6+ Best Road bike pedals of 2025
Choosing the right pedals can make a big difference when it comes to enhancing the road cycling experience. Road bike pedals have a direct impact on your riding efficiency, comfort, and even safety. so choosing the pedal that best suits your needs is crucial. It can be said that most professionals tend to find their satisfaction with the pedal system and stick to it. This article has compiled a list of the 6+ Best Road bike pedals that offer a range of features. from material and weight to compatibility and customization. Whether you’re a beginner looking for flat pedals or an experienced cyclist interested in clip-free pedals for optimal performance. this guide will help you make an informed choice and find the perfect fit.

What you need to pay attention to when choosing Road bike pedals
- Types of Bike Pedals: Two common types of Road Bike Pedals are Clipless Pedals and Flat Pedals. Splints can provide better pedaling efficiency because your foot can be locked with the foot. so you must choose a pair of professional riding shoes to match. Flat Pedals, so, do not require special riding shoes and are suitable for recreational riding and novice riders.
- Materials: Common materials are carbon fiber, aluminum alloy, and composite materials. The carbon fiber pedal is lightweight and has strong rigidity, but the price is higher. Aluminum alloy is durable and cost-effective; The composite material has a balance in weight and price.
- Bearings: High-quality Bike Pedals are usually equipped with ball or sealed bearing systems. which can provide you with a smoother pedaling experience and extend the pedal life. Pay attention to the durability and lubricity of bearings to ensure smoothness in riding.
- Lock piece compatibility: If you choose a splint foot, you need to pay attention to the compatibility of its lock piece and riding shoes. Different brands of lock systems (such as Shimano SPD-SL, and Look Keo) are incompatible. and it is necessary to determine the suitability of the lock system and the sole before purchasing.
- Weight and rigidity: For riders who pursue speed, a lighter foot can reduce the weight. and a foot with high rigidity can better transfer the pedaling force to the bike, thereby improving riding efficiency.
- Q factor: The Q factor is the lateral distance between the edges of the two crank arms. but it is most commonly used to say the stance width, or the distance between your feet when pedaling. You need to set the Q factor correctly. If you want to increase the Q factor, you can simply replace the pedal with one with a longer spindle.
- Stack height: This is the measurement from the middle of the pedal shaft to the sole. The lower the stack height, the better, as it brings your feet closer to the shaft for optimal efficiency.
- Float: Float is measured in degrees and refers to how much your foot can move before it is released from the pedal. It puts your feet in the most natural and comfortable position for pedaling. and also takes the pressure off your knees when your tacks are not perfectly positioned. The bigger the float, the more you have to twist your feet to release it.
In short, choosing the right foot for you can enhance your riding experience. and ensure the stability and comfort of your foot, while improving efficiency.
What are the benefits of using clip-free Pedals on road bikes?
Using clip-free pedals on a road bike provides flexibility and comfort for riders. Without requiring specialized cycling shoes, clip-free pedals work with any footwear. making them ideal for beginners and casual cyclists. Additionally, their larger surface area distributes pressure more evenly across the foot. reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort over longer rides.
In urban riding, clip-free pedals offer increased safety and are perfect for frequent stop-and-go scenarios. Without a locking mechanism, riders can quickly remove their feet from the pedals in complex traffic. providing greater flexibility and safety in sudden situations. This type of pedal is also more budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for commuting and recreational rides.
Best Road Bike Pedals Table
Here is a quick table of the 6+ Best Road bike pedals for 2025.
Brand | Model Name | Price | Bike Type | Best for | Best Road Bike Review |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shimano | Ultegra R8000 | £159.99 | Road Bike | Best Overall Road Bike Pedals | ![]() |
Look | Keo 2 Max Carbon | £99 | Road Bike | Best Carbon Road Bike Pedals | ![]() |
Wahoo | Speedplay Zero | £219 | Road Bike | Best Two-Sided Road Bike Pedals | ![]() |
Time | Xpro 12 | £199 | Road Bike | Best Lightest Road Bike Pedals | ![]() |
Favero | Assioma Duo Pedals | £639 | Road Bike | Best All-Round Power Meter Pedals | ![]() |
Dura | Dura-Ace 9100 | $280 | Road Bike | Best Splurge Road Bike Pedals | ![]() |
Best Road Bike Pedals List – Detail
- Shimano Ultegra R8000
- Look Keo 2 Max Carbon
- Wahoo Speedplay Zero
- Time Xpro 12
- Favero Assioma Duo pedals
- Shimano Dura-Ace 9100
Shimano Ultegra R8000 – Best Road Bike Pedals

