Submitted by
dirtdawg21892
a Weekend Warrior
from new england Date Reviewed: July 31, 2009
Favorite Trail:
sledgehamer, highland mountain
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
platform as well as clip, i stand up and crank hard on the platform and it works fine (as long as it's not wet)
Weaknesses:
paint on platform scratched of by cleats on first ride
Similar Products Used:
Crank Bros. candy, time clips
Bike Setup:
'08 Santa Cruz Bullit and '05 jamis dakar xc pro (i run them on both)
Bottom Line:
awesome pedal, just keeps going. even after my friend's sister backed over my bike, putting the pedal through the pavement they worked fine. the aluminum bash gaurds were smashed off both sides last season, and they dont have much paint on them, but they still work well. the springs have loosend, but after 2 years what do you want? (my times were toast after just one season) buy them if you want to be able to take your bike out without putting your cleats on for a spin down the road.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TexK
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa Date Reviewed: July 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Downieville
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Durability, ease of use, wide platform
Weaknesses:
Cleat wear
Similar Products Used:
Haven't needed to use anything else
Bike Setup:
2004 Iron Horse Warrior Elite. Pedals on original Blaze crankset
Bottom Line:
These are fantastic pedals. I have used these for almost five years now from the Sierra Nevadas, to New England and now down to Florida. They were a great pedal to start using and continue to suit all conditions. More than just their performance, Crank Brothers deserves huge credit for customer service. The only problem I have had was that I actually broke the metal 'egg beater', way past the warranty period. One call to Crank Brothers and they said send the pedals in. They not only fixed the part, but did the full 'spa' treatment on both pedals and replaced the spindles...all for free. Needless to say, I am Crank Brothers fan and will stick with them for the long haul.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wozzich
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: May 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Remaka Track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Torpedo7
Strengths:
Good solid platform, looks the business.
Weaknesses:
After about two months of daily riding to work they started to click and creak, even after a rebuld. Also had a few inital clipping in issues.
Similar Products Used:
Time Atac for about 8 years, ended up a bit creaky.
Bike Setup:
Ghost 5000SE hardtail running slicks one the daily ride and various off road tyres.
Bottom Line:
I got these with the idea of having a platform so if I need to ride to the shops for milk and bread I don't have to put my shoes on. But I think they're designed for big hits and hard riding not big mileage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brontotx
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: May 9, 2009
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Speedgoat
Strengths:
Platform (sorta if you don't mind the hump from the egg beaters) in addition to clipless
Weaknesses:
WEAK! I've broken three axles in two years. I am a 280 lb clyde and put down a lot of power, so perhaps I am at the edge of the design limit, although there is no published weight limit for these pedals. CB customer service is great and replace the axles quickly at no charge, but I am fortunate to not have gored my ankle on the stubs. Plus, I had to walk out about a mile and a half the last time an axle broke.
Similar Products Used:
Suntour XC-II beartraps
Bike Setup:
Karate Monkey 1X7
Bottom Line:
Since CB just rebuilt mine, I'm selling them on e-bay as I don't trust them to not break again. Going to try some Times.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jSatch
a Weekend Warrior
from SandyEggo, SoCal Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Tunnels
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Easy in-out clip
Large, stable surface
Customer Service
Weaknesses:
Heavy
Needs pins
Similar Products Used:
Candys, old red Shimano spd/platform, Flats
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler with wheels, brakes and other cool stuff
Bottom Line:
This is a compromise product, and as such appeals to a large audience. Very good as a clip-in pedal, but probably too heavy for XC purists. Eggbeaters for them, possibly Candys.
Unclipped I didn't find this reassuring on small jumps or rough fast terrain where you'd want to be unclipped - too much slippage compared to flats. I think this may have been addressed in the newer models (1-3) that have pins, like good flats have. I hope so as it is the only weak point for me of this pedal. For my riding (trail/AM) this pedal is far superior to Candys or the old school spd/platforms I had before. I just can't see using it for FR or DH riders unless the slippage is addressed.
They are heavy, which is less an issue to me than how tough these things are.
As for customer service- couldn't be happier. One of the butterfly clips kept binding, eventually getting stuck. I thought I'd try the rebuild kit. Turns out the rebuild is for the bearings, but does nothing for the butterfly issue. So the rebuild did nothing. Second, as I had the kit, I thought I'd rebuild the the good pedal. Couldn't get the plastic cap off and stripped it. Tried drilling it out (resist the urge) but couldn't get all the plastic remains off the threads, so tried drilling the threads (could always glue a cap on), but still couldn't get to the axle lock nut.
Sent it to CB. They replaced the axle the butterfly rides on and somehow finished rebuilding my other pedal. They feel better than when they were new.
Had the pedals back on the bike in about a week.
Charge for fixing my screw-ups: Zero.
I'd rate the pedals as 5 if not for the slippage when riding unclipped as it can be hazardous to your health- but this may be a moot point on the newer models with pins. Haven't tried them. So a point deduction on the 'overall' scoreboard for the C model.
I'd rate the customer service as exceptional. Something to think about when you drop 100+ dineros on pedals.
This pedal is a compromise, but probably the best on the market to date for trails/AM riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marcus
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio Date Reviewed: April 11, 2009
Favorite Trail:
O.P. Schnabel
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Performance bike
Strengths:
Four sided entry is very nice. GOOD platform. Very nice looking pdeal.
Weaknesses:
I have owned two pairs of these and on both pairs the coil spring broke within 6 months. Luckily performance has an excellent return policy. They replaced them at no cost.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano downhill pedels
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Cobia 29er.
Bottom Line:
I really like this pedal design but remain miffed at the idea that they only last a few months before the spring brakes..I will give them another tru, if no next time I will go with a Shimano pedel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
asanathema
a Cross Country Rider
from frostburg, md usa Date Reviewed: February 22, 2009
Favorite Trail:
ft ord
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
crankbro's cleats. large platform. easy entry. cleats or no cleats. price.
I like these. A lot. I use a custom set of cycling shoes, and I didn't like the small platform of the SLs, especially when commuting in other shoes. the mallet c's a reasonably priced, have a great platform and clip in much easier. the paint does scuff, and unpracticed clip in attempts can chew up the body's metal. crushing this into rocks on a daily basis would tear them apart, that being said, they've survived a 20 foot slide down asphalt (avoiding a car) with only moderate damage. the traction plates have yet to be replaced and work. they shed mud and snow with ease. moderate abuse they can handle. for true DH i'd probably consider upgrading (if you like clipless) or just go with the 50/50s which i'm considering)
3 value, if you can scuff off the paint just clipping in, in the house it's a little for it's retail price. 4 overall, you've got a wide platform and clipless. it's not pedaling for you but why would you want that? the could be a bit more robust for their weight as compared to the SLs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kerbouchaud
a Weekend Warrior
from Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA Date Reviewed: January 11, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Alafia River State Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Easy to clip in, super easy to clip out, and can be ridden unclipped
Weaknesses:
I've heard the weight is an issue, but at 200lbs I can shave the extra weight just by going to the bathroom.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano spd's Azonic platforms, Crank Bros' Candy
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel Ex-8
Bottom Line:
Great pedal for anyone that wants to ride clipped. You can unclip without thinking about it, and if you need to get going on a sketchy section after a dab you don't have to worry about clipping in, you just start pedaling and clip in when the terrain permits. I was just reviewing some video of me having a "yard sale" and I noticed that I was unlipping mid air and I don't even remember doing it. Conversly I have seen a lot of guys wearing SPD's upside down with their bike on top of them still trying to get unclipped.
With the possible exception of Time ATAC's there is no better clipless pedal out there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wes m.
a Cross Country Rider
from bay area Date Reviewed: December 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
single track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
easy to clip in, dont need your mtb shoes for short trips, comfortable, tough so far, reasonably priced
Weaknesses:
heavy and ugly, two things I dont care much about
Similar Products Used:
plats, speedplay, toe clipped pedals
Bike Setup:
rigid steel ss 29er
Bottom Line:
I bought these pedals and two weeks later the spring jumped out of the eggbeater which led to the eggbeater getting stuck in the open position. I got them replaced no questions asked. The new pair is perfect.
As you can tell from my bike setup, I'm not a downhiller. I got these pedals so I could ride around campus without my mtb shoes or put my mtb shoes on and hit some single track. They are perfect for that purpose.
4/5 because I had to replace them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AzArmyPA
a Weekend Warrior
from Chandler, Az Date Reviewed: October 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mormon Loop/National
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
online, ebay I think
Strengths:
awesome pedal with platform. I will put these pedals on a rock or stump and drive with them many times.
Weaknesses:
Early on couldn't clip out fast enough, lots of scars. Took my dremel grinding wheel to my Look MTB side shoe cleats. Awesome adjustment and no problems ever since. I suggest doing it to clear. Great for downhill as well, drops, etc....
Similar Products Used:
MTB Shimano, Performance knockoff shimanos, egg beater, and candy SE.
Bike Setup:
3 bikes, Fisher Rig 29r SS, FSR FS Stumpjumper pro 29r, Santa Cruz Heckler 26r.
Bottom Line:
Best pedal by far. Cross country the candy or egg beater is fine but down hill or all mountain I like the platform. Never any problems after the cleat fix......do it....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Metanoia
a Downhiller
from Philippines Date Reviewed: August 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Tagaytay/Maarat/Patiis
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Cartimar
Strengths:
Wide platform, virtually will not pack with mud, FLOAT for bum knees is a big plus!!!
