Best Spin Bike Pedals For A Safe And Efficient Workout
Find The Perfect Spin Bike Pedals For Your Indoor Cycle And Enjoy The Ride!
The pedals make the bike, and the bike makes the spin! It is practically impossible to cycle or spin on a bike without the pedals. They are an indispensable component of a spin bike. The best pedals for spin bikes simultaneously provide a comfortable ride. They also support your feet for maximum transfer of cycling force. Additionally, they shield you against that common spinning inconvenience called “slipping.” There are three major types of pedals. These include; flat, slipless and toe-caged pedals.
Flat pedals have been in existence for ages (All the way from the 19th century). Traditionally designed, they lack a restriction mechanism that provides additional support for the feet. Toe clip pedals and clipless pedals, on the other hand, feature a more advanced design that prioritizes comfort and maximum cycling efficiency. They secure the feet firmly to the pedals, allowing you to increase speed and power without restriction.
With toe cage pedals, one side of the pedal is equipped with a strap that forms a cage-like orientation. In contrast, clipless pedals are “ironically” clip-on pedals for spin bikes that utilize a clip-system which connects to cleats that are found on spinning-specific shoes. They are mostly compatible with two and three cleat systems such as lOOK, SPD, and SPD-SL.
Finding the best indoor exercise bike pedals can be a hurdle — there are a ton of options in the market to choose from, and you can easily end up with a “bad bargain” if you don’t play your card rights. But the good news is, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the best spin bike pedals there is so that you can make a feasible choice without any difficulty.
The Best Top 10 Spin Bike Pedals
Spinner Trio QR Spin Pedals
Pedals that offer multiple cleat compatibility are a rarity, and this is why you need to own the spinner trio spin pedals. This multi-functional pedal is compatible with SPD cleats, SPD-SL cleats and regular cycling shoes (e.g. sneakers). This is really commendable in terms of flexibility and use, considering that most clipless indoor bike pedals can only attach to one or two systems.
To accommodate the cleats, it sports a triple-sided design with one side for snap-in pedal platform surface for regular gym shoes while the other side is explicitly reserved for SPD cleats. This trio-function is particularly handy if you love to explore different spinning shoes and cleat options or if the spin bike is being used by different people or family members. If you opt for spinning shoes, you will find different models for spinning shoes for women and indoor cycling shoes for men.
And have we talked about how adjustable the float, entry and release tensions are? In all honesty, these pedals are a must-have. Furthermore, they work with a standard 9/16-inch thread. The pedals are 3 inches long and weigh about 2.5 lbs. Though they are quite expensive, they are an excellent choice for clipless spinning shoes and are ideal for people looking to replace their worn-out pedals.
Pros
- Flexible
- Dual-sided
- Trio-function; compatible with 2 and 3 cleat systems and regular shoes
- Easy to install
- Compatible with Peloton bike
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Cycling cleats have to be bought separately
Schwinn Triple-Link Pedals
The Schwinn triple-link pedals closely mirror the spinner trio pedals with regard to adaptability and flexibility. They are ideal for both novice and seasoned cyclists. They can accommodate two-cleat systems such as Look and SPD-cleats as well as regular athletic shoes. Featuring a sturdy red alloy body with fine-tuned bearings, these pedals are durable and stylish.
With snap-in locking toe clips, you can comfortably spin with your sneakers or regular training shoes. If you’ve had enough of your sneakers, you can easily switch to clipless shoes that are compatible with Look Delta cleats. You are sure to find two baskets in the package. These baskets can be clipped onto the bike for those days you want to use casual shoes. To convert to clipless pedals, you only need to detach the basket, and voila, you are good to go.
The Schwinn pedals are dual-sided spin bike pedals with one side for LOOK delta cleats and the other for SPD pedals. They weigh about 1 Ibs each. Like with most quality spin bike pedals, they can adapt to standard 9/16-inch cranks. On the downside, it is not compatible with the SPD-SL cleat system, plus it is also pricey. Nonetheless, they make a great pair of indoor cycling pedals.
Pros
- Durable and solid construction
- Easily converts from clipless to toe caged pedals
- Compatible with most indoor spin bikes, including magnetic indoor cycles
- Compatible with two system cleats and regular shoes
- Includes clip-on baskets
Cons
- Not compatible with SPD-SL cleats
- Pedals are not properly lubricated. Hence, they tend to make unpleasant “creaking” sounds
Venzo Sealed Fitness Exercise Spin Bike Pedals
Unlike most pedals that can be used for both indoor and outdoor biking, the Venzo pedals are exclusively designed for spin bikes. The heavy-duty die-cast aluminum body says a lot about how durable the pedals are. The 9/16-inch thread size with sealed ball bearings ensures a smooth and stable ride.
