Choosing the right pedals for a gravel bike with pedal assistance or for mixed-terrain riding requires balancing clip-in options, grip on loose surfaces, and reliability in wet conditions. This guide highlights five pedals that suit gravel riders seeking secure footing, easy mounting, and durable performance across rough terrain. From dual-sided SPD platforms to wide flat pedals with aggressive grip, these options cover clipless compatibility, mud shedding, and long-lasting durability for gravel journeys. Read on to compare features and find the best fit for your gravel adventures.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SHIMANO PD-EH500 Dual-Sided Pedals | SHIMANO | SPD and flat sides for versatile riding | Two-sided entry; improved grip on wet surfaces |
| FIFTY-FIFTY Flat MTB Pedals | FIFTY-FIFTY | Ultra-thin, wide flat platform | Durable nylon body with 9 pins per side |
| ROCKBROS Carbon Fiber Pedals | ROCKBROS | Lightweight with sealed bearings | Carbon fiber shell for stiffness and durability |
| Crankbrothers Eggbeater 1 | Crankbrothers | Four-sided entry for mud shedding | Clipless with premium cleats; lightweight |
| BUCKLOS Flat Platform Pedals | BUCKLOS | Large, grippy platform | Nylon body; 9/16″ spindle |
SHIMANO PD-EH500 Dual-Sided Pedals
The PD-EH500 combines SPD compatibility with a flat platform, delivering versatile use whether clipping in on steep gravel sections or riding on looser surfaces where a flat interface is preferred. The light-action binding makes entry and release smoother, which reduces fatigue on longer rides. The flat side offers superior grip in wet conditions, helping to maintain foot position when mud and water are present. Dual-sided pedals also simplify transitions between shoes and pedals on variable terrain, improving efficiency on climbs and descents alike.
- Two-sided design: SPD on one side, flat on the other
- Light-action binding for easy engagement and release
- Improved grip on the flat side in wet conditions
- Durable construction with balanced weight
FIFTY-FIFTY Flat MTB Pedals
These flat MTB pedals emphasize a large, stable platform with rugged grip. Made from a durable nylon composite and paired with a high-strength Cr-Mo spindle, they stand up to tough gravel rides and regular drops. Each side features nine replaceable steel pins for confident footing, even in mud. The platform thickness is a slim 0.7 inches, which minimizes pedal strikes while maintaining ample surface area (106×104 mm). This combination helps keep your feet planted during fast lines through rocky sections and loose gravel alike.
- Durable nylon composite body with Cr-Mo spindle
- 9 replaceable steel pins per side for grip
- Ultra-thin platform for clearance and reduced strikes
- Large 106×104 mm surface
ROCKBROS Carbon Fiber Pedals
ROCKBROS presents a lightweight carbon fiber pedal option designed for gravel riders who value stiffness and efficiency. Weighing around 0.47–0.55 lb depending on size, these flat pedals use a carbon fiber shell to resist bending under load. A sealed triple-bearing setup helps keep water and dirt out while improving smoothness and longevity. Titanium alloy axles reduce vibrations and contribute to a controlled ride. Ten non-slip pins per side maximize grip on wet or muddy surfaces, while the dual-sided design supports quick mounting for on-the-fly shoe changes or line changes in rough terrain.
- Carbon fiber body for light weight and stiffness
- Sealed triple bearings for durability and smoothness
- Ten non-slip pins per side for strong grip
- Dual-sided design for easy mounting
Crankbrothers Eggbeater 1
Eggbeater 1 pedals are renowned for their four-sided entry, which simplifies clipping in and out and provides excellent mud shedding in muddy gravel courses. The lightweight stamped steel body weighs about 290 g per pair, making them a strong option for riders who want performance without extra bulk. The clip-in system includes premium brass cleats with shims to tailor float and release angle, offering a customizable feel. The design emphasizes solid grip and predictable engagement across varied trail conditions, making them a popular choice for cross-country and gravel enthusiasts.
- Lightweight stamped steel body (~290 g per pair)
- Four-sided entry for reliable mud shedding
- Customizable float and release angle with brass cleats
- Strong clipless performance for gravel and XC riding
BUCKLOS Flat Platform Pedals
BUCKLOS flat pedals combine a wide, grippy platform with a robust nylon shell and 14 anti-slip nails per side. The large footprint (roughly 5.9 by 4.7 inches) provides substantial surface area to keep your foot stable through rocky descents and loose gravel. The 9/16″ spindle ensures compatibility with most mountain bikes. This setup suits riders who prefer a simple, durable, and cost-effective flat-pedal solution without the need for clipless engagement, yet still requires confident traction in wet or muddy conditions.
- Wide, grippy platform with 14 nails per side
- Nylon body with sturdy 9/16″ spindle
- Grippy and stable on wet surfaces
- Affordable, durable flat-pedal option
Buying Guide
Pedal Type and Riding Style
Gravel riders face a blend of fast sections, rough descents, and occasional mud. Clipless pedals (SPD-type) offer efficient power transfer and secure foot retention on steep grades, while flat pedals provide instant foot release and a forgiving interface during casual sections or when walking sections. Dual-sided designs, like the Shimano PD-EH500, blend these benefits by letting you clip in when the terrain demands it and ride flat when mud or obstacles make clipping impractical. Consider your typical routes, shoe setup, and how often you anticipate clipping in versus riding flat.
Compatibility and Installation
Most mountain bikes use 9/16″ spindles, though some shops and frames accept 1/2″ spindles. Verify your crank arm’s spindle size and your shoe type before purchasing. Dual-sided pedals can simplify transitions, while single-sided pedals may save cost but require more precise foot placement. If you frequently ride through mud or snow, a four- or multi-sided entry system (like Eggbeater) or a broad, textured platform can improve reliability in adverse conditions.
Materials, Weight, and Durability
Carbon fiber bodies are light and stiff but can be pricier, while nylon or aluminum bodies offer excellent durability at a lower cost. Consider the bearing system: sealed bearings resist dirt and water and reduce maintenance, and titanium axles may dampen vibration for a smoother ride. Weight matters for climbers, but durability and serviceability are equally important for gravel rides that demand long-term reliability on rough trails.
Grip, Mud Shedding, and Durability
Grip is influenced by platform texture, pins, and surface area. Flat pedals with replaceable pins provide consistent grip in wet or muddy sections, while clipless designs rely on cleats to engage with the pedal body. Pedals designed for mud shedding (four-sided or open-lace entries) help prevent the pedal from clogging and reduce the effort required to clip in during damp rides.
Maintenance and Replacement
Regular inspection of pins, cleats, and bearings extends pedal life. Clean pedals after muddy rides to prevent grit from grinding bearings. Replace worn pins promptly to maintain foot grip, and lubricate bearings as recommended by the manufacturer. For carbon-bodied pedals, avoid cross-threading and overtightening during installation to preserve joint integrity.
Budget and Value
Flat-platform pedals tend to offer the best value for riders prioritizing reliability and simplicity. Dual-sided SPD options provide versatility at a moderate premium. For riders who value weight savings and maximum mud-shedding capability, carbon fiber bodies and advanced clipless systems may justify higher costs. Align your budget with your riding goals, maintenance willingness, and the type of gravel you ride most often.