For competitive cyclists, every detail matters. When it comes to maximizing your performance on the road, the connection between you and your bike is paramount. Among the crucial contact points – saddle, handlebars, and pedals – racing bike pedals stand out as power transfer hubs. They are not just platforms to rest your feet; they are engineered instruments designed to boost your efficiency, speed, and ultimately, your race results.
Choosing the right Pedals For Racing Bikes can feel overwhelming. The market is saturated with options, from various brands to different cleat systems, each promising enhanced performance. This guide cuts through the noise, providing you with expert insights into selecting the best pedals to propel you to the finish line faster. We’ve rigorously tested a range of road pedals featured on BikeRadar, and in this article, we bring you our top recommendations and essential buying advice tailored for racers.
If budget is a concern, you might also want to check out our guide to cheap bike pedals, although for racing, investing in performance-oriented pedals can be a game-changer.
Editor’s note: This guide was updated on January 3, 2025, to reflect the latest models and testing insights.
Top Racing Bike Pedals of 2025: Expert Reviews
Shimano 105 R7000 Pedals: The Reliable All-Rounder for Racers
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Shimano 105 R7000 pedals offer a balance of performance for racing cyclists
- Price: £120 / $150 / AU$189 (as tested)
- Pros: Dependable performance, adjustable float for knee comfort, excellent power transmission for sprints, robust build quality for race conditions.
- Cons: Slightly heavier than top-tier racing pedals, not the absolute lightest for uphill finishes.
The Shimano 105 R7000 pedals are a fantastic choice for racers seeking a blend of performance and value. As part of the esteemed 105 series, these pedals inherit design elements from Shimano’s higher-end Ultegra and Dura-Ace lines, ensuring race-ready quality without the premium price tag.
A key feature for competitive cyclists is the wide pedal body with stainless steel inserts. This design provides a stable and secure platform, crucial for efficient power transfer during intense pedaling efforts, whether you’re launching an attack or sprinting for the finish line. The stiffness and solid feel translate directly to responsive acceleration and sustained speed.
These pedals utilize Shimano’s three-bolt cleat system, known for its reliability and secure engagement. Racers will appreciate the availability of different cleat options with varying degrees of float. The included yellow cleats offer 6 degrees of float, allowing for natural foot movement and reducing knee strain during long races or aggressive riding positions. Adjusting the release tension is straightforward with an Allen key, enabling riders to customize the feel based on their experience level and race demands. The pedal’s design also ensures it hangs at an optimal angle for quick and easy clip-ins, saving precious seconds in race scenarios.
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Time XPro 10 Pedals: Featherlight Champions for Climbers and Sprinters
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Time XPro 10 racing bike pedals are incredibly lightweight for competitive cycling
- Price: £150 / $195 / AU$199.95 (as tested)
- Pros: Exceptionally lightweight – ideal for climbers and weight-conscious racers, smooth float action for comfort during long races, efficient power transfer despite minimal weight.
- Cons: Higher price point, may not be as durable as heavier options for very demanding racing conditions.
For racers who prioritize weight above all else, particularly climbers and those looking for every possible advantage on uphill finishes, the Time XPro 10 pedals are a top contender. These pedals are an evolution of the Time Xpresso range, renowned for their lightness, and the XPro 10 pushes the boundaries even further with a hollow steel axle to minimize weight without sacrificing essential performance.
The core of the XPro design is the carbon flexion blade. Unlike traditional steel spring mechanisms, this blade keeps the clip mechanism open until cleat entry, providing a user-friendly experience while contributing to the pedal’s overall lightweight design. While they might not always hang perfectly tail-down, clipping in is intuitive and secure, and the new cleats enhance engagement certainty, vital for quick starts and re-engagements during races.
For the ultimate weight saving, racers can consider the Time XPro 15 (formerly Xpresso 15). Though pricier, the minimal weight offers a tangible advantage for serious competitors. The XPro 10 provides an excellent balance of lightweight design and performance for racers seeking an edge on climbs and sprints.
