How to choose your pedals
Complete guide
LOOK Cycle, creator of the automatic pedal in 1984, revolutionized cycling by offering an optimal connection between the cyclist and their bike. LOOK Cycle is committed to providing you with a wide range of options to help you find the pedals that perfectly meet your needs. Our broad pedal range allows you to choose the ones that optimize your performance and comfort.
Thanks to our expertise, we guide you toward the ideal pedal solutions and help you choose the model best suited to your riding style.
Pedals : the first point of contact on the bike
Choosing the right pedals is essential to maximize your cycling experience. Whether you are a casual rider or performance-oriented, the quality of your pedals has a significant impact on your pedaling efficiency, comfort, and safety on the bike.
1. Pedaling Efficiency
Quality pedals enable better power transfer: they optimize the force you apply to the pedals, transforming each pedal stroke into effective propulsion. A solid connection with your pedals helps you maximize efficiency.
2. Comfort
Comfort is a key factor during your rides. Well-chosen pedals allow optimal foot positioning, reducing pain and pressure points, making every ride more enjoyable.
3. Safety
A reliable pedal connection is crucial to ensure your feet stay securely in place. This improves stability and enhances bike control. Investing in quality pedals and ensuring proper adjustment helps reduce the risk of slipping, allowing you to ride with peace of mind.
LOOK offers three types of pedals adapted to the varied needs of cyclists, whether beginners or experienced riders.
How to make the best choice?
1. Choosing the Type of Pedals
Clipless pedals: Clipless pedals are designed to maximize pedaling efficiency by securely fixing the shoe to the pedal. This system allows for better power transfer and smoother pedaling, particularly when climbing or accelerating. Offering greater control and stability, they are especially appreciated by road, mountain bike, and gravel cyclists.
Flat pedals: Flat pedals offer a wide freedom of movement, allowing cyclists to easily reposition their feet depending on terrain and technical needs. Grip varies according to the type of pins and sole used, offering a balance between safety and the ability to disengage quickly in case of loss of control. They provide confidence and comfort while facilitating the learning of bike-handling skills.
Hybrid pedals: Hybrid pedals combine a flat side with a clip-in side, offering great versatility to adapt to different riding styles and conditions. They allow you to ride with any type of shoe, whether for daily commuting or more demanding rides requiring good support. Ideal for cyclists looking for flexibility and practicality, they make the transition from flat pedals to clipless pedals easier and stress-free.
2. Determine Your Riding Style
Road
For road cycling, clipless pedals are strongly recommended. They are ideal for cyclists seeking both comfort and performance. These pedals optimize pedaling efficiency while ensuring optimal foot support.
Keo Spacer
Keo Spacer
KEO SPACER adapters are ultra-thin shims designed to be placed between the sole of your shoe and the LOOK cleat. Their main function is to compensate for differences in curvature between certain shoe soles, which are often too flat, and the cleats.
When should you use a KEO SPACER?
You hear rubbing or creaking noises while pedaling.
When removing your cleats, you notice uneven marks or localized pressure areas on the sole.
Your shoes have flat, insufficiently rigid, or poorly curved soles, preventing a perfect interface with the cleat.
Do not neglect the KEO Spacer:
When it is not used despite being recommended, it can lead to several issues: premature cleat wear, less precise engagement, or unwanted noise.
Installing a KEO Spacer in these cases allows for smoother, quieter, and more durable pedaling.
How do you know if you need a KEO Spacer?
You can carry out a visual and manual check. If the sole does not perfectly match the curvature of the cleat and a visible gap remains, adding a KEO Spacer is recommended.
For a more precise analysis, use the sole measurement tool: it evaluates the interface between the sole and the cleat to determine whether an adjustment is necessary.
Clipless Pedals: Maximize Your Pedaling Comfort
For clipless pedals, make sure the cleats are aligned with your natural foot position.
Adjust the angular float of the cleats: Angular float corresponds to the degree of movement allowed by the cleat before the foot disengages.
Why is this important?
Proper angular float reduces joint stress.
It improves comfort over long distances.
It offers more or less precision depending on the cyclist’s preferences.
LOOK offers three types of cleats adapted to different road cycling needs:
| Cleat Type | Angular Float | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Red | 9° | Beginners or cyclists looking for more freedom |
| Grey | 4.5° | Versatile use , suitable for all levels |
| Black | 0° | Competitive riders seeking precise, fixed positionning |
MTB
There are different pedal models designed to meet the specific demands of the various MTB disciplines.
XC pedals feature dual-sided clip-in mechanisms, delivering excellent efficiency thanks to secure engagement and an outstanding weight-to-platform ratio. They promote pedaling efficiency and precision during accelerations.
Enduro pedals feature a wide platform combined with a dual-sided clip-in mechanism, blending stability with secure engagement.
DH pedals are generally flat, with a large contact surface and aggressive pins for maximum grip. They provide great freedom of movement and optimal control on rough terrain and during jumps.
Gravel
This discipline blends elements of MTB and road cycling, requiring pedals that combine performance and versatility. Pedals must adapt to the varied conditions of mixed terrain.
X-Track pedals stand out thanks to their dual-sided clip-in mechanism, which makes clipping in and out easier. This allows riders to confidently tackle varied terrain, making these pedals particularly well suited for gravel riding. For those seeking the perfect balance between performance and comfort, X-Track pedals are a smart choice.
Road pedals are specifically designed to deliver lightness and performance. Their design promotes optimal efficiency during intense efforts, thanks to an effective engagement system that ensures a solid connection between shoe and pedal. This mechanism optimizes power transfer, making every pedal stroke more effective.
Geo Trekking pedals are the ideal solution for riders who prioritize versatility and safety in technical sections. Featuring a stable platform and a clipless system, they ensure efficient support while offering appreciated freedom of movement. These pedals are perfect for touring and daily commuting, while being particularly well suited to gravel routes where safety and flexibility are essential.
Commuting or urban cycling:
For commuting, Geo Trekking pedals stand out for their versatility. With a clip-in side for secure support and a flat side for everyday shoes, they adapt to all situations. Ideal for riding in the city while remaining ready for varied terrain, they offer comfort and performance on every ride. A practical solution for urban adventurers, Geo Trekking pedals also feature adequate lighting, essential to ensure the safety of cyclists and all road users.
For urban mobility, Geo City flat pedals are ideal. They are compatible with city shoes and make short trips and frequent stops easier. They allow quick access to the bike, making every ride smooth, practical, and stress-free.
Conclusion
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, LOOK Cycle offers a complete range designed to meet the diverse needs of riders. By understanding the differences between pedal types (clipless, hybrid, flat), their specific uses (road, MTB, urban), and by considering elements such as angular float or the integration of a power meter, you will be able to choose the model perfectly suited to your riding style. Fully enjoy every pedal stroke thanks to LOOK Cycle’s expertise and innovations.