Weaknesses:
Couldn't get a consistent clip in/clip out
Similar Products Used:
Shimano PD-M545
Bike Setup:
Intense Uzzi VPX large
Marz 66rc2x 2007
Fox DHX Air 5.0
Bottom Line:
Switched back to SPDs because I couldn't get a consistent clip in/out on my left foot; but this might be due to my body's "geometry" more than anything else but I did ask some people and they did notice that they don't have a consistent clip in / clip out. A joy to use in muddy trails because they don't gunk up because of the pedal's design.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pgkris
a Weekend Warrior
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: August 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Apex, White Ranch
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Simple design, durable, versatile, very easy entry and exit
Weaknesses:
bit heavy but it's worth it
Similar Products Used:
Crank Bros Candy
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575, Manitou Minute 1, XT drive train, Thopson seat and stem, Easton Monkey bar
Bottom Line:
I started with Crank Bros Candy 5 years ago in Chicago, then I moved to Colorado and considering the terrain I quickly decided that I would need something with platform so I can ride unclipped on scatchy sections and bought those. I've been riding them for over 3 years without a single problem, even though I've beaten them big time over the rock on multiple occasions. I strongly recommend them. I haven't ridden Shimano pedals ever, but they look too complicated for me. Cheers!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nasty610
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbia, SC, USA Date Reviewed: August 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Anything
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
wide platform, easy to clip in/out, haven't been serviced in 2 years still work like new
Weaknesses:
paints scratched off but that's to be expected with anything that hits the ground
Similar Products Used:
nothing this is my first clip in
Bike Setup:
Weyless 67 spec'd for light freeride/all mountain. Weight in 40-45lbs range
Bottom Line:
bought these to try out clip ins and have ridden them in everything from sand and mud in south carolina to rocks and drops in south korea. i'm really not sure why everyone is complaining about durability, I put these on my bike and haven't done anything to them since this includes servicing or cleaning. every platform pedal i've used, and they include some high end dh specific models, have gotten bent spindles in the first couple of rides. i'm not a light guy at 210 lbs and was 240 when i bought these and they have put up with everything i have been able to put them through. i'm really not too sure what everyone is saying about the cleats either. i routinely ride my bike into town, lock it up and walk around shopping. i'm still on my first set of cleats and aside from scratches and normal wear aren't showing any signs of needing to be replaced.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Qatarbhoy
a Weekend Warrior
from Qatar Date Reviewed: June 16, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Versatile platform/clip design
Look great
Built like tanks
Great paintjob when new
Easy for clipless newbies like me to get used to
Excellent value at this price
Made me a better rider
Aesthetically pleasing packaging and thourtful design all round
Cleats have lasted longer than expected
Weaknesses:
Paint wears off after a few rides - metal on metal will do that
Heavy platform
Replacement cleats are expensive
Similar Products Used:
Nylon flats (ugh)
Cages and toeclips (deadly and useless)
Smartys (good, light clip/platform compromise but plastic platform a bit flimsy)
Bike Setup:
Trek 6500, stock at the moment except for these pedals
Bottom Line:
I highly recommend these as an introductory pedal for cyclists trying clipless for the first time, as well as for experienced riders looking for a tough and versatile design. when the trail gets sketchy you can quickly clip out and use the platforms - although the wings protrude slightly it's possible to shift a cleated shoe forward slightly and use the sole; flat soled shoes work great with the platform.
Once the cleats are worn in it is a breeze to clip in and out even in emergencies. (it is the cleats rather than the springs that need breaking in because my new Smartys were no problem from day one using my worn cleats.) in fact one of my two 'moments' in these pedals was because i came to a sudden halt and had forgotten i was clipped in - wrenching myself free as i fell slightly bent one of the 'armour' plates on the pedal but did no other damage to bike or rider. these pedals are strong but there is a weight penalty to pay if that bothers you. on the other hand, i found i was able to get a lot more power into my riding, especially uphill. i use Smartys on my other bike but might switch to standard eggbeaters on the 6500 simply to save weight and because they look so good. the Mallets are great if you have a bike that you ride on the trail but in town too so i will probably put them on my other bike which i use round town.
value rating is based on the price i paid. the cleats themselves are expensive to replace at about $18/pair (i bought the Smartys simply because i could get a spare set of cleats and pedals for $40) but i have ridden with mine for over 1000km so far and the cleats just get better and better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hammer
a Cross Country Rider
from OHIO Date Reviewed: June 7, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
nashbar.com
Strengths:
Durability, clipping in/out is easy. Sheds mud/dirt very well.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy.
Similar Products Used:
shimano entry level mtb pedals.
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher '06 HKEK
Bottom Line:
Good pedal for the money. No problems and easy to unclip on trails. Easy to clean.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Travis
a
from Auburn CA Date Reviewed: April 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
South Burma @ Annadel
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
cambria bicycle
Strengths:
coming from some Shimano M520's to Mallet C's ... the eggbeater was great to click in and out compared to the M520's and the pedal seemed to hold my cleat very stiffly, the platform was nice and boosted confidence on downhill sections because I could just feel more pedal there on the heavy corners and drops ..
Weaknesses:
Well my eggbeater cage broke on one of my pedals. I've been using these for very little time too, its a flaw in design over Shimano I guess. But Warranty is going to cover my pedal to be fixed. But that does not really help when I want to go riding today. The red paint wore off really fast too.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano M520's, crank bro 50/50 x, wellgo's that rip your shins up!
Bike Setup:
07 stumpy comp with a dee max in the back with kinda nevegals 2.35s, monkeylite sl bars, thomson layback post, yeti grips and mallet c's,
Bottom Line:
I think I am going to buy another pair of the pedals because they are 49$ and my LBS matches internet prices. They are great pedals when they aren't broken and crank brothers does have really good customer support. But! make sure you use the Shims, which have to be purchased separately, or shave some rubber off your cleats if they are rubbing the platform around the pedal, if you don't do this is could A) break your pedal and B) lead to severe knee problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Fresh Meadows, NY, USA Date Reviewed: March 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
blueskycycling.com
Strengths:
Good pedal for those coming over from platform pedals
Weaknesses:
Heavy, I guess?
Similar Products Used:
Platforms - some Shimano crap
Bike Setup:
Yeti ASX
Bottom Line:
Awesome pedals if you wanna learn.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Lithopoulos
a Downhiller
from Rancho San Diego, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
San Luis Obispo, CA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Solid, great product for the money, even at full price, easy to use, easy to clean
Weaknesses:
paint comes off easy, but that shouldn't matter unless you're one of those idiots that has a shiny bike with no dirt on it
Similar Products Used:
other platform pedals
Bike Setup:
2005 Haro X2, Avid BB7s, Manitou Nixon and Metel
Bottom Line:
If you are looking to go clipless, or if you have and are looking for a clipless pedal that can be ridden like a platform, this is the pedal. You don't have to BS with those little tiny pedals or ones that are double sided. This pedal can be ridden on both sides and the inner egg beater spins for easy entry. Great product
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
corey
a Weekend Warrior
from se us Date Reviewed: February 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
one with dirt and rock
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
online superstore
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
platforms
Bottom Line:
This is my first clipless pedal system. I rode several years before I got the nerve to go clipless. Based on reviews here and elsewhere I bought these. They are built very well, were easy to learn, and are tough. I ride a lot of rocks and have been borderline abusive towards them. No problems yet. I like being able to unclip and move my foot forward a couple of inches and riding them like platforms for the real technical stuff. Been seeing them for 50 bucks lately, thats a steal. Unless your a weight weenie, these are great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carlos
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA USA Date Reviewed: December 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Excellent engagement/disengagement Grippy platform Durable Mud has no effect on cleat engagement
Weaknesses:
Heavy
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 545
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575
Bottom Line:
I purchased my Mallets after I started having problems with my Shimano 545s, especially in the mud. The Mallet has a grippy platform that is very useful when attempting to build up speed before clipping in. So far my Mallets have held up twice as long as my old 545s.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terry Reis
a Weekend Warrior
from Birmingham Date Reviewed: November 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Kirroughtree
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Wiggle
Strengths:
Great platform works well when clipped out. Emergency clipping out is easy.
Weaknesses:
Sometimes tricky clipping in but gets easier with use / practise.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Clipless and Time Z Attack
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575, RP23, Pace RC41 Fighter 20mm TA, Mavic Crossmax SX.
Bottom Line:
I have a love hate relationship with clipless pedals. When I'm bombing over rocks and drops I like the security, when something that stretches me appears I wish I wasn't. But on the whole I prefer to be clipped in. Tried Shimano was never happy with them. Tried Time Attack Z, better but still had some loss of confidence moments. Finally relented and bought a pair of Mallets. The most impressive thing for me is the ease of unclipping by far the easiest pedal I have used. This may be helped by the fact that I have used the Stainless Steel Shim (available as an accessory) under the cleats. Emergency clipping out is a doddle. Move your foot slightly forward of the spring and you have a perfectly usable platform. Drag it backwards to re-engage. I have not had any accidental unclipping and I have used them hard. My son who would never touch clipless pedals now has a pair as well and is getting on great with them. Guess I have found my pedalling nirvarna !!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grady
a Weekend Warrior
from Elgin, IL, USA Date Reviewed: September 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
-Simple design -Sheds mud quickly -Easy entry and exit -Pretty!
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Scott
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude with stuff
Bottom Line:
A brilliant design! Takes getting used to, and the springs must be broken in. Best of both worlds!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from Montreal, QC Date Reviewed: August 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
#7 bromont, QC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
ABC
Strengths:
Easy clip in...easy clip out. Nice size platform for stability while riding.
Weaknesses:
I have broken the clip-in mechanism twice in two years simply by hitting it off a rock.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano spds used for 17 years....raced with them for five years and still using them on my commuter bike. IN-DE-STRUCT-ABLE.
Bike Setup:
Santacruz vp free, rockshok world cup, rubber tires, one shifter, etc, etc...
Bottom Line:
If you ride rocky downhill trails I would look for something more durable until crankbrothers can find a way to strengthen the metal piece that you clip into. Having has this piece break twice, it is annoying and somewhat dangerous.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
treefall
a Downhiller
from Brooklyn, NY, US Date Reviewed: August 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
CBO
Strengths:
The design for the interface is great, but the functionality of the axle and internal workings are very poor. Crank Brother's warranty is great because they know first hand of the poor design and having to replace so many parts on their poorly built pedals.
Weaknesses:
I broke 3 axles in less than 2 years. This product is very dangerous. Breaking a pedal while riding can result in serious injury. Riders be advised.
Similar Products Used:
Time Atac Z Pedals. Richtey SPD's, Shimano SPD's.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Chameleon, Marzocchi Z1 FR w/ Marzocchi Front 20mm Hub, Shimano XT all around, Mavic Rims, Avid BB7 185mm w/ levers, Azonic Shorty Stem w/ Double Wall Handlebar, Thompson seatpost, WTB Laser V Saddle, Time Atac Z Pedals.
Bottom Line:
Don't put yourself at risk. Pick up a pair of Time pedals. They have a better interface and are rock solid, as well as super smooth bearings.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam B
a
from Syracuse NY Date Reviewed: July 16, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
EMS
Strengths:
Solid platform, wide base, stable
Weaknesses:
none so far
Bike Setup:
07 Specialized Rockhopper Comp Disc
Bottom Line:
My first foray into riding clipless, and I've taken some good licks for sure, but the larger platform of these pedals makes it easier to clip in and out. They hold the cleat well, and release pretty quick (although not quick enough in some cases as my bruises atest too). You can add the included shims to your shoes to raise the cleat a bit, making releasing a bit easier. Overall a great, high quality product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Weiss
a Weekend Warrior
from Johnson Creek, WI Date Reviewed: June 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Maah Daah Hey
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Dakota Cyclery Mountain Bike Adventures
Strengths:
Great construction, nice platform for use with oout clipless shoes. Rebuildable. Schweet looking!!
Crank Brothers makes awsome products. I fully support their products.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leland
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington, DC, USA Date Reviewed: June 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
What's a trail?
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Simple, durable, usable with regular non-cleated shoes, no adjustments to fuss over
Weaknesses:
No adjustments (if you're into that sort of thing), sometimes difficult to hear & feel the engagement
Similar Products Used:
None; closest thing would be toeclips that came on my last bike
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Bad Boy; '99 Schwinn Mesa GSX
Bottom Line:
I first got these for my new Cannondale, and have moved them to the Schwinn so that I have the same system on both bikes (hence the bike pair in "Bike Setup").
The C'dale cane with plain pedals from the shop, and I wanted to get pedals with toeclips like I had before. They suggested that I try going clipless this time around, so after much deliberation (and reading many reviews online), I decided to go with the Mallet for my first set.