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Wahoo Speedplay Zero Pedals: Customizable and Comfortable for Demanding Races
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Wahoo Speedplay Zero pedals offer customizable float for racing cyclists with specific needs
- Price: £199.99 / $229.99 / €229.99 (as tested)
- Pros: Fully adjustable float for personalized fit, double-sided entry for rapid engagement in race situations, walkable cleats for convenience at race venues, durable cleat design.
- Cons: Cleats can be susceptible to mud accumulation, higher price compared to some alternatives.
Following Wahoo’s acquisition of Speedplay, the Wahoo Speedplay Zero pedals maintain the core features that made the original Speedplay Zero pedals a favorite among discerning cyclists, especially racers who value customization and comfort. The revamp by Wahoo has further refined these pedals for modern racing demands.
A standout feature for racers is the double-sided entry. This eliminates fumbling to find the correct pedal orientation, allowing for quick and confident clip-ins, crucial in race starts, sprints, and after navigating corners. The inclusion of walkable cleats as standard is another practical advantage, minimizing cleat wear and tear when walking around before and after races.
The non-centering float of the Speedplay Zero pedals might require a slight adjustment for riders accustomed to other systems. However, this design allows your feet to find their natural pedaling position, potentially increasing comfort and reducing the risk of knee pain – a significant benefit for endurance racers and those prone to discomfort. The fully adjustable float is a major draw for racers seeking a highly personalized setup to optimize biomechanics and power output.
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Look Keo 2 Max Pedals: Stable and Efficient for Powerful Racing
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Look Keo 2 Max road bike pedals provide excellent stability for racing performance
- Price: £79.99 / $114.99 / AU$153.99 (as tested)
- Pros: Excellent pedaling stability for strong riders, composite body keeps weight reasonable, adjustable spring tension for customized feel, good value for performance.
- Cons: Cleats can be prone to squeaking in muddy conditions, not the lightest option available.
The Look Keo 2 Max pedals represent Look’s mid-range offering in the Keo series, and with each iteration, they continue to improve, making them a solid choice for racers looking for reliable performance without breaking the bank. This generation boasts a lightweight composite body, mirroring the design of higher-end Keo models, and features a serrated center to enhance shoe traction for easier clip-in.
Racers will appreciate the pedaling stability offered by the Keo 2 Max. The oversized chromoly axles, combined with loose balls and needle cartridge bearings, ensure smooth and consistent rotation even under high pedaling loads during sprints and climbs. The adjustable spring tension allows riders to fine-tune the clip-in/out feel to match their preferences and racing style. Supplied with Look’s 4.5-degree float cleats, these pedals provide a comfortable and efficient pedaling platform for various race distances and intensities.
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Look Keo 2 Max Carbon Pedals: Enhanced Power Transfer for Competitive Cyclists
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Look Keo 2 Max Carbon pedals are designed for efficient power transfer in racing conditions
- Price: £95 / $125 / AU$187 (as tested)
- Pros: Sturdy and dependable mid-range pedal for racing, user-friendly with ample adjustability, secure pedaling platform for aggressive riding, enhanced power transfer compared to entry-level options.
- Cons: Incremental benefits over the standard Keo 2 Max may not justify the price increase for all racers.
Stepping up from the Keo 2 Max, the Look Keo 2 Max Carbon pedals bring carbon fiber construction to the mid-range, delivering advanced technology at a more accessible price point for racers. The carbon body, topped with a stainless steel plate, provides an increased surface area compared to the Look Keo Classic 2, specifically designed to maximize power transfer – a critical factor in racing.
Inside, a chromoly steel axle spins on needle and ball bearings, ensuring smooth and efficient performance under the intense demands of racing. Whether you’re powering through climbs or unleashing sprints, these pedals maintain a consistent and responsive feel. Engagement is marked by a reassuring ‘click’, and the connection remains secure throughout the pedal stroke. Disengagement is equally predictable and straightforward. The standard 4.5 degrees of float can be adjusted by swapping cleats, allowing for customization based on rider preference and biomechanics.
