MTB Pedals

Popularity

Order MTB pedals at BIKE24

A steep climb, a rooty tech section, a quick drop into the next descent – your MTB pedals are one of three contact points with the bike. They determine power transfer, control, and confidence on the trail. Choosing between clipless, flat, and hybrid pedals affects how directly you put power down and how solid your platform is in rough terrain. You'll find MTB pedals from Shimano, Crankbrothers, HT Components, and more, from lightweight XC clipless pedals to grippy enduro flats.

Why good MTB pedals make a difference on the trail

Whether you're making every pedal stroke count on a climb or staying planted on the descent – the right pedal brings it all together.

  • Mud-shedding: Open mechanisms on clipless pedals clear mud and debris reliably so you can clip in when it counts.
  • Solid platform: Strong pins on flat pedals and a secure connection on clipless pedals give you grip even in wet and muddy conditions.
  • Tough construction: Quality axles and sealed bearings hold up to hard off-road use season after season.

MTB pedal types: clipless, flat & more

MTB pedals essentially differ in how your foot connects to them. The range of possibilities runs from a fixed, clipless connection for maximum efficiency to wide platforms for load distribution and control, and even to hybrid solutions that combine both. Which type suits you depends on your discipline, riding style, and terrain of choice.

Clipless MTB pedals

A fixed connection between shoe and pedal means direct, efficient power transfer. Your cleat clicks in to the pedal, a lateral twist releases it. Ideal for cross-country, marathon, and trail riding where efficiency on the climbs matters. 

MTB flat pedals / platform pedals

Wide platforms with replaceable pins give you maximum grip and control on demanding trails – no fixed connection required. You can pull your foot free instantly, which matters on technical sections, jumps, and drops. The go-to for enduro, freeride, and the bike park.

Hybrid MTB pedals

Hybrid pedals come in two forms. Single-sided models have a clipless mechanism on one side and an open platform on the other: clip in when you need to push, use the flat side on technical sections or around town. Two-sided hybrid pedals integrate the clipless mechanism into a wide platform, so you always have a stable base underfoot whether you're clipped in or not.

Kids' MTB pedals

Flat pedals sized for younger riders make it easier to get into trail riding. Smaller platforms, lower weight, and grippy pins give kids secure footing and full control without a fixed connection. Tough enough for pump tracks, forest trails, and street riding.

How to choose the right MTB pedals

New bike, new setup, or a long-overdue upgrade – with MTB bike pedals, every detail counts. Platform size, material, and cleat system all need to match your setup and riding style. Here's what to consider.


What's the difference between the MTB clipless systems?

Shimano SPD is the most widely used standard: 2-bolt cleats, a robust mechanism, broad shoe compatibility, and readily available spare parts. Release tension is infinitely adjustable on most models via a screw. Crankbrothers also uses 2-bolt cleats but adds four-sided entry, meaning you find the pedal faster without looking down. The open design also sheds mud exceptionally well. HT Components pairs the 2-bolt interface with a larger contact area, giving a stable, platform-like feel underfoot. Time ATAC runs its own cleat system with plenty of float and strong mud management – a good pick if you want more freedom of movement and a knee-friendly setup. Cleats are included with most pedals.

Aluminum, composite, or steel – which material for MTB pedals?

Aluminum pedal bodies are the all-rounders for trail, enduro, and XC: stiff, durable, and tough when you clip a rock. Nylon composite pedals are lighter and often more affordable. They flex slightly under load, which can absorb impacts, but they wear faster when you hit obstacles. For hard trail and gravity riding, most riders go aluminum – composite is a lighter, more comfortable alternative. The axle is where it really matters: chromoly steel handles impacts and pedal strikes reliably. Titanium cuts weight significantly but costs more and sits firmly in the high-performance tier.

How much should MTB pedals weigh?

The ideal weight is strongly dependent on your discipline and pedal type. On XC and marathon bikes, every gram counts – lightweight clipless pedals with aluminum bodies and optional titanium axles often come in under 300g a pair. For trail and enduro, the sweet spot is usually 350–400g: the right balance of weight, stiffness, and grip. Going too light can mean hitting the material’s limits faster when you’re riding them hard. For downhill riding, weight is less of a priority. Platform size, stability, and reliable grip matter more than shaving grams.

Pins, platform, sole – what dictates grip on flat pedals?

On flat pedals, pins, platform shape, and shoe sole work together to keep your foot in place. Longer pins (around 8 to 10mm) bite into soft rubber soles and lock your foot down on impacts and landings. Shorter pins give you more freedom to reposition on technical sections. Concave platforms with raised outer edges guide your foot into a stable position; flatter designs offer more flexibility in foot placement. The sole matters too: soft rubber compounds and flat profiles mesh with the pins and maximize grip. On clipless pedals, the cleat contact area defines the connection – the wider the contact zone, the more stable and direct the pedal feels under load.

What platform size do I need on my MTB?

The ideal platform size depends on your discipline and shoe size. Large pedals of around 100×100mm offer plenty of surface area, distribute pressure evenly, and deliver maximum control on rough descents. Smaller, lighter pedals suit XC and marathon riding where weight and efficiency come first.


Get your new MTB pedals at BIKE24

A big drop, a tight switchback, a bunny hop over a downed log – the right mountain biking pedals give you the platform you need to pull off any move at a moment’s notice. You'll find mountain bike pedals from Shimano, Crankbrothers, HT Components, and more for whatever the trail throws at you. We deliver on our shipping promise so your upgrade is on the bike when you need it. Our pedal installation guide walks you through fitting them yourself. And if you have any more questions, our team has the trail experience to answer them.

You'll also find MTB shoes, cleats, and pedal accessories like replacement pins and bearings.