Flat, Enduro, Race: 20 MTB pedals in a big comparison test

20 mountain bike pedals in the test:

MTB flat pedals

• Chromag Synth
• Crankbrothers Stamp 3
• Nukeproof Horizon Sam Hill
• Race Face Chester
• Reverse Black One
• Paw Mc-Air
• DMR Vault
• XLC PD-M12

MTB clipless pedals for Trail / Enduro

• Crankbrothers Mallet E
• DMR V-Twin
• HT Components T1
• Magped Enduro
• Shimano XTR PD-M9120
• Time Atac Speciale 8

MTB clipless pedals for Race / Marathon

• Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3
• HT Components Leopard M1
• Shimano XT PD-M8100
• Paw Mc-Fly
• Time Atac XC 8
• Xpedo CXR

Clipless pedals are, metaphorically speaking, the landline of mountain bikers. Even if they have gone a bit out of fashion recently, they still have a clear advantage over flat pedals, the mobile phone network of bike sport, to use the metaphorical language: While the connection between rider and bike with platform pedals is subject to occasional interference and can sometimes be interrupted, with clipless pedals you are always firmly connected to your bike without interference - just like with a landline telephone. As in the telecommunications industry, the number of providers is huge. For our test, we picked out the best-known representatives and also tried out a few exciting new products.

Flat pedals: the shape of the pins is crucial

In addition to the classic models with an aluminium platform, there are also two plastic models in the flat pedal range. They are attractively priced and available in many colours. But much more important than the look, as our extensive practical test shows, are the right size, shape and arrangement of the pins. The platform plays a particularly important role for riders with large feet: they don't find the right grip on small pedals. In addition, the soles bend more easily at the edges of the pedal, causing unpleasant pressure points in the long term. The shape of the pins determines whether the spikes can dig into the tread or whether the sole of the shoe rests on them and you stand on them as if on a nail board instead of comfortably on the platform.

Clipless pedals on MTBs: Lightweight for racing or robust for off-road use?

Clipless pedal riders have to ask themselves different questions: Do you want to make fast progress above all else? Then you should opt for shoes with a stiff sole and the lightweight race models in the test. If you also want to run comfortably and tackle more technical terrain, you need a pedal with a solid base. Mallet and V-Twin pedals are particularly impressive here with their enormous stability. Depending on the number and height of the pins used, the feet are either rock-solid or slightly flexible on the pedal. The small cages on the trail pedals from HT, Shimano and Time, on the other hand, hardly contribute to better stability and tend to protect the binding mechanism.

Compromise solution: the magnetic pedal

With the unconventional Magped, a magnet snaps onto the metal cleat plate on the shoes. It aims to combine the secure footing of a flat pedal with the riding feel of clickies, but neither clicks in nor out perfectly. Figuratively speaking, it's better to opt for either the classic landline connection or the mobile phone connection.

How we tested the MTB pedals

Laboratory: Firstly, we weighed all the pedals in pairs, with the weight of the cleats being stated separately for the clipless pedals. Depending on the category, the weight is included in the evaluation in different proportions. To determine the release force, we used a torque spanner with a dial gauge and a cleat mount. We used this to measure the minimum and maximum release hardness in three tests each and then averaged the values.

Practice: Before the test rides, we adjusted all clipless pedals to the rider and shoes. Because the setup usually only has to be carried out once, it accounts for a relatively small proportion of the final judgement at ten percent. All models were ridden by several testers and with different shoes corresponding to the categories on standardised test laps. These consisted of equal parts ascent, flat section and technical descent. Here too, the three most important assessment criteria of entry, exit and stability (grip and stability in the case of flat pedals) were included in the final judgement to varying degrees. When it comes to the handling of flat pedals, we also assess how easy it is to replace bent or torn pins.

