MTB Flat Pedals: Key Brands and Product Lineups

Differences Between MTB Flat Pedals and General Flat Pedals

MTB flat pedals are known for offering significantly more grip than standard flat pedals.

They are designed to firmly stick to the soles of your shoes even on rough terrain or steep descents, allowing riders to maintain secure contact with the pedals even in muddy or wet conditions.

Key structural differences include:

1. Spike pins to enhance grip
2. A larger pedal platform
3. Absence of reflectors

Pros and Cons of MTB Flat Pedals

The biggest distinguishing factor is the presence of spike pins. When paired with dedicated MTB shoes, these pins dig into the shoe treads, creating a “locked-in” feel between the pedal and shoe. This is especially beneficial on rough MTB trails, where vibrations and bumps may cause your foot to slip off the pedal. Spike pins improve safety under such conditions.

However, these metal pins can be a drawback for everyday use. Without dedicated shoes, the pins can damage regular soles or even injure you if you hit your leg against the pedal.

Differences Between MTB Flat Pedals and MTB Clipless Pedals

In MTB disciplines like cross-country racing, clipless pedals such as Shimano SPD are often used. Recently, Shimano SPD has also gained popularity among cyclocross racers.

Unlike road bikes that mostly ride on paved surfaces, MTB trails often involve uneven ground and steep terrain. In such cases, being unable to quickly unclip your foot from a pedal can increase the risk of injury. That’s why beginners are often advised to start with spiked flat pedals.

For downhill trails or MTB parks, where descending is the main focus and pedaling is less frequent, the efficiency of clipless pedals is less important.

On the other hand, if your riding style mostly involves paved roads with occasional light trail riding, you might consider using MTB clipless pedals most of the time, and attach flat pedal covers for more stability when you hit the trails.

Another good option is a dual-sided pedal like the Shimano PD-EH500, which features an SPD mechanism on one side and spiked pins on the other.

MTB Flat Pedal Manufacturers and Key Lineups

Shimano

While Shimano is widely known for its clipless pedals, it also offers a range of flat pedals.

For MTB use, Shimano provides options in the DEORE XT and SAINT series. As mentioned earlier, products like the PD-EH500 combine SPD on one side and a spiked flat pedal on the other, giving riders the flexibility to switch between clipless and flat pedal styles.

Another advantage of Shimano pedals is their long-term usability—replacement parts are readily available not only at bike shops but also through online retailers.

Crankbrothers

Crankbrothers’ flat pedal series “STAMP” is popular not only for its wide range of grades, but also for the availability of different sizes and vibrant color options.

Another key reason for its popularity is the lightweight design—just 299g per pair for the top-end model, and even the entry-level versions weigh as little as 329g.

Raceface

Raceface is a well-established MTB components brand. Their flat pedal lineup includes four grades: Atlas, Aeffect, Chester, and Ride. Among them, only the Ride model features a standard textured surface instead of metal pins.

While not focused on ultra-lightweight design, Raceface pedals are well-balanced and reliable overall.

DMR BIKES

DMR is a top manufacturer of contact-point components, including flat pedals and SPD clipless pedals.

Their flat pedal series includes the flagship “VAULT” and the more affordable “V PEDAL” range. In the V PEDAL lineup, the higher the number, the higher the grade.

MKS (Mikashima Industrial Co., Ltd.)

MKS is a Japanese bicycle pedal manufacturer known for offering significantly lower prices than overseas brands while maintaining high quality. This has earned them a loyal following not just among MTB riders but across a wide range of cyclists.

For MTB use, they offer models like the “ALLWAYS,” which features spike pins designed to reduce leg injuries, and the retro-style “BM-7.”

Their general-use flat pedals, such as the LAMBDA and Compact series, are also quite popular.