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The best road bike flat pedals give an ultimate riding experience.
Flat pedals will keep your feet correctly positioned over the pedal hence no slipping while riding.
Flatties will let you ride in whatever footwear you fancy and this makes them number 1 choice for many cycling activities.
They include riding to a market, bike share schemes or short-distance commuting.
One can choose where to place feet on the pedal.
On our site, we have done the research for you to not only save money but stress and time.
The good flat pedals like RaceFace Chester have high-quality features.
Related Review: You can read Top-rated single speed bike reviews.
Table of Contents
Best Road Bike Flat Pedals Review 2021
#1 RaceFace Chester Mountain Bike Pedal
RaceFace Chester Mountain Bike Pedal will make a big difference in the comfort of your bike.
They have features that make them perfect for your bike. They have a large surface area and 8 hex pin systems.
The wide pedals will offer more room for foot placement and can fit any shoe size.
They also have more pins and this will increase grip and traction on the pedals.
Their bodies are made of nylon composite and axles are of chromoly steel.
This makes them tough and can last for a long time before bending or breaking.
They are built with nylon composite to make them light for great performance.
The bushing and bearing systems are fully serviceable. If you are searching to buy lightweight platform pedals for road bike then I recommend buying these pedals.
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Main Features
- Have a large surface area to keep feet from slipping
- They have a lightweight construction
- They are affordable
- They are not universal, recommended for mountain bike
#2 Crankbrothers Stamp Flat BMX/MTB Bike Pedal
Crankbrothers Stamp Flat BMX/MTB Bike Pedals work brilliantly for cyclists.
Riding on these flats will offer a certain degree of versatility. Not only will you learn new skills with this type of pedals but you will perfect your old ones.
They are fun to ride and have a large surface area for any shoe size placement.
They are built to fit a size 5 to 10+ shoe.
Additionally, they have more pins to increase traction and grip on the pedals.
And you never get the best platform bike pedals for road bikes like these pedals.
Crank brothers designed them with the rider in mind.
They have lots of positive reviews online meaning many customers bought and liked them.
They have a concave design and are thick enough to last for a long time.
They are made of lightweight and yet durable material so they can serve you for a long time.
This is one of the best mtb pedals for the road bike and it’s the only cheap bike pedals in the marketplace right now.
Read the road bike vs touring bike comparison.
Main Features
- They are affordable
- They are constructed from sturdy materials
- They feature a concave shape
- They can accommodate different foot sizes
- They have removable pins
- Not suitable for those looking to buy very slim pedals
#3 Crankbrothers Doubleshot Pedal
Crankbrothers Doubleshot Pedals are perfect for any riding environment.
They can be used for cross country, cyclocross, trail, short distance riding, and mountain biking.
They will give ultimate riding experience with their superior features such as mud-shedding, plate pads for traction, molded pins and ribs for grip.
Crankbrothers have been in the operation since 1997 and are now a globally recognized brand dealing in tools, pedals, wheels, and accessories.
They are pedals hence they are half flat and half clip-in.
This means you can enjoy both the benefits of flat and clip-in pedals.
They give of both worlds in that your shoes can attach to the pedals or can exchange and use as flatties.
Good for a beginner who is looking for pedaling efficiency.
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Main Features
- They have superior mud shedding
- They are affordable
- They are quality Bike Pedals that can be used by a beginner and experienced cyclist
- They are not entirely flat pedals
#4 RaceFace Atlas Bike Pedal
RaceFace Atlas Bike Pedals stand out primarily because of their design and size.
They feature a hex-head threaded pin design that offers more bite for added safety. Their size will match just any shoes you need to wear.
As cycling enthusiasts, we have tested these pedals and come to love them because of their super-thin concave width platform making them ideal for those who favor speed.
Their Bodies is made of Aluminum and axle is chromyl.
Aluminum is a lightweight material and yet sturdy to last for a long time before replacing them.
They are easy to install and will give the ultimate riding experience that you have been looking for.
They are waterproof and dust proof. They are designed for longevity and are a great choice for new and experienced riders. Read more reviews and guides on our home page.
Main Features
- Easy to install
- They are light weight making them ideal for those who favor speed
- They are durable
- Features a double-concave platform
- They are a bit costly
#5 Spank Oozy Trail Platform Pedals
Spank Oozy Trail Platform Pedals work brilliantly for those who like to speed.
They are super slim making them lightweight.