The results of the MTB pedals in the test:

Chromag Synth

• Price: 69 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 395 g
• Footprint (L x W): 9.9 x 10.7 cm
• Pin length: 4 mm
• Stand height: 17 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 4 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 4 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The Chromags are very comfortable from the very first contact. All the edges on the pedal body are flattened, so you won't have any problems with pressure points even after long days on the bike. Unfortunately, the plastic pedals don't feel very solid compared to the solid competition from DMR, Nukeproof and others. On the other hand, the Synth pedals score highly in terms of price and handling. The grip is criticised: the differently flattened pins only have a moderate grip on the sole and tend to slip through the tread grooves. However, repositioning is all the easier. The wide base accommodates large feet.

BIKE judgement Chromag Synth: 34 points - satisfactory

Crankbrothers Stamp 3

• Price: 119,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 392 g
• Footprint (L x W): 10.8 x 11 cm
• Pin length: 5 mm
• Standing height: 16 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 9 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 10 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Stylish design, well-made, huge footprint - bikers with large feet will find the most secure hold on the Stamp 3. Even in size 46, the shoes barely protrude at the sides, which creates plenty of freedom of movement. Should your foot slip despite the snappy pins, you will still be able to stand firmly on the pedals. The generous dimensions also favour weight distribution on the pedals and ensure the best comfort on long descents. Therefore, a clear recommendation for frequent riders and bikers with large feet. Crankbrothers also offers a smaller version of the Stamp for riders with small pedals (up to size 42).

BIKE judgement Crankbrothers Stamp 3: 52 points - very good

Nukeproof Horizon Sam Hill

• Price: 99,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 420 g
• Footprint (L x W): 10.5 x 10.5 cm
• Pin length: 6 mm
• Standing height: 12 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 4 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 10 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 9 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Sam Hill is one of the best in the Enduro World Series and one of the few who ride their runs on flat pedals. Since we've had his signature pedal on our feet, we know why: in terms of grip, the Horizon can't be beaten. The extremely long pins bite into the sole so firmly that you almost feel as if you've been caked into the pedal. No other pedal in the test provided such a good grip. The footprint is unobtrusive and also compatible with large feet. All testers always stood securely on the pedal. The long pins can sometimes pinch a little. We therefore recommend shoes with a hard sole.

BIKE verdict Nukeproof Horizon Sam Hill: 54 points - very good

Race Face Chester

• Price: 65 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 368,8 g
• Footprint (Lx W): 10.4 x 10 cm
• Pin length: 6 mm
• Standing height: 14 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 6 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 4 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Grippy, practical, affordable - the Race Face Chester offers a lot of pedal for the money. The uncomplicated handling is particularly pleasing: the pins can be easily loosened from the inside of the pedal with an Allen key. The pedals can be changed using either an Allen key or an open-end spanner. The grip on the very long and thin pins is also impressive. The raised pedal body in the axle area takes the pressure off the edges and ensures a high level of comfort. However, the narrow arrangement of the pins means that larger feet will miss out on a secure grip. If you don't mind the plastic look, the Chester is a functional pedal at a fair price.

BIKE verdict: 41 points - good

Reverse Black One

• Price: 119 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 313 g
• Footprint (L x W): 9.2 x 10 cm
• Pin length: 5 mm
• Standing height: 15 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 10 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 6 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 5 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Stylish pedal for gram-fiddlers and optical tuners. With its extremely filigree design, the Black One is by far the lightest pedal in the test. The blue anodised pins on the matt black pedal body attract attention. In practice, however, we found it difficult to get excited about the reverse pedals. The relatively small footprint provides little security on the trail. The biggest criticism, however, was the durability: During a pedal touchdown in the practical test, several pins broke off twice at once. In terms of grip, however, the anodised spikes do a good job. Handling is also excellent.

BIKE judgement Reverse Black One: 44 points - good

Paw MC-Air

• Price: 129 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 412 g
• Footprint (L x W): 10.7 x 9.8 cm
• Pin length: 5 mm
• Standing height: 18 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 5 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 5 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 4 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Conclusion: With the Tatze, you are bolting a high-quality piece of millwork to your bike. However, riders with large feet in particular will find the short axle design a disaster: although the platform is not noticeably narrow, the contact surface is extremely close to the cranks. This means that the innermost row of pins cannot be used without hitting the cranks with your ankles. But even the relatively thick pins are reluctant to drill into the sole. As a result, you often feel like you're just standing on the pins. This in turn benefits you when you want to fine-tune your foot position. More of a pedal for moderate terrain.

