Pedals are one of the smallest components on your bike, but they have a big say in how your ride feels. Flat or clipless? One gives you freedom to bail, the other locks you in for maximum power.
If you’re stuck between systems, we’ll walk you through how to find the setup that works for you.
What’s the Difference Between Clipless and Flat Pedals?
Despite the name, clipless pedals actually clip in. The name comes from the system replacing old-style toe clips. Modern clipless systems use a cleat on the bottom of your cycling shoe to lock into a clip mechanism on the pedal.
Flat pedals, on the other hand, have no retention system. Your foot rests directly on the platform, often supported by stainless steel pins to boost grip.
Clipless vs Flat: At a Glance
| Feature | Clipless Pedals | Flat Pedals |
|---|---|---|
| Shoe Compatibility | Clipless shoes with cleats | Any flat-soled shoe |
| Connection | Locked in via cleats | Freely placed on pedal pins |
| Best For | Road bikes, longer rides, XC MTB | Trail riding, bike parks, casual riding |
| Learning Curve | Steep – requires practice to unclip | None |
| Foot Position | Fixed – consistent pedal stroke | Variable – easy to adjust on the fly |
| Pedal Strikes | Less clearance on some models | More room to react |
How It Feels to Pedal Clipless
Riding clipless means your feet are fixed in place. That connection creates a more stable, efficient pedal stroke, especially noticeable when climbing, sprinting, or riding at high cadence. You’ll notice less wasted movement and more control on the bike.
Push and Pull: More Pedal Power
One of the biggest advantages of clipless pedals is that they allow both pushing and pulling on each stroke. While most riders focus on the downward push, being clipped in means you can engage the full rotation of the crank.
That means:
- Better power output and transfer
- Less energy loss
- Improved climbing efficiency
- Smoother cadence
- Reduced fatigue on longer rides
Being able to pull up as well as push down gives you a fuller, more connected feel, especially on road bikes and long mountain bike ascents.
Cleats, Spring Tension, and Release Angle
Every clipless system uses compatible cleats that click into a spring-loaded mechanism. Some setups, like SPD cleats, are adjustable. You can tweak spring tension and release angle to suit your personal preference. If you’re new to clipless, keep the tension light to start. It’ll make clipping out quicker and less stressful.
SPD or SPD-SL (Road Cleats)?
If you’re stuck choosing between SPD and SPD-SL, here’s what you need to know:
- SPD cleats are two-bolt and recessed into the sole, making them easier to walk in—ideal for urban riders, commuters, and bikepackers who plan to hop on and off the bike often.
- SPD cleats have built-in float, allowing for natural side-to-side movement.
- SPD cleats can be paired with casual cycling shoes, like the Adidas Velo Sambas, offering performance without sacrificing style or off-bike mobility.
- SPD-SL (Road) cleats are three-bolt and designed specifically for road cycling, excelling on the bike but less practical for everyday walking or casual use.
Most brands offer multiple cleat options for their clipless pedal systems. For example, Shimano offers three types of SPD-SL cleats, each color-coded based on the amount of float (lateral movement):
- Red cleats have no float, fully locking your foot in place for maximum power transfer, but they can cause knee strain if not perfectly aligned—earning them the nickname “knee killers.”
- Blue cleats offer moderate float, providing a more forgiving setup while still prioritizing power.
- Yellow cleats have the most float and are recommended for new clipless riders who are still dialing in their foot position and cleat alignment.
Here’s a helpful resource that breaks down the differences between road cleats, helping you choose the best option based on your riding style and fit preferences:
Basic Tips for New Clipless Riders
Switching to clip-in pedals for the first time? Here are a few pointers:
- Start with light spring tension. Many clipless pedals let you adjust how hard it is to unclip. Looser tension makes it easier to get in and out.
- Practice on grass. Find a soft area to practice clipping in and out without worrying about falling.
- Use double-sided pedals. For mountain biking, this helps you clip in faster without needing to flip the pedal. We recommend any SPD pedal system.
- Keep your cleats clean. Dirt-packed cleats can make entry and exit unpredictable.
- Replace worn cleats. If you feel wiggle or have trouble staying clipped in, it might be time for new cleats.
Clipless Comes with a Learning Curve
If you’re switching to clipless for the first time, don’t sweat the learning curve. Every rider has a story about tipping over at a stop sign or unclipping too late. It happens, and it’s part of the process.
Getting used to the pedal action takes a few rides. The good news? Once your muscle memory kicks in, clipping in and out becomes automatic.
Performance You Can Feel. Quality You Can See.
From dropper posts to seatpost collars, Thomson components are engineered for responsiveness, strength, and a clean aesthetic that never goes out of style.
Why Riders Still Love Flat Pedals
Flat pedals offer freedom. You’re not locked in, so you can move your feet around or bail off the bike instantly. That makes them a favorite for:
- Mountain bikers riding steep or technical terrain.
- Beginner riders who want to learn without the risk of tipping over.
- Commuters navigating city streets, traffic lights, and crosswalks.
- Bike park riders practicing jumps or tricks.
- Riders who want to wear regular shoes for casual riding.
When paired with quality flat-soled shoes and pedals with aggressive pins, you’ll still get great grip and control.
What Pedal System Should You Choose?
Your riding style, comfort level, and terrain all affect which pedal system will feel best. The pedal you choose should match the way you ride, not someone else’s setup.
Match Your Pedal to Your Riding Style
| Riding Style | Best Pedal Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Road Cycling | Clipless (e.g. SPD-SL, Look pedals) | Better power transfer, longer ride comfort |
| Gravel, Cross-Country MTB | Clipless (e.g. SPD pedals) | Improved climbing control |
| Trail / Enduro MTB | Flat or clipless with float | Depends on terrain and technical sections |
| Downhill / Bike Park | Flat | Quick foot release, better balance |
| Commuting / Urban | Flat or SPD | More convenience at traffic lights |
| Indoor Cycling | Either | Choose based on comfort and bike setup |
Skill Level Matters Too
If you’re just starting out, flat pedals might make more sense. They let you experiment without worrying about being locked in. If you’re looking to improve pedal stroke and get more out of your effort, go with clipless.
Pedals We Trust on Thomson Builds
While we don’t machine pedals ourselves, we work with leading pedal manufacturers. When we spec pedals for a full build or recommend setups for riders, we prioritize brands that match our standards for precision, durability, and real-world performance.
You’ll find pedals on our builds that offer:
- Reliable clipless systems (SPD, SPD-SL, Look)
- Reliable cartridge bearings for smooth rotation
- Large platforms with stainless pedal pins (Crank Brothers and Wolftooth)
- Designs for all riding styles; single-sided pedals for road, double-sided for MTB
If it’s going on a Thomson, it’s going to perform.
Ride What Works for You
Pedals are one of the most personal choices on the bike. No chart or forum post can replace how something feels when you’re clipped in. What works for your gravel bike may not work for your trail setup. Some riders never leave flat pedals. Others go clipless and never look back.
At the end of the day, the best pedal is the one that makes you feel confident and in control.
Drop us a line at Thomson Bikes. We’ve been in the game long enough to know what works, and we’re happy to help you find your perfect match.