They've lived up to my expectations. Their design is so simple, it makes me wonder why nobody else tried it before. There's just enough float to feel comfortable, but not so much that I feel loose. The big platform makes it easy to just stand up & take off on them in almost any shoe -- perfect for tooling around the city. If they don't clip in right away, all I need to do is wiggle my foot a bit and they'll engage within the next few strokes.
Disengagement is easy enough, and just gets better as the cleats get worn in. For whatever reason, when new, each side disengaged more easily in opposite directions -- my right foot popped out nicely by pivoting my heel outboard, but my left foot was easiest if I pivoted my heel inboard. It may be related to my own physiology, but at least they're getting easier with use, and the left side now mostly behaves just like the right.
My natural, preferred stroke has my feet pointed straight ahead, so their lack of adjustability doesn't affect me.
Oh, and the cleats? When off the bike, I almost don't think about them. One thing about clipless pedals I've never liked seeing has been how walking becomes terribly awkward because of lumpy cleats and flat-bottomed hard shoes with no heel tread. When I got these, I also got a pair of MTB-style shoes, and the cleats' stack height is so small that they don't touch the ground unless the shoe flexes (or I walk through gravel). I've ended up wearing these shoes for the rest of the day after riding home from work, and I don't think I would do the same if the cleats were bigger.
I liked the Crank Bros. system enough that I got a set of Quattros for the Bad Boy and removed the toeclip pedals from my Schwinn to make room for these Mallets. Highly recommended pedals for first-time clipless riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a Downhiller
from Castro Valley, Ca. USA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
JM
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Friend
Strengths:
Platform, easy to clip in and out. Look sick, work even better
Weaknesses:
Dont shed mud as well as some other pedals. But no by much.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, and Platforms.
Bike Setup:
06 7point, super T, RS Pearl 3.1, CB Mallets
Bottom Line:
These pedals rock!!! If you cant clip in in a hurry you can always just use the platform. (Happened to me on a DH run) Super easy to clip in and out. I am having a problem with my right pedal the bearings are slowly deing on me. The pedals take hit like no others. Replaceable plates are sick. Buy them now! You can get the C versions for around 60 bucks right now. Best pedal I have ever rode. I will always ride CB from now on. I have mallets(dh bike), egg beaters (road bike). Really high quality pedals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Chin
a Weekend Warrior
from Glendoram, California, USA Date Reviewed: April 13, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Jensonusa
Strengths:
platform and easy clip in and out
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
07 stumpy fsr comp with xtr/xo drivetrain and mallet c pedals
Bottom Line:
Crankbrothers has awesome customer service and are very nice to talk to if there is a problem. I received responses to my e-mails within 3 hours each time. Only had problems with the screws holding the metal plates in. New ones were sent to me of no charge and I received them in 2 or 3 days!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad Guyer
a Weekend Warrior
from Loveland, CO Date Reviewed: April 6, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Easy engagement, disengagement, stylish looks
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Shimano DX
Bike Setup:
6x6 AM
Bottom Line:
I love these pedals, the big platform really helps in the rocky conditions we have here. It helps to have a little more platform when moving around, shifting body weight. I won't ride w/o them anymore. The best part is the price has come way down so now they are an excellent value, too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray
a Weekend Warrior
from Puyallup, WA Date Reviewed: February 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Skookum Flats
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Simple durable reliable. The extra platform is nice if you miss the clip in getting restarted on a hill climb.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Egg beaters
Bottom Line:
I've been using these for a while, no issues with function, construction or quality. Unaffected by mud or snow. Another plus is the rebuild kits (fresh bearings and seals). I continue to be impressed with the abuse these things can take. Smashed them into rocks, logs, etc. Lots of jumps / drops. The binding design is so simple, and very robust. Crank Bros. customer service is excellent. I've gone through a couple of sets of cleats over the years and used up the shims that go between the cleat and shoe (shims are to add space incase your shoe tread gets in the way). You get two pairs when you buy the pedals. Sent the folks at Crank Bros a quick email, more shims were in the mail the next day. By the way,the cleats are brass so they wear out before damaging the pedal binding. Better to replace the cleats than new pedals every few years. Just put a set of Mallet M's on my new 29er. It came with shimanos but I have been so pleased with the Crank Bros I put the mallets on before the first ride. I'm tempted to try the shimanos for comparison but like these too much. Highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sig Hilke
a Weekend Warrior
from Lopez Island, WA, USA Date Reviewed: February 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Whistler BC, pick a trail...
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
don't remember
Strengths:
Very easy to clip into, no stupid adjustments like SPD. Pedals hold very well, even in mud and severe conditions. They are very forgiving on the knees and easy to get out of when you need to.
Weaknesses:
When riding in flat shoes the spring system pushes up and makes the pedal feel a little untrustworthy as far as traction. The small metal plates try to help, but they seem to be more for show.
Similar Products Used:
I also have the Crank Bro Candys on my all mtn bike. I looked into clipless systems for a long time before comminting. I would only use the Crank Bros, or Time ATAC.
Bike Setup:
2004 Ironhorse SGS Pro. Stock except for a smaller front chainring to get me up the hills, the Mallet Cs, spring kits on the Manitou stuff to dial in the suspension, and an Answer stem to get the cockpit feeling right.
Bottom Line:
Great pedals! I would recommend them to anybody that does a combo of freeride/downhill and all mountain. If you do the all mountain/XC combo look at the Candys, they're lighter. Only 4 chilis on the overall rating due to the platforms not feeling real solid in regular shoes (no clips).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nik Benko
a Racer
from Los Osos Date Reviewed: December 8, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
my friends house
Strengths:
Easy in easy out Platform is awsome
Weaknesses:
Not ridable unless clipped in if wearying cleated shoes
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
05 specialized hardrock with 2000 Judys mallot c pedals
Bottom Line:
They are my first clippless pedals (the name clipless still confuses me) They work great and i have only had them for 2 days but still easy to use
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
this guy
a Cross Country Rider
from massatusetts Date Reviewed: November 26, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
LIGHT!!!(standard eggbeaters). Mud clearance: what mud?
Weaknesses:
You definitely can't be unsure whether you're in them or not at times. Too Lo-profile(again standard eggbeaters)
Similar Products Used:
Standard eggbeaters are my first and (still) only clipless pedal.
Bike Setup:
Jamis Komodo, psylo, xt, mavic, race face.
Bottom Line:
You either love them or hate them. Those who aren't familiar are immediately drawn to them. I don't have the mallets but I kept reading about the cleats wearing down and just had a comment. Not sure if it's common knowledge but the cleat metal is intentionally softer than the pedals themselves. The idea being better to replace a pair of cleats than a worn pedal. That said, I'm on my original cleats now for three years. You be the judge.
I'm building a freeride rig and am seriously considering the mallets.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Matthes
a Weekend Warrior
from Colchester, UK Date Reviewed: November 18, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Thomas Cycle Revolution
Strengths:
Strong, well designed, pedal float.
Weaknesses:
Steel cages loosen far too easily. Why not use allen screws????
Bike Setup:
Spesh Enduro
Bottom Line:
I don't get on with clipless pedals at all, but if I were going to use a set it would be these. They're very well designed, shrugging off filth and engaging easily. The platform is good too.
The only criticism I have is that the steel grip plates go AWOL too easily, they are attached with a philips screw which can't be torqued enough to keep the plates in place. They really need an allen bolt fastening.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 9, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Blue Sky Cycling
Strengths:
Very durable Simple and quick to get in and out of Mud is not a problem Work well without cleats
Weaknesses:
A few grams on the heavy side
Similar Products Used:
Stock platform pedals
Bike Setup:
1998 Giant Yukon SE, XT rapid fire shifters, LX derailleurs, Rhynolite rims, Deore hubs, Sette seat/handlebar/stem, ODI lock on grips, XTR chain, LX Hollowtech II crank
Bottom Line:
This is the first set of clipless pedals I've tried so I don't have anything else to compare it to other than platforms, but these things are awesome. You only have to think about unclipping and it will happen, yet I've never had them unclip unintentionally. Very fast and easy to get back in, too. I've bashed them on a few rocks pretty hard and nothing has happened besides scratches. I rode them in very muddy conditions the other day and had no issues with anything clogging or binding up, even after walking in the mud and then clipping in. I'd highly recommend these to any MTBer unless you're a X/C racer and weight is a big concern. In that case I'd probably go for the non-platform type eggbeaters. These are my favorite components on my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Behrer
a Downhiller
from Beaver, UT Date Reviewed: October 20, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
forgot where
Strengths:
Design, function, durability, warranty support.
Weaknesses:
none.
Similar Products Used:
Time ATAC, various Shimano/Ritchey SPD, many platforms.
Bike Setup:
these pedals are on all my MTBs.
Bottom Line:
I've run Mallets for over 2 years on all my MTBs. Earlier this season I hit a rock on one of the pedals and it bent one of the 4 retention bars of the "Egg Beater" portion of the pedal. The pedal became unreliable as it would hold my cleated shoe only in one of the positions, and in the other positions it would release too easily. About 2 weeks ago I contacted Crank Bros about the problem and asked if it could be repaired. They gave me a return authorization and said it would probably be covered by warranty.
Yesterday I got the pedals back and Crank Bros had repaired them under warranty, and not only did they replace the damaged "Egg Beater" spring on the one pedal, they replaced the bushings and bearings and one of the metal wings/end plates as well -- all under warranty, all at no cost to me.
Outstanding customer service and warranty treatment. I can't say enough good things about Crank Brothers or these pedals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: September 26, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Online Store
Strengths:
Good looks, seem fairly tough, nice wide platform better than shimano platform spds which I found quite narrow. Plenty of grip on platfom for use with normal shoes if need be, although I found myself always putting on mmy riding shoes even for just a short trundle to the shops.
Weaknesses:
1. Cleat wore really quickly, had to buy new ones after a month. 2. Not very adjustable compared to other pedals. 3. Were overly tight (and yes, I put the cleat on the 'beginner' method) and hard to get out of. 4. Difficult to engage pedal. 5. Dont make any sound when you clip in, resulting in not knowing whether you were clipped in unless you pulled up, I prefer SPDs as they have a nice positive 'click'. 6. For me, platform was nice, but a bit of overkill - i ended up using my cleated shoes on every ride, so no point (as an XCer) to have the platform. 7. When all your friends ride spd, it aint no fun having crankbrothers cleats - you cant play on their bikes!
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Platform SPDs, Shimano M520's, m540s.
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS1 stock
Bottom Line:
I ended up putting these on my thrasher bike and havent ridden them in ages. I now use M520s on the NRS and find it a lot nicer. If you are a DHer then yeah, mallets are probably the go, but otherwise head for shimano. Strange, I have heard so many good things about eggbeater system over here a lot of pros seem to be riding it but it just doesnt seem to want to work for most people. I put Crankbrother pedals in the 'boutique' basket. If youve got the dosh and want to look cool, go the eggbeater, but otherwise good old mass produced cheapie spds will do the trick.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Price
a Weekend Warrior
from Mahone Bay Date Reviewed: September 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Fight Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Spin Your Wheels
Strengths:
Work really well. I really like them
Weaknesses:
Poor construction.