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Look Keo Blade Ceramic Pedals: Aerodynamic Efficiency and Performance Bearings for Race Day
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Look Keo Blade Ceramic Pedals are engineered for performance with ceramic bearings for racing cyclists
- Price: £200 / $252 / €210 (as tested)
- Pros: Wide platform for maximum power transfer, secure and positive clip-in for confident engagement, Keo Grip cleats included for enhanced walkability, ceramic bearings for reduced friction.
- Cons: Aerodynamic and ceramic bearing benefits may be marginal for some racers, higher price point.
The Look Keo Blade Ceramic pedals are positioned as a performance-oriented option for racers seeking every possible advantage. While the performance gains over previous models might be incremental, these pedals offer tangible benefits in terms of stability, engagement, and potentially, efficiency.
The wide platform is designed to optimize power transfer, providing a solid base for forceful pedaling during sprints and climbs. The updated clip-in mechanism offers a crisp and positive engagement feel, enhancing rider confidence in race situations. The inclusion of durable Keo Grip cleats adds practicality with improved walkability. Ceramic bearings are incorporated to minimize friction, potentially contributing to smoother rotation and marginal gains in efficiency, though these benefits might be subtle in real-world racing scenarios. For racers focused on marginal gains and high-performance components, the Keo Blade Ceramic pedals are a premium option.
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Shimano PD-R550 Pedals: Reliable and Durable for Training and Entry-Level Racing
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Shimano PD-R550 pedals offer great value and durability for racing bike training
- Pros: Stable platform for efficient pedaling, well-constructed and durable for long-term use, easily serviceable for maintenance, excellent value for money.
- Cons: Heavier than higher-end racing pedals, axles may require a break-in period for optimal smoothness, cleats may need to be changed for different float options.
The Shimano PD-R550 pedals are the second most affordable option in Shimano’s road pedal range, offering a significant step up from the RS500 with a larger, replaceable stainless steel body. These pedals are a great choice for racers who need reliable performance for training and entry-level competition without a hefty investment.
Equipped with Shimano’s yellow SH11 cleats, offering six degrees of float, the PD-R550 provides a comfortable and familiar feel for many riders. The oversized black-finished steel axles are robust, and the pedals are user-serviceable using Shimano’s TL–PD40 tool, enhancing their longevity.
In terms of performance, the R550 pedals are surprisingly similar to Shimano’s premium offerings. The main difference is the increased weight, which is a minor consideration for training and less critical races. The cleats are durable, though care should be taken to avoid damaging the front edge when walking, as this can affect engagement. Shimano’s system is known for its stable platform and secure engagement, offering a confident feel compared to some other systems. Overall, the PD-R550 pedals are a dependable and value-oriented choice for racers seeking Shimano quality and performance at a more accessible price.
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Shimano Ultegra R8000 Pedals: The Sweet Spot of Performance and Weight for Serious Racers
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Shimano Ultegra R8000 pedals strike a balance of weight and performance for road racing
- Price: £157 / $200 / AU$249 (as tested)
- Pros: Lightweight design for improved climbing and acceleration, adjustable tension for personalized feel, high-performing pedals with generous float, durable construction for race conditions.
- Cons: More expensive than 105 pedals, weight savings may not be crucial for all racers.
The Shimano Ultegra R8000 pedals hit the sweet spot for many serious racers, offering a superb balance of performance, weight, and durability. Mirroring the qualities of the Ultegra R8000 groupset, these pedals deliver near Dura-Ace level performance at a more attainable price, while being lighter than the 105 models.
The sleek carbon composite body, reinforced with three non-replaceable stainless steel plates, provides an optimal combination of low weight, durability, smooth float, and efficient power transfer. These pedals are designed to withstand the rigors of racing while maximizing performance. Shimano’s familiar yellow cleats, offering 6 degrees of float, are included, providing comfortable and natural foot movement.