BIKE judgement Tatze MC-Air: 35 points - satisfactory

DMR Vault

• Price: 49,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 429 g
• Footprint (L x W): 10.5 x 10.5 cm
• Pin length: 5 mm
• Standing height: 17 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 4 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 9 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 8 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Conclusion: On the freeride classic Vault, you stand like an ace. The sharp-edged pins hold your feet securely in place even on wild descents. The large contact area offers enough space even for large feet. However, if you want to move your foot, the excellent grip is more of a hindrance. You have to completely remove the shoe from the pedal to change position. If you use the robust pedal a lot in the bike park, you may feel the rear pedal edge uncomfortably on long descents. Worn pins can be easily removed and replaced with an Allen key from the inside of the pedal.

BIKE judgement DMR Vault: 49 points - good

XLC PD-M12

• Price: 75 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 360 g
• Footprint (L x W): 8.7 x 9.9 cm
• Pin length: 3 mm
• Standing height: 13.5 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Grip (35 %): 3 out of 10 points

Stability (35 %): 4 out of 10 points

Handling (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The XLC has by far the shortest pins. At just three millimetres long, they offer just enough grip to prevent slipping off the pedals on easy trails. In rough terrain or muddy conditions, on the other hand, you are at a loss. Although the pins nibble at the sole of the shoe, they can't really bite into it. When you stand on the pedal, the sole rests on the pedal body in several places, which further reduces the pressure on the pins. The front and rear edges of the pedal are flattened to prevent pressure points. Dirt quickly collects in the narrow gaps between the pedal body.

BIKE judgement XLC PD-M12: 33 points - satisfactory

Crankbrothers Mallet E

• Price: 169 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 424 g (35 g) / 99 x 102 x 31 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 5.3 Nm / 10/15 degrees (depending on cleat)
• Freedom of movement: 0/6 degrees (depending on cleat)
• Standing height / Q-factor: 9 mm / 52 mm; 57 mm (optional)

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 8 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 8 out of 10 points

Stability (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Stylish and high-quality pedal with a smooth entry. The cleat mechanism is easy to find, insensitive to dirt, but releases late and undefined depending on the cleat setting. Even with less stiff soles, the Mallet is absolutely secure, giving you a lot of confidence on technical terrain. The contact to the pedal can be individually adjusted using pins and spacer discs. The large cage is somewhat sharp-edged when pushing. The non-adjustable release hardness was too soft overall for our testers.

BIKE judgement Crankbrothers Mallet E: 51 points - very good

DMR V-Twin

• Price: 179,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 557 g (55 g) / 98 x 106 x 38 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 3.2-13.5 Nm / 13 degrees
• Freedom of movement: 5 degrees
• Standing height / Q-factor: 12 mm / 56 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 2 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 7 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 9 out of 10 points

Stability (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: On the large, very heavy V-Twin, your feet stand like a rock in the surf. None of the test models offer more safety on technical terrain. The cage can be perfectly adapted to many shoe models using pins and spacers. Elaborate, but effective. Even without pins, the feet are secure, but still slightly flexible. The movable mechanism is SPD-compatible, makes it easier to get on and works almost at Shimano level. The adjustment of the release hardness is not optimally accessible with mini-tools. A good pedal for downhill-hungry enduro riders.

BIKE judgement DMR V-Twin: 46 points - good

HT Components T1

• Price: 149 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 370 g (62 g) / 92 x 102 x 32 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 5.3-8.8 Nm / 13 degrees
• Freedom of movement: 4/8 degree (depending on cleat)
• Standing height / Q-factor: 9 mm / 56 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 8 out of 10 points

Stability (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The shoes engage reliably in the Shimano-like mechanism with a smooth click, but the exit is less defined. Despite the small surface area, you stand quite securely on the T1. However, neither the pins nor the cage make contact with the shoes and are more for show. With the 4-degree cleats, you can sometimes fly out of the binding on technical terrain, while the 8-degree version offers more room for manoeuvre. The release hardness adjustment is easy to read and reach. Unfortunately, the stylish anodised finish is quickly worn down and the bearings are not optimally sealed.