Similar Products Used:
A whole bunch of shimano pedals
Bike Setup:
Norco Six 1
Bottom Line:
After only a year the axel snapped. And when it did the remainder of the axel in my crank arm broke a peace of the magnesium body off. They should be warrented. Aswell they can only be taken off with an alen key, which makes for a royal pain in the A$$. I also bought recently a set of egg beaters for my SS, and I bent an axel and cracked off a part of the pedal. No I didnt hit a rock and I do weight 180 pounds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat Dalton
a
from Poland, Maine USA Date Reviewed: September 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
www.bikebackcountry.com
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Easy in & out, platform for better weight distribution, mud is never an issue.
Weaknesses:
frequent service required.
Similar Products Used:
Platform, and caged pedals.
Bike Setup:
04 Haro X1 with All Mountain SL 130-150, Rock Shox Pearl 2.1.
Bottom Line:
I am not sure why there are so many people complaining about the cleats wearing out so fast. I've gotten almost 2 years out of mine. They are worn, but I don't come unclipped unless my pedal hits an obstacle. Easy in and out. I think they are perfect for people who haven't used anything else. Since these are my first "clipless" pedal, I didn't have any habbits already made with other pedals. They do require frequent service. I pack the whole pedal full of grease, and they tighten up like new again. This is crucial since there is only one bearing on the outside of the shaft. I think they are great!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James H
a Downhiller
from Prescott, AZ Date Reviewed: August 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
private reserve and others
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Light, mud clearance.
Weaknesses:
-Weak spindle (snapped). -Weak mechanism (bent) -No tension adjust. -Difficult to release when conditions necessitate moving heel "inwards". -Difficult to release when conditions necessitate pulling "up" more. -Bearings are weak and give out. -Pedal develops sideways play on spindle (moves back and forth) -Pedal necessitates a "rolling" motion to clip in, but it doesn't always work and your foot can shoot off the pedal when trying to get clipped in. -Cleats wear out relatively fast.
Similar Products Used:
545s, 656s
Bike Setup:
Turner 6 pack and Iron Horse SGS DH
Bottom Line:
I used a couple sets of these over the span of about 2 years, mainly because I was running eggbeaters on other bikes and I wanted the same cleats and something kind of "freeridish" on the bigger bikes. These pedals were never up to the level of the shimano 545s though. The eggbeater mechanism is a great minimal light-weight XC mechanism, but it lacks a lot compared to the competition when talking about a large-platform clipless pedal. I had plenty of issues with them, and I just "dealt with them" for the longest while, but now I'm glad to be rid of them and back on 545s. Much easier entry, more consistant release, adjustability, strength, etc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ptc
a
from Scotland Date Reviewed: August 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The ones nobody else knows about :o)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
online and instore
Strengths:
Clipping in and out, the large platform is excellent in sketching situations when you want to unclip 'just in case'. The soft cleats.
Weaknesses:
Finish is thinner than a supermodel. Heavy, but I knew that before I bought them. Wear can be fast, although wear rate has varied on the three sets I've used in the same conditions, so maybe that's down to quality control?
Similar Products Used:
Shimano knee twisting horrors.
Bike Setup:
5" travel full susser trail bike, done up nice.
Bottom Line:
These work very well, a clipless and a flattie in one, genius. The clipping in and out is easy and pain free on the knees, unlike the sets of Shimanos I've used over the years. The float you have while clipped in adds to the comfort, you can move around on the bike. The whole effect is very confidence inspiring. They're low maintenance, although if the bearings go get a new set of pedals, replacing them was a nightmare. There seems to be issues from many riders with the soft cleats. These cleats do wear very fast, the soft brass is what gives you the easy in and out action and as it turns out they also help you detach from the bike when you flip it, saving my knees and probably the rest of me on numerous occasions. Corrossion isn't an issue with the brass either. Great trail/ freeride/ downhill pedals, looking formard to the Acids though, same idea but lighter?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich Rana
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, IL Date Reviewed: July 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
XC and steep ravines
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Blue Sky Cycling
Strengths:
Easy to get in/out, nice big sticky surface for riding when not clipped.
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
These are my first platform pedals and I love them because you get all the advantages of clipless but also get that free feeling of riding unattached in case you need to bail on a steep descent/ascent. Well worth the $. Get on Blue Sky or Performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe blow
a Downhiller
from North Van BC canada Date Reviewed: July 6, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Nice big platfom, comes with xtra parts
Weaknesses:
CLEATS, ALL HARDWARE!!
Similar Products Used:
SPD 737, 525, 747, 545's
Bike Setup:
V10
Bottom Line:
If any one who reads this review is from Crank Brosplaese listen to the past 10 reviews, YOUR CLEATS ARE GARBAGE! as per the review below, 10 rides and they are done, and that is acurate, if where you ride has walk up trail access with anything resembling rocks, gravel or sand, give them 5 rides. NO thought was put into the cleat design, and they have the gaul to advertise the cleats as "Ultra Durable Brass Material" what a crock! Brass has never been durable against rocks, NEVER! Take a page from Shimano, use steel!!! Shimano may have no style factor, but at least their cleats last a season or more. Also The hardware that CrankBros uses is made of weak steel that either strips when you install it or rusts in one ride. WTF is that about? It's not like they are the first company to make a clipless pedal, way to many bugs to work out for an idea that has been around for almost 20 years.
What I do like is the eggbeater design, easy to engage, sheds mud, and even though there is no tension option, they hold you in perfectly (until your cleats take a dump). They also look cool, have a huge platform, and are easy to pick up for $65 US on ebay.
So if you don't ride much in rock, gravel, or sand and want to have a unique look, and are willing to replace cleats, buy these. Hearing that the spindles break is really scary. I have seen that type of thing happen on a drop, and it can cut you real good like, and keep you off the bike for months.
I ordered a set of their premium cleats to relpace the originals, the fact that they offer a better cleat for the aftermarket, I feel, is an admission that they are specing their pedals with sub-standard material to begin with. Charge $10 more and give us a better cleat, that would eliminate a major complaint about the product.
I love the look and the idea, but feel there is a lot of room for improvement on this product. I'm sad and disapointed more than angry about the performance of these pedals. I hope they make improvements cause they are a wicked concept.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: July 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Hamsterley
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Strengths:
Easy to clip out of
Weaknesses:
Far too weak, look worn after a few rides.
Bike Setup:
XC full susser
Bottom Line:
This is my second review, this one after a bit more use. I got these pedals for the platform but only use them for mainly XC type riding. Even with this use I have snapped two of the spindles in the past year. After the first failure in April the pedals spent months with my LBS as the UK distributer went bust. I got them back three weeks back and now I have sheared the other spindle. Mechanical engineer at work pointed out that the design will lead to fatigue failures like i've experienced. I have no confidence in these pedals anymore, luckily they failed going uphill so I didn't hurt myself. They may have a two year warranty, but I don't want to ride with the thought of my pedal snapping so in the bin they go....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
c
a Cross Country Rider
from Monterey, CA, USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Fort Ord Goat Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$59.00
Purchased At:
Blue Sky Cycling
Strengths:
If you use this for cross-country these thingsare going to last forever. Maybe I was just exaggerating but really all you need to do is keep them clean and probably buy new cleats when the old cleats wear out
Weaknesses:
It is just the weight.
Similar Products Used:
flats
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Tass, stock setup, crankbros. mallet c., kenda nevegals, hayes hfx-9 on one side, sole on the other side
Bottom Line:
These things rock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
G MA
a Cross Country Rider
from Flower Mound, TX, USA Date Reviewed: June 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Isle du Bois
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Large platform, easy to clip in and out, sheds mud well.
I bought these pedals a little over two years ago. At first I really liked them, but just two days ago the left pedal fell apart. I went to Crank Brothers website and found out two important facts: 1. The Mallet C pedals have a two year warranty. 2. I could buy a replacement parts kit (end cap, ball bearings, bushing, etc.) for $15. No thanks. Between the brass cleats that wear out in no time at all and the pedals falling apart these things will soon be costing me a fortune. I can't help but think the poor reliability of these pedals and the cleats is some kind of marketing strategy by the company. All my SPDs (okay, I have only two pair), one of which I bought in 1998 and still use on my hard tail, still work great...and they were a whole lot cheaper!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PJ Leeds
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: June 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
All Shore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Easy design, simple, works well with engage/disengage. Solid feel when clipped in. Excellent bearings.
Weaknesses:
Poor construction. Wears really fast (real fast). Eggbeater design is easy to bend.
Similar Products Used:
Most Shimano offerings
Bike Setup:
Foes Fly, Full XTR/Raceface/Hope/Monster T
Bottom Line:
I lament having to write this, but sadly these pedals are a deathtrap. The design works excellent, but the followup with construction is beyond pathetic. The eggbeater design is excellent, but if you ride in harsh environments like I with lots of rock gardens, you will find the beaters are too easy to bend. Not good. The clip itself is a joke. It is not hardened steel, but brass. After 10 rides (and I mean 10) the cleat was worn out. To the point that I could disengage by pulling up. Now, when you go off a drop and your foot suddenly flies away from the bike, not only is it scary but dangerous. I was initially impressed, but until they offer better cleats I will stay away. In the same conditions I get at least a year out of Shimanos. Very poor construction and durability. Not impressed at all and it is sad. Had potential.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brandon
a Downhiller
from Clifton, VA Date Reviewed: May 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Hareball or pro course at snowshoe
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Simple designs, easy to clip out and wide platform. I also like the replaceable traction plates.
Weaknesses:
After 3 days of east coast downhilling (tons of rocks) at snowshoe and diablo I snapped the spring mechanism (holds your cleat into the pedal) off the left pedal and bent up the right one. One of the traction plates was completely torn off and the other 3 were bent.
Similar Products Used:
First set of clipless pedals
Bike Setup:
Demo 8 pro with boxxer world cup and FLATS now
Bottom Line:
I thought I would have loved clipless but I guess it might have been good for me that the pedals broke. I went back to flats the same day and I was pinnin the same trails twice as fast. I don't know if it was a confidence this or what but I realized that I'm a ton faster with flats. I can't really blame the pedals for breaking since I hit them on tons of rocks but I don't think the spring mechanism should have snapped like that. Crank brothers could design a stronger mechanism
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from Anaheim, CA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Incredibly easy to clip in and out. Come with shims, two sets of hardware for the shims, extra armor and pretty good instructions.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Stock IH Warrior
Bottom Line:
Purchased these after reading reviews here and thought I'd see a big increase in power transfer. Not so much, but they're a great choice for a rookie like myself to start off with. Took 10 minutes to get everything dialed in and only a couple tries to learn how to clip in. Instructions detail 3 ways you can try. Have been told to take it easy while I break myself in with them and train new muscles. Could probably ride with regular shoes, the eggbeater doesn't stick up too terribly far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Swotch Dotkomsky
a Cross Country Rider
from Tenerife Date Reviewed: May 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Monte del Agua
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
float!!!,grip, easy clip in/out
Weaknesses:
weight, a shin biting btch
Similar Products Used:
shimano pd545...
