2012 Triathlete Buyer's Guide: Pedals

Published May 9, 2012 03:13PM

Although the Mavic Sprint is the heaviest pedal in this group by 20 percent, it’s also nearly half the price of the second most affordable option, and weight is this pedal’s only concession. Adjustable release tension, sufficiently durable pedal body and sealed bearings give the Sprint all the functionality of models costing two or three times as much. Mavic.com

Time iClic 2 Carbon $250

The iClic 2 allows the rider to step straight onto the pedal without twisting the cleat. When dangling free, the pedal rests in a vertical position, also making engagement easier when rushing out of T1 if you aren’t a fan of the flying mount. It lacks spring tension adjustment, but the cleat can be rotated or shifted to fine-tune the rider’s position. Time-sport.com

Speedplay Zero Titanium $335

The lightest pedal in this review also positions the rider lowest on the bike. Speedplay says this helps reduce aerodynamic drag. These performance features are complemented by the Zero’s adjustable float and two-sided engagement mechanism, which is a major advantage if you put your shoes on in T1 rather than executing a flying mount. Speedplay.com

Look Keo 2 Max $180

The Look Keo 2 Max is a workhorse pedal sporting the same engagement mechanism and adjustability as pricier options. At 259 grams, the pair weighs a mere 17 grams more than Look’s next-level pedal. The minimal weight penalty and substantial cost savings make the Keo 2 Max a perfect high-performance pedal for the athlete on a budget. Lookcycle.com

Shimano Ultegra Carbon $299

Shimano’s pedals have always been incredibly durable and easy to use, and this pair is no exception. Now they’re also light. The metal pedal body Shimano traditionally uses on its high-end pedals has been replaced with an injection-molded carbon body that helps get the Ultegra Carbon pedals, cleats and hardware down to 328 grams. A metal plate protects the body from wear, and Shimano’s sealed bearings keep these pedals in pristine shape for miles and miles. Bike.shimano.com