The Shimano Ultegra R8000 stands out as one of the best road bike pedals, known for its durability and reliability. Priced at £159.99, it may not be the lightest at 248g (318g with cleats and hardware), nor have the lowest stack height at 15.8mm, but it’s built to last. With an adjustable spring, riders can easily control the release force, adding to the pedal’s user-friendly design. The pedal’s extra height effectively conceals its durable bearings. which can withstand years of use between servicing—showcasing Shimano’s commitment to longevity.
Available in sleek black, the R8000 features three cleat options. allowing adjustments from 0 to 6 degrees of float, catering to various rider preferences. While the cleats offer firm engagement, which some riders appreciate. they may feel less flexible compared to other systems. These wide cleats also provide ample lateral change and stability during walking, with a rubber buffer on top for added traction. Its high performance and affordable price make the Shimano Ultegra R8000 an excellent choice for cyclists looking for the best road bike pedals with great value.
Pros:
- High-cost performance, affordable price
- Easy to install and use, strong durability
- Many axis lengths
Cons:
- The float volume is not as good as competing systems
Specification:
Brand | Model Name | Price | Weight | Weight (Cleats and Hardware) | Float | Stack Height | Colour |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shimano | Ultegra R8000 | £159.99 | 248g | 318g | 6 degrees (replaceable with 0 or 2) | 15.8mm | Black |
Look Keo 2 Max Carbon – Best Road Bike Pedals

The Look Keo 2 Max Carbon pedals, though a mid-range offering from Look. are undoubtedly some of the best road bike pedals for riders seeking lightweight performance. With a carbon fiber body weighing in at just 250g (316g with cleats and hardware). they deliver the desired lightness without compromising durability. Unlike the top-tier Keo Blades, the Keo 2 Max Carbon pedals feature adjustable spring tension. allowing both beginners and experienced cyclists to customize cleat engagement strength. Priced at £99, they provide excellent value, especially with the included grey Look Keo Grip cleats. which offers a comfortable 4.5° float for optimal foot positioning.
The design of the Keo 2 Max Carbon pedals emphasizes stability and control. with a stainless-steel contact plate that increases the pedal’s usable surface area to 60mm, which is 25% wider than previous models. This enhanced contact width gives riders improved support and grip, making the pedals easy to engage and detach. ideal for those looking for dependable performance on the road. With adjustable release tension and a solid, lightweight feel. these pedals are well-suited for anyone looking for the best road bike pedals that offer both flexibility and control across various riding levels.
Pros:
- Carbon fiber body, large surface area
- The spring tension is adjustable
- Easily engage/detach
- Splints and accessories included
- Light, away from the heavy
- Adjustable release tension
Cons:
- The pedals are impeccable, but in an ideal world, a different cleat option package would be a plus
- Swing from side to side
Specification:
Brand | Model Name | Price | Weight | Weight (Cleats and Hardware) | Float | Stack Height | Color |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Look | Look Keo 2 Max Carbon | £99 | 250g | 316g | 4.5 degrees (replaceable with 0 or 9) | 17.3mm | Black |
Wahoo Speedplay Zero – Best Road Bike Pedals

The Wahoo Speedplay Zero pedals are considered among the best road bike pedals for riders who value customization and a unique, high-performance design. As a dual-sided pedal, the Speedplay Zero is engineered with the spring positioned in the cleat instead of the pedal. offering a game-changing setup for road cyclists. This design allows for an adjustable float of up to 15 degrees, which can also be set to zero. catering to those who prefer a more adaptable foot position or need lateral freedom in their pedal stroke. The low stack height of just 11.5mm enhances pedaling efficiency. ensuring a direct power transfer—a feature particularly beneficial for cyclists with a dynamic riding style.
The Speedplay Zero pedals also come with four different axle lengths. allowing riders to fine-tune their stance width for optimal comfort and performance. Although they can be slightly challenging to set up due to their non-centered float. the customizable features and exceptional build quality have earned Speedplay a dedicated following. This stainless-steel version provides excellent durability at a competitive price of £219. with other versions available up to the titanium Nano model priced at £380. The sleek black finish and the dual-entry design add to its refined aesthetic. making the Wahoo Speedplay Zero a top choice for those seeking the best road bike pedals with versatile performance and adjustability.
Pros:
- The height is adjustable and a variety of shaft lengths are optional.
- Exquisite appearance
- Double entry
- The float is adjustable
Cons:
The uncentered float causes the feet to wobble, is cumbersome to set up and adjust, takes some time to learn to clip in, and the system is heavier than options at the same price
Specification:
Brand | Model Name | Price | Weight | Weight (Cleats and Hardware) | Float | Stack Height | Color |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wahoo Speedplay | Wahoo Speedplay Zero | £219 | 222g | 370g | Adjustable to 15 degrees | 11.5mm | Black |
Time Xpro 12 – Best Road Bike Pedals

