At BROTURES, we're all about customizing every part of our bikes, and pedals are no exception.
Known as the "three rules" in cycling, the handlebars, saddle, and pedals are the primary points of contact between you and your bike. While many riders might prioritize other upgrades, we believe pedals deserve special attention too.
1. Pedal Straps
Pedal straps are a popular choice for their ease of use and versatility.
They allow for quick adjustments and are gentle on shoes, meaning you can wear a variety of sneakers. Our team, including sneaker enthusiasts like myself, Wataniya, and Kazemura, all prefer straps for these reasons. However, straps might offer less grip compared to other options, making them less ideal for aggressive riding or tricks.
Recommended Pedals for Straps:
Mks Allways
MKS ALLWAYS Pedals stand out for their smooth pedaling experience, thanks to high-quality bearings, wide platforms, and lightweight aluminum construction.
DMR V12 Pedal
DMR V12 Pedals from the UK-based MTB brand DMR offer high durability and are perfect for trick-oriented or adventure riding.
Ynot Pedal Strap Brotures Special
YNOT Pedal Straps, especially our BROTURES special reflective version, make a strong statement and enhance visibility.
2. Toe Clips
Toe clips, with their classic look, are also favored among many riders. While they offer a secure grip, the downside is they can wear out sneakers faster. For those seeking a change from straps, toe clips might be an appealing option.
Pedals and Toe Clips Recommendations
For pedals, toe clips, and straps, here are my recommendations for you to consider:
Mks Mash Stream All Black
A collaboration pedal between MKS and MASH. Its distinctive feature is the large return, making it easy to get your foot in, ideal for messengers worldwide who prefer an all-black road pedal look.
MKS Sylvan Gordito
Named 'GORDITO' meaning 'chubby', this pedal stands out even among road pedals for its wide stepping surface, making it easy for beginners to push down on. If you're interested in trying both straps and toe clips, this pedal is the perfect choice. Pair it with NJS-certified toe clips and straps for a complete setup.
MKS TOE CLIPS STEEL DEEP TWIN
MKS FIT-α Sports NJS Double Straps
To complement your pedals, consider these NJS-certified toe clips and double straps for a secure and stylish ride.
3. Binding Pedals
Binding pedals, where a cleat on the shoe clicks into the pedal, are common in road biking and MTB racing for their unbeatable efficiency. They can seriously boost your speed on a fixed gear too. There are road and MTB versions, with the former offering stronger hold and the latter easier disengagement.
Though I haven't personally tried binding pedals yet, the excitement around them in the community, including among our staff like Gorichan from the Harajuku store and racer Ishida from the Yokohama store, is undeniable.
If you're still riding with stock pedals, it's time to consider an upgrade.
Changing your pedals can profoundly enhance your riding experience, offering new depths to your fixed gear adventures. Explore different pedaling styles and find what suits you best!
Mittz