They have a large flat surface which can match any shoes you need to wear.
The 18 adjustable pins will allow a little added personalization.
Additionally, the pins are in large numbers to provide stability and grip.
They are a great choice for cyclists who love to race because of their slim features and weight.
Their bodies are made of forged alloy, lightweight and yet sturdy material for longevity.
They are also the top flat pedals for mountain bike riders because of their non-slip and anti-skid effects.
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Main Features
- Offer incredible ground clearance when riding on rough area
- They are ideal for cyclists who love to race
- They can accommodate different foot sizes
- Not suitable for those looking to buy thick pedals
Can I use flat pedals on a road bike?
Yes, flat pedals can be used on road bikes. There are some factors that need to be considered before you use them with road bikes, however.
First of all, you need to decide if you would rather be able to get on and off your bike in a jiffy, or if control and efficiency are more important to you.
If the former is more important, then flat pedals are the way to go.
Secondly, flat pedals are very accommodating of all types of shoes except fully cleated ones. So if you would rather not wear special shoes just for your pedals, then flat pedals are suitable for you.
Thirdly, the purpose for which you will be using your road bike is very important in determining whether flat pedals will be suitable for you. If you are new to biking and would like more stability while riding, then definitely go for flat pedals.
The same goes for recreational cycling, commuting, or riding in general if you want to be able to mount and dismount your bike frequently.
Additionally, flat pedals are best if you want to avoid getting injured during crashes as you can get off quickly when needed.
What are the best flat pedals?
The best flat pedals will certainly differ depending on the bike and the purpose for which you will be using it. However, some pedals are great for use, no matter how you will be using them.
SHIMANO XT PD- M8040 Pedals
These are the best for mountain bikes for a good number of reasons, but they can also be ridden on any trail. As they are made of durable materials, they can withstand a lot of force, something typically experienced while riding on those rough roads but make for a great ride on any trail.
Along with that, these pedals contain 10 non-slip pins, meaning that they provide a great grip. These pedals have been designed with a ‘fore-aft concave’ design, so they are very comfortable to ride on even on bumpy roads and trails full of obstacles.
As a bonus, they also come in two sizes and two lengths, so getting the right fit for yourself will be easy.
RaceFace Chester Mountain Bike Pedal
These pedals are the best for touring purposes but can be great for any other use as well. Containing a large platform and an 8 hex pin system provides great traction as well as an amazing grip on these pedals.
As they contain parts for traction in order to better grip whatever footwear you have on, they will truly provide the best of grips.
The axle and the body of these pedals are made up of nylon composite and a type of steel called Chromoly steel, making them very durable yet lightweight.
Additionally, these units are very easy to take off if servicing is needed, saving a lot of time, energy, and hassle.
Do clip-in pedals make a difference?
Yes, of course, they do! Clip-in or clipless pedals have been designed with the specific purpose of providing more power, efficiency, and control over your bike.
They provide a better connection between the rider and the bike. In general, these pedals are great for long-duration rides as they can enable you to ride faster.
As they provide greater power, climbing steep trails such as hills are easier. Clip-in pedals also tend to be small, narrow and lightweight, which is more comfortable and convenient for bikers.
On top of these, they provide great stability for the foot, which is good news as it will allow you to focus more on the road or scenery around you.
Other than that, these pedals are pretty great for mountain biking as they provide more traction when riding over obstacles. Technical stuff, such as sliding, hopping, and rear-wheel control, in general, are also made easy with these pedals.
Why does my bike click when I pedal?
Before we discuss the reasons for the clicking sound, it is important to let you know that you have to be certain of what the sound actually is!
What does that mean? Well, simply put, many people confuse other sounds, such as clunking, groaning, squeaking, etc. for clicking sounds. Another thing you must determine is which part of the bike the sound is actually coming from.
Wheels Clicking
Wheels can click with wear and tear over time as the parts where the spokes cross each other can become dry. If this is the case, then applying oil or lube at the intersections can solve the problem.
Pedals Clicking
Pedals can produce clicking noises if they are loose. Just tighten the pedals using a wrench, and you should be good to go.
Frame Clicking
Frames can click if the bottom brackets are dry, meaning lubing them properly will solve the issue. Alternatively, they can click due to loose bottom brackets, so tightening them should do the trick.
Derailleur Hanger Clicking
This happens when a replaceable handle becomes loose, so tightening it is the solution. These are some of the common reasons for clicking noises in bikes. If you have clicking noises in other parts or due to other reasons, check out those parts specifically to find out the cause.
