Best Pedals for Gravel Bike: Top Picks for Grip, Durability, and Versatility
Answering the question for gravel riders: flat, dual-sided, and clipless pedals can all work depending on your riding style. This guide highlights the best gravel-appropriate pedals, focusing on stability, grip, and ease of use across terrain. Ideal buyers include budget-minded beginners seeking reliable flats, mixed-terrain riders needing dual-sided entry, and performance-focused riders wanting clipless versatility. Below is a quick summary table of the five selected products to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| SHIMANO PD-ME700 | All-Mountain and Gravel | Dual-sided, versatile for multiple terrains |
| SHIMANO PD-EH500 | Urban to Gravel Riders | One side SPD, one side flat for quick transitions |
| ROCKBROS Mountain Bike Pedals (Flat) | Budget Flats | Large platform with sealed bearings and good grip |
| CXWXC Road/MTB Pedals | Lightweight Flat Or Mixed | 8 pins per side, durable alloy body |
| ROCKBROS Dual Function Pedals | Clipped-In Or Flat | Dual-sided compatibility with included cleats |
SHIMANO PD-ME700 Dual Sided Trail/All Mountain Pedal
The SHIMANO PD-ME700 is a dual-sided pedal designed for trail, all-mountain, and gravel use. It combines a robust chrome-moly spindle with a sealed bearing system for durability in varied weather. Best for riders who want quick, reliable engagement on mixed surfaces. Notable limitation: weight and cost may be higher than entry-level flats.
Best for: Gravel riders who want straightforward engagement on both sides and strong mud/dust resistance.
Why chosen: Dual-sided design reduces foot search time on uneven gravel routes, while the corrosion-resistant components improve longevity in harsh conditions.
SHIMANO PD-EH500 SPD & Flat Dual Sided Bike Pedal
The PD-EH500 offers one SPD side and one flat side, making it a versatile option for gravel riders who alternate between clipless efficiency and casual flats. It supports indoor and outdoor cycling, with better grip on the flat side in wet conditions. A potential caveat is the need to adjust cleat setup for optimal engagement on mixed terrain.
Best for: Riders who want seamless transitions between clipped-in power and casual foot placement.
Why chosen: Dual-surface capability fits gravel workflows without changing shoes or pedals mid-ride.
ROCKBROS Mountain Bike Pedals Flat (9/16″ Sealed Bearings)
ROCKBROS flat pedals feature a wide 101mm platform, sealed bearings, and CNC-machined aluminum for light weight and durability. They pair with most shoes up to US size 12 and include anti-skid studs for grip on rough gravel. Best for riders who prefer flat pedals with solid footing. Limitation: higher wear with aggressive off-road usage could require more frequent maintenance.
Best for: Budget-minded gravel riders seeking reliable flats with good grip.
Why chosen: Large platform and anti-slip spikes provide stable footing on loose surfaces.
ROCKBROS Dual Function Pedals With Clipless Option
This pedal combines clipless compatibility with a flat pedal surface, expanding options for gravel routes that mix segments. The surface is enlarged for better contact area, and eight non-slip screws on the flat side help prevent slippage. Best for riders who want clip-in versatility without switching pedals. A note: setting up cleat compatibility is essential for optimal performance.
ROCKBROS Bike Pedals, Flat Aluminum 9/16″ (Second Entry)
This Rockbros model mirrors the flat, wide-platform design with sealed bearings and a lightweight CNC aluminum body. It’s a dependable choice for gravel riders prioritizing durability and grip. Choose this if you want a spare, reliable flat option with the same platform footprint as other Rockbros models. Limitation: identical features may reduce clear differentiation from other flats in the lineup.
Buying Guide: How To Choose Gravel Pedal Systems
- Flats offer simple entry and are forgiving on long gravel days. Clipless pedals improve power transfer and pedaling efficiency, but require compatible shoes. Dual-sided pedals provide quick engagement with or without cleats for versatility on mixed terrain.
- A larger platform distributes force over a bigger area, reducing foot fatigue. Pin count and screw-in studs enhance grip on uneven gravel and wet surfaces.
- Sealed bearings protect spindles from water and dust. Aluminum bodies keep weight low without sacrificing strength, which matters on rough gravel stretches.
- Check spindle standard (commonly 9/16″), compatibility with your crank, and whether you need a dual-sided approach for quick transitions between shoes and pedals.
- Sealed bearings require less maintenance, but flats may need periodic cleaning and pin replacement to maintain grip.
FAQ
- Are dual-sided pedals better for gravel riding? They reduce the time spent positioning your foot, which can be advantageous on variable gravel terrain.
- Should I choose clipless or flat pedals for gravel? Clipless pedals offer efficient power transfer but require compatible shoes; flats are simpler and versatile for walking and quick dismounts.
- What grip improves on wet gravel? Look for pedals with multiple pins or anti-slip surfaces and a slightly concave profile to keep your foot secure.
- Do I need a specific shoe for clipless gravel pedals? Yes, compatible shoes with SPD or other cleat systems are necessary for clipless pedals.
- How important is weight in gravel pedals? Lighter pedals reduce rotational mass, which helps on long climbs, but durability and grip are often more important than weight alone.
- Can I use road pedals on a gravel bike? Some dual-surface designs allow road shoes on flat or semi-cleated settings, but verify compatibility with your crank and shoes.