Your road bike pedals are a critical connection point, essential for power transfer and cycling efficiency. Among the three contact points—saddle, handlebars, and pedals—pedals undertake significant work, securing your feet through rapid rotations while providing a firm base for powerful pushes. Selecting the ideal road bike pedals is paramount for enhancing both comfort and performance on your rides.
This guide showcases a curated selection of top-rated road bike pedals rigorously tested by BikeRadar experts. Continue reading for detailed reviews and a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you choose the best bicycle pedals for your road bike. For cyclists on a budget, we also have a dedicated guide to cheap bike pedals.
Editor’s note: This guide was updated on January 3, 2025.
Best Road Bike Pedals in 2025: Expertly Reviewed
Shimano 105 R7000 Pedals
Shimano 105 R7000 road bike pedals offer a balance of performance and price
Shimano’s 105 R7000 pedals are celebrated for their optimal blend of affordability and performance. As part of the esteemed 105 series, these road bike pedals deliver dependable performance synonymous with the Shimano brand.
Sharing the same body design as higher-tier Ultegra and Dura-Ace SPD-SL pedals, the 105 R7000s offer premium features at a more accessible price. This includes a wide pedal body enhanced with stainless steel inserts, creating a stable and secure platform for efficient power transfer during intense pedaling.
These bicycle pedals use Shimano’s three-bolt cleat system and are compatible with various Shimano cleats, including the yellow cleats provided, which offer 6 degrees of float. The release tension is easily adjustable with an Allen key, and the pedal’s design ensures it hangs in an optimal position for effortless clip-in.
Pros: Reliable performance, adjustable float, excellent power transfer.
Cons: Slightly heavier compared to top-tier models.
Time XPro 10 Pedals
Time XPro 10 bicycle pedals, lightweight option for road cyclists
The Time XPro 10 pedals represent an evolution of the Xpresso series, engineered with a hollow steel axle to minimize weight and maximize performance.
A key design element of the XPro is its carbon flexion blade mechanism. Unlike traditional steel spring systems, this innovative design keeps the clip mechanism open, facilitating easy cleat entry. The mechanism securely snaps shut upon engagement, providing a confident connection.
While incredibly lightweight, the XPro pedals maintain ease of use, though they may not always orient tail-down. For riders seeking the ultimate in lightweight performance, the XPro 15 (previously Xpresso 15) offers further weight reduction, retaining the core pedal mechanics of the XPro series. These road bike pedals are ideal for weight-conscious cyclists and racers.
Pros: Extremely light, smooth float action, ideal for racing.
Cons: Premium price point.
Wahoo Speedplay Zero Pedals
Wahoo Speedplay Zero road pedals with double-sided entry
Following Wahoo’s acquisition of Speedplay, the Wahoo Speedplay Zero pedals continue the legacy of the original Speedplay Zero, retaining popular features while benefiting from Wahoo’s innovation.
The Zero pedals are known for their double-sided entry, making clipping in quick and intuitive. They come standard with walkable cleats, reducing wear and tear and simplifying off-bike transitions. The stainless steel spindles enhance durability compared to the chromoly version, the Wahoo Speedplay Comp.
The non-centering float design allows your feet to find their natural pedaling position, which has made Speedplay pedals a favored choice for cyclists experiencing knee discomfort. These bicycle pedals provide extensive adjustability and comfort.
Pros: Double-sided entry, walkable cleats, fully adjustable, durable cleats.
Cons: Cleats can be susceptible to mud accumulation.
Look Keo 2 Max Pedals
Look Keo 2 Max road bike pedals with composite body
The Look Keo 2 Max pedals represent Look’s mid-range offering in the Keo series, incorporating significant improvements over previous generations.
Featuring a lightweight composite body, the Keo 2 Max shares design cues with higher-end Keo models and includes a serrated center for enhanced shoe traction, aiding in easy clip-in. These road bike pedals utilize oversized chromoly axles with a combination of ball bearings and needle cartridge bearings, ensuring smooth rotation.