Bike Setup:
prophet 600 stock specs + 661 Launch shoes
Bottom Line:
The float is the greatest feature on these pedals.I can ride the tricky sections clipped in, still positioning the feet the best I need. Or ride one foot down clipped out.Take care to grind down the soles of your shoe to the point the tread doesnt reach the pedal frame. And dont mess up the left and right clips or you die clipped in. Ride them a while and your shins look like moon surface. Broke up some tons of bedrock using them and they're still holding on. Awful hardcore looks. Great pedals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik Magrini
a Weekend Warrior
from Libertyville, IL USA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Palos
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$54.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
- Very simple to use and install, though they do not use standard cone wrenches, but allen wrenches. (This is ok, except that my 5050x's that I swap out all the time use cone wrenches. Wish CB would stick to one method.) - Fairly light for a clipless pedal with a platform. - They seem very sturdy, I can see these taking a beating and not failing on the trail.
Weaknesses:
- Like others have mentioned, unclipping the left foot is hard sometimes, and led to a couple falls even though I've been riding clipless a couple of years now. This was with the cleats in both positions, 15 and 20 degree release. - Pedals are very hard to get out of when new, my Shimano m520's were MUCH easier to learn in. Removing the 'teeth plates' on the pedals and using 1 shim helped a lot though. These are used with 661 Session shoes BTW.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano m520's.
Bike Setup:
'06 Specialized Enduro Elite.
Bottom Line:
Overall even though it may sound like I'm critical of the pedals, I do like them. One of my main complaints about my last pedals (the m520's) was that my feet would come unclipped unintentionally at the worst times. This is definitely not the case with the Mallets.
I was suprised that that so many people like the Egg Beaters over the Shimanos after having used both now. The Shimano's are cheaper, adjustable, and (IMO) easier to clip in and out of for the everyday rider. The Mallets though are less maintetance, and have a great platform too.
I should note though, that I couldn't see using these pedals with regular (non clipless) shoes. There is SOME platform you can feel, but not enough to feel stable on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
umar
a Cross Country Rider
from Petaling Jaya Date Reviewed: April 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Strengths:
Easy to unclip. The platform can be used during no-so-sure situation, and double up as mud shedding tool. Ideal for trail and recreational riding. Great support for long downhill.
Weaknesses:
Too big for narrow trail and rocky sections. Sometimes not easy to clip during muddy situation. It's too heavy for cross country riding.
Similar Products Used:
Platform
Bike Setup:
KHS XC904R
Bottom Line:
I'm in the transition from platform to clipless. The Mallet fit the bill. But, when I'm confidence enough, I will switch to Crank Brothers Candy for weight and roomspan reasons.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
some moron
a Downhiller
from southern New Hampshire Date Reviewed: April 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
HIGHLAND
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$70.00
Strengths:
Easy to clip in and out, simple, strong, looks the sheez
Weaknesses:
needs to be used with a shoe that has very small or no lugs Mine worked perfect with 661 Dualy SPDs
Similar Products Used:
just crappy wellgo flat pedals, god those things sucked :(
Bike Setup:
Tomac 204 Magnum, all the goods
Bottom Line:
A super reliable, simple, strong and fairly cheap pedal that is easy to clip into and out of if you have the correct shoes. Mine have been going strong for a year and the bearings are showing no signs of wear.
Five flamin dookies for value and overall because they are freakin awsome and i got em cheap!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from San Diego CA Date Reviewed: April 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
ted williams
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
beyond bikes
Strengths:
I have 2 pairs. they were originally on a garyfisher biggns, then my banshee, the finally ended up staying on a fixed gear. my other pair is on a bike taxi. they are easy to clip in and out of. I really like how they screw on with an allen wrench.
Weaknesses:
the lack of adjustability really gets annoying, especially because the cleats wear down so quickly. the are much better on a bicycle that on a bike taxi, I was recently giving a tour of san diego on my bikecab and as I was going down a hill and the spindle snapped and my pedal fell into the street. I don't know if an extra 500 lbs. of weight with a biketaxi would cause this to happen, but I finnished the tour. I got $30 for the tour and lost a pedal that costs $50-$100, bummer
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
gary fisher biggns frame w/a pike fork. hayes 9's and saint cranks Mainstreet pedicab w/ shimano 105's, magura hydraulic disc brakes. 1 mallet pedal, and 1 welgo flat
Bottom Line:
I really got a lot of use and abuse from these pedals. I am happy that I baught them. they should have adjustability, however I do appreciate the simplicity. I agree with one of the previous posts that it should come with extra cleats. do not use the pedals if you drive a bike taxi
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ca29er
a Weekend Warrior
from Wiener City Date Reviewed: April 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
www.bike-components.de
Strengths:
Durable. Compatible with normal sneakers as well as cleated shoes.
Weaknesses:
No tension adjustment on eggbeater. Color choice is lacking at my LBS. Paint is flaking off.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano M-324
Bike Setup:
Self-built trekking/29er. With regard to pedals: Truvativ Holzfeller crank.
Bottom Line:
Good, solid, versatile, durable but heavy pedals. I use these with normal sneakers and my MTB cleated shoes. It feels a bit odd in normal shoes, but the comfortable size of the platform makes up for it.
For the first few months of riding, I had difficulties clipping the left foot out of the pedal. There were one or two comical falls, and one or two more serious falls: my shin is scarred because my left foot wouldn't clip out in time; I darn near staked myself with my handlebars when I ended up on my kiester because I couldn't get my left foot out in time. I wished for an adjustment screw, but Crank Brothers thinks these are unnecessary. I ended up adding a drop or two of oil in the eggbeater, instead, and haven't had any problems since. Maybe the worn cleats help, too.
They've worked incredibly well in all sorts of conditions. They shed the mud long before my tires do.
The anthrazite paint is flaking off. This isn't much of an issue for me, but it is a bit sloppy.
I'm upgrading to the Mallet Ms, but only because they're the only ones that I can get in red. Otherwise, I would have stuck with these. I'll still use them on a fixie I plan to build.
If color, flaking paint or weight aren't issues for you, get these pedals. They're the last pair you'll ever need.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gervais Alkins
a Cross Country Rider
from Trinidad and Tobago Date Reviewed: February 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Iguana Trail, Tobago & El Tucuche,Trinidad
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Laguna Beach
Strengths:
Strong platform. easy entry and release. Like the idea of having to use allen key to screw in pedals.Pedals feels good when using my flip flops or skate shoe.
Weaknesses:
Started 2 hear a noise in the spindle, tried some grease but stillhearing a slight sound.Product shoulda come with extra pair of cleats, I think they wear a little faster than A shimano cleat.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 747's
Bike Setup:
Fisher Opie
Bottom Line:
great pedal! Love the quick entry and exit. it's quiet and I like it like that. Pedal has taken quite a bit a hits but has'nt fallen apart yet. Good pedal for all-mountain riding, might be to big 4 x-country weight weenies.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Downhiller
from Orlando Date Reviewed: January 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Razorback
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
From friend, new in box
Strengths:
Good engagement. Easy enough to clip into. I like the design.
Weaknesses:
I've had two fairly major crashes due to inability to get left foot out. I have used shimanos for a few years so I have experience with clipless, but I fell like an amature none the less...
Similar Products Used:
Shimano SPD
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler, 5th Element coil, Marzocchi Z1 fork, Race Face Diabolus and Sram XO components
Bottom Line:
I like these pedals. I had the cleats in the difficult setting (20 degrees to clip out) and have since switched to easier setting. (15 degrees.) The pedals seem very durable and I think the difficuty in clipping out was due in large part to the newness of the pedal. (Or maybe the cleat position) Since I paid about half of retail I think they were a bargin.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Elvis
a Cross Country Rider
from NC Date Reviewed: December 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
love these pedals
Weaknesses:
little heavy but im no weight weenie
Similar Products Used:
you name it
Bottom Line:
good pedals, easy clip ins cant complain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Guelph, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 8, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$60.00
Strengths:
Easy in and out. Nice amout of Float. Mine are blue, way cool.
Weaknesses:
A bit Heavy.
Similar Products Used:
First set of clipless
Bike Setup:
2003 Norco Saasquatch, DJ3, Hayes Mechs
Bottom Line:
I was considering clipless for a while, liked the simplicity of the eggbeaters, but wanted a platform. So very happy when Mallets came out. Love the look, idea, etc. I had to use the shims, and that worked without having to Dremal my shoes,(Pearl Izumi's). My rides are about once a week, 2 or three hours, single track. Some mud, no problems clipping in. I would definitly recommend these, Next set will be Crankbros again. 5 and 5
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eli
a Cross Country Rider
from Elsah, IL Date Reviewed: December 6, 2005
Favorite Trail:
The Web
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
- Easy exit and entry - Strong, grippy platform - Mud is never a problem
Weaknesses:
- Low clearance for my shoes - No slot wrench hold
Similar Products Used:
Time ATAC Alium
Bike Setup:
2001 Specialized Stumpjumper Comp, LX/XTR, Mars Elite, Mavic X225, Mythos XC front, Hutchinson Python Air Light rear
Bottom Line:
I love these pedals, which is a good thing because they're stuck on my bike right now. I use the pedals cause I ride around my college campus in Reefs as well as go offroad, so these work as a good compromise. They grip well enough on my sandals so I can hop up 3-4 inch stairs. Other than that, make sure you have solid allen wrenches, cause they don't like coming off and they don't have slot wrench molds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will Stephenson
a Weekend Warrior
from San Mateo Date Reviewed: November 27, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
Summit Bicycle
Strengths:
Very stiff pedal and still very flashy. It give good support to my ankles and gives a smooth feel when landing off jumps and drops. Also fairly light at 540grams a pair.
Weaknesses:
none.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano DX
Bike Setup:
Trek Liquid 25
Bottom Line:
This is a pedal that feels strong and will never wear out. It's will stay strong and fits perfectly for all mountain, xc, and occasional downhilling. It is also a good looking pedal. I am not much for looks, but i don't mind making my bike look better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Indiana Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from Indianapolis, IN Date Reviewed: November 17, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Westwood and Nebo Ridge
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
some website
Strengths:
easy to clip in, very servicable, very durable, replaceable parts, craftsmanship.
Weaknesses:
if your into counting ounces or whatever then youll probably balk at these, although they make a lighter version now (not much though).
Similar Products Used:
shimano clip ins and the old school straps.
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude with some stuff on it.
Bottom Line:
These are SO sweet! I heard that these are great to learn on if youve never used clip ins before and that seems very true to me. I bought them because they offer more of a platform than many other pedals. Dude these are SO durable! It would take a massive sledgehammer to do any damage whatsoever. I thrash my bike and components as hard as i can. Even at first when they are new they are still very easy to get in and out of and easy to set up with your cleats. Once broken in and gotten used to they are like old school BMX pedals that keep you tightly locked in until your ready to get loose. They are so easy to get in and out of but are still very secure. Ive had wrecks where there was no way i should have been able to get out of the pedals but the way i have them set up i always come free. Great design. They will probably last quite a while too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JC Jollant
a
from Scarsdale Date Reviewed: November 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Very easy to use. Does not catches goop.
