Pedals and Cleats for Sale Online in South Africa
Whether you’re a casual rider or an avid cyclist, choosing the right pedals and cleats can greatly impact your overall riding experience. With a wide range of options available online in South Africa, from entry-level flat pedals to high-performance clipless systems, finding the perfect fit for your bike and riding style has never been easier.
This guide explores the different types of pedals and cleats available. We’ll help you navigate the best options on the market.
Understanding Pedals and Cleats Specifications
When purchasing pedals and cleats online in South Africa, understanding their specifications can help you choose the right system for your cycling needs. Pedals and cleats come in various designs, each with specific features that affect performance and compatibility with your bike and shoes. Here’s a breakdown of the essential specifications to consider:
1. Pedal Types
Pedals are broadly categorized into flat (platform) pedals and clipless pedals, each designed for different riding styles.
- Flat Pedals offer a large, stable surface area, ideal for casual riders, commuters, and mountain bikers who prefer quick foot placement and removal. They typically feature grip-enhancing pins to prevent slippage.
- Clipless Pedals require compatible cleats that attach to cycling shoes, offering a secure connection for enhanced power transfer and control. They are commonly used in road cycling, mountain biking, and competitive racing.
2. Cleat Compatibility
Cleats are specific to certain pedal systems, so it’s essential to match them correctly. The two most common standards are:
- Two-Bolt System (SPD – Shimano Pedalling Dynamics) are primarily used in mountain biking and touring, SPD cleats are recessed into the shoe sole, allowing easier walking.
- Three-Bolt System (SPD-SL, Look Keo, Time Iclic) are designed for road cycling, these cleats provide a larger contact area for better power transfer but make walking more difficult.
3. Pedal Materials and Durability
The material of the pedal body and spindle determines its durability and weight:
- Aluminum and Composite Pedals are lightweight and affordable, often found in entry-level and mid-range models.
- Carbon Fiber Pedals are found in high-performance road cycling pedals, offering excellent stiffness and reduced weight.
- Steel or Titanium Spindles. Titanium spindles are lighter but more expensive, whereas steel spindles provide durability at a lower cost.
4. Float and Release Tension
- Float refers to the degree of lateral movement a cleat allows before disengaging from the pedal. Some cleats offer zero float (fixed position), while others provide 4–9 degrees of movement to reduce knee strain.
- Release Tension determines how much force is required to unclip from the pedal. Adjustable tension is beneficial for beginners who need an easier release.
5. Stack Height and Q-Factor
- Stack Height is the distance from the shoe sole to the pedal axle. Lower stack heights improve pedalling efficiency by reducing foot movement.
- Q-Factor is the lateral distance between the pedals. A wider Q-factor is often preferred in mountain biking, while a narrower Q-factor is common in road cycling for improved aerodynamics.
6. Sealed Bearings and Maintenance
High-quality pedals feature sealed bearings that prevent dirt and moisture from affecting performance, making them more durable and requiring less maintenance. Look for models that allow easy servicing or replacement of internal components.
How to Choose the Best Pedals and Cleats for Sale Online
When shopping for pedals and cleats online in South Africa, it’s important to choose a system that suits your riding style. With so many options available, selecting the right combination can improve your cycling efficiency and power transfer.
Consider Your Riding Style
The first step in choosing the right pedals and cleats is to determine your primary riding discipline. Road cyclists typically prefer clipless pedals with three-bolt cleats, such as Shimano SPD-SL or Look Keo, as these systems maximize power transfer and pedalling efficiency. However, they are not ideal for walking due to their exposed cleat design.
Mountain bikers, on the other hand, often opt for two-bolt SPD cleats, which are recessed into the shoe sole. These provide better durability, easier engagement, and allow riders to walk on uneven terrain when necessary.
If you’re a commuter or touring cyclist, versatility is key, and you may prefer flat pedals with good grip or hybrid pedals that offer both clipless and regular shoe compatibility. Indoor cyclists using spin bikes should check pedal compatibility, as many spin bikes use SPD cleats.
Flat vs. Clipless Pedals
Choosing between flat pedals and clipless pedals depends on your riding goals and level of experience. Flat pedals, also known as platform pedals, are best suited for beginners, casual riders, and mountain bikers who prefer freedom of movement. These pedals have a large surface area with grip-enhancing pins to keep the foot stable while allowing easy foot placement and removal.
Clipless pedals, despite their name, require cycling shoes with compatible cleats that clip into the pedal mechanism. They offer a secure connection so that each pedal stroke is more efficient, making them the preferred choice for road cycling, mountain biking, and long-distance riding.
While clipless pedals require some adjustment and practice, they greatly improve power transfer and control.
Understanding Cleat Compatibility
Cleats must be compatible with your pedal system and cycling shoes. The most common cleat designs include two-bolt and three-bolt systems. The two-bolt SPD cleat system is primarily used in mountain biking, gravel riding, and touring.
It is designed for durability and ease of use, allowing cyclists to clip in and out quickly. The recessed cleat design also makes it easier to walk in SPD-compatible shoes.
In contrast, the three-bolt cleat system, found in Shimano SPD-SL, Look Keo, and Time Iclic pedals, is designed for road cycling. These cleats provide a larger contact area with the pedal, ensuring better power transfer.
However, they are not ideal for walking, as the cleats protrude from the shoe. If you are uncertain about cleat compatibility, always check the product details before making a purchase online.