Adjustable spring tension and included Look 4.5-degree float cleats allow for customization. These pedals offer a stable pedaling platform, ease of use, and are relatively lightweight, providing excellent performance without hot spots.
Pros: Stable pedaling, composite body, adjustable spring tension.
Cons: Cleats can be noisy in muddy conditions.
Look Keo 2 Max Carbon Pedals
Look Keo 2 Max Carbon bicycle pedals, mid-range performance option
Positioned as a mid-range option, the Look Keo 2 Max Carbon pedals bring Look’s advanced pedal technology to a more accessible price point.
The carbon pedal body is reinforced with a stainless steel plate, increasing the surface area compared to the Look Keo Classic 2, which is designed to enhance power transfer efficiency. Inside, a chromoly steel axle spins on both needle and ball bearings, ensuring smooth operation even under high pedaling forces.
Engagement is marked by a distinct ‘click’, providing a secure and confident connection. Disengagement is equally straightforward. The pedals come with 4.5-degree float cleats, with options for adjustment by swapping cleats. These road bike pedals deliver a solid and reliable performance.
Pros: Reliable mid-range pedal, easy to use, secure pedaling platform, adjustable float.
Cons: Marginal performance gains over more affordable options in the Keo range.
Look Keo Blade Ceramic Pedals
Look Keo Blade Ceramic road pedals for enhanced performance
The Look Keo Blade Ceramic pedals offer premium performance with ceramic bearings, though the performance gains are subtle compared to previous models.
These pedals provide excellent stability and a positive clip-in feel, enhanced by an updated mechanism that produces a crisp click upon engagement. Durable Keo Grip cleats are included, and the pedals are lightweight. While aerodynamic benefits and ceramic bearing advantages may be hard to discern in practical use, these are high-performing road bike pedals.
Pros: Wide platform, secure clip-in, Keo Grip cleats included.
Cons: Aero and ceramic bearing benefits may not be noticeable.
Shimano PD-R550 Pedals
Shimano PD-R550 bicycle pedals, great value for money
The Shimano PD-R550 pedals are the second most economical option in Shimano’s road pedal lineup, upgrading from the RS500 with a larger, replaceable stainless steel body plate.
These bicycle pedals are supplied with Shimano’s yellow SH11 cleats, offering 6 degrees of float. Featuring oversized, black-finished steel axles, the PD-R550 pedals are serviceable using Shimano’s TL–PD40 tool.
In use, the R550 pedals closely resemble Shimano’s higher-end offerings, with the primary difference being a slight increase in weight. The included cleats are durable, though care is needed to avoid damaging the front edge, which can affect engagement. Shimano’s system provides a stable and secure platform, outperforming Look and Time in terms of stability. These pedals are a reliable choice, well-constructed, user-serviceable, and easy to adapt to.
Pros: Stable platform, well-made, easily serviceable.
Cons: Heavier than competitors, axles may require bedding in for optimal smoothness.
Shimano Ultegra R8000 Pedals
Shimano Ultegra R8000 road cycling pedals, balance of weight and performance
The Shimano Ultegra R8000 pedals strike an ideal balance of performance and value, mirroring the qualities of the Ultegra groupset. These road bike pedals are lighter than 105 models and more affordable than Dura-Ace, offering a sweet spot for performance-oriented cyclists.
Featuring a sleek carbon composite body with stainless steel plates, the Ultegra R8000 pedals ensure durability, smooth float, and efficient power transfer. They include Shimano’s yellow cleats, providing 6 degrees of float.
Clipping in is facilitated by the pedal’s nose-up orientation. The release tension is adjustable, accommodating various skill levels and preferences. While priced higher, the Ultegra R8000 pedals offer significant performance benefits. For those prioritizing performance over marginal weight savings, the slightly heavier Shimano 105 R7000 pedals remain an excellent alternative.
