adventure cycling - spds or flat pedals?
DESCRIPTION
There are clear advantages and disadvantages for both types, and you need to decide if SPDs (the clip in type) or traditional (flat) pedal is better suited for your adventure cycling. Reach us: http://www.holidaybooked.com/. Call us at: 01305 848039.TRANSCRIPT
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ADVENTURE CYCLING - SPDS OR FLAT PEDALS?
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There are two distinct types of pedals you may have seen on a bike, be
it a mountain bike or a road bike, or you may think all pedals are the
same. Well think again! There are clear advantages and disadvantages
for both types, and you need to decide if SPDs (the clip in type) or
traditional (flat) pedal is better suited for your adventure cycling.
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SPD’s:
SPD stands for ‘Shimano Peddling Dynamic’ and refers to the clip in type
of pedals. There is a mechanical cleat within the pedal, which clips into a
small metal block attached to a specific SPD type shoe. The rider’s foot
will not leave the pedal in an upward direction, except under extreme
force. To disengage the rider twists their foot in either direction.
Pros: Increase in pedaling
efficiency, the rider can pull
up on the pedal, as well as
down to give an increased
pedaling motion. No risk of
foot slip.
Cons: You may get stuck.
Arriving at a set of traffic lights
and fumbling to release your
foot from the clip can result in
an embarrassing situation.
Cost of new SPD pedals and
shoes to match.
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Flats:
Flat pedals are commonly sold with new bikes and consist of plastic or
metal blocks, with grip that allows your foot to be help in place without
slipping. The rider is free to choose any type of footwear including,
barefoot to be able to ride a ‘flat’ pedal, there is no special shoe to clip in
like with SPDs, and the rider can simply remove their foot at anytime, in
any direction.
Pros: Comfort, the rider can
use any type of footwear.
Easy to mount/dismount as
there is no clips involved.
Confidence for riding as the
rider can place their foot at
any point and use as
balance for cornering. Cost
no special shoe required.
Cons: Reduced pedaling
efficiency as the rider can
only push down and not pull
up on the pedal. Foot may
slip out from the pedal.
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Choosing the right type of pedal will depend on the
type of adventure cycling you are doing. Road
cyclists swear by SPD’s as their foot rarely leaves
the pedal and it gives them more efficiency.
Downhill mountain bikers are constantly removing
their feet to help balance around sharp corners
and walking over steps and obstacles, so there is
no right choice. Just try both and let us know what
you prefer.
Contact Address:
Holidaybooked
32 Greenacres, Puddle town,
Dorchester, DT2 8GF
UK
P.H.NO: 01305 848039
Email: [email protected]
We are at:
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