the shoe is to fix the position of the foot on the pedal to correct the position of the original position due to poor posture. Second, make sure your foot is on the pedal.

Function: Increase the pedaling efficiency. The riding effect is half the effort. This is the most understandable one. You can help the rider to step on the road in a more labor-saving position, especially when going uphill.

  • Material: main aluminum alloy, shaft chrome molybdenum steel.
  • Features: The road lock can help the rider to increase the cadence speed. If the cadence speed is above, the shoe and the pedal will be separated when the cadence is not used. Therefore, using the lock can increase your cadence. The lock shoe is fixed on the lock pedal to correct the riding posture, and there is no need to worry about the physical strain caused by the wrong posture.
  • Benefits: Improve riding stability. Fixed foot and pedal position. The biggest use of the shoe is to fix the position of the foot on the pedal to correct the position of the original position due to poor posture. Second, make sure your foot is on the pedal.
  • Function: Increase the pedaling efficiency. The riding effect is half the effort. This is the most understandable one. You can help the rider to step on the road in a more labor-saving position, especially when going uphill.
  • Market Proven Axle Durability : All fittings are made of exquisite CNC production and processing

User questions & answers

Question: What about float? How many degrees
Answer: There are two plates in the package.
Question: Can I lock on both sides of the pedal
Answer: It says it is and I was impressed with the quality of plastic it is made of but I just wash it by hand myself. So I can’t attest to how it would do in the dishwasher. I would do top shelf if I did.
Question: Other than the correct shoes, is this all you need to switch from "normal" pedals to cleats
Answer: I have my 15 month old use them... but they are still a little confusing for her because both ends are similar.
Question: Are the cleats and pedals look delta compatible
Answer: Sorry I’m not sure about that

SHIMANO Unisex – Adult's PD-RS500 SPD-SL Road Bike Pedal Black

SHIMANO

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Shimano PD-RS500 Road Bike Pedal SPD-SL, Black

  • Use: road
  • Model: PD-RS500
  • SPD/SPD-SL: single-sided
  • Pedal axle: Chromoly steel
  • Cleats: SM-SH11

User questions & answers

Question: Can I use Delta clips with these
Answer: I carry one 700c tube, a set of two tire levers, a multi-tool, and a CO2 nozzle with two 16g cartridges, so you should be fine.
Question: Buenas noches, trae las calas o chocles o claps
Answer: It attaches by two Velcro straps. One on the front that straps around the seat post and another one on top that straps around the two posts that connect the seat to the actual bike. It's much like the picture if you can see it. It's also pretty sturdy and won't fall off while riding if you've got it on good.
Question: Do these work with studio bikes? i have a nordictrack s15i studio cycle i'd like clip-ins for
Answer: My one easily fits my iPhone 7, so I would be surprised if it did not fit your PLUS sized iPhone. There is also room for my keys and a set of bike lights in there too...a small punture kit would fit on top of that, I think.
Question: Just to confirm these will work with shimano spd-sl (sm-sh11) cleats
Answer: Not as first but as you wear them a little they will start gripping the ground better

CyclingDeal Unisex Sealed Cycling Road Bike Bicycle Clipless Pedals Compatible with Look Keo 9/16"

CyclingDeal

Product description

WELLGO Road Bike Bicycle Clipless Pedals Keo Compatible

Material: Aluminium body, CrMo Indoordle

Bearing: Needle sedaled. Axle Size: Thread 9/16"

Weight: 360g=0.79lbs /pr. Warranty: One year

  • WELLGO Road Bike Bicycle Clipless Pedals Keo Compatible
  • Material: Aluminium body, CrMo spindle
  • Bearing: Needle sedaled. Axle Size: Thread 9/16"
  • Weight: 360g=0.79lbs /pr. Warranty: One year
  • Made in Taiwan

SHIMANO PD-R7000; 105 Series; SPD-SL Clipless Road Bike Pedal; Single Platform; Cleat Set Included

SHIMANO

Based on 121 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Versatile lightweight SPD-SL pedaling performance for serious riders.

