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Clipless pedals transform your connection to the bike, but the market’s key trade-offs — weight versus durability, platform size versus mud clearance — are rarely explained clearly. Many riders find that the lightest pedal fails too soon, or that a small platform makes clipping in on steep climbs a gamble. Understanding these trade-offs is the difference between a pedal that feels great and one that becomes a source of frustration.
The most durable pedals in this category use sealed bearings and adjustable tension, but they often come heavier. Others prioritize weight savings with bushings and a simpler design, sacrificing long-term reliability. For most mountain bikers, the sweet spot sits around $55–$60, where you get reliable dual-sided SPD engagement without paying for exaggerated weight claims.
This guide focuses on three distinct pedal designs that cover the full spectrum of rider needs: a universal workhorse, a featherlight 4-sided entry option, and a wide-platform pedal for trail riders who value stability. Each is matched to a specific use case, so you can pick the one that fits your riding style without guessing.
Best for Value & Reliability
Shimano PD-M520
Rating: 4.8 ★ | Price: Mid-Range | Weight per Pair: 380 g | Platform Type: Minimal platform | Cleat System: SPD, adjustable | Entry Sides: Dual
The PD-M520 combines a forged aluminum body with a chromoly spindle and dual-sided SPD entry — clip in from either side without looking. Tension adjustment lets riders dial in release force from light to firm, making it forgiving for newcomers. The small pedal body offers no platform when unclipped, so riders who frequently pedal unclipped on technical trails will want a caged model. The bearing assembly is sealed, though a minority of units may develop clicking after extended use — the construction otherwise holds up well over years of use.
This pedal fits first-time clipless riders, commuters, and cross-country MTB riders who want a do-it-all SPD option. It is not for riders seeking a platform for unclipped pedaling or the lightest possible weight — the M520 prioritizes durability and value over marginal gains. With a track record spanning over a decade, it has become the default recommendation for anyone looking for a no-nonsense clipless pedal.
Pros
- Solid build quality with aluminum body and chromoly spindle
- Smooth clip-in/out with adjustable tension, ideal for beginners
- Budget-friendly price for a pedal that handles MTB, gravel, and commuting
Cons
- Small platform provides no support when unclipped — best for riders who stay clipped in
- Bearing clicking may develop after months of use; worth checking under warranty
The PD-M520 is the smart choice for any rider who wants a dependable, affordable SPD pedal — no gimmicks, just consistent performance.
Best for Weight & Mud
Crankbrothers Candy 1
Rating: 4.7 ★ | Price: Mid-Range | Weight per Pair: 294 g | Platform Type: Small cage | Cleat System: Proprietary brass | Entry Sides: 4-sided
The Candy 1’s 294g weight makes it a clear pick for weight-conscious riders, and its 4-sided entry combined with open design sheds mud better than sealed SPD pedals. Durability can vary between units – some riders experience premature wear or spindle issues under heavy trail use, so this pedal is best suited for lighter riders, smoother terrain, or those willing to accept that tradeoff for low weight and easy engagement.
Pros
- Very lightweight – 294g per pair sheds noticeable weight from the bike.
- 4-sided entry makes clipping in effortless from any angle, even in mud.
- Customizable float provides secure retention with a natural release.
Cons
The Candy 1 is the right call when low weight and mud performance matter more than long-term durability – just keep expectations realistic for aggressive riding.
Best for Trail & Stability
Shimano PD-ME700
Rating: 4.7 ★ | Price: Mid-Range | Weight per Pair: ~540 g | Platform Type: Large platform | Cleat System: SPD, adjustable | Entry Sides: Dual
Shimano’s PD-ME700 combines a stable platform with the trusted SPD mechanism, allowing riders to clip in easily or pedal with flat shoes. The wider cage can catch on brush more readily than slimmer pedals, and the price is a step above the basic M520 — a fair trade for the convenience this platform offers in technical terrain.
Pros
- Large platform provides a stable base and simplifies clipping in.
