In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
You’re standing at the crux of the descent – it’s steep, rocky and exposed. Take one last deep breath. Feet on the pedals. Release the brake. Start rolling. And then: the cleats on your shoes won’t engage with the pedal bindings. Stopping isn’t an option, so you bounce like a pinball through the rocky terrain because your feet are stuck in the ‘clips’, as if you were cycling in high heels. It’s perfectly understandable to want to switch to flat pedals after an experience like that. But there is an alternative: trail pedals. They aim to combine the best of both worlds, offering both a secure footing and a firm grip. We’ve tested nine clipless pedals with an extended platform.
We tested these trail pedals
- Crankbrothers Mallet Trail >> e.g. available here
- Funn Ripper Clip-in >> e.g. available here
- HT T2 >> e.g. available here
- Leatt AllMtn 6.0 Clip-in >> e.g. available here
- One Up Components Clip-On Pedals >> e.g. available here
- Sixpack Vertic X Ti >> e.g. available here
- Shimano XTR PD-M9220 >> e.g. available here
- Tatze Contact Downhill >> e.g. available here
- Time Xysto >> e.g. available here
- Wolftooth CTRL Trail Pedal >> e.g. available here
The benchmark – the best fastening mechanism?
The clipping mechanism is at the heart of every clip-in pedal. To avoid any nasty surprises such as those described above, it must work intuitively and reliably. Step in, click into place, done. The gold standard here is Shimano Pedalling Dynamics, or SPD for short. Six out of nine manufacturers rely on the Japanese company’s tried-and-tested system, which allows the release force to be finely adjusted. However, apart from Shimano itself, the mechanism works just as convincingly only with Wolftooth. The alternatives from Crankbrothers, Time and HT do offer the option of slightly more or less freedom of movement, but in practice they take some getting used to.
Many cages are nothing but a sham
Anyone who thinks that stability on the pedal depends on the size of the cage is mistaken. In most cases, the soles of the shoes barely make contact with the platform or the small pins – with the exception of Funn: here, the angled binding automatically pulls the shoe towards the wide cage when you clip in, and you’re as steady as a rock.
One key factor for a secure footing is the area to the side of the binding, as this is the only part where the tread makes contact with the pedal body. The best example is Wolftooth. The Americans have done away with a platform and instead increased the surface area above the pedal axle. The result: a secure fit and an incredibly stable riding experience. The second factor is the correct height of the binding. If it’s too high, the boot wobbles like a bobblehead Elvis on a windscreen. Then, at the crucial moment, your foot might slip out of the pedal and you’ll lose control of your bike at precisely the most critical moment.
I’ve tried all sorts of cleat systems and have always ended up going back to SPD – nothing works more reliably. Combined with the brand-new XTR platform, it’s the perfect trail pedal for me. Only One Up Components and Wolftooth can still hold a candle to it. - Stefan Frey, Editor at BIKE
We’ve tested these pedals
In this article, we’ll give you a brief overview of all nine pedals we’ve tested. You can find the full review of each pedal, complete with plenty of information and details, via the relevant link.
Crankbrothers Mallet Trail – Details & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 355 / 34 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 78 x 74 mm / 9 mm / 57 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 4.8 Nm / 10, 15, 20 degrees / 6.0 degrees
- Special features: Integrated traction pads for improved contact with the boot; 2 adjustable pins per side; double-sealed bearings; extended axle for greater freedom of movement; 57 mm Q-factor; flattened corners to protect against contact with rocks
- Price: 189.99 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 3.2 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 2.0 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 4.0 |
| Setup (10%) | 3.3 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 1.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.5 |
Verdict: Crankbrothers Mallet Trail
The Mallet Trail are lightweight, compact and provide a solid footing when clipped in. The special binding, with four entry positions, is virtually self-cleaning, and shims can be used to fine-tune the contact with the boot. However, the entry and exit mechanisms are somewhat imprecise and take some getting used to; the release force is very low and cannot be adjusted. When unclipped, you stand very unsteadily on the pedal.
Funn Ripper – Details & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 575 / 53 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 93 x 100 mm / 11 mm / 55 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 5.0 – 14.9 Nm / 18 degrees / 5.0 degrees
- Special features: Fully serviceable; large footprint; angled click mechanism; available in six colours
- Price: 189.99 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 2.3 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 2.0 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 1.5 |
| Setup (10%) | 2.8 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 4.5 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.6 |
Conclusion: Funn Ripper Clip-in
A hardcore pedal with an extremely snug fit and plenty of grip, offering good support even when you’ve clicked out. The angled binding makes it easier to clip in, but is less precise than, say, Shimano’s. The downside is that the tight fit restricts freedom of movement and makes unclipping a bit of a faff, as the pins catch on the sole. The chunky platform tends to catch on stones and roots more often.
