Flat vs Clipless Pedals: Which is better? 2025

Pedals play a vital role in cycling, directly affecting the control, comfort, and efficiency of your bike. Whether you’re riding on the road, on trails, or commuting in the city, choosing the right pedal system can greatly impact your experience.

Riders often choose between flat pedals and self-locking pedals. The flat pedal offers freedom and versatility, allowing the rider to use any shoe and quickly adjust the position of the foot. In contrast, self-locking pedals can be firmly attached to the bike. thereby improving pedaling efficiency and stability. This article will analyze between the two Flat vs Clipless Pedals

The differences, advantages and comparative analysis of pedal types to help you quickly choose a pedal that is right for you and improve your riding efficiency.

What are Flat Bike Pedals?

Flat bike pedals originated in the early 19th century, which is the design of simple foot pedals used by the earliest bicycles. But flat pedals appeared in the mid-19th century, when metal pedals used non-slip surfaces to improve grip. It was not until the late 20th century that the rise of BMX, mountain bikes, and extreme cycling further promoted the evolution of Flat bike pedals.

It can be said that Flat pedals are open bicycle pedals without fixed locks. which can be trampled directly by ordinary shoes without special bike lock shoes. Because of its large contact surface, it is equipped with anti-slip nails on its surface. which can prevent your feet from slipping out during the process of stepping, providing high grip and traction. Suitable for beginners. Compared to the lockstep, the flat step provides a higher degree of freedom; you can set foot at any time, and it is convenient. and there is no need to go to the more unlock. Among them, the Flat pedals launched by the Falcarbon Bike brand are worth recommending. They are suitable for using lightweight materials, concave profiles, and high-performance flat pedals with sealed bearings. which are loved by the majority of riders.

FPD5.0 Aluminum Alloy Bike Pedal

Features of Flat Bike Pedals

Flat bike pedals adopt a flat design, there is no structure design such as a lock, so we do not need to use special card shoes. You only need to wear ordinary shoes to step on; this style of foot pedal is suitable for any shoe. Whether you are mountain biking or recreational cycling, this operation allows you to achieve the choice of free foot landing. It is also the first choice for beginners.

What are the advantages of Flat Bike Pedals?

It is suitable for beginners and is low-cost: there is no need to master the unlocking skills of the lock pedal. It is more intuitive and safer and can reduce the risk of falling.
Compatible with any footwear: no need to match special cycling shoes, suitable for any ordinary shoes.
Best option for long distances: Flat pedals can remove the foot at any time and are not permanently attached to the pedal. so they allow for a more natural movement, reducing the risk of hot spots, knee strains, or discomfort on long rides.
Easier technical alignment and foot change: allows you to change the position of your feet at any time and allows you to place your feet freely. Allow you to adapt slowly to the control of complex terrain, adjust the stampede and riding.
Quick disassembly: Because there is no splint attachment, riders can quickly remove their feet in an emergency. keeping them steady and reducing the risk of falling.
Durable maintenance: Flat bike pedals, because of its simple design, care is relatively simple. fewer parts by you, so basically will not hide dirt, very easy to clean and maintain.

What are the disadvantages of Flat Bike Pedals?

It makes it easier for riders to land on technical sections. but also more convenient, without the need to learn how to unlock or use specialized footwear.
Because there is no fixed connection, the stampede efficiency is not as stable as the lock step. Treadling for long distances increases stress on muscles and joints.
When riding on rough and steep roads, the control is weak.
Flat pedals and regular shoes generate more resistance than streamlined clip-free systems. It can also be said that the aerodynamic performance is poor.

What are Clipless Pedals/Pedal locks?

Clipless Pedals/Pedal locks are a bicycle pedal system that requires a professional shoe lock. in which the rider attaches his or her foot to the pedal through a sole lock piece to improve pedaling efficiency and stability. But the concept of Clipless Pedals originated in 1984, when French brand Look introduced the world’s first true lock pedal (Look PP65). borrowing the principles of ski reps, which revolutionized the road bike pedal system. Before this, riders mainly used traditional pedals with ankle buckles and straps. which caused inconvenience during use and were not stable enough.

After the introduction of the Look lock pedal, it was quickly adopted by professional teams. Leading bike brands such as Shimano (SPD and SPD-SL), LOOK Keo, Wahoo Speedplay, Crankbrothers. and Time all introduced their locking systems until the 1990s. Clipless Pedals/Pedal locks became standard on road, mountain, competitive cycling, and triathlons. Clipless Pedals/Pedal locks can greatly improve pedal efficiency, reduce leg fatigue, and make the ride smoother.

Features of Clipless Pedals/Pedal Lock

Clipless Pedals/Pedal locks are made up of special pedals and sole lock pieces that riders must use compatible lock shoes to secure to their feet. It can step down and lift at the same time, and improve the stampede efficiency to reduce capacity loss. Its efficient stability is widely used in road cycling, mountain racing, and long-distance riding. and is the preferred equipment for professional cyclists.

What are the advantages of Clipless Pedals/Pedal locks?

Improved treadle rate and power connection: Lock treadle allows the rider to push down and lift up at the same time. which ensures most force is applied throughout the pedal and improves treadle efficiency.
Increased control for a more stable ride: Because the shoe is locked, there is no risk of the foot slipping off. In the stampede process, there will be more stable riding.
Customizable float and tension: Most clip-free systems offer adjustable release tension. and float Settings (0°-15°) that allow riders to fine-tune their splint position for a more comfortable posture, which is aerodynamic. eliminates the need to waste energy adjusting the foot position, and increases efficiency.
Reduce leg fatigue on long rides: evenly distribute the power of leg muscles to improve riding comfort. and reduce muscle fatigue caused by long rides.