Weaknesses:
Works so well unclipped that it does push you to clip as often as you should. Couple of cases where the left foot doesn't unclip fst enough (bang!).
Similar Products Used:
None (first clips)
Bottom Line:
It took me several months to finally use the clips and I now see the full potential of these pedals. For short, there are very good for a smooth transition to clips.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Weekend Warrior
from Rainier, OR Date Reviewed: October 24, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Post Canyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Fat Tire Darm
Strengths:
Nice solid platform, unaffected by mud, replacable plates, easy to get in and out, super grip when not cliped in.
Weaknesses:
If I were to nic-pic, sometimes I can't tell if I cliped in or not because there is no audible "click". But that is common with non-spd pedals (i.e. Crank Bros and Time)
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 545's
Bike Setup:
Kona Stinky, Manitou Flick+
Bottom Line:
I have been an SPD user for a long time, especially when they came out with the better mud shedding design (the 959). And I still use the 959 for XC riding. When it came to buying a pair of FR clip in platform pedals, I figured I'd buy the new Shimano 647's. I burrowed a pair of 545's froma buddy and used them for a couple of months, but felt the cage had very little traction when I wasn't cliped in. So when the 647's came out and they had a composite cage, I decided to look elsewhere. The Crank Bros had a nice metal cage with replaceable plates and that looked right up my alley. I wasn't sure if I'd like the mechanism because I had used Time pedals in the past and wasn't thrilled with them. But for freeriding, it was perfect. They clip in super easy, never unclip while jumping, and unclip just as easy when needed. I have never had a problem getting out of them. I also like the cage as it grips my shoe very well when I'm not cliped in...something the Shimano pedal fails at. They have also survived numorous rock impacts with no structural damage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Walter N
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington, DC Date Reviewed: October 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Avalon @ Patapsco
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Very easy to clip in and out of. Excellent quality - well built. Fully rebuildable, you can actually order parts from Crank Bros!!!
Weaknesses:
Spindles are short - they don't give your shoes much clearance from the crank and chainstays.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Platforms SPD's
Bike Setup:
SC Blur, Manitou Super Air SPV's, SRAM X-0's, Sun XC2's, Avid Juicy 7's, Race Face Atlas cranks, Azonic DW/DW bars.
Bottom Line:
These pedals are amazing. Definitely the best "All Mountain" pedals on the market.
Getting out of the Pedal - Like other reviewers have mentioned, once you get used to the Eggbeaters, you basically just have to THINK about unclipping, and your foot pops out. Don't take this the wrong way, I have not had a problem staying in the pedals; I don't think I have ever accidently popped out of the clip.
Clipping in - These are just as easy to get into the clip, it becomes second nature very quickly. The Eggbeater system is a far superior system to SPD!!!
Regarding the shoe clearance issue, I would advise against prematurely trimming your shoe treads. I thought I was going to have to trim my soles, but found that simply spraying a little chain lube on the platform at the beginning of every ride keeps my soles from from sticking to the pedal when unclipping. In other words, it allows me to easily twist my foot on the pedal to get out. This also makes for a much stabler pedaling platform because your sole is in constant contact with the platform, not just the eggbeater.
Regarding Mud - mud, sand, leaves: nothing seems to inhibit you from clipping into the eggbeater.
My only complaint is that the spindles are too short. My shoes barely (less that 0.5") clear the crank arms and chainstays when clipped in. I'm guessing that this will result in wear marks on my cranks and frame over time. The only saving grace is the float allows me to tilt my heels out and keep from banging on the crank. This hasn't become an issue yet, but I wish I had more clearance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from PA Date Reviewed: September 30, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Good design, works as advertised. Durable and very serviceable. Great customer service. Great pedal for those who ride in mud... easy to use and easy to grease. Good price.
Weaknesses:
Cleats wear a bit fast but not a big deal. Start cleats on the easy release setting and as they wear swap them to hard release.
Similar Products Used:
Eggs for years.
Bottom Line:
Would buy again if I need to. All my bikes have CB pedals. Two sets of Eggs, one Candy, one Mallet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al
a Weekend Warrior
from Woodland Hills Date Reviewed: September 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Sturdy Large platform Easy in and out Mud has little effect on them Come in cool blue
Weaknesses:
none that i can think of
Similar Products Used:
the crappy azz ones that came on my hardrock
Bike Setup:
hardrock pro - stock
Bottom Line:
These are my first clipless pedals, and aside from causing me to fall on my face a couple dozen times (my own inexperienced fault, i'm sure) they've been great. seem pretty easy to get in and out of (and can they have a nice big platform for those times you can't get in them on the fly).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from Milford NH Date Reviewed: September 22, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Attitash
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Strengths:
Good in mud, nice large platform, fairly simple to rebuild/maintain, Cool packaging
Weaknesses:
hard to clip into quickly, won't work on shoes with tall lugs on the bottom
Similar Products Used:
regular egg beater SL
Bike Setup:
tomac 204, Singltracks, Super T, Hayes
Bottom Line:
Pretty sweet pedal for the price. They are kind of hard to clip into quickly like after dabbing or starting out of the gate. Great in mud and super stable. Grease them regularly and they will treat you well. Be careful of what type of shoes you have because you excessive trimming of the lugs on the shoe may be nessicary if the spacers that are provides don't provide enough clearance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roberto Bouza
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami Date Reviewed: September 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Markham
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
EBay.com
Strengths:
1.- EggBeater system awesome 2.- Platform to start pedaling is very good. 3.- You can clip yourself even full of mud
Weaknesses:
1.- Weight 2.- Platform can't be used alone very unconfortable (EggBeater system makes your foot slip).
This pedals are just for starters on the cleat world. Don't use this pedals with normal shoes because if it's wet (even on dry days) your foot can slip in the middle of a down hill or a jump and you can loose control of the bike very easily and get injured (like me ;) ankle sprain). So if you are going in the cleat world buy the shoes right away and start practicing. On the other side, the eggb system is very very good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: September 2, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Mountain Equipment Co-op
Strengths:
-sheds mud easily -easy clip in
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Generic SPD's
Bike Setup:
KHS Alite 2000
Bottom Line:
I don't always put my foot down right and clip in right away, so at least I can pedal these platforms as I get myself properly clipped in. Don't buy these pedals expecting to use them while not clipped in. The Crank Bros retention system is excellent and still works even if the cleats are covered in mud.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
www.cambriabike.com
Strengths:
Sheds mud well, easy to click-in, low profile feel, two sizes of metal plates for traction (or you can take the plates off and save your shins)
Weaknesses:
Cleats wear out too quickly, no real bearings on the inside part of the pedal leads to squeaking noises (keep it greased!), nut that holds the pedal onto the spindle is too small and easy to strip out (use a torque wrench!). If your shoes come in too much contact with the pedal you may not be able to click-out if you endo or crash. Installation and removal can only be done with an allen wrench.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano SPD (several models)
Bike Setup:
Soma Groove hardtail, Fox Vanilla forks, Salsa Pro Moto bars, Thomson stem, Thomson setback post, XTR drivetrain, Sun Rhyno Lite rims.
Bottom Line:
I liked these pedals and rode with them for a year. If you're a longtime SPD user you'll have no problem switching over. I like my pedals to be low maintance, these pedals don't clog up like SPDs but the inner workings need improvement.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jacob Meyer
a Weekend Warrior
from Greensboro,Ga,USA Date Reviewed: July 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Heritage park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Georgia cycle, Athens Ga
Strengths:
Great pedal. I love all of the float you have with this boy. It has held up well. Its great for those of us who are tring to make the switch from platform to clipless.
Weaknesses:
It needs a pin hole or some way to lube the pedal
Similar Products Used:
Standard piece of crap platform pedals
Bike Setup:
02 specilized rockhopper,
Bottom Line:
I've enjoyed this pedal. Its great for when you want to use the eggbeater for trail riding and then the platform on the hairy parts or freeriding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ARCHANGEL
a Weekend Warrior
from West jordan, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: July 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
all freeride
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
priceponit
Strengths:
The pedal is tough and reliable.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
first clipless pedal
Bike Setup:
Raleigh M80 in the process of change, the bike is horrible.
Bottom Line:
The pedals rock. If your thinking of going clipless for the first time this is a great pedal to do it with. The pedal is great. It gives you enough surface area to clip out on technical areas and still be able to pedal. The pedal is very strong it takes a beating and holds up very well. Go clipless you now you want to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario,Canada Date Reviewed: June 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Don Valley
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$69.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Platform size,ease of entry/release
Weaknesses:
egg beater bars
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 858
Bike Setup:
Giant Vt2/trek fuel 80
Bottom Line:
These are great pedals and a good design.Im usiing 2 pairs of crank bros pedals on 2 different bikes.On both sets ive dinged the beater bars on rocks and both sets of pedals have been damaged beyond use.One set is currently being repaired/fixed by crank bros(i will update later on customer service).The other pair is a set of candys which are virtually bent in a u shape.The design of these pedals is suspect if you ride very rocky terrain but for muddy areas,dry riding these pedals rock. My question is what happens when the 2 year warranty is over?Do i then have to pay for my new beater bars every time i nudge a rock?Ive used shimano 858 pedals for 3 years without any complications.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ted
a Weekend Warrior
from Wellesley, MA Date Reviewed: June 6, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA.com
Strengths:
Big fat platform to stand on, comes with extra metal end pieces. Look cool, egg beater, seem strong.
Weaknesses:
Practicly dangoures if ya' get em' wet.(was wearing runing shoes at time, could just be that)
Similar Products Used:
Shimono pdf 545, I Think?
Bike Setup:
Trek 6700 stock except for pedals.
Bottom Line:
Hell of a pedal for the price I payed. Real Stong and light enough for what I do. If you want to be able to clip in and be able to ride uncliped on a pedal biger then a half dollar then these are idel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shackleton
a
from Bristol, UK Date Reviewed: May 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any with more down than up
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
chainreactioncycles.com
Strengths:
Good platform, stable, well made, good for use with no cleated shoes as the mechanism doesn't stand too proud, easy to set up and adjust for almost any shoe with the spacer provided. Enough float to move on the pedals but still feel attached. Shed mud well. Easy to engage. Easy to clean and maintain.
Weaknesses:
Finish looked good for all of 5 minutes before it met the first rock. Can sometimes be hard to release at some points in the crank cycle if you have big feet (I'm a US 13) but they do let you go in the event of a crash. Hard to stay unclipped on the pedals due to ease of engagement!
Similar Products Used:
Shimano DX (still own, now on the girlfriends bike) Time Z freeride (before they were stolen!)
Bike Setup:
Stiffee 2002, Vanilla RLC, Mallet C, XT, Hope C2 brakes, Blackspire Pro rings (highly recomended for muddy conditions!)
