Pedals
From ibikeu Wiki
Pedals are a very important component of any bike, as they allow the rider to transfer physical energy to the bike's drivetrain.
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Types of Pedals
Clipless
Clipless pedals interface with clipless shoes through a cleat and bracket system, where the cleats are mounted to the bottom of specifically designed shoes and "clip" into the pedals. This interface causes the shoes to lock securely with the pedals and allow the rider to transfer energy to the drivetrain during the entire pedal rotation. One main advantage of the clipless system is that it is very efficient, lightweight, and customizable. Also, the rider can easily disengage from the pedals by rotating the heel of the foot away from the bike. The main disadvantage is the cost, because cleats from one clipless system generally will not lock on to pedals from another.
There is a large variety of different versions of the clipless system. Some notable types are:
New cyclists are sometimes confused by the name "clipless" because clipless users refer to "clipping in" or "clipping out"; clipless pedals got their name because they accomplish the same thing that the older system of toe clips and straps did but without the use of an external clip.
Flat Pedals
Toe Clips
Also called "cages," toe clips are a retaining structure that secures the feet to the pedals with the use of a solid cage (either plastic or metal) and adjustable straps. One of the main benefits of toe clips is that one can ride very efficiently with normal street shoes.
Clip Implants
Also called "cyborg-pedals," these implanted clips allow a seamless connection between body of the rider and bicycle. Additional benefits of this new technology are significant weight savings through barefoot cycling.