Pros: Lightweight design, adjustable tension, high performance, ample float.
Cons: Higher price point.
Time Xpresso 4 Pedals
Time Xpresso 4 lightweight bicycle pedals for road cycling
Time Xpresso 4 pedals employ a unique iClic engagement system, differing significantly from other clipless pedals. This system keeps the retention mechanism open until engaged, similar to a ski binding, making clip-in exceptionally easy and intuitive.
The Xpresso 4 features a carbon-filled resin body with steel axles and bearings. Although Time suggests servicing is unnecessary, the pedals can be disassembled for maintenance with available bearing kits (requiring a specific, unsupplied tool).
Performance is excellent, with easy engagement and a solid, audible click upon entry and exit. Cleat wear is comparable to Shimano, though not as durable as Look cleats. Using authentic Time cleats is highly recommended for optimal performance. These road bike pedals are lightweight and user-friendly.
Pros: Lightweight, easy engagement, generous float.
Cons: Cleat replacement may be needed more frequently, relatively expensive.
Best Power Meter Pedals
Power meter pedals have become increasingly popular due to their portability and ease of switching between bikes, offering a significant advantage over crank or chainring-based power meters. For an extensive overview, refer to our buyer’s guide to the best power meters.
Favero Assioma Duo Power Meter Pedals
Favero Assioma Duo power meter pedals for accurate power readings
The Favero Assioma Duo power meter pedals are renowned for their precision and consistent dual-sided power measurement, achieved through integrated electronics in pods on each pedal spindle.
These power meter pedals feature rechargeable batteries, offering a claimed 50-hour battery life, a significant advantage over coin cell battery systems. A dedicated smartphone app facilitates firmware updates, battery level checks, and access to product support.
While highly functional, the included cleats offer limited adjustability and can be somewhat slippery for walking. However, for accurate and reliable power data, the Assioma Duo is a top choice among road bike pedals with power measurement.
Pros: Accurate power readings, rechargeable battery, easy bike swapping, replaceable pedal body.
Cons: Standard cleats are not ideal, less refined aesthetics.
Garmin Rally RS200 Power Meter Pedals
Garmin Rally RS200 power meter road bike pedals, Shimano SPD-SL compatible
The Garmin Rally RS200 pedals are the first native Shimano SPD-SL power meter pedals, catering to Shimano cleat users.
Garmin has enhanced versatility by offering interchangeable pedal bodies, allowing conversion to Shimano SPD for mountain and gravel biking. This adaptability justifies the rebranding from the previous Vector pedals, though core functionality and clean aesthetics remain similar.
Power readings are accurate, although initial data transmission may take a few seconds. This is generally inconsequential for most cyclists but could be a minor concern for racers in short, high-intensity events. Despite a premium price, the Rally RS200 is a class-leading power meter pedal, integrating seamlessly with Shimano cleat systems.
Pros: Shimano cleat compatibility, easy installation, accurate power data, convertible pedal body.
Cons: Premium price.
How We Test Road Bike Pedals
BikeRadar’s road bike pedal testing involves extensive real-world riding to assess performance under typical cycling conditions. Long-term testing allows our expert reviewers to identify both strengths and weaknesses, as well as evaluate durability.
Our testers, with vast experience reviewing hundreds of pedals, assess pedals based on key criteria:
- Retention: How securely the pedal holds the cleat.
- Platform Stability: The pedal’s stability for efficient power transfer.
- Ease of Action: How easily the pedal engages and disengages.
- Serviceability: The ease of maintenance and part replacement.
- Value for Money: How the pedal’s performance and features justify its price compared to competitors.
Why You Can Trust BikeRadar
BikeRadar has been a leading authority on bikes and cycling technology since 2007, providing trusted cycling advice worldwide.