How do you bunny hop with a flat pedal?
The first thing to know is that learning to bunny hop can take a lot of practice and patience. It may take from weeks to even years for some to master, especially on flat pedals. However, with practice and persistence, it definitely is a possible and useful skill to learn!
So the first thing to learn would be to perform a move called ‘the pumped manual’. Once you have learned this, you need to stand tall when the front comes up, which can be done by pushing through your feet.
Next, when you have reached a full height with the front wheels, simultaneously throw the bars forward and rotate them. Now is the time to lift the bike up by pushing downward with your feet and with a sweeping motion, pulling them up toward your back.
As for the final step, you need to learn to land with both wheels, which can be a difficult task. It is better to learn to land on one wheel first, then once you have gained some control, proceed to do it with both wheels.
Factors to consider when buying the new road bike flat pedals
Attached to the pranks, pedals are important parts of a bike and are responsible for transferring power from the legs to the drive train.
They have a large impact on your ride, safety and comfort on your bike hence it is important to consider some factors before buying them.
The material of flat pedals for your road bike will determine if you will ride comfortable.
The material of bike components will also determine if they will last a long time or no.
It is, therefore, to go for pedals that are constructed with refined materials that will make your pedals to last for a long time.
Aluminum
The most common materials that make flat pedals include Aluminum, Chrome, steel, and plastic.
Aluminum makes lighter products but yet sturdy.
Aluminum is perfect for shock absorption and is not likely to rust quickly.
Steel
Steel is heavy metal but very durable. Flat pedals should have at least a small part made of steel like the bearings.
However, the outer layer is the most crucial and should be made from a material that allows flexibility.
Plastic
Plastic is not the good choice for flat pedals but makes it affordable and easy to manufacture products.
If you are looking for affordable and entry-level flat pedals, you can purchase them.
It is worth noting that they are fragile hence not suitable for mountain bike riding or tough places.
Surface Area
Generally speaking, the wider the pedal, the more likely shoes will fit onto these pedals.
This means you can ride your bike with heavy winter boots or large-sized sneakers.
You have more room for foot placement if you purchase wider pedals.
On the other hand, small surface pedals mean you have less room for foot placement and anytime your feet can slip off.
Wide pedal means more pins around them and this increases grip.
Similarly, the thickness of the pedals is important when it comes to stability.
Thicker flat pedals for road bikes are less likely to bend over time.
If they are thick, they will not break in case the bike has a fall.
Do not buy very thick ones that will compromise on the stability of your bike.
Type of Riding
For mountain cycling, most would prefer clip pedals because of their non-slip features.
However, you can opt for flat pedals which will improve your riding skills.
Additionally, you will also learn to rely on your technical and balance skills.
If you are happy to go on short bicycle rides, then purchase flat pedals.
These bicycle components are easy to use and will not require you to carry an extra pair of shoes if you want to walk.
You have better control and more freedom with flat pedals.
You need comfort in order to perform better hence buy pedals that are suitable for your riding needs.
The wrong pedals can be the root of your problems and that’s why we have created a guide so you can make a smart purchase decision.
Bike Pedals Types 2020
Sold as a pair, bike pedals are shipped in 3 distinctive styles, clipless, platform and clip.
It is extremely to know their differences in order to match the right bike pedals to your riding style.
There are pedals for road bikes, mountain bikes, urban and BMX.
Clipless pedals
These types of pedals are used together with cycling shoes.
This is because they need specialized shoes that will attach to them.
The shoes will mechanically attach to the pedals using cleats.
The advantage of these types of pedals is that they increase the hold of feet hence no slipping off;
there is easier power transfer and increased pedaling efficiency.
Being clipped into the pedals means that your shoes will not slip back and forth while pedaling.
This is a good safety feature especially riding on rough roads or dodging traffic and potholes.
Clipless pedals release the shoes with a quick twist hence you can come out of your bike anytime you want.
These types of pedals are commonly found on mountain bikes, road bikes, and commuter bikes. They are often used by experienced road cyclists.
Platform/Flat Pedals
Often referred to as flat pedals, platform pedals are easy to use because you just step on them and start riding.
They are suitable for beginners and are usually found on Urban, mountain bikes or BMX.
They also do not require special shoes in order to use them.
If you want to change shoes, no stress as the platform pedals accommodates all types of shoes.
