Best Clipless Pedals for Gravel Bikes: Top Dual-Sided and SPD Picks
When shopping for clipless pedals for gravel bikes, look for reliability, durability, and easy engagement across mixed surfaces. This guide showcases five top options that balance clipless performance with gravel-friendly versatility. These picks target riders who want strong mud shedding, secure engagement, and simple maintenance. Ideal buyers include casual gravel riders seeking near-road convenience, entry-level cyclists aiming for cost-friendly entries, and experienced riders who want sturdy platforms for mixed terrain.
Product snapshot: the table below highlights five selected pedals, their key strengths, and who they are best for. Use it to quickly compare engagement style, weight, and intended terrain at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Engagement Style |
|---|---|---|
| SHIMANO PD-EH500 SPD & Flat Dual Sided | Urban riders who mix pavement and light trails | Dual-sided: SPD + flat |
| Shimano PDM520 Clipless SPD | Budget-minded gravel enthusiasts | SPD cleat, single-sided |
| Shimano SPD E-PDM520L | MTB/Gravel riders needing reliability | SPD clip-in |
| Pinsync Dual-Sided CNC Aluminum MTB Pedals | Gravel riders who want lightweight, durable | Dual-sided, clipless |
| Crankbrothers Candy 1 Red | Premium, lightweight performance | 4-sided entry, clipless |
SHIMANO PD-EH500 SPD & Flat Dual Sided Pedals
This dual-sided pedal combines a standard SPD engagement with a flat platform on the reverse side, offering flexible riding on gravel, urban roads, and mixed surfaces. Best for riders who occasionally need to walk or ride in street shoes without swapping pedals. The light-action binding simplifies stepping in and out, and the flat side provides better grip in wet conditions.
Best for: urban riders and mixed-terrain commuters who want quick transitions between clipless and casual footing. Limitations: not as lightweight as dedicated MTB pedals, and the flat side may wear faster with aggressive shoes over time.
Shimano PDM520 Clipless SPD Bicycle Pedals
The PDM520 entry focuses on robust SPD performance with a straightforward clip-in experience. It’s a budget-friendly option that still provides reliable engagement for gravel rides and daily commuting. Best for riders who want a simple, no-fruss setup and durable, value-focused pedals. Caution: this model emphasizes SPD with cleats and does not offer a double-sided entry, which may slow clip-in for beginners.
Shimano SPD Pedal E-PDM520L (Silver)
This variant targets MTB and gravel riders seeking a dependable clip-in pedal. It’s designed for robust MTB use with SPD compatibility, offering solid engagement on off-road sections and moderate-weight savings. Best for: gravel riders who prioritize secure clipping on rough terrain. Limitation: not a dual-sided model, which means you still need the correct pedal face alignment to clip in smoothly initially.
Pinsync Dual-Sided CNC Aluminum MTB Pedals
These lightweight MTB pedals use a dual-sided design with a CNC aluminum body and chrome-molybdenum steel axle. They deliver a quiet, smooth rotation and a sturdy, water- and dust-resistant sealed bearing system. Best for gravel riders who want a strong, durable platform with easy engagement from either side. Caution: as with many high-performance bearings, there may be a brief break-in period for maximum smoothness.
Crankbrothers Candy 1 Red
Crankbrothers Candy 1 Red combines lightweight construction with a four-sided entry, facilitating faster clipping in mixed terrain. The ribbed body enhances traction when unclipped, and the included premium cleats and shims allow fine-tuning of float and release angle. Best for riders who value quick, confident clip-in on gravel and need the ability to adjust engagement. Limitation: premium price relative to entry-level pedals.
Buying Guide
What matters most when selecting clipless pedals for gravel bikes? Consider these factors:
- Engagement style: Do you prefer dual-sided entry or a single-sided SPD pedal? Dual-sided designs reduce setup time and keep clip-in consistent on rough terrain.
- Weight vs. durability: Lighter pedals save watts on climbs but may wear faster under gravel grit. Aluminum bodies with sealed bearings balance weight and longevity.
- Cleat compatibility: Ensure pedals match your shoes (SPD compatible is most common for gravel). Some models are compatible with 3-bolt systems; others are more limited.
- Mud shedding and debris resistance: Look for pedals with open or well-sealed mechanisms to minimize clogging on muddy sections.
- Maintenance: Sealed bearings and simple axle construction reduce routine maintenance; check the availability of replacements and cleats.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes dual-sided pedals better for gravel riding? Dual-sided pedals reduce the time spent flipping the pedal to find the correct side, which is helpful on uneven terrain and in muddy conditions.
- Are SPD pedals suitable for road shoes? Yes, SPD cleats work with many mountain and all-mountain shoes designed for clipless systems, including gravel-specific footwear.
- Do I need a specific pedal for gravel bikes? Most gravel riders use SPD or dual-sided clipless pedals compatible with 3-bolt cleats. The choice depends on how often you want to clip in and the terrain you ride.
- What should I consider for maintenance? Look for sealed bearings and corrosion-resistant axles. Regularly inspect cleats for wear and replace as needed.
- Which pedal is best for beginners? A budget-friendly SPD option with a simple clip-in mechanism, like the Shimano PDM520, helps learners build confidence before upgrading.
- Can I use standard road pedals on a gravel bike? If the shoes and cleats fit your setup, yes, but SPD options are generally more reliable in muddy, loose conditions.