What are the disadvantages of Clipless Pedals/Pedal locks?

Not for beginners: For novices, it is more difficult to know how to unlock the trick to make it fall off quickly. And prone to falling in an emergency.
Special riding shoes need to be configured: ordinary shoes cannot be used; only riding shoes with lock pieces can be used.
High cost: Clip-free pedal systems must have pedals and compatible bike shoes. and are more expensive than traditional flat pedals.
Improper change can lead to knee strain: Improper positioning of cleats or floating Settings can lead to knee pain and discomfort.
Clip-free pedals must be snapped in and out effectively, which is challenging for beginners and increases the risk of falling at low speeds.

Video: Clipless VS Pedals Flat for MTB

The comparison between Clipless VS Pedals Flat for MTB can be described in the video above. Take a closer look at the differences between the two below.

Flat vs Clipless Pedals: How do you choose?

The comparison of Flat bike pedals and Clipless Pedals depends on efficiency, speed, riding style, safety, terrain adaptability, injury prevention, and commuting between the two. What you need to know is that Clipless Pedals offers high efficiency, pacing, and faster sprint performance. Flat pedals can achieve freedom of movement, easier transition, and lower hand risk.

Here is a comparison table for Flat Pedals vs. Clipless Pedals to help with your choice:

Factor	Flat Pedals	Clipless Pedals
Riding Style	Suitable for mountain biking, technical riding, BMX, and urban cycling where quick foot adjustments are needed.	It requires learning how to clip in and unclip, which may take time to master.
Learning Curve	Easy to use, no special skills required. Great for beginners.	Less efficient, and cannot pull up on the pedal stroke, but offers flexibility.
Efficiency	Works with any type of shoe, making it practical for commuting and casual rides.	More efficient, allows for both downward and upward pedaling motion, improving power transfer.
Convenience	Works with any type of shoe, making it practical for commuting and casual rides.	Requires special cycling shoes with cleats, limiting off-bike mobility.
Safety	Safer for beginners, as you can quickly place your foot on the ground.	Risk of falling if you fail to unclip, especially when stopping suddenly.
Terrain Suitability	Best for rough, technical terrains where frequent foot adjustments are needed.	Best for smooth, open roads where consistent pedaling efficiency is key.
Velocity	Flat pedals are less focused on speed but can provide better control for dynamic riding.	The self-locking pedal is more suitable for high-speed riding due to stable foot positioning and optimal transmission force.
Knee pain	Flat pedals allow for more natural movement and can reduce the strain on your knees during high-intensity riding.	Self-locking pedals, if adjusted correctly for cleat positioning and float. can stiffen knee pressure.

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FAQ

Is clipless better than flat?

Both Clipless and Pedals Flat for MTB are different. Using the Pedals will help you get over bumpy roads and rocks easily because the Pedals Flat requires professional riding shoes. So your feet are more stable and less likely to bounce around on dangerous, rough, steep roads because they’re attached to spikes. Although the Pedals Flat is smaller than the Clipless, you get a lot more control, especially on the rear wheels.

Do any pro cyclists use flat pedals?

In professional cycling, Clipless Pedals are commonly used by most road and track racers. Because it can provide stampede efficiency and speed, as well as stability. but in some sports CNOOC has a few career options will choose Flat Pedals.
Former professional downhill racer Sam Hill, for example. used the Flat pedal in world-class competitions and won world championships. You can switch and adjust your feet and posture at any time. In BMX races, but, many riders use Flat Pedals because of their explosive power and flexible foot action. while Clipless Pedals limit technical action. So, the choice of pedals depends not only on the profession but also on the type of race and riding style.

Do clipless pedals make a difference?

For big races, choosing Clipless Pedals will have more advantages than Flat bike Pedals. But Clipless Pedals may not be for regular commuter riders. So not all bikes are suitable for installing it, it still has a certain difference.

How do you not fall with clipless pedals?

For less skilled riders, to avoid falling when using a self-locking pedal, you can now practice in a relatively safe and open area. First, we need to learn to reduce the tension of the splint to the lowest level, so that you can easily and quickly untie it. Then, practice buttoning and unbuttoning while still, against a wall, or using a railing for support. Finally, when you are riding, stop ahead of time and slowly unfasten one foot before coming to a safe stop. which will prevent you from getting stuck due to unproficiency. Then stay relaxed. Just get good at the process.

What types of bikes do Clipless Pedals work on?

Clipless Pedals are generally suitable for road cycling, mountain biking (XC, endurance) gravel biking, off-road, and triathlon, among others. Because Clipless Pedals can improve treadle efficiency, power transmission and foot stability. it is very suitable for long-distance and high-tech road sections.

Conclusion: Which is better, flat vs clipless pedals?

According to the above article about Flat vs Clipless Pedals, if you value freedom. comfort and versatility, then Flat Pedals is the better choice, especially for daily commuting. Because Flat Pedals can be applied to any shoe and can easily adjust foot movements, it can be said that it is the best choice for beginners.

So, if you rank efficiency and speed along with stable performance and power transmission, Clipless Pedals may be right for you. Because it can firmly connect your feet and cleats to the pedal, thereby improving the trampled efficiency. These Clipless Pedals are popular with veteran riders and competitive riders alike. In the end Flat vs Clipless Pedals: Which is better? This will depend on your own needs, riding style personal preferences, etc.