Clipless pedals are an essential component in cycling, both on mountain bikes and road bikes. Their use improves pedaling efficiency, optimizes control over the bike, and prevents incorrect postures that can lead to long-term injuries. Thanks to their anchoring system, they provide optimal foot retention and promote a smoother, more balanced pedal stroke, resulting in better performance on any type of terrain.
In fact, clipless pedals have been one of the 10 most revolutionary innovations in cycling, impacting both road cyclists and MTB enthusiasts. Since Bernard Hinault successfully used them in the 1985 Tour de France, they have been a topic of debate among cyclists of all levels. Are they really essential for improving the cycling experience? Or are there viable alternatives for those seeking comfort without compromising safety?
In this article, we analyze the pros and cons of clipless pedals and help you decide if they are the best option for your cycling style, whether on mountain trails or on long days on the asphalt.
More maneuverability in the mountains
Those opposed to using clipless pedals claim that, in several cycling disciplines, the opposite is actually needed. This is the case with mountain biking. With more freedom to move on the bike, you gain maneuverability, something necessary for tackling technically challenging terrain. Traditional pedals allow for special maneuvers, such as static balance with a few hops to align yourself or the bunny-hop. In the latter case, where you must lift the front wheel before reaching an obstacle and then get the rear wheel over it, those who are used to doing this with clipless pedals will find it very difficult to do without them. But it's understandable that those who choose flat pedals defend their better maneuverability. The flip side is safety. The rough and unstable terrain that a mountain bike traverses creates situations of imbalance that make it very easy for your foot to slip. Accidents are almost guaranteed. Here, clipless pedals win by a landslide, because they guarantee greater stability and allow you to keep pedaling until you get out of trouble. The conclusion? With clipless pedals your foot won't slip off the pedal, but you also won't have the freedom of movement that traditional pedals offer.
And on the road?
Here the doubts are much smaller. When facing uniform and prolonged terrain, there are few things that make more of a difference than clipless pedals. The utilization of each pedal stroke due to the direct contact between the foot and the pedal is undeniable, especially at the dead spot that occurs just before both reach the highest point of the stroke. The cyclist can focus on applying all their power to the effort because they will not be exposed to surprises, not even when standing up on the pedals. The efficiency they provide is the reason why it will be hard to see many road cyclists who do not use clipless pedals.
Precautions before using them
That clipless pedals offer serious competitive advantages does not mean that everything is smooth sailing; they require an inevitable adaptation process and, compared to traditional ones, some minimal care and maintenance. The best way to get along with them is to practice their use until you master them. It is advisable to set the adjustment to the loosest position and take a few pedal strokes that way. Little by little, we will find the ideal point and gain confidence. Try releasing your foot while stationary as many times as you can until you master the technique. As for their maintenance, the best way to keep clipless pedals in top condition is to clean them from time to time, check the pedal spring tension, and lubricate it. We should also make sure that the cleat screws are well tightened, without any looseness.
So, are they essential or not?
What is the conclusion we reach about clipless pedals? That they offer many benefits and help improve cycling practice, but with nuances. They do not do so if we are not able to take advantage of them, so it is essential to get familiar with them and even train in their use. On the other hand, it is in mountain biking, where the cyclist's maneuverability comes into play, that their use can be questionable. In any case, it is a very personal choice. If you are thinking about getting clipless pedals, make sure to research the different types (Crankbrothers, SPD, Speedplay, etc.) and the features they offer. To make a purchase suited to your needs, always compare their performance and prices.