The Time Xpro 12 pedals stand out as one of the best road bike pedals, especially for cyclists who appreciate both style and performance. Designed with a carbon fiber body and titanium axle. these pedals offer exceptional stiffness and lightweight construction, weighing in at just 188g. What sets the Xpro 12 apart is its unique aerodynamic design, featuring an eye-catching red cover adorned with the Time logo. This not only enhances the pedal’s aesthetic appeal but also protects the carbon body from impacts and wear. making it a durable option for avid road cyclists.
The iClic system on the Xpro 12 provides an unparalleled experience when engaging and disengaging from the pedals. This mechanism allows the cleat to remain open when not in use, making it easy to step back in without fumbling around. With a large 725mm² contact surface. these pedals give riders added confidence while pedaling and ensure that power transfer is direct and efficient. The adjustable release angle of 16 degrees adds to their user-friendliness. allowing riders to tailor the tension to their preferences across three different settings.
While the Time Xpro 12 may not deliver the same absolute locking sensation as Shimano SPD-SL pedals. they offer a smooth and lightweight feel that many cyclists find appealing. The floating range of -5 to +5 degrees can take some getting used to for those accustomed to a more rigid setup. but it provides a forgiving experience for various riding styles. Priced at £199, the Xpro 12 balances performance and aesthetics. making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their road cycling experience with some of the best road bike pedals on the market.
Pros:
- Excellent stiffness
- iClic provides easy clamping
- Relatively light
- Aerodynamic design
- 3 kinds of regulating tension
Cons:
- The feeling of floating can take some getting used to
- Most riding weight is 90 kg (198.4 lb)
- costly
Specification:
Brand | Model Name | Price | Weight | Weight (Cleats and Hardware) | Float | Stack Height | Colour |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Time | Time Xpro 12 | £199 | 188g | 85g | Adjustable to 16 degrees | / | Black and red |
Favero Assioma Duo pedals – Best Road Bike Pedals

The Favero Assioma Duo pedals are considered among the best road bike pedals for cyclists seeking precision and performance. What sets these pedals apart is their dual-sided power measurement system, with a power meter integrated into each pedal’s spindle. This allows riders to check not only their total power output but also the difference between left and right leg contributions. providing valuable insights into their cycling efficiency and technique. Throughout our testing, the Assioma Duo delivered consistent and accurate readings. even when switching between different bikes, making it a reliable choice for any cyclist.
One of the standout features of the Favero Assioma Duo is its user-friendly smartphone application. This app enables cyclists to update the pedal’s firmware, check battery levels, and access product support, all with ease. Speaking of battery life, the Assioma Duo is equipped with a rechargeable battery that can last up to an impressive 50 hours on a single charge. This is a significant advantage over traditional power meter pedals that often rely on disposable button batteries. making the Assioma Duo both cheap and environmentally friendly.
Despite their high-tech features, the Assioma Duo pedals maintain a relatively straightforward design like Look pedals. which makes them accessible to a wide range of riders. While they are bulkier than some other options on the market the included Look-style cleats may not be the most optimal. the value provided by the precision, durability. and intuitive application makes the Favero Assioma Duo pedals a top contender in the realm of best road bike pedals. Priced at £639, they cater to cyclists who rank performance and data-driven training.
Pros:
- Double-sided pedal for accurate power readings
- Rechargeable battery
- Dedicated applications that are easy to use
- Replaceable pedal body
Cons:
- The included Look style studs are not the best
- bulkier
- Compared with the general pedal, the price is more expensive.
Specification:
Brand | Model Name | Price | Weight | Weight (Cleats and Hardware) | Float | Stack Height | Colour |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Favero | Favero Assioma Duo pedals | £639 | 305g | / | / | / | Black |
Dura-Ace 9100 – Best Road Bike Pedals