Clipping in is effortless thanks to the pedal’s nose-up hang. The adjustable spring tension allows racers to customize the release force to suit their skill level and preferences. While the Ultegra R8000 pedals are pricier than the 105 R7000, the weight savings and enhanced materials make them a worthwhile upgrade for racers prioritizing performance and weight. However, for racers focused purely on performance without weight sensitivity, the slightly heavier but equally well-performing Shimano 105 R7000 pedals remain an excellent option.
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Time Xpresso 4 Pedals: Lightweight and Easy Engagement for Quick Race Starts
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Time Xpresso 4 pedals are lightweight and offer easy engagement for racing scenarios
- Pros: Lightweight design for fast acceleration, exceptionally easy engagement for quick clip-ins, generous float for comfort, competitive price point.
- Cons: Cleat wear may be a factor over time, cleats may be pricier to replace compared to some brands.
The Time Xpresso 4 pedals stand out with their unique engagement system, offering a different approach compared to other clipless pedal brands. The iClic design keeps the retention mechanism open when disengaged, similar to a ski binding. Simply pushing your foot into the pedal clamps you in, making for exceptionally easy and intuitive clip-ins – a significant advantage in race starts and dynamic racing situations.
The Xpresso 4 features a carbon-filled resin body with steel axles and bearings, balancing lightweight design with durability. While Time suggests servicing is not necessary, the pedals can be disassembled, and replacement bearing kits are available, though a specific tool (not supplied) is required.
Performance-wise, the Xpresso 4 pedals excel. Engagement is remarkably easy, and disengagement is equally smooth and predictable. Cleat wear is comparable to Shimano, though perhaps not as long-lasting as Look. It’s recommended to use genuine Time cleats for optimal performance and durability. For racers seeking lightweight pedals with exceptionally easy engagement, the Time Xpresso 4 is a compelling choice.
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Best Power Meter Pedals for Racing: Data-Driven Performance Gains
For racers seeking to quantify and optimize their training and race day performance, power meter pedals are an invaluable tool. Their ease of switching between bikes makes them a versatile option compared to crank or chainring-based power meters. For a broader overview, refer to our buyer’s guide to the best power meters.
Favero Assioma Duo Power Meter Pedals: Accurate Power Data for Training and Racing Analysis
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Favero Assioma Duo power meter pedals provide accurate power data for racing cyclists
- Price: £639 / $815 / €695 (as tested)
- Pros: Highly accurate and consistent power readings for both legs, rechargeable battery for convenience, easy bike swapping, replaceable pedal body for extended lifespan.
- Cons: Cleats offer limited adjustability, aesthetics may not be as refined as some competitors.
The Favero Assioma Duo power meter pedals are renowned for their accuracy and reliability in providing power data. With power-meter electronics housed in pods on each spindle, they deliver independent left and right leg power measurements, crucial for identifying and addressing imbalances and optimizing pedaling efficiency – vital for racers seeking every possible performance improvement.
The rechargeable batteries, offering a claimed 50-hour battery life, are a significant advantage over power meter pedals relying on coin cell batteries, reducing maintenance and ensuring consistent power data availability. A dedicated smartphone app allows for firmware updates, battery level checks, and access to product support.
While the cleats might lack extensive adjustability and can be slightly slippery when walking, the core function of accurate power measurement for training and racing analysis is where the Assioma Duo pedals excel. For racers prioritizing data-driven performance gains, these pedals are a top choice.
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Garmin Rally RS200 Power Meter Pedals: Shimano Cleat Compatibility and Robust Data for Racers
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Garmin Rally RS200 power meter pedals are compatible with Shimano cleats for racing bikes
- Price: £969.99 (as tested)
- Pros: Best-in-class Shimano SPD-SL cleat compatibility for seamless integration, easy installation and bike swapping, accurate power data for training and race analysis, convertible pedal body for use on different bike types.
- Cons: Premium price point, initial data transmission may have a slight delay.