BIKE judgement HT Components T1: 48 points - satisfactory

Magped Enduro

• Price: 149 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 546 g (55 g) / 106 x 122 x 29 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 150/200 N / freely movable
• Freedom of movement: Theoretically no restriction
• Standing height / Q-factor: 9 mm / 62 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 2 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 7 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 5 out of 10 points

Stability (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: No tester really warmed up to the heavy Magped. The setup with 14 pins and two magnet strengths is elaborately manufactured, but you still don't really stand securely on the pedal. Neither the pins nor the magnet offer too much grip. You can lose your grip when jumping over roots. You rarely find the right position straight away, so you are often slightly off-centre. An optional positioning plate on the cleat provides some relief, but the contact point is still difficult to hit. It is almost impossible to reposition the foot without removing it completely from the pedal.

BIKE judgement Magped Enduro: 38 points - satisfactory

Shimano XTR PD-M9120

• Price: 169,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 397 g (51 g) / 100 x 104 x 30 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 5.7-16.3 Nm / 13 degrees
• Freedom of movement: 6 degrees
• Standing height / Q-factor: 8.5 mm / 55 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 10 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 10 out of 10 points

Stability (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Set and forget! The binding mechanism, bearings and durability of the Shimano SPD pedals are unrivalled. The cleat is guided into the binding absolutely intuitively and engages reliably. The step-out is also very defined and can be adjusted over a wide range. With the new profile, your feet stand securely with good freedom of movement on the now slightly larger contact surface. With worn soles, things get a little more wobbly. Not necessarily stylish, but absolutely functional. More of a pedal for trail shoes with stiffer soles.

BIKE verdict Shimano XTR PD-M9120: 51 points - very good

Time Atac Speciale 8

• Price: 149,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 340 g (44 g) / 90 x 98 x 36 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 6.7-11.5 Nm / 13/17 degrees (10 degrees)
• Freedom of movement: 5 degrees
• Standing height / Q-factor: 10.5 mm / 54 mm

Rating:

Weight (15 %): 10 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 8 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 7 out of 10 points

Stability (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: With the lightweight Atac, we particularly like the full, direct entry, which is reliable to find, but also gets dirty quickly. Stiffer trail shoes stand securely but high on the small footprint. The optional pins are of no use whatsoever. Although the release hardness can be adjusted, the screw for this is tiny and the print above it is illegible. You are more likely to slide out of the pedal than click out in a defined manner. Top: The seal encloses the entire axle, the release angle varies depending on the cleat position.

BIKE verdict Time Atac Speciale 8 clipless pedal: 48 points - good

Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3

• Price: 135 Euro
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 280 g (35 g) / 32 x 100 x 32 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 5.2 Nm / 15/20 degrees (depending on cleat)
• Freedom of movement: 0/6 degrees (depending on cleat)
• Standing height / Q-factor: 8.5 mm / 52 mm; 57 mm (optional)

Rating:

Weight (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 8 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 8 out of 10 points

Stability (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 10 out of 10 points

Conclusion: If you want it easy, ride an Eggbeater! The purist "snow brooms" offer four entry positions and snap in cleanly. With correctly fitted cleats - often a spacer plate is required - you are surprisingly secure even with racing shoes. The mechanism is extremely resistant to dirt, the axle now has high-quality bearings and better seals. The release angle and float can be adjusted using optional cleats. The release is a little spongy. When unclipped, the Eggbeaters are barely rideable. The paint on the spindle is already crumbling.

BIKE judgement Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3: 49 points - good

HT Components Leopard M1

• Price: 109 Euro
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 295 g (62 g) / 64 x 93 x 30 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 4.2-13.8 Nm / 13 degrees
• Freedom of movement: 4/8 degree (depending on cleat)
• Standing height / Q-factor: 9 mm / 54 mm

Rating:

Weight (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 8 out of 10 points

Stability (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The HT has hardly any real weaknesses: It is easy to adjust, the release hardness display is easy to read, the pair also weighs less than 300 grams and the foot rests surprisingly firmly on the small contact surface. The lateral play is somewhat more generous, but also tighter than that of the competition. Especially when releasing the connection, it feels like you have to turn your foot far outwards. The release mechanism is pleasant after a short period of familiarisation, but doesn't quite match the crisp SPD feel. 13 colour options, less durable surface.

