Choosing your first pair of clipless pedals can be daunting. This article details a head-to-head comparison of two popular options for beginner mountain bikers: Shimano SPD and Crankbrothers Mallet pedals. Both offer platform pedals for added security, a crucial feature for those new to clipless systems. However, their design and functionality differ significantly, impacting the overall riding experience and learning curve. This review explores the pros and cons of each, based on real-world experiences, offering insights into which pedal might be the better fit for your skill level and riding style.We'll dive into the nuances of each pedal system, from initial setup and practice sessions to on-trail performance. We'll examine the adjustable tension of Shimano SPDs, comparing it to the fixed release point of Crankbrothers Mallet pedals. This comparison will highlight the importance of finding the right balance between secure engagement, power transfer, and the ease of unclipping, particularly for beginners who are still developing their clipless riding skills and confidence. Ultimately, this review aims to help you make an informed decision to ensure a safe and enjoyable transition to clipless pedals.
Pros And Cons
- Adjustable tension (30 clicks)
- Felt amazing and confident on the trail initially
- Good for beginners due to adjustable spring tension
- Unclipped unexpectedly during a jump
- Initial adjustment needed to find optimal tension
- Felt amazing on the trail
- No unclipping during jumps
- Provides a locked-in feel
- More complicated installation (shims, screws)
- No adjusters for release point, requires new cleats for adjustment
- Stiffer than Shimano pedals
- Difficult to unclip for the reviewer due to ankle injury
Read more: 5 Best Child Bike Pedals for Smooth Rides
Initial Setup and First Impressions
My clipless pedal journey began with a comparison of two popular choices: Shimano SPD and Crankbrothers Mallet. Both offer platforms for added security, a crucial feature for novices. I started with the Shimano SPDs, drawn to their adjustability – 30 clicks of tension adjustment, offering a personalized fit.
Setting the Shimano SPDs to the middle setting (15 clicks) felt like a good starting point. I then spent time practicing clipping in and out repeatedly to build muscle memory and confidence before venturing onto the trails.
Initial testing on easier trails with the Shimano SPDs revealed a noticeable 'float'—a slight side-to-side movement within the pedal. Though this offered some initial comfort, it also contributed to unforeseen complications later on.
Shimano SPD Trail Experience
Initially, the Shimano SPDs felt incredible. The connection with the bike was immediate, boosting my confidence in turning and jumping. I felt truly integrated with my bike, enjoying a fluid and responsive ride.
However, this positive experience took a sharp turn when I unexpectedly unclipped mid-air during a jump. The sudden loss of control and the resulting near-fall instilled a palpable sense of fear, abruptly ending my ride.
This unsettling experience highlighted a crucial aspect of clipless pedals: finding the right balance between security and ease of unclipping is essential, especially for beginners.
Crankbrothers Mallet Setup and Initial Impressions
Next, I moved on to the Crankbrothers Mallet pedals, which are visually striking. But my prior experience with the brand was less-than-stellar, leaving me with some reservations.
Installation proved more complex than the Shimanos, involving various shims and screws. I used pre-owned cleats to avoid unnecessary expense, hoping to achieve a more forgiving release point.
Practice sessions with the Crankbrothers Mallet revealed a significantly stiffer feel compared to the Shimanos, with the release point being non-adjustable without new cleats.
Crankbrothers Mallet Trail Experience and Conclusion
My experience with the Crankbrothers Mallet pedals on the trails was transformative. The rigid connection provided exceptional control and confidence, especially during jumps.
The lack of float, while initially intimidating, proved advantageous in maintaining pedal engagement and power transfer. However, my pre-existing ankle injury made unclipping on my left foot impossible—a significant drawback.
Ultimately, the Crankbrothers Mallet pedals offer superior performance for experienced riders seeking maximum control and power transfer. But for beginners, the adjustable release tension of the Shimano SPD pedals and their more forgiving nature are invaluable.
Overall Assessment and Recommendations
The Shimano SPD pedals, with their adjustable tension, provide a much gentler learning curve for beginners. The ability to fine-tune the release mechanism allows for a more comfortable and safer introduction to clipless pedals.
Conversely, the Crankbrothers Mallet pedals deliver superior performance in terms of power transfer and secure engagement, but this comes at the cost of a steeper learning curve and a non-adjustable release.
For beginner mountain bikers, the Shimano SPD pedals are the clear winner due to their adjustability and forgiving nature. While the Crankbrothers Mallet pedals offer a more powerful and responsive ride, they are better suited for experienced riders.