Platform Vs. Clipless Pedals

Bicycle pedals come in various shapes. These shapes prove more than merely decorative -- they also suit the technical needs and demands of the individual cyclist. Platform and clipless pedals differ in both design and use. Making an educated choice between the two means knowing the characteristics of each system.

  1. Design

    • The platform pedal derives its name from the "platform" surface on either side of the pedal. Each surface is flat and offers a wide contact point for the foot. A coating of rubber or series of raised pins provide traction for the shoe. Rather than a flat surface, clipless pedals feature a spring-loaded binding. The cyclist's foot engages the binding, in turn securing the foot to the pedal. The binding allows for adjustment to suit personal preference.

    Use

    • To operate a platform pedal, the cyclist places the center of his foot atop either side of the pedal. A simple push of the foot forces the pedal down, causing the bicycle crank to rotate. Pushing the opposite pedal down causes the first pedal to rise once again. Unlike the platform pedal, the clipless pedal allows the foot to control the full pedal stroke. Use of a binding permits the foot not only to push down on the pedal but also to pull it back up. The design allows for a greater transfer of energy throughout the pedal stroke.

    Special Equipment

    • Although platform pedal requires no special shoes, the shoes used with them should have flat soles and provide adequate grip on the surface of the pedal. Clipless pedals, however, require both a specialized shoe and cleat to engage the pedal binding. The cycling-specific shoe includes a stiff sole. A series of holes on the underside of the shoe permit the use of screws for attachment of the cleat. Cleat design differs, depending on the particular brand of pedal.

    Installation

    • The installation procedure varies little between platform and clipless pedals. Both designs feature a spindle, which threads into the side of the crank. The right-side pedal spindle requires a clockwise movement in order to tighten. However, the left side spindle requires a counterclockwise movement. A special, narrow wrench, called a pedal wrench, attaches to the flat portion of the pedal spindle and tightens the spindle effectively.