Bottom Line:
Probably the best platform for very muddy conditions (i.e. UK riding between January and December) but would find it hard to call between the Time Z freeride and this one for dry conditions. Both blow the Shimano DX units out of the water.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lomoid
a Weekend Warrior
from brooklyn Date Reviewed: April 22, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
amazing craftsmanship, good looks, easy setup, easy to clip in and out of, platform with adjsutable tooth plate is great for commuting. Amazing customer service, best I've ever dealt with
as others have mentioned the crank brothers experience begins the moment you open the box. The attention to detail in packaging and design is representative of a higher corporate culture that has alot of pride in their work. This aaesthic carries right over into the quality of the pedals. They are tanks. and perform exactly as stated. The platforms are grippy when not using SPDs, especially when using the long tooth plate. When using SPDs they feel like an extension of your leg. 6 degrees of advertised float makes for a real easy ride on the knees, and the choice of 15 degree or 20 degree release is perfect for me.
just a note . . .the eggbeater mechanism rises about 1/4 to 1/2 inch past the platform in the middle, so you can't do any serious riding without clips but it's more than capable of handling basic commuting tasks.
as far as customer service.. . I was using a crankbrothers toolkit to install the cleats and I stripped the screw and caused the 4mm hex tool to become soft on the edges. essentially rendering the tool and the screw useless. crankbrothers without question in response to a simple email send me replacement screws and a replacement tool the mext day. exceptional.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Cross Country Rider
from NY Date Reviewed: March 21, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
Clip in/out easily, even when new. Nice platform, can still pedal when clipped out. Shed mud/snow well. Easy to switch out worn parts, very simple setup & care instructions. Look pretty cool.
Weaknesses:
Weight. Almost a little bit too big of a platform.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano somthingorothers...
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar Comp
Bottom Line:
Very happy with these after riding them hard this weekend for the first time. Much more fluid clipping in/out compared to Shimanos I had previously - eggbeater mechanism very nice. Easy to get used to. Mud & snow seem to clear out fairly easily. Like the protection plate adjustments on the ends of the pedals. Had to use one set of shims with my Specialized Sport shoes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Anyone that is fast and twisted
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
Simple design, sturdy construction and reasonable weight. Excellent mud clearance.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Older Shimano clipless pedals
Bike Setup:
Foes FXR with Curnutt shock, Rockshox Pike Team, Mavic d521's laced to Hadley hubs, Kenda Nevegal 2.35 rear and Blue Groove 2.35 front, XT drivetrain, Hayes Hydros, Raceface Atlas cranks, Thomson stem and post, EA70 bars and finally a WTB Speed V saddle.
Bottom Line:
These pedals rock! It's been about 4 years since I've used clipless pedals since I've been using flats on downhill and freeride bikes. I've been longing for a trailbike for a while now and finally built up a Foes FXR and went with the Crank Brothers Clipless pedals. They are super easy to use and virtually the same as the old Shimanos I had used before with the exception of them being easier to clip into. The big platform is nice when bombing down technical downhill runs. I forgot how sweet it is to be clipped in when climbing. It seems like I have twice the strength as when using flats. The price was super reasonalble too! I am one happy customer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
akbar
a Cross Country Rider
from los angeles, ca Date Reviewed: December 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
cheesboro
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
these are my first clip pedals and i love it. my climbs are definetly faster, and i cruise on the flats. i didn't have cleats before becuase i didn't like the idea of no platform for downhill bombs, but the platform on these makes it possible to ride without clipping in.
Weaknesses:
these are my first clips, so i can't compare. if you want to ride without clipping in, it kinda feels funny because you accidentally may clip in anyway going downhill. but it's a good idea and it works.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
kona dawg dee-lux
Bottom Line:
first clips and i love it. takes some getting used to, but you'll get benefits from the ride. the platform is good if you don't want to clip in, but you really have to try and not accidentally clip in on downhill runs where you don't want to clip in. but it's preference. plus they are cheap and easy to use.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: December 15, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Westbrook Cycles
Strengths:
Easy to clip in and out of and has a platform for using when you do not want to be clipped in.
Weaknesses:
A bit pricey
Similar Products Used:
Shimano M545
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F900
Bottom Line:
These pedals are much better than the Shimano's they replaced. The Shimanos could not cope with English mud, a few hours on the trails and I could hardly clip in or more importantly out. In the end after the cage failed on the Shimanos I took the plunge and bought these Mallets, a great choice. They are a downhill pedal, but as I am heavier then the average rider I thought that they would be ideal, and my LBS had them at 10 pounds cheaper than the Candy's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cory
a Downhiller
from omaha, ne Date Reviewed: December 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
upper cherokee
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
4 side entry
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
wellgo clipless, many spd's
Bike Setup:
K2 Tirade 4.0
Bottom Line:
Fantastic pedal, best I've ridden. I got these as a pedal shoe combo for $75.00 best deal I have ever gotten through mail order.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Brown
a Cross Country Rider
from Wellington, New Zealand Date Reviewed: November 10, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Mud Cycles
Strengths:
Easy to clip in and out of with muddy shoes, but you can still fall over at traffic lights trying to get your foot out!
They don't require much care.
The actual pedal, not the egg-beater mechanism, is strong. My bike fell off a bike rack and was dragged along the motorway at 100 kph with the side of one pedal, a handlebar and the rear derailleur being the points of contact with the road. The pedal got melted down one side, but was otherwise OK.
Weaknesses:
Take a close look at the egg-beater mechanism. When these first came on the market the welded joins were all solid. Find someone who's got an early pair and check out the difference. Now, on some joins there is a thin crack running at least halfway through the metal. It must be a result of the manufacturing process. This makes the egg-beater mechanism vulnerable if one of the weaker joins is not clipped into the shoe and hanging below the pedal. Pedal strike and snap!
The mechanism also allows for a lot of swivel foot movement, which is comforting if you're not used to clip-ins, but annoying if you want to feel really locked in. Sometimes weaving through tight single track I have come unclipped because of this play.
Similar Products Used:
These are my first clip ins. Before them I used toe-clips.
Bike Setup:
O3 Giant Igauna with essentially every bit replaced (they wore out), except frame, cranks, shifters, seat and post, and handlebars. Rock Shox Dukes on front.
Bottom Line:
I'd had my Mallet Cs about 6 months when part of the egg-beater mechanism snapped. I don't know when or how this happened, but I presume my pedal hit something and the weak join was hanging underneath and snapped. It was this that caused me to examine the pedals closely and see that there is one weak join per pedal. So you've a 1 in 4 chance that this may be hanging underneath, and if you're going over rough terrain ...
To be fair to Crankbrothers, the Auckland people put a new egg-beater mechanism in within 2 weeks - but so they should, the warranty is 2 years! I'm just concerned that the same thing might recur, cause the pedals definitely have a weakness.
I was amazed, on examining a pair (not Mallets but egg-beaters) that had been bought when they first came out. The mechanism was far sturdier all round, with no weak joins.
Otherwise - good pedals - I'd prefer an earlier pair though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Howery
a Downhiller
from Prescott, AZ Date Reviewed: October 31, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Private Reserve
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Ease of exit. Lighter than comparable shimano pedals. 4-sided entry (rolling feature).
Weaknesses:
Unintentional release when bottom of pedal impacts a rock just right.
Mallets are "thicker" than shimano pedals. When you clip into the shimanos the mechanism rotates "flat", the mechanism of the CB remains at the same height whether you are clipped in or not. This leads to more rock-impacts compared to 545s or 646s.
No adjustable spring tension.
Not as easy to clip into as the shimano 545 and 646, on these you can simply place your foot on the pedal and it clips in, with the CB you have to "roll" it forward, which I've found makes you "hunt" a little more when clipping in.
Similar Products Used:
636, 646, 545s.
Bike Setup:
IH SGS Pro w/shiver DC and fox DHX.
Bottom Line:
These are good pedals, they have some good features, but they are not the end-all pedal. They have several areas where they could be better. I am satisfied with them, but the real test will be long term durability, as I don't see these being superior based on features alone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will T Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Valparaiso, IN Date Reviewed: October 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Imagination Glen
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Easy to click in. Large platform cage makes it easy to pedal without clipping in. Strong Chromoly cage!!!!
Egg beater turns independently from the pedal. They are also recessed well into the pedal(the pedal face is concave) so you can actually pedal without clipping in.
"Bear Claw factor" is adjustable. Two sets of traction plates are supplied with the option of removing them entirely.
Weaknesses:
You have to cut tread from the bottom of the hiking style shoes (even with shims) to get proper clip in. Clip out is tough until the cleat wear a little.
Similar Products Used:
Strapped pedals. (They should be called STRAPLESS pedals, not clipless. Clipless pedals OBVIOUSLY have CLIPS (clip in, clip out)!!!!!)
This is a great pedal for folks who want the confidence to clip out, dab and then return to pedalling. Honestly, it's hard to turn the pedals without clipping in automatically!!! I've tried, and the cleats always seem to find the egg beaters.
For easier exit, twist the cleat INWARDS towards your big toe. This will reduce your exit angle 15 deg minus whatever your twist is!!!
The product is great. And Egg-Beater's reliability seems to be cannon around here.
There is a Mallet-M available with a magnesium cage instead of Chromoly Steel. But I'm a big guy (270lbs) I'll stick with the steel!!!!!
As value goes, the Mallet C is only 10 bucks more than a standard chrome egg-beater pedal. THAT is a huge bargain for such great quality!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from NC Date Reviewed: October 12, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The best pedal I have used so far. Let's see....a platform that you can clip in to...yep that works!!! Easy to get in and out of (for the most part) and you can ride clipped in or not.
Weaknesses:
Very easy to get into (had to use the shims) but the left foot seems harder to get unclipped than the right? I think I have worked them in enough but we will see. I really don't think there is any real weakness though. I smack the pedals on more stuff than I did with SPD's but that probably is because they take getting used to.
Similar Products Used:
None. I have always used Shimanos but they don't shed mud near as well as these.
Bike Setup:
04 Enduro Expert
Bottom Line:
Worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ramon
a Weekend Warrior
from San Clemente,CA Date Reviewed: October 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
?
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Platform so you can ride with regular shoes, easy to install and easy to clip into.
Weaknesses:
Takes a little while to get used to
Bottom Line:
The pedals took a little while for me to get used to but I managed after 2 falls. I ride my bike to work everyday so I use anything from trail running shoes to sandles and then when I go trail riding I use some Sette Enduro's with the CRBros. Cleat. Took a little getting used to but I love these pedals. I recommend them to anyone who rides. The only prob I see is getting used to unclipping when you get to a technical part of a trail. Other than that buy these pedals!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gonzostrike
a Downhiller
from Missoula, MT Date Reviewed: September 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Beyond Bikes
Strengths:
excellent design, works well when clipped in and when using as flats, evacuates mud and has no problem with cruddy shoe soles/cleats, spins smoothly.
Weaknesses:
none so far (6 months)
Similar Products Used:
Time ATAC, various SPD style pedals, many different platform pedals
Bike Setup:
3 different bikes with these pedals
Bottom Line:
Updating my 3/16/04 review, I bought two more pair of these pedals for two more bikes, I now use them for everything except stunt-heavy FR and technical DH. They continue to work flawlessly. I'm very impressed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darrel
a Cross Country Rider
from Pacific Beach, CA Date Reviewed: September 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Large platform, stays clean, and easy to clip in/out.