The Garmin Rally RS200 pedals mark Garmin’s entry into the native Shimano SPD-SL power meter pedal market, a significant advantage for racers already committed to the Shimano cleat system. Garmin goes further by offering interchangeable pedal bodies, allowing conversion to Shimano SPD for off-road use on mountain and gravel bikes – increasing versatility for racers who train and compete across disciplines.
While visually similar to the outgoing Vector pedals, the Rally RS200 boasts enhanced functionality and Shimano compatibility. Power readings are accurate, providing reliable data for training and race analysis. However, testing has indicated a minor delay in initial data transmission, which might be a consideration for racers in very short-distance events like track races or hill climbs, though negligible for most road racing scenarios.
The premium price reflects the class-leading features and versatility of the Rally RS200 pedals. For racers seeking seamless Shimano cleat integration, accurate power data, and the option to use the power meter across different bike types, the Garmin Rally RS200 is a top-tier investment.
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How We Test Racing Bike Pedals: Rigorous Evaluation for Race-Ready Performance
We put road bike pedals through extensive real-world testing to assess their performance in racing conditions. Long testing periods allow us to identify both strengths and weaknesses and evaluate long-term durability. Our experienced testers, having reviewed hundreds of pedals, know precisely what to look for in a high-quality racing pedal.
Our pedal reviews are based on the following key criteria, crucial for racing performance:
- Retention: How securely does the pedal hold the cleat under high power output and during sprints?
- Platform Stability: Is the pedal platform solid and stable when pushing maximum power through it, ensuring efficient energy transfer?
- Ease of Action: How quickly and easily can you clip in and out, critical for race starts, cornering, and potential emergency dismounts?
- Serviceability: Can the pedals be easily maintained and repaired throughout their lifespan, ensuring long-term reliability for demanding race seasons?
- Value for Money: Do the pedals offer a competitive performance level relative to their price, considering other options in the racing pedal market?
Why Trust BikeRadar: Expertise and Independence in Cycling Tech Reviews
BikeRadar has been a trusted authority on bikes and cycling technology since 2007, committed to delivering the best cycling advice globally. Our team comprises expert testers who rigorously evaluate all types of bikes, components, apparel, and accessories, from road and mountain bikes to gravel, commuting, bikepacking, and electric bikes.
Our reviews are editorially independent without exception. Our reviewers conduct thorough real-world testing, consistently evaluating performance, value, and market context when forming their verdicts and review ratings.
With over 15,000 product reviews readily available, alongside expert buying guides, maintenance advice, training tips, and health and fitness insights, BikeRadar is your comprehensive resource for cycling knowledge. Our annual Bike of the Year test is an industry benchmark, and the BikeRadar team includes some of the most experienced riders and testers in the cycling industry.
Choosing the Right Racing Bike Pedals: Key Considerations for Performance
Understanding Clipless Pedals for Racing Advantage
Clipless pedals are essential for efficient power transfer in racing bikes
Road bike pedals are predominantly clipless pedals. Evolving from the older pedal and toe-clip systems, clipless pedals offer a significant performance advantage for racing. Despite the name “clipless,” they do require you to “clip in.” The term originates from the absence of traditional toe-clips.
While toe-clips rely on straps to secure the foot, clipless pedals utilize cleats attached to cycling shoes that mechanically engage with the pedal, similar to ski bindings. This system provides a far more secure and efficient connection, crucial for maximizing power transfer in racing.
Traditional toe clips and straps are less efficient for racing compared to clipless systems
To clip into clipless pedals, you press down on the pedal and push forward or downward to engage the cleat. Releasing your foot is a simple outward rotation. For a detailed guide, refer to our article on cycling with cleats.
While the underlying technology is similar across most clipless pedals, variations in design, construction, and price significantly impact performance and suitability for racing.
Different cleat types: Shimano SPD, Shimano SPD-SL, Look Keo, and Time, for various racing pedal systems
Many racers quickly recognize the benefits of clipless pedals – transitioning to them is often considered a rite of passage for road cyclists. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of clipless pedals vs flat pedals is crucial for making the right choice, though for serious road racing, clipless pedals are virtually essential.