BIKE judgement HT Components Leopard M1: 49 points - good

Shimano XT PD-M8100

• Price: 99 Euro
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 340 g (52 g) / 68 x 97 x 32 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 7.7-16.3 Nm / 13 degrees
• Freedom of movement: 6 degrees
• Standing height / Q-factor: 9 mm / 55 mm

Rating:

Weight (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 10 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 10 out of 10 points

Stability (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Solid, functional, durable - the secret to the success of SPD pedals is their extremely reliable binding mechanism. The foot is guided cleanly into the binding and engages in a defined manner, making missteps virtually impossible. Cleats and bearings are true endurance runners. The XT version is not quite light, the stance is not ultimately firm, but the heel remains pleasantly flexible. One small drawback: the mechanism can get clogged when riding in mud. When unclicked, the feet have little grip on the pedal. Clear winner when it comes to price-performance ratio.

BIKE verdict Shimano XT PD-M8100 clipless pedal: 51 points - very good

Paw MC-Fly

• Price: 149 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 353 g (53 g) / 68 x 101 x 30 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 9.3-20.7 Nm / 12 degrees
• Freedom of movement: 5 degrees
• Standing height / Q-factor: 8.8 mm / 55 mm

Rating:

Weight (20 %): 5 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 10 out of 10 points

Stability (15 %): 10 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The surprise in the test: The Tatze mechanism is functionally indistinguishable from Shimano - intuitive and crisp - only the release hardness is slightly higher. The Mc-Fly has a top finish, high-quality bearings and is durable. Originally declared as a trail pedal, even race shoes are extremely secure on the small cage. The pins are cleverly positioned and increase stability if required, but then restrict manoeuvrability somewhat. The tested version is a clear all-round tip. Racers are better off opting for the 305 gram version with a titanium axle.

BIKE judgement Tatze MC-Fly: 52 points - very good

Time Atac XC 8

• Price: 159 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 290 g (44 g) / 65 x 99 x 36 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 5.5-7.5 Nm / 13/17 degrees (10 degrees)
• Freedom of movement: 5 degrees
• Standing height / Q-factor: 10.5 mm / 54 mm

Rating:

Weight (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 8 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 8 out of 10 points

Stability (15 %)): 6 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Conclusion: As with the trail pedal, the binding engages comfortably and securely. You can feel that you are standing slightly higher than with the other pedals, so the stance feels less secure. When getting off, the boot slides out of the binding in a rather undefined manner, with the heel having to be turned far outwards. The three-stage adjustment changes the spring stiffness only slightly. Here too, the large-area seal of the solid bearings is pleasing. However, the carbon-reinforced plastic body is already showing signs of wear in some places.

BIKE verdict Time Atac XC8 clipless pedal: 46 points - good

Xpedo CXR

• Price: 169 Euro >> available here
• Weight (cleats) / dimensions (l x w x h): 290 g (64 g) / 64 x 90 x 33 mm
• Release hardness / angle: 10.1-22.3 Nm / n/a A.
• Freedom of movement: 6 degrees
• Standing height / Q-factor: 9 mm / 53 mm

Rating:

Weight (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Setup (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Entry/exit (40 %): 8 out of 10 points

Stability (15 %): 5 out of 10 points

susceptibility to dirt (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The minimalist Xpedos are not only lightweight, but also equipped with three sealed industrial bearings - which promises good durability. The open mechanism can be reliably accessed even in difficult conditions. The cleats engage in a defined manner. However, after a short, lateral stop, the binding releases quickly, which is not entirely favourable, especially in technical passages. The footprint is also very small. The cleats supplied occasionally got stuck. A test with SPD cleats resulted in better release behaviour.

BIKE judgement Xpedo CXR clipless pedal: 47 points - good

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