HT T2 – Information & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 376 / 64 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 84 x 68 mm / 8.5 mm / 56 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 5.9 – 15.3 Nm / not specified / 4.8 degrees
- Special features: CNC-machined aluminium body; four pins per side; six cleat options; titanium version available as an option
- Price: 159.95 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 2.2 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 1.8 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 3.5 |
| Setup (10%) | 2.5 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 1.5 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.1 |
Conclusion: HT T2
A lightweight, compact pedal with easily adjustable release tension. The T2 offers a secure fit whilst allowing good freedom of movement, which can be adjusted depending on the cleat. The binding system is self-cleaning; however, clipping in and out is somewhat imprecise due to the two movable sides and tends to be rather stiff even in the lightest setting. The pins and standing surface provide little support when unclipped. Available in a wide range of colours.
Leat AllMtn 6.0 – Details & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 467 / 51 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 95 x 70 mm / 10 mm / 56 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 4.7 – 12.4 Nm / 15 degrees / 5 degrees
- Special features: Triple-bearing; scale and end stop at trigger tension; SPD-compatible; also available with a magnesium body and titanium axle
- Price: 179.99 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 2.8 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 2.8 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 2.5 |
| Setup (10%) | 1.3 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 3.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.7 |
Conclusion: Leatt AllMtn 6.0 Clip-in
A striking look, stylish design, solid mounting – at first glance, the new Leatt bindings are a real success. Clipping in and out is easy and precise, but your footing on the pedal feels rather wobbly, and the release force is also on the low side. The binding and pedal sit quite high. Despite the four pins on each side and the large cage, the AllMtn 6.0 offers very little stability when unclipped.
One Up Components Clip Pedals – Information & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 413 / 52 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 90 x 80 mm / 7.2 mm / 59 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 8.0 – 21.0 Nm / 12 degrees / 5 degrees
- Special features: Particularly flat platform; 59-millimetre-wide axle; scale indicating trigger tension; 4 pins that can be screwed in from either side; four-point bearing system
- Price: 159.99 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 2.3 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 1.5 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 2.0 |
| Setup (10%) | 1.5 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 2.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 1.9 |
Conclusion: One Up Components Clip Pedals
Ultra-slim, pleasantly light, despite its generous base area and robust triple-bearing construction. Getting on and off are similar to Shimano’s design, though the optimal position isn’t always easy to find. The substantial, compact seat with a large contact area provides a secure riding experience. Thanks to the large platform, you can stand fairly securely even when unclipped. Only the pins could offer a better grip.
Sixpack Vertic X Ti – Details & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 354 / 53 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 95 x 70 mm / 9 mm / 54 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: xx Nm / not specified / 8 degrees
- Special features: Titanium axle; slim cage with two pins on each side; scale for adjusting the release force; also available with a steel axle
- Price: 239.50 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry / Exit (30 per cent) | 2.7 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 3.0 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 3.5 |
| Setup (10%) | 2.2 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 1.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.5 |
Conclusion: Sixpack Vertic X Ti
Thanks to its titanium axle and compact cage, this is one of the lightest pedals in the test. The SPD mechanism feels a bit stiffer and less precise than Shimano’s. The contact area with the pedal is also smaller, which makes your stance feel a bit wobbly. This doesn’t inspire much confidence whilst riding. The small cage and mini-pins offer little benefit when you’re out of the clip.
Shimano XTR PD-M9220 – Details & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 467 / 49 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 91 x 72 mm / 9.1 mm / 55 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 7.3 – 15.6 Nm / not specified / 3 degrees
- Special features: Four height-adjustable pins on each side; adjustable bearings; enlarged contact surface; raised platform
- Price: 244.95 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 1.5 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 1.3 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 1.5 |
| Setup (10%) | 2.0 |
| Weight (20%) | 3.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 1.8 |
Conclusion: Shimano XTR PD-M9220
At last, a proper trail pedal on a par with XTR: the binding mechanism is well-defined and absolutely reliable – typical Shimano. You stand firmly, compactly and comfortably on the pedal, whilst still enjoying good freedom of movement. The cage provides good support even when unclipped, although the pins could be a little longer. Provided weight isn’t an issue, the new XTR PD-M9220 is the ultimate pedal for trail and enduro riding.
Tatze Contact Downhill – Information & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 498 / 52 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 97 x 88 mm / 8.75 mm / xx mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 4.9 – 25.3 Nm / 12 degrees / 5 degrees
- Cleat system: Shimano SPD
- Special features: large display area, available in 4 colours, which can also be combined with one another
- Price: 99 euros >> Available here at a reduced price
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 2.5 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 2.0 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 1.0 |
| Setup (10%) | 2.2 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 3.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.3 |
Conclusion: Tatze Contact Downhill
Extremely secure footing, high-quality build – and all at a very reasonable price. If you don’t mind a bit of extra weight, the Tatze Contact Downhill is a solid trail pedal that won’t let you down, even in tricky situations. Grip and stability are outstanding – whether you’re clipped in or out. The grippy pins make clipping in and out a little more difficult and restrict movement on the pedal.