For racers considering off-road training or gravel racing, our guides to the best mountain bike pedals and best gravel bike pedals offer relevant insights into SPD-style pedals and double-sided engagement systems.
Cleat Compatibility and Types for Racing Pedals
Shimano SPD-SL cleats, a common standard for road racing pedals
Road cleats vary in design depending on the pedal system, but most attach to cycling shoes using a three-bolt pattern. Look pioneered this three-point fastening, which has become a widely adopted standard for road pedals, used by Shimano, Time, Mavic, and others.
Shimano also utilizes smaller two-bolt cleats for some systems. Our Shimano SPD and SPD-SL explainer details the differences and applications of these systems, helping racers determine the best option for their needs, though SPD-SL is the road racing standard.
Speedplay is a notable exception with its four-bolt pattern, effectively inverting the system by placing the clip mechanism on the shoe and the pedal acting as the cleat. Speedplay pedals require four-bolt shoes or an adapter (included with pedals).
For racers new to clipless pedals or needing a refresher, our guide on how to fit and adjust cycling cleats provides essential setup information. We also offer guidance on when to replace your cycling cleats to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Float: Optimizing Comfort and Efficiency for Racing
Float allows for natural foot movement while clipped into racing pedals
Float, measured in degrees, refers to the degree of lateral foot movement allowed by the cleat and pedal system before disengagement. Float is designed to allow your feet to find their most natural and comfortable pedaling position, reducing knee stress, especially critical during long and demanding races.
Some cleats are “zero-float” or fixed, offering minimal movement and requiring very precise cleat setup to avoid knee strain. Most cleats for racing pedals provide 3 to 9 degrees of float. Higher float allows more foot movement before release, while lower float offers a more locked-in feel.
It’s important to note that more float requires a greater foot twist for disengagement. If unsure about the ideal float, experimentation with different cleats and pedal adjustments is recommended. Choosing the right float can significantly impact comfort and pedaling efficiency during races.
Release Tension: Balancing Security and Quick Exit in Race Situations
Most racing pedals offer adjustable release tension, controlling the force needed to disengage your foot. Beginner racers might prefer lower tension for easier release while learning. However, for competitive racing, a balance is needed: sufficient tension for secure foot retention during sprints and high-power efforts, yet allowing for quick release when necessary, such as in crashes or sudden stops.
As racers gain experience and confidence, increasing release tension can provide a more secure connection and enhanced power transfer. Experimenting with release tension settings to find the optimal balance for your racing style and needs is crucial.
Stack Height: Minimizing Pedal-Shoe Distance for Racing Efficiency
Lower stack height pedals can improve racing efficiency by bringing the foot closer to the axle
Stack height is the vertical distance from the pedal axle center to the shoe sole. Lower stack height is generally preferred in racing as it positions your foot closer to the axle, theoretically improving pedaling efficiency and power transfer. Lower stack height can also contribute to a more aerodynamic position by slightly lowering your overall body position on the bike.
When changing pedals, especially in racing setups, remember to adjust your saddle height to account for variations in stack height between models. Even small changes can impact bike fit and pedaling mechanics.
Q-Factor: Considering Biomechanics for Optimal Racing Performance
Professional cyclists like Caleb Ewan sometimes adjust Q-factor for biomechanical optimization in racing
Q-factor refers to the lateral distance between the outer faces of your crank arms. While technically crank arm width, it’s often used to describe stance width, or the distance between your feet when pedaling. Correct Q-factor is important for biomechanics and can impact comfort and efficiency, particularly in racing.
Determining the ideal Q-factor can be complex. If you need to increase your Q-factor, pedals with longer spindles are one option. Shimano Dura-Ace and Ultegra pedals are available with longer spindle options. Spindle extenders are also available. For more significant Q-factor adjustments, changing your crankset might be necessary. Consulting a bike fit specialist can help determine your optimal Q-factor for racing.
By carefully considering these factors and exploring the reviewed pedal options, you can select the best pedals for racing bikes to enhance your performance and achieve your competitive goals.