- Shimano’s SPD mechanism delivers dependable engagement and adjustable tension.
Cons
- Heavier than most SPD pedals — the platform adds noticeable weight.
Best for trail and enduro riders who want a stable platform for unclipped pedaling and don’t mind the extra heft.
How to Choose
The single most important decision is whether you prioritize low weight and quick entry over a large platform that supports unclipped pedaling.
Weight per Pair
Lighter pedals (around 300g or less) improve acceleration and climbing efficiency but often use bushings instead of sealed bearings, which wear faster under mud and impact.
Heavier pedals (~400-540g) typically include larger cages and sealed bearings, adding durability and stability at the cost of rotational mass. For most trail riders, the weight penalty is negligible compared to the benefit of a solid pedal platform.
Platform Type
A wide platform (like the PD-ME700) provides a stable surface to stand on when unclipped and makes it easier to find the cleat for re-engagement. This is valuable on technical climbs where you frequently dab a foot.
Minimal platforms (like the PD-M520) save weight and pack smaller, but offer no support unclipped and require precise foot placement to clip in. They’re fine for riders who stay clipped in most of the time.
Cleat System
SPD is the dominant two-bolt standard for mountain biking, offering adjustable release tension and wide compatibility across shoes and pedals. Crankbrothers uses a proprietary brass cleat with a fixed float angle.
SPD pedals let you fine-tune the release force; SH56 cleats add multi-directional release for easier unclipping. Crankbrothers cleats wear faster and must be replaced regularly, but provide consistent float without adjustment.
Bearing Quality and Seal
Sealed cartridge bearings resist water and dirt, prolonging smooth rotation. Unsealed bushings are lighter but degrade quickly in wet or gritty conditions, often developing play or clicking within a season.
Look for pedals with double-sealed bearings and user-serviceable preload if you ride in mud or frequent wet climates. Many Shimano models use sealed bearings that last years with occasional grease injection.
Entry Sides
Dual-sided SPD pedals (both sides accept cleats) are the norm for mountain biking; they require a 180-degree flip to clip in, which becomes instinctive with practice.
Four-sided entry (Crankbrothers) allows engagement from any angle, reducing fumbling on technical terrain. The trade-off is a narrower pedal body that offers less foot support when unclipped.
FAQ
Why do my Shimano SPD pedals make a clicking noise after a few months?
A clicking noise typically indicates bearing wear or contamination. Shimano’s sealed cartridge bearings can develop play if the seals are damaged or if dirt enters the bearing race. In many cases, the noise can be quieted by cleaning and re-greasing the pedal bearings or by tightening the axle preload. If the clicking persists after servicing, replacement bearings are widely available.
Are Crankbrothers Candy pedals durable enough for mountain biking?
The Candy 1 uses Igus bushings rather than sealed bearings, making them lighter but less resistant to grit and impact. For XC and gravel riding on smoother trails, they hold up well. For aggressive trail or enduro riding with frequent rock strikes, the bushings can wear out within months. Crankbrothers offers a 5-year warranty, but the design is best suited to lighter riders on less punishing terrain.
What is the difference between Shimano PD-M520 and PD-ME700 pedals?
The PD-M520 is a classic dual-sided SPD pedal with a minimal platform and 380g weight. The PD-ME700 adds a large composite cage around the SPD mechanism, increasing weight to ~540g but providing a stable base for unclipped pedaling and easier clipping in. The M520 is the better value for riders who stay clipped in; the ME700 suits trail riders who often unclip on technical sections.
Can I use SPD pedals on a gravel bike or road bike?
Yes, SPD pedals are compatible with most two-bolt MTB shoes and can be used on gravel and road bikes. The smaller cleat allows easier walking off the bike, which is useful for bikepacking or mixed-terrain rides. For dedicated road use, three-bolt road pedals offer a larger platform and more efficient power transfer, but SPD pedals are a versatile alternative for riders who value walkability.