Pedal and Cleat Material Choices
The material of both the pedals and cleats affects weight and performance. Most entry-level and mid-range pedals are made from aluminum or composite materials, offering a good balance between durability and affordability. High-performance road pedals often incorporate carbon fibre for reduced weight and increased stiffness.
For the pedal spindle, titanium is the lightest and most expensive option, while steel spindles provide durability at a more affordable price. Similarly, cleats can be made of plastic or metal.
Plastic cleats, such as Look Keo and Shimano SPD-SL, are lightweight but wear out faster, whereas metal cleats last longer and are ideal for rugged terrain.
Float and Release Tension
Float refers to the amount of lateral movement a cleat allows before disengaging from the pedal. Some cleats provide zero float, locking the foot into a fixed position, while others allow up to 9 degrees of movement.
A higher float range helps reduce knee strain and is recommended for riders who experience discomfort with a fixed foot position.
Release tension determines how much force is needed to unclip from the pedal. Adjustable release tension is useful for beginners who need an easier disengagement, while experienced riders may prefer a firmer hold for aggressive pedalling.
Many clipless pedals offer tension adjustment, allowing cyclists to customize their setup for maximum comfort and security.
Maintenance and Durability
When purchasing pedals and cleats online, it’s essential to consider maintenance and long-term durability. High-quality pedals feature sealed bearings to protect against dirt and moisture, reducing the need for frequent servicing.
Look for models with replaceable parts, such as cleats, grip pins (for flat pedals), and internal axle components, to extend the lifespan of your gear.
Regularly inspecting cleats for wear and replacing them when necessary ensures a secure connection to the pedal. Cleats that are excessively worn can make engagement and disengagement unpredictable, increasing the risk of accidents.
Compare Prices and Read Reviews
Before making a purchase, compare prices across to find the best deal. Some stores may offer discounts, bundle deals, or free shipping on cycling accessories. Reading customer reviews can provide insights into product durability, ease of installation, and real-world performance.
Also, checking the return policy is advisable in case the pedals or cleats do not meet your expectations.
Why Buy Pedals and Cleats from Us?
ShopScanner is built with convenience in mind. Unlike traditional online marketplaces that can be cluttered and difficult to navigate, ShopScanner’s streamlined digital platform offers a hassle-free experience from browsing to checkout. With a clean, intuitive interface, you can compare products and check specifications with just a few clicks.
One of the biggest advantages of ShopScanner is its focus on the South African market. Unlike international platforms that may have high shipping fees or stock availability issues, ShopScanner is tailored to local consumers.
No matter where you are, you can browse the latest cycling accessories, compare different pedal and cleat options, and place an order without the need for a physical store visit. This is perfect for busy cyclists who want a quick and effortless online shopping experience.
ShopScanner offers a comprehensive range of pedals and cleats to suit every type of rider. The platform regularly updates its inventory to include the latest cycling gear so that South African cyclists have access to the best equipment on the market.
With secure payment options and trusted transactions, you can shop with confidence, knowing that your personal and financial information is protected. ShopScanner also partners with reputable suppliers, so you can be assured that the pedals and cleats you purchase are genuine, high-quality products.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pedals and cleats is an essential part of optimizing your cycling experience. With various options available, understanding the differences between flat and clipless pedals, cleat compatibility, material quality, and key specifications will help you make an informed decision.
Shopping online for pedals and cleats in South Africa provides the convenience of comparing different models and finding the best prices without having to visit multiple physical stores.
Take the time to research and select the best option that meets your needs for a smooth and rewarding cycling experience for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between flat pedals and clipless pedals?
Flat pedals provide a large platform for your foot and do not require special cycling shoes, making them ideal for beginners, casual riders, and mountain bikers who need quick foot placement. Clipless pedals, on the other hand, require compatible cycling shoes and cleats that clip into the pedal, ensuring a secure connection for improved power transfer and efficiency.
How do I know if my cleats are compatible with my pedals?
Cleats must match the pedal system you are using. Mountain bikers typically use two-bolt cleats (SPD), which are compatible with most MTB and gravel pedals, while road cyclists use three-bolt cleats (SPD-SL, Look Keo, Time Iclic), designed for maximum power transfer. Always check the pedal specifications before purchasing cleats to ensure compatibility.
What factors should I consider when choosing pedals and cleats?
The most important factors include your riding style, pedal type, cleat compatibility, material quality, weight, float (lateral foot movement), and release tension. For long-distance rides or competitive cycling, lightweight, stiff pedals with good float and adjustable tension are ideal. For casual and commuting cyclists, ease of use and durability should be prioritized.
How often should I replace my cleats?
Cleats wear out over time due to regular use, walking, and engagement/disengagement from the pedals. Signs that you need to replace them include difficulty clipping in or out, excessive foot movement while clipped in, or visible wear on the cleat surface. On average, cleats should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on riding frequency.
Are all cycling shoes compatible with all cleat systems?
No, cycling shoes are designed for specific cleat systems. Road cycling shoes usually support three-bolt cleats (SPD-SL, Look, Time), while mountain biking and indoor cycling shoes support two-bolt cleats (SPD, Crankbrothers, Time ATAC). Some shoes are designed to be versatile and allow for both two-bolt and three-bolt cleats, so it’s essential to check the shoe’s sole design before purchasing cleats.