Cycling shoes have bracket underfoot and this makes them difficult to walk with.
This is not the case with platform pedals.
You do not use shoes with bracket underfoot hence there is no problem walking with them.
These types of pedals offer convenience. You just hope on your bike and ride it.
There is no attaching mechanism on the pedals or worrying about changing shoes.
Clip Pedals
These types of pedals have attaching mechanism via a cage and strap.
They are the less popular and outdated option of bike pedals. They are less safe considering the shoes can become trapped in case of an accident.
Therefore, I cannot recommend these types of pedals for mountain bikes or riding.
Importance of perfect flat pedals
There are plenty of advantages of using flat pedals over clip less when mountain biking, trail riding or short distance riding.
Flat pedals have been gaining popularity because of their convenience, safety and improving your riding skills.
They come in different sizes and are usually made up of metals, rubber or plastic. They are in use on many bicycles today because they are universal.
Improving your balance and Technical Skills
Because of their lack of attaching mechanism, they enable you to gain confidence when training and thus improving your balance skills.
With these types of pedals, you can dare high risk maneuvers.
When doing maneuvers, you can easily take your feet off the pedals.
This will enable you to learn various tricks like wheeling etc.
You are likely to learn new skills when your feet is free than when they are clipped in.
Safety
Riding on flat pedals is safer than riding on clip pedals.
In case of accidents, your feet will not be stuck on the pedals and you can come out quickly.
These are situations that you can save yourself quickly.
You can also save yourself from crashing when with flat pedals.
If you happen to get out of control when cycling, you can step out for a while and continue after gaining control.
Crashes that happen when you are clipped in to your pedals are more severe than when you are on flat pedals.
Convenience
If you use your bicycle for short rides to school or town, you will realize that you will get on and off often.
You need flat pedals that are easy to come out.
With these types of pedals, you will not be required to use cycling shoes.
You can ride with any type of shoes. Also, when you are a beginner, the last thing you need is to worry about clipping in and out of your pedals.
Save your practice time by purchasing bike components that do not need clipping in.
Flat Pedals Maintenance Guide
Pedals are bike components that are the point of contact used to propel a bicycle forward.
It is therefore important to maintain them so they can last for a long time before replacing them.
Maintain your bicycle in good condition before taking it out.
You can achieve this by cleaning and servicing it regularly. The great way to do this is as follows :
Frequently asked Questions about Flat Pedals
Do a lot of pins on a flat pedal mean a stronger grip?
Yes, a good number of pins on a pedal are good for stability and a strong grip.
Just make sure they are not too many on a pedal as this can be a hindrance than a help.
I would recommend pedals that come with replaceable pins as it is easy to replace them when they wear out.
Is Pedal Weight Important For My Cycling Efficiency?
Flat pedals should not weigh a lot because they will affect your pedaling.
Heavy ones will force your legs to do much more work than light pedals.
That is why most bicycle components are made of Aluminum that is a light weight material.
Cyclists who love to race would prefer to buy thin and light pedals that are easy to rotate.
Between Flat and Clip less pedals, which are affordable?
Platform or flat pedals are affordable compared to clip less pedals.
Clip less pedals will require you to buy cycling shoes and this is an added cost which you can avoid by buying flat pedals.
The cycling shoes can be difficult to walk in because of the bracket in the bottom of them.
Buy flat pedals that offer convenience. You will just hope on the bike without worrying about clipping in.
Conclusion
Pedals are important components of a bike. Therefore, make sure to buy pedals that will fulfill your riding needs.
Buy pedals that will fit various shoes sizes like boots and sneakers.
They should be of high quality and designed to create the highest grip possible.
It also helps to buy from renowned manufacturers that have riders in mind.
Popular manufacturers like CrankBrothers design their pedals to give an ultimate riding experience.
If you love racing; buy lightweight flat pedals that will rotate easily.
If you love mountain bike riding, go for components that are made of super-tough materials.
These are ideal for riders that are looking forward to riding on rockiest and uneven tracks.
Pedals that are made of Steel or Aluminum will handle the most grueling trails.
Bike components that are made of super-tough materials are also durable.
They are designed for longevity hence will last for a long time before replacing them.
All of the flat pedals for road bikes reviewed here feature eye-catching design and I would recommend them to new and experienced riders.
They are easy to install and super comfortable. Buy them if you are looking for easy to maintain pedals.