These pedals are compatible with LOOK delta cleat shoes and SPD/MTB shoes. On one side of the pedal is the SPD cleats, while the other side accommodates LOOK delta shoes. You can cycle vigorously for long hours by using any of the two sides with its corresponding shoes. The best part? You can adjust the tension to your desired level by turning a screw that is located on one side of the pedals.
The icing on the cake? The Venzo pedals don’t cost a fortune, they are way cheaper than the spinner and Schwinn pedals, with excellent quality to boot. They are a more affordable option for spin bike pedal replacements. They weigh about 1.27 Ibs. The only disadvantage to these pedals is its incompatibility with SPD-SL cleats and regular cycling shoes.
Pros
- Easy to clip in and out
- Perfect for Peloton and other spin bikes
- Sturdy engineering
- Easy to install
- Compatible with Look and SPD cleats
- Affordable
Cons
- Not compatible with SPD-SL cleats and regular athletic shoes
Stages Dual-Sided Pedals
When it comes to selecting the best dual-sided pedals for spin bikes, the stages pedals are a good choice. Not many pedals give you the privilege to work without cleats as the Stages pedals do. Yes, you can use the SPD compatible cleat that is on one side of the bike or ditch it for the wide, durable platform on the other side. The platform is equipped with an unremovable cage with quick-release straps. So clipless pedals? Check. Flat pedals? Check!!
Made with a sturdy chrome steel spindle and a durable plastic body, you wouldn’t need to spend a ton of money on maintenance or replacements in the long run. Aside from spin bikes, it is also compatible with other bikes like road and mountain bikes. So, if you happen to have an outdoor bike, you can give these pedals a try — It is called shooting two birds with one stone.
While the stages cycling pedals are as durable and sturdy as can be, it is a little disappointing that they do not accommodate SPD-SL and LOOK Delta cleats. They only come with a plastic toe cage, plus you will have to purchase the SPD cleats separately. So, if this is a deal-breaker for you, you might want to explore other options, otherwise, these pedals are an awesome choice.
Pros
- Accommodates all spin bikes that accepts 9/16-inch threads
- Sturdy and durable
- Offers a clip-free platform
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Limited features
- Lack SPD-SL elements
BV Bike Shimano SPD-Compatible Pedals
High-performance output is the “watchword” of the BV bike pedals. Naturally, you wouldn’t expect anything less from pedals that are constructed with durable and high-quality materials; the pair of pedals feature an ED-painted aluminum body and pedal straps that are made with high-quality nylon.
These indoor cycling pedals offer a dual shoe option; you can comfortably spin with clip-in shoes or with your regular gym shoes. This is made possible by the SPD aluminum clips and toe-cage with adjustable nylon straps — this also makes for a comfortable grip and a consistent spinning experience. Unarguably a benevolent gesture, BV includes a pair of steel SPD cleats—so you can save your money for something else!!
The BV pedals are compatible with all spin bikes with a 9/16-inch crank. The toe clips and straps are removable, however, to make it easier for you, they are pre-installed on arrival. But if you decide to remove them in the long run to suit your workout needs, you are covered. To sum it all, they weigh about 1.7Ibs each.
Pros
- Rock-solid construction
- Solid cleat connection
- Sufficient float
- Pedals are wide and comfortable
- Peloton compatible
Cons
- The accompanying cleats do not fit the pedals properly
- No instructions on how to install the cleats
Venzo Fitness Spin Bike Pedals
Here comes another Venzo pedal, and just like it’s sister-pedal, they are functional in every sense of the word. They are specially designed for spin bikes. They feature a solid heavy-duty die-cast aluminum body and 9/16-inch smooth cycling axle.
For maximum and efficient transfer of pedaling force, the pedals accommodate clipless and casual shoes. Not to mention the large aluminum platform that boosts cycling stability, furthermore, it is convenient for users with wide feet. The Venzo fitness pedals are SPD compatible spin bike pedals; that is, they are compatible with all Shimano SPD/MTB pedal systems. They feature an adjustable toe-cage on one side and cleats on the other. However, they don’t adapt to SPD-SL cleats.
For the perfect spinning experience, it gives you room to increase or decrease cleat tension as you deem fit. You can do this by simply twisting a screw that is positioned at the side of the pedal. They weigh 1.61 Ibs per pair and are safe to use. Manufacturers recommend that the pedals should be replaced every year— this isn’t exactly “expense- friendly” but all the same, they are worth your while and your money.
Pros
- Well-constructed
- Can be used with clipless or regular gym shoes
- Super easy to install
- Flexible
- Stable and safe to use
- Cage is wide and provides a firm grip
Cons
- It is a bit difficult to tighten and loosen the cage
- They are incompatible with SPD-SL cleats
Wellgo WPD-E003 Shimano SPD-Compatible Spin Bike Pedals
Reasonably priced and explicitly designed for indoor cycling, the Wellgo WPD-E003 pedals are your go-to spin bike pedals with toe clips and SPD cleats. It avails you the “much-needed” option to either ride with clipless shoes or with your regular every day sneakers.
