WHICH CLIPLESS PEDALS SUIT YOUR BIKE?
Those who want to switch to clipless pedals for the first time quickly discover that there is quite a lot of choice. SPD, SPD-SL, hybrid pedals… which system do you actually need? The answer mainly depends on the bike you ride and how you use it.
A mountain biker, for example, has different needs than a road cyclist. While one is primarily looking for maximum power transfer, the other wants to be able to walk easily after a ride. We explain which clipless system best suits your rides.
Clipless pedals for road bikes: maximum efficiency
On a road bike, everything revolves around speed and efficiency. That's why most road cyclists choose SPD-SL clipless pedals. SPD-SL pedals have a large contact surface between the shoe and the pedal. This ensures that the power you exert while pedaling is optimally transferred and the connection with the bike feels stable. You particularly notice the difference during longer rides or when you accelerate hard.
The downside? The cleats of road bike shoes protrude from the sole. This makes walking less easy when you are next to the bike. For cyclists who primarily cover miles on the road, this is usually not a problem. Do you primarily ride a road bike and want to pedal as efficiently as possible? Then SPD-SL is often the best choice.
Clipless pedals for a gravel bike: practical and versatile
A gravel ride often goes beyond just cycling. You ride on unpaved paths, stop along the way for a short break, or sometimes have to walk a bit over a difficult stretch of terrain.
That's why many gravel riders choose SPD clipless pedals. The cleats are smaller and recessed into the sole of the shoe. This allows you to walk more comfortably with gravel or MTB shoes than with road shoes, while still benefiting from the fixed connection to your pedal while cycling. This combination of efficient cycling and practical use makes SPD a popular choice for gravel bikes.
Clipless pedals for mountain biking: SPD or flat pedals?
On a mountain bike, it's all about control. That's why many mountain bikers choose SPD clipless pedals. Your feet stay firmly in place during technical trails, climbs, and descents, while still being able to unclip quickly when needed.
However, not every mountain biker rides with clipless pedals. Flat pedals are also popular, especially among riders who ride a lot of technical sections or prefer maximum freedom of movement. Thanks to the wide platform and small pins, your shoe stays firmly on the pedal without being locked in.
Which choice is best depends on your riding style. Are you going for efficiency and long rides? Then SPD pedals are a good choice. Do you primarily want confidence and freedom on technical trails? Then flat pedals might be a better fit.
SPD or SPD-SL: what's the difference?
The biggest difference between SPD and SPD-SL lies in their use. SPD is primarily focused on versatility. The combination with MTB or gravel shoes makes the system suitable for rides where you also regularly get off the bike.
SPD-SL is developed for road bikes. The larger pedal surface and stiffer road shoes provide direct power transfer, but are less practical when you walk a lot.
| Bike | Recommended system | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Road bike | SPD-SL | Large contact area for maximum efficiency and power transfer. |
| Gravel bike | SPD | Comfortable walking and suitable for varied terrain. |
| Mountain bike | SPD or flat pedals | SPD for efficiency and control, flat pedals for maximum freedom of movement. |
Which cycling shoes fit your pedals?
Clipless pedals and cycling shoes are always a combination. Not every shoe fits every pedal system. SPD shoes have a recessed cleat, making them comfortable if you also need to walk. SPD-SL shoes are stiffer and fully focused on performance on a road bike.
At CUBE Stores, you'll find various cycling shoes, clipless pedals, and cleats that perfectly match each other. Our staff will gladly help you choose the right combination for your bike and your riding style. This way, you'll not only get on your bike more comfortably but also with more confidence.