Weaknesses:
Weight is the only weakness.
Similar Products Used:
clips, platforms, shimano
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight-dialed.
Bottom Line:
Super easy to clip in when your ready to charge and easy to clip out when you need to. Stays clean and having the large platform is a luxury. I like the idea of having the extra freedom when things get sketchy or sometimes its just nice to cruise out to the beach in your flip-flops. Delivers the blow on rocks and can take a hit. Obviously there are lighter pedals but I think they're worth the extra weight. I keep my bike like Paris Hilton, she's a supermodel with big feet but I'm not complaining!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from State College Date Reviewed: August 14, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Beyond Bikes
Strengths:
Dual sided insertion means no flipping the pedal to find the correct side to clip-in. You have a platform to pedal with when not clipped-in. Platform has a relatively low profile.
Weaknesses:
No tension adjustment. Egg beater sticks up slightly above the platform, so you fell it when riding in sneakers. I am worried about hitting stones with the larger platform, but it hasn't really happened yet.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Normal plates on the mallets, not the higher plates. Pearl Izumi Vagabond shoes. Fisher Tassajara.
Bottom Line:
These are my first clipless pedals. I just started riding this year and figured I might as well learn from the beginning to ride in clipless pedals. I chose the Mallets because I very often ride with my daughters on the bike path in front of my house. At these times I ride in sneakers or sandals, so I wanted a campus pedal. I also trail ride three times a week.
The platforms of the Mallets suits me very well. They allows me take an impromptu ride around the neighborhood in my sneakers. When trail riding in chicken mode, I can clip-out and try a new, technical section and still have the platform to pedal with. Sometimes, when starting out on rougher section of trail, I miss the clip-in, but platform allows me to pedal on a bit until I can clip-in.
A friend got SPD's the same time I got my Mallets. Comparing our experiences, there does seem to be a longer learning curve with egg-beaters because there is not a tension adjustment. They are stiffer at first. But once you get used to them and they loosen up a bit, it is smooth sailing. Now I wish I could tighten them up just a little.
If it wasn't for riding often in sneakers with my daughters, I would probably switch to egg-beaters or candies. But, for the mixture of riding I do, the Mallets fit the bill perfectly. They are a great pedal that earn a full five chilis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
me mine
a Cross Country Rider
from Grass Valley, CA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Anything with rocks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Ummm... wide platform.
Weaknesses:
(see below)
Similar Products Used:
Time ATACs, Shimano, Onza, Speedplay
Bottom Line:
Well, my experiment with Crank Brothers pedals came to a conclusion last night. In the few weeks I had them, I experienced the following:
1) A big chunk of metal near the spindle broke off, potentially compromising the strength and integrity of the pedal.
2) After grinding down one pair of shoes to the point of compromising its stiffness, they still didn't work with the pedals. Yes, I used the shims.
3) Even after changing shoes, I went down at least five-six times when I could not clip out. Two of these crashes were very painful.
4) After examining the left pedal, there is obviously a manufacturer's defect in the left spring.
After taking it apart last night to fix #4 and wrestling with it, I just gave up. In 2-3 weeks of owning these, I have had more problems and spent more time resolving problems than I did in eight+ years of owning Time ATACs. I rode the Times last night and had no issues... in/out, in/out. I would rank them as the worst mtb product I've bought in a while.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from PA Date Reviewed: August 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great pedals that have excellent customer support. Try calling "the guy at Shimano" with questions about the product. Every encounter I've had with the company has been very positive. (I've got Eggs on my other bikes.)Work as advertised. My favorite part about Crank's pedals is that you can grease them with a grease gun and keep the bearings lubed. You've got to be a bit clever with the grease gun but I've carved my own coupler out of wood to inject the grease into the pedal. I use them for light FR,DH and even some trail riding.
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy but on par with other platforms.
Similar Products Used:
I have not tried other platform/clipless.
Bike Setup:
Bullit set up for FR and trail use (at this time). Z1 thru axel up front.
Bottom Line:
Great product that I would buy again. I might try the Mallet M next as the lighter weight would help on the trail rides.
Mike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Max
a Cross Country Rider
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: August 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Arastradero
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
eBay (new)
Strengths:
Everything. From the slick packaging to the replacement parts to the pedal itself.
Weaknesses:
Sometimes it is a little difficult to clip out even with the 15 degrees setting, but that may be me as well since I've only been riding them 3 months.
Similar Products Used:
First clipless pedals.
Bike Setup:
Ibex Ignition 2
Bottom Line:
I would never get clipless pedals without a platform because for my style of riding I am not clipped in 60%-80% of the time. However, when you need that extra speed or strengh the clipless makes a huge differnce. The great thing about the Mallets is that they are perfectly good as platform pedals and provide a solid grip, but also let you clip in when you need to. This was my first pair of clipless, and they were very easy to learn on, just have to remember to clip out in time...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Louis
a Cross Country Rider
from Lake Tahoe, CA USA Date Reviewed: July 13, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any rolling hills
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
jenson usa
Strengths:
easy in, easy out, nice platform for cliping out or going without cycling shoes, plenty of float
Weaknesses:
getting used to, proprietary clip, bit on the heavy side.
Similar Products Used:
Welgo SPD compatiable
Bike Setup:
stock - with computer, new stem, new handlebar, headlight.
Bottom Line:
I was having a hard time with my original welgo spd compatible clip ins. You know the drill, got gunk, clip out at random banging up shins, etc ... But these crank bros not bad at all. The platform of course is nice when you need it. The big thing for me was when I'm climbing I wouldn't just pop out at random and end up dinging up my shins, or knee. Also with these, you have plenty of float, so its way easier dialing in your clip to your taste. The only real major complaint (aside from weight) I can think of is sometimes you don't get a audible click when you get in. OH and the clip itself can be used with SPD compatible shoes, but are still proprietary crank bros. None of that is enough to really lower its rating.
Who should buy it? Anyone ready for something new, and wants something solid under their feet with clip in shoes or not.
Who shouldn't? If you're really weight conscience.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chumbuddy
a Cross Country Rider
from Webeter Chebeter, PA USA Date Reviewed: June 8, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Fair Hill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Positive clip in response, great platform when not clipped in, easy exit but only when intended, no mud interference
Weaknesses:
weight, if you care
Similar Products Used:
Shimano 646, 747
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic Marathon, XTR drive train and hydraulics
Bottom Line:
I've gotten sick of cleaning out mud from my SPD's over the last 10 years, so it was time for a change. My only regret was not changing to Crank Brothers sooner. Don't be afraid to change...can't think of anything that isn't better or easier with the egg beater mechanism than with Shimano SPD. Per the strengths above: Positive clip in response, great platform when not clipped in, easy exit but only when intended, no mud interference. I'll keep swearing by Shimano for my drive train but I'm done with their pedals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DaveL
a Weekend Warrior
from Coventry Date Reviewed: June 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Afan Argoed, Wales
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Excellent mud clearance, Huge platform for those sticky moments when you can't find the cleat, rebuildable, huge amount of float, positive clip in, easy release
Weaknesses:
tricky to engage - I'm sure I'll get used to them. not the prettiest but I really don't care!
Similar Products Used:
Shimano M545s
Bike Setup:
Marin Attack Trail
Bottom Line:
15 or 20degree float is great for the knees, mud clearance avoids the irritation of having to stop to clean your cleats and they can be rebuilt so you're not going to be changing them in 18 months when you wear out the bearings on your M545s! I love them and wish I'd gone this way sooner!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marcus75
a Weekend Warrior
from LA, CALI Date Reviewed: May 31, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Easy Exit/Entry, very tough, Wide platform which makes it easily pedal with unclipped. Rotation Float, Light Weight (got the Mallet M)
Weaknesses:
Little Expensive, but you get what you pay for. Had to shave off some rubber due to cleat interference with rubber sole on my specialized MTB Pro. Sometimes my feet hits the seat stay due to the rotating float (6%)
Similar Products Used:
Time Z, Shimano 515
Bike Setup:
Specialized Enduro Pro with WTB Epicwolf 2.1, Continental Survival Pro 2.3 tire, answer Protaper carbon Handlebar, thomson Elite Seatpost.
Bottom Line:
I have been using Time Z pedals for a year, but its extremely tough to exit? I fell several times because I couldn't click out in time. I got the newer Mallet M after hearing reviews about how remarkably easy it is to clip in and out. The reviewers are right, the CB locking mechanism is extremely easy to use and I was very suprise to find how easy it was to click out. I have no feel of being "trapped" in my pedals like my Time Z pedals. Also the float and rotating floats easies my feet and ankles. The platform is HUGE so you can easily ride with your regular shoes on and unclipped. Definately get the new Mallet M (very light). Definately recommend this to anyone just starting clipless due to the large platform and experienced riders who tackle technical terrains.
Only bad spot is that my specialized MTB pro shoe's rubber sole interfer with the cleats, making clipping in hard. Shaving the rubber sole fixes this problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
L.K.
a Cross Country Rider
from Midwest Date Reviewed: May 30, 2004
Favorite Trail:
poto
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Big & wide - easy to clip into and out of
Weaknesses:
a little heavy (not for weight weenies, I don't really care)
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey SPuD compatible
Bike Setup:
Obed w/mixed components
Bottom Line:
These pedals are nice. They are cheap, and they work everytime, in the mud, grit, sand, and dust. They let me unclip for a descent and then clip back in as soon as I'm through it for more power. The two different height teeth are nice too (I settled on the longer ones for when I'm w/o clipless shoes, or doing wheelies, or pretending to be a midwest DHer or DJer). If you need a clipless pedal and you don't care about the weight, buy these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirty
a Weekend Warrior
from Yucaipa Date Reviewed: May 28, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Yucaipa Bike center
Strengths:
Strong Stiff easy in and out. this Massive Ooops platform for those of us that dont always find the sweetspot in the hairy stuff. Mudd has no effect on the operation of these pedals they stay clear and even totally caked you dont get stuck in
Weaknesses:
the only real weakness i found are these cheesy plates on the ends.... i just took mine of after the fourth ride and having to hammer them straight again. Other than that not all shoes will quite work with these
Similar Products Used:
Ritchy logic Pro egg beater cro
Bike Setup:
fr 1500 Built myself with a wide Mix of good stuff
Bottom Line:
Bottom line this Pedal is the best of both worlds. You get your great feel of a clipless style pedal but also for the hairy stuff you have a Nice wid platform for those moments when you cant quite find yourself on the pedal but had better find something to be standing on for what coming at ya really fast. if your having trouble gettingout of these pedals check your spacers and check that you have the cleat with the two dots on the right for the quicker release other than that you might need a shoe that doesnt have a super aggresive sole to it.... Beside who needs traction on your shoes .... thats what the bike is for. If your a free rider and you want a good pedal this is the one for you specially if your a beginner to clipless
$ 100.00
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
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