Crashing is part of cycling as crying is part of love.
Johan Museeuw
- The Lion of Flanders
We walked into a bike shop, and my friend’s daughter’s eyes were wide with excitement as she spotted a brand-new mountain bike. But something seemed off – it was missing pedals!
Unlike a car where a steering wheel is a non-negotiable, high-end mountain bikes often leave you hanging… on purpose! This, of course, led to my friend’s daughter’s age-old question:
Why Don’t Mountain Bikes Come with Pedals?
Mid and High-end MTBs exclude pedals for 2 reasons:
Customization: Riders choose their prefered flat or clipless for peak performance.
Cost-effective: Skip generic pedals (many riders own their faves).
Most beginner mountain bikes have basic flat pedals included, but when it comes to mid to high-end models, you might notice something missing: pedals! This isn’t an accident.
Bike makers do this on purpose. It’s all about being practical, giving riders the freedom to choose, and respecting what riders like.
Let’s dig into why manufacturers choose to do so.
Personalizing Your Powerhouse:
Imagine your mountain bike as a high-powered engine, with each component meticulously crafted for peak performance. But what about your connection to this machine?
Pedals, often overlooked, play a vital role in how you translate power and feel the trail. Just like well-fitted shoes, the right pedals become an extension of your body, impacting your comfort and efficiency.
was her first and last choice
Flat pedals offer superior grip and freedom, ideal for technical maneuvers and quick foot release in tricky situations. Clipless pedals, on the other hand, create a secure connection for maximum power transfer, perfect for long rides and challenging climbs.
Different riding styles have their preferred partners. Downhill riders prioritize sturdy platforms for control, while cross-country enthusiasts favor lightweight clipless options. Even seemingly minor details like spindle and platform size matter, influencing compatibility and power transfer.
This is precisely why manufacturers leave pedals out – to empower you to personalize your ride. Experienced riders often have trusted pedals they swear by. Skipping generic options prevents unnecessary waste and allows you to invest in the perfect fit for your existing gear and riding style.
So, when you see a high-end bike without pedals, it’s not a mistake. It’s an opportunity to make your mountain bike truly yours.
This freedom to customize extends beyond just fit and preference. The world of pedal technology is constantly evolving, pushing boundaries in materials and design.
By skipping manufacturer-selected pedals, you’re free to equip your top-of-the-line ride with the latest advancements. Imagine conquering trails with cutting-edge materials and groundbreaking pedal designs, maximizing your performance and pushing your limits even further.
Keeping Costs in Check: A Balance of Performance and Preference
When investing in a high-end mountain bike, every component counts. Manufacturers focus on top-tier materials for the frame, suspension, drivetrain, and brakes, ensuring exceptional performance on the trail.
However, you may notice these bikes often arrive without pedals. This decision is twofold: it balances cost efficiency and respects rider preferences.
Including generic pedals would increase the bike’s price without meeting the standards of the rest of the machine. High-end riders have specific preferences and styles, making pedal choice crucial. Flat pedals offer freedom for technical climbs, while clipless pedals maximize power transfer.
without pedals
Different disciplines, like downhill or cross-country, favor specific pedal styles. By excluding pedals, manufacturers empower riders to choose the perfect match for their style. Whether it’s lightweight clipless pedals for racing or sturdy platforms for downhill, the choice is yours.
This customization extends to technical details like spindle and platform size. Experienced riders likely already own pedals they prefer.
Skipping generic pedals lets you invest in a set that suits your bike and style perfectly. You’re not paying for something you might not need, and you have the freedom to enhance your riding experience. It’s a win-win for efficiency and customization.
Safety and Comfort: The Foundation of Your Ride
The right pedals aren’t just about efficiency, they’re about keeping you safe and comfortable on the trail. Improperly fitted or poorly supported pedals can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even injuries like knee pain or ankle strain.
Choosing your own pedals allows for a perfect ergonomic fit that supports your foot position and knee alignment. This translates to better power transfer, reduced fatigue, and a lower risk of injury.
Beginners especially benefit from starting with flat pedals. These offer a wider platform and easier foot placement, allowing for quick disengagement in technical sections or unexpected situations, keeping you in control and reducing the risk of falls.
Aligning Your Ride with Your Values:
The freedom to choose pedals extends beyond performance and customization. For environmentally-conscious riders, the ability to select pedals made from recycled materials or sourced ethically aligns perfectly with their values.
Many pedal manufacturers prioritize sustainability and ethical practices, and choosing your own pedals empowers you to support these companies with your purchasing power.
The Takeaway: Freedom to Conquer
In essence, the lack of pedals on high-end mountain bikes isn’t a misstep, it’s an invitation to make your ride truly your own. It empowers you to personalize for peak performance, prioritize comfort and safety, and even align your equipment choices with your values.
So, embrace this freedom. Choose the perfect pedals to match your needs and riding style. With a bike perfectly tailored to you, get ready to conquer those trails and experience the thrill of mountain biking to the fullest!