  • Premium- Shimano R7000 SPD-SL Clipless Road Pedals are high performance; lightweight; cost effective and supremely reliable. The R7000 pedal delivers pro level performance for the cycling enthusiast
  • Perfect fit and grip- Wide lightweight carbon body provides large shoe contact area to maximize power transfer and support whilst reducing weight. Thoughtfully designed cleat for easy engagement; adjustments and walking
  • Performance- For advance or pro riders the extra-wide; low-profile cleat distributes energy more evenly over a wider surface and transfers it more efficiently to the bike; under the most extreme pedaling loads. A wide bearing stance provides long lasting performance; and smooth action
  • Light and durable- 265 grams per pair. Sealed cartridge axle unit. Carbon fiber reinforced body and stainless steel axle
  • Warranty- 1 year warranty

User questions & answers

Question: Are the pedals for road bike or mountain bike riding
Answer: Dear valued Amazon Customer, They are metal. If you have additional questions or need replacement parts under warranty for the Shimano SPD Clipless Pedals- call us at 1-877-BIKEAID (245-3243) and we would be pleased to assist. Thanks and best!
Question: How many 1mm washers can I safely use with these before I should just buy the Ultegra +4mm pedals
Answer: I don't see why not as long as you have the proper cleat.
Question: How do you attach these pedals to the bike? It doesn't have the traditional spot to attach a pedal wrench to
Answer: No. All the same pedals.
Question: Are they real pedals based on the price or knock offs
Answer: Yes a set of black cleats are included..

Thinvik Clipless Pedal Convert to Universal Platform Pedal Adapters for Shimano SPD-SL System Pedal(Only Work on Road Bike Pedal)

Based on 30 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

Material: nylon PA612 and glassfiber

Compatibility:Compatible with SHIMANO SPD-SL System pedal, compatible with Tiagra 4600 4700,105 5800 5700,UT 5800 5700,R8000 R8030,Dura-ace 9000

Color:Orange,Black

Net Weight: 46 grams/pair

Size: 70mm/2.76in*70mm/2.76in

Packing List :

1 pair THINVIK Pedal Plate(NOT included pedals)

  • Compatibility: Compatible with SHIMANO SPD-SL System pedal,compatible with Tiagra 4600 4700,105 5800 5700,UT 5800 5700,R8000 R8030,Dura-ace 9000
  • WORKING PRINCIPLE: The Pedal Plate converts your clipless pedals to platform Pedal.Creating a flat surface with grip to enhance comfort and safety
  • EASY TO INSTALL: The pedal plates are easy installation and remove. INSERT: First insert pedal plateinto front of the pedal, then push back of the pedal-plate into the rear clip. REMOVE: First pull rear clip of the pedal backward, then remove pedal-plate from pedal
  • DURABLE AND ANTISLIP: The pedal plate main material is nylon PA612, it would be very durable and the surface is antislip
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: The pedal plate are ultralight, only 46 grams per pair.Portable to put in the bike bag

User questions & answers

Question: where is the product made? thanks
Answer: rubber
Question: Will these work with shimano spd-sl pd-r540 pedals
Answer: Yes,it can work with shimano spd-sl pd-r540 pedals
Question: Does this product work
Answer: Yes, this product works I have them on my bike.
Question: Do these work on the Peloton bike or does anyone know of a similar product that does? Thanks
Answer: I haven't tried it, but Yes it would

SHIMANO SPD-SL PD R-540; Black

Shimano

Based on 576 reviews Check latest price

Product description

New 10-speed tiagra provides serious entry-level riding performance with cascaded technology from top-tier lines.

Clip into the Shimano PD-R540 SPD-SL Road Bike Pedals and simply ride -- a large binding target makes clipping in fast and easy, and you can pedal with confidence and stability thanks to a wide pedal platform. On serious riding days, crank down on the adjustable cleat tension to ensure a solid, efficient ride, or loosen it a bit on calmer training days. Maintenance is virtually nonexistent, thanks to a sealed bearing cartridge axle unit that keeps dirt and grime.

Features

  • Made of aluminum and chrome
  • SPD-SL cleat type, with yellow 5deg float cleats included
  • Cleat-dependent float
  • Wide pedal platform for foot-pedal stability
  • Low maintenance sealed cartridge axle unit
  • Large binding target for quick engagement
  • Adjustable cleat tension with indicators
  • 11.6-ounce (330-gram) weight

Warranty

This Shimano product includes a limited two-year manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

  • Wide pedal platform for improved foot/pedal stability
  • Low maintenance sealed cartridge axle unit
  • The low profile platform with open design allows for easy access andâ cleat adjustments
  • Easy to clip into and release while also providing a stable fit for maximum power transfer to the pedals
  • Wider clear and binding mechanism for better shoe/pedal contact than traditional

User questions & answers

Question: What size pedal wrench is required for installation
Answer: this is the standard version.
Question: I want to use the same clips on my road bike that i use for my peloton, to avoid a 2nd pair of shoes. are these pedals look delta compatible
Answer: I ordered these and it came with the blue cleats.
Question: Does the SPD-SL cleat type with yellow 5deg float cleats are included
Answer: You'll need an 8mm allen wrench. Note that the left pedal has left hand threads and the right pedal, right hand threads. Clean the threads in the crank with removal and apply a light oil to the new pedal's threads to ease future removal.
Question: are these a pair or only one pedal
Answer: Yes

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