The Shimano Dura-Ace 9100 pedals stand out as some of the best road bike pedals available on the market today. renowned for their combination of performance, durability, and thoughtful design. Weighing in at 234 grams for the pedals alone, or 272 grams when including the cleats, they are certainly not the lightest option. yet they offer a superb balance of features that justify their presence in any serious cyclist’s kit. The Dura-Ace 9100 utilizes a molded composite body paired with three bonded plates. which enhances structural integrity while keeping the weight manageable.
One of the standout characteristics of the Dura-Ace pedals is their smoothness and reliability. thanks to the inclusion of more needle bearings that enhance support and longevity. This results in an impressively fluid feel when pedaling. allowing for better performance and responsiveness on the road. Additionally, the design promotes an optimal balance that ensures easy clipping in and out.a feature that can be crucial during competitive rides or quick transitions. With a stack height of 14.6 mm, the Dura-Ace pedals also cater to those who prefer a lower platform for improved stability and power transfer.
The Dura-Ace 9100 pedals come equipped with Shimano’s blue anti-slip cleats. which provide 2 degrees of float, though they can be swapped for 0 or 6 degrees to suit individual rider preferences. With a price tag of $280, they not only offer great performance but also come with a three-year extended warranty. surpassing the two-year warranty provided for other Shimano products. While SRAM and Campagnolo groupset users might hesitate to mix brands. the Dura-Ace 9100 pedals remain a top-tier choice for cyclists seeking high-quality, reliable components that enhance their riding experience.
Pros:
- Super smooth, reliable, and easy retention adjustment+
- Perfect balance means they’re easy to clip into
- Worldwide availability of spares
Cons:
- No aero claims-
- SRAM and Campagnolo groupset owners mightn’t want the Shimano ‘clash’
Specification:
Brand | Model Name | Price | Weight | Weight (Cleats and Hardware) | Float | Stack Height | Colour |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shimano | Dura-Ace 9100 | $280 | 234g | 305g | 2 degrees (replaceable with 0 or 6) | 14.6mm | Black and White |
What are clipless road bike pedals?
clipless road bike pedals are a type of bicycle pedal that allows the rider to attach their cycling shoes directly to the pedal using a cleat mechanism. creating a secure connection between the shoe and pedal. This system enhances efficiency by enabling the rider to transfer power more effectively during pedaling. as they can push down and pull up on the pedals, optimizing each stroke. Unlike traditional pedals with toe clips or straps, clipless pedals allow for easier entry and exit. riders simply click their shoes into place when cycling and can release them with a simple twisting motion. They come in various designs and float options, catering to different riding styles and preferences. making them a popular choice among road cyclists and mountain bikers alike.
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Which cleats should I use?
First, if you are using a Road Bike, then you need to choose a splint that is compatible with Road Bike Pedals. Splints come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the brand you choose as well as different mounting methods and regulatory issues. If you’re using clip-free pedals for the first time. you may want to choose splints that are more adjustable so you can fine-tune your fit to help you get used to them.
What are the best road cycling pedals for beginners?
For beginners, choosing the right road bike pedals is crucial for an enjoyable cycling experience. Here are some of the best road bike pedals recommended for those just starting:
- Shimano SPD-SL:
- Pros: These pedals are ideal for road cycling, offering excellent stability between the pedal and shoe. They feature a user-friendly release mechanism, making it easy for beginners to learn how to use them quickly.
- Cons: The limited float range (2 degrees) may not suit everyone.
- Look Keo Classic 3:
- Pros: Lightweight and reasonably priced, these pedals provide durability and a large contact area for a comfortable riding experience. The floating options cater to different riding styles.
- Cons: They have fewer tension change options compared to higher-end pedals.
- Wahoo Speedplay Zero:
- Pros: With a dual-sided design, they are easy to step into and offer up to 15 degrees of float, making them suitable for riders who need extra flexibility. Their low stack height also helps improve pedaling efficiency.
- Cons: Installation and adjustments can be somewhat complex for beginners.
- Time Xpro 10:
- Pros: These pedals have a unique design and provide excellent foot feel and a larger surface area for better pedaling stability. The iClic system makes stepping in very straightforward.
- Cons: The price may be a bit high for budget-conscious beginners.
- Giant Contact SLR:
- Pros: These affordable and user-friendly pedals deliver solid performance and stability. making them great for beginners.
- Cons: They have limited floating options.
When choosing the right road bike pedals, beginners should consider their riding style. comfort level, and whether they need adjustable float features. Additionally, ensure that the selected pedals are compatible with their cycling shoes.
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FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right pedal is not just about compatibility, but also about balancing comfort, performance, and durability to match your riding style. From lightweight carbon fiber models to rugged aluminum options, this list of the 6+ Best Road bike pedals of 2025 is here to help. No matter which pedal you choose, the right investment in quality pedals will increase your efficiency, reduce fatigue, and enhance your overall riding experience.
In addition to pedal types, there are many other important accessories on a road bike that work together to complete the ride. Examples: Carbon Road Bike Handlebars, Carbon Bike Stem, Carbon Fork Road Bike, Carbon Bike Seatpost, and other related accessories. Of course, you can also use the Bicycle Handlebar Extensions to meet your own needs and install some other Bike Handlebar Accessories types for your use.
In short, in Different types of Bikes, the choice of pedal Type will be different, and that is, if you have a road bike, then how to adjust the road bike handlebar angle is also a very important part, which will be of obvious help to your riding experience.