The pedals are duly furnished with clips and adjustable straps, so you can customize the fit to meet your desired level of comfort and for a firm and secure grip — safe and convenient are the words you are looking for! The pedals are dual-sided and are compatible with Shimano SH56 cleats and Shimano SH51 (a through and true Shimano cleats fan).
Weighing about 0.8 kilograms, the WPD-E003 pedals are a bit on the heavy side, but there is not much room for complaint considering the sturdy construction. With a 2-year warranty, the manufacturers have fully vouched for their durability. However, these pedals don’t work with Look delta and SPD-SL cleat systems. Regardless of this drawback, they are worth every penny.
Pros
- High-quality and sturdy construction
- Perfect substitute for peloton pedals
- Provides a firm and secure clip-in
- Easy to install and adjust
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- Quite heavy
- It is a bit difficult to fit the cleats onto the pedals
CyclingDeal Fitness Exercise Spin Bike Pedals
With a full alloy body, chrome-moly spindle, and a barrel silver finish, the cycling deal spin bike pedals deserve critical acclaim for quality. Spinning bike pedals with a multi-functional use are a treasure to own, and the CyclingDeal pedals fit the bill. It is equipped with strapped toe clips and a Shimano SPD compatible platform.
You can spin in your regular gym shoes by strapping on the toe clips. The strap keeps your feet securely locked in place, so you don’t slip or side off while cycling. To enjoy a clipless ride, the pedals have SPD compatible cleats that you can clip on to with your cycling-specific shoes.
The CyclingDeal pedals can be easily paired with all bikes that accept the 9/12-inch thread axle. They weigh 832 g per pair and come with a one-year warranty to give you immunity against future malfunction problems. SPD cleats are also included, so you don’t have to buy those separately. Without a doubt, these are a worthy investment.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Pedals are easy to clip on to
- Long-lasting construction
- Accommodates clipless shoes and regular shoes
- Suitable for pedal replacement
Cons
- Not compatible with three cleat systems
SBDs Premium Extra-Heavy Spin Bike Pedals
If you are a sucker for extreme and intense workouts, you will need a solid pair of pedals that are equal to the task — and there are no better pedals to fulfill your needs than the SBDs heavy-duty left and right pedals. These pedals are built to withstand vigorous workouts while providing a smooth and efficient transfer of pedaling force. The pedals are the ultimate definition of strength and functionality.
This indoor bike dual side pedals feature super strong ball bearings with a carbon steel 9/16 ” shaft with clips and toe cage on opposite sides. A heavy-duty BMX toe strap is included to provide the required pedaling support. The platform is oversized and comfortable enough to fit even the widest feet. They are compatible with SPD cleats and regular training issues.
Furnished with stainless steel and aluminum, the SBDs pedals are made to last for a long time. Bike compatibility is also not an issue as it is designed to fit all bikes with 9/16″ cranks. It comes with a limited one-year warranty.
Pros
- Easy to use and install
- Heavy-duty construction
- A good peloton alternative
- Clips fit perfectly
- Reliable
Cons
- A bit on the heavy side.
- Does not accommodate SPD-SL cleats
DRBIKE Spin Bike Pedals
It is no secret that aluminum alloy pedals are the most durable type of pedals, and the Drbike pedals stay true to this fact. The body is made with a sturdy and durable aluminum alloy that is kind to your budget— you don’t have to worry about spending money on maintenance and replacements in the long run.
These spinning exercise bike pedals are versatile. They can be paired with mountain bikes, road bikes and spin bikes (as long as the bike can support a 9/16-inch thread size). They are equipped with a flat platform and clips that are perfectly suitable for rubber-soled shoes and canvas. On the downside, the bearing is too stiff, and the pedals do not rotate fluidly.
The toe clips have good width, and they are equipped with straps and an anti-slip belt for easy adjustment and safety. You can adjust the fit by fastening and releasing the buckle on the strap. DRBIKE offers a 365-day warranty for these pedals. While these pedals are practical and durable, they lack a clipless mechanism. But that aside, they perform optimally.
Pros
- Quiet durable
- Large flat platform
- Anti-slip toe straps
- Equipped with rubber pads for optimum feet comfort
Cons
- Low-quality bearing
- Flat pedals only; not compatible with clipless shoes
BUYING GUIDE: How to Shop for the Best Spin Bike pedals
There are certain factors you need to take into account before buying indoor cycling pedals — because you absolutely don’t want to wind up with a “liability” that was deceptively marketed as “quality spin bike pedals”. In this vein, you should take note of these factors if you want to purchase spin bike pedals with genuine quality.