Our team of experts rigorously tests a wide range of cycling products, from road and mountain bikes to gear and accessories, covering all cycling disciplines. Our reviews are editorially independent and unbiased. We conduct comprehensive real-world testing, evaluating performance, value, and market context to deliver informed verdicts and review ratings.
With over 15,000 product reviews, BikeRadar offers an extensive resource for cycling information, alongside expert guides on buying, maintenance, training, and health. Our annual Bike of the Year awards are a respected industry benchmark, and our team comprises some of the most experienced cycling testers in the industry.
What to Look for When Buying Road Bike Pedals
What is a Clipless Pedal?
Clipless road bike pedals require cycling shoes with cleats
Road bike pedals are predominantly clipless pedals. Despite the name, clipless pedals require you to ‘clip in’. They evolved from traditional pedal and toe-clip systems. Clipless pedals replace toe-clips and straps with cleats attached to cycling shoes that mechanically engage with the pedal, similar to ski bindings.
Traditional bicycle pedals with toe clips and straps
To clip in, press down and forward on the pedal. To release, rotate your heel outward. For detailed instructions, see our guide on cycling with cleats. While most clipless pedals share basic technology, variations exist in design, construction, and price.
Various road bike cleats: Shimano SPD, Shimano SPD-SL, Look Keo, and Time cleats
Clipless pedals offer numerous benefits, becoming a rite of passage for road cyclists. They offer advantages over flat pedals, but the choice depends on riding style and preference. If flat pedals are preferred, explore our guide to the best mountain bike pedals or best gravel bike pedals for suitable options, including double-sided SPD pedals.
Cleats
Shimano SPD-SL road bike cleats with three-bolt pattern
Road cleats generally use a three-bolt pattern for shoe attachment, a standard pioneered by Look and adopted by Shimano, Time, and Mavic. Some systems, like Shimano SPD, use smaller two-bolt cleats, often favored for mountain biking and touring due to easier walkability. Our Shimano SPD vs SPD-SL guide provides more detail on choosing between these systems.
Speedplay pedals are a notable exception, using a four-bolt cleat pattern and inverting the system by placing the clip mechanism on the shoe. Speedplay pedals include adaptors for compatibility with standard four-bolt shoes. For setup guidance, refer to our guide on how to fit and adjust cycling cleats and our guide on when to replace cycling cleats.
Float
Close-up of a foot clipping into a road bike pedal, showing float
Float refers to the degree of lateral foot movement allowed before cleat disengagement, typically measured in degrees. Float enables natural foot positioning during pedaling, reducing knee stress if cleats are not perfectly aligned.
Zero-float cleats offer no movement and require precise setup to prevent knee strain. Most cleats offer 3 to 9 degrees of float. Higher float requires greater foot twist for release. Experiment with different cleats and pedal settings to find your ideal float.
Release Tension
Adjustable release tension is a common feature in most road bike pedals. Lower tension settings facilitate easier clip-in and release, ideal for beginners. As confidence grows, increasing tension provides a more secure connection.
Stack Height
Road cyclist riding a Scott Foil 10 road bike, highlighting stack height
Stack height is the vertical distance from the pedal axle center to the shoe sole. Lower stack height is generally preferred for improved pedaling efficiency by positioning the foot closer to the axle. Changing pedals may necessitate saddle height adjustments due to variations in stack height.
Q-Factor
Professional cyclist Caleb Ewan, demonstrating Q-factor consideration
Q-factor, or stance width, is the lateral distance between your feet while pedaling. Adjusting Q-factor can optimize biomechanics. Increasing Q-factor can be achieved by using pedals with longer spindles, such as Shimano Dura-Ace and Ultegra models, spindle extenders, or, more drastically, changing your crankset.
Conclusion
Selecting the right road bike pedals is a personal but crucial decision for any cyclist. Consider your riding style, budget, and performance needs when choosing between the various models and features available. Whether prioritizing lightweight performance, power measurement, or value, this guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you find the best road bike pedals for your cycling journey in 2025.