Time Xysto – Information & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 457 / 43 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 94 x 79 mm / 10.5 mm / 57 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: 8.5 – 10.9 Nm / 10, 13, 17 degrees / 5.0 degrees
- Special features: Five adjustable pins on each side; large platform; adjustable trigger resistance
- Price: 220 euros >> Available here at a reduced price
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 2.3 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 2.0 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 1.5 |
| Setup (10%) | 3.7 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 3.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.4 |
Conclusion: Time Xysto
A pleasantly firm entry, a compact and secure footing on the pedal, and decent self-cleaning are the Xysto’s strengths. What’s more, you stand relatively securely on the wide cage even when unclipped. Unclipping can sometimes feel a bit imprecise and a bit stiff. The range of adjustment for the release tension is limited, and there are no end stops. If weight isn’t an issue, it’s a great option for enduro and DH.
Wolftooth CTRL Trail Pedal – Details & Price
- Weight of pedals / cleats: 326 / 45 grammes
- Footprint / Height / Wheelbase: 67 x 73 mm / 7.5 mm / 51, 55, 59 mm
- Trigger force / angle / range of motion: xxx Nm / 12 degrees / 5 degrees
- Special features: No pedal cage; Q-factor adjustable in three positions; four-bearing design; very low-profile construction
- Price: 225 euros >> available here
Review & Conclusion
| Category | Grade |
| Entry/Exit (30%) | 1.5 |
| Driving experience / Stability (30%) | 1.4 |
| Cage function (10 per cent) | 5.0 |
| Setup (10%) | 2.8 |
| Weight (20 per cent) | 0.5 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 1.8 |
Verdict: Wolftooth CTRL Trail Pedal
Even without a cage, the CTRL offers an extremely compact riding position. The enlarged contact area ensures a solid and secure ride, whilst the SPD mechanism is utterly reliable and responds with precision – XTR standard. A nice feature: the adjustable axle width. However, riding with the cleats unclipped is not recommended here. Top marks: minimal weight and enormous ground clearance.
Details: This is what particularly caught our attention during the test
CL-MT001 – What can Shimano’s new SPD cleat do?
The cycling industry has never stood still. It was only Shimano’s SPD system that seemed to have been left behind. For almost 30 years, this classic cleat design remained unchanged. But now there’s an update: a tapered tip on the CL-MT001 is designed to make clicking in easier. Furthermore, it is now possible to clip in from both the front and the back, which should offer advantages on technical terrain. A flatter design is intended to increase ground clearance and reduce noise when walking.
A revolution? Not really. In a blind test, none of my colleagues could detect any difference compared with the old SM-SH51, and in practice too, the changes – if there were any at all – could only be triggered by deliberately clicking the mechanism. Nevertheless, SPD is and remains one of the most reliable click systems around.
When clipping in off-road, I couldn’t tell the difference from the standard cleat, and even in the blind test in the car park, I would have guessed wrong. However, that just goes to show how reliably the previous SPD system has worked. - Peter Nilges, Head of Testing at BIKE
A comparison of cleat systems
Shimano SPD system
Six out of the nine pedals tested use Shimano’s tried-and-tested SPD mechanism. This stands out in particular for the way it guides the shoe into the pedal. A screw can be used to increase or decrease the tension on the spring, thereby adjusting the force required to release the shoe from the pedal. The angle at which the pedal releases always remains the same. Freedom of movement within the pedal is somewhat restricted here, which means that the cleats must be aligned precisely. The cleats are characterised by their good durability. The HT binding system works on the same principle. However, the Taiwanese manufacturer offers a choice between 4 or 8 degrees of freedom of movement.
Look Atac
The French rely on their own system, which is characterised above all by a smooth, firm engagement. Here, the spring – which determines the release force – also serves as a retaining clip for the cleats. The spring tension is only adjustable to a limited extent. However, the release angle can be varied between 13, 17 and 20 degrees by using different cleats. This, in particular, increases freedom of movement within the pedal. The brass cleats wear out slightly faster than SPD cleats.
Crankbrothers
The Amis system allows you to click into the pedal not just in two, but in four different positions. This increases the success rate. As with Look, the release angle can be adjusted using different cleats – either 10 or 15 degrees. The spring tension on these pedals is on the lower side and cannot be adjusted. A key feature of the open design of Crankbrothers pedals is their excellent self-cleaning ability.
Stefan Frey
Editor