Pedal Release Tension Capability
The adjustable tension capability is one of the most important features to take into consideration when shopping for spin bike pedals. The release tension is what gives you the liberty to set the amount of force that is required to disengage from the pedals. A high-tension level maintains a stable and firm connection between your feet and the pedals. Be that as it may, it is advisable that novice cyclists should begin with low tension so they can easily clip in and out. Overall, it is highly recommended that you go for pedals with a tension-adjustable option.
Cleats
Shoes that are exclusively meant for cycling often come with cleats —they usually come with two or three bolts that can be fastened to the sole of your shoes. The cleats ensure a stable and solid riding experience. They are also the sole determinant of the type of pedals you should buy. If the cleats are not compatible with the pedals, the pedals become practically useless (you might have to buy new shoes or adapters).
Generally, the most popular cleats are the two and three-bolt systems; LOOK, SPD, and SPD-SL cleats. A good number of models feature a four-bolt system. All-in-all, you should ensure to check the cleats on your shoes before clicking on the “order” button.
SPD-SL Compatibility
SPD-SL cleats offer more cycling advantages than one or two-cleat systems (like LOOK and SPD cleats). Avid spinners often prefer to cycle with these cleats. However, most dual-sided pedals are not compatible with SPD-SL cleats. This is true of all the pedals on this list except the Spinner trio QR pedals. That being said, if you are a fan of SPD-SL cleats, the spinner trio pedals are a great option.
While most commercial spin bikes come with SPD pedals, this might not be the case for budget spin bikes. So if you want to ensure a safe and effective workout session and improve your exercising routine, you might want to invest in a pair of SPD pedals.
Pedal weight
Stationary cycling bike pedals are often lightweight for convenience and ease of use. The general consensus is that a lightweight spin bike will be easier to operate than a heavy one, but this is not entirely true. Sometimes, heavy pedals provide more durability and stability. So, if you are particular about long-term use and maximum performance output, you might want to consider heavy spin bike pedals.
Durability
Now, this is imperative! There is nothing worse than being stuck with pedals that are flimsy —Not only do they make your workout annoying; they also deplete your performance output. But what is even more horrifying is when the pedals give way during exercise, this might throw you off balance and can lead to severe injuries. So, to be on the safe side, it is best to purchase spin bike pedals whose durability is well accounted for. Better still, you should consider models that offer a tangible warranty.
Our piece of advice is that if you are saving on your indoor cycle and buying much of the available spin bikes under $300, indoor cycles under $500, or even some stationary bikes under $1000, you might want to invest in great accessories including durable pedals and quality spin bike seats.
Pedal Thread Size
Most top spin bikes are compatible with a 9/16-inch (about 14.3 mm) cranks, which is the crank size of a large percentage of spin bikes. However, there are a few exceptions. Some pedals measure 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in pedal thread size. A small pedal thread shaft can limit your options. So, it is best to go for the standard 9/16-inch size. Fortunately, all the spin bike pedals on this list can be paired with 9/16-inch bikes.
Float
Float is a cycling terminology that refers to the amount of mobility your feet are exposed to when cycling. It is important that your feet should get sufficient room, so less pressure is placed on the knees and joints. When shopping for spin bike pedals, you should go for models that allow your feet to rotate from side to side while it is strapped to the pedals. A good float also helps to prevent strains and injuries.
Final Verdict
The pedals you choose can make or mar your spinning experience. A good quality spin bike pedal should be comfortable, easy to use, and flexible. Most importantly, it should facilitate efficient power transfer so you can maximize your spinning work out and reap the benefits to the fullest.
All the indoor cycling pedals on this list stay true to these criteria. They possess all the features you could possibly hope for in a quality pair of pedals. They are mostly similar with only a few dissimilarities in price and function. Particularly outstanding is the Spinner trio QR spin pedals.
The spinner pedals effortlessly outperform the other pedals on this list. Their most exceptional feature is their ability to conform to two and three-bolt cleat systems and regular training shoes. This is quite rare; in fact, they are the only pedals on this list that is compatible with both SPD and SPD-SL cleats. To say they are amazing is to state the obvious. It is no wonder that they have been racking up rave reviews since the model’s advent in 2013. The only drawback is that they are expensive, but if you are willing to splurge – rest assured, these pedals will yield “great fitness returns.”
Being Amazon’s first choice for spin bike pedals, the Venzo itness exercise spin bike has lived up to the hype as one of the best indoor cycling bike pedals to grace the bike market. With an adjustable tension and dual shoe option (clipless and casual shoes), these pedals will leave you satisfied. If you can overlook the occasional grinding sounds, the Schwinn triple-link pedals are another viable option that is guaranteed to give you a ride to remember. With these quality options, selecting and buying the best spin bike pedals should be as easy as pie!