Speedplay X5 Chrome-Moly Pedals

Advantages: Nimble, durable, versatile
Disadvantages: Gearing too low for speed on downhills

...I purchased a Gary Fisher Nirvana as a deeply discounted "clearance" item in the late 1990s, and have used it for short commuting and longer weekend rides ever since. The cro-moly frame and fork have worked smoothly and held up well, the wheels have taken a pounding without distorting, and the gears are still functioning without flaw. The small frame accepted fenders, luggage rack, and other unstylish but useful add-ons. This hybrid bike has been nimble, easy to pedal, and durable. My criticisms -- the gearing range is too narrow to generate much speed going down hills and on flats. And the small diameter tires are somewhat inefficient for long distances on the road though ideal for mixed on road and off road use. Gary Fisher sold his company to Trek in the early 1990s, and I suspect that some of the models have been... Read review

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Advantages: Grippy, tough, long-lasting, good spares backup
Disadvantages: Poor paint, watch those pins, needs flat soled shoes

...The Company DMR started life in 1995. They focus on the extreme side of mountain biking. More BSX, slalom, 4X, jumping and freestyle than cross country. The company name stands for Design Make Ride, and are British, so you can feel all patriotic when you buy stuff from them. Why go for a Flattie? Flattie or platform pedals were another innovation by Shimano. Their DX pedal came out in the early/mid '90s, and Shimano still manufacture a version of it today. Originally the DX was intended to be used on BMX bikes, but rapidly found their way onto mountain bikes. Compared to standard rat trap or bear cage pedals, flatties provide a wide stable platform for the feet. They allow greater variation in foot position, and are usually better at taking knocks. Multiple pins in the pedal body ensure the pedal grips... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Ease of entry; Mud clearing; Float
Disadvantages: Durability of pedal and cleats

...a couple of times a year of having to renew. And the pedals themselves can suffer. Granted I put about 2000 miles into my pedals before one of them broke a prong, and even with that broken I can still attach to two sections meaning the pedal is still usable, but it's worrying that this wear could leave you stuck a long way from home. The pedal design isn't such that it's comfortable or easy to ride on if you're not attached. I've got used to these pedals. I have the chrome version on my mountain bike and daily commuter, which cost about £35, and there are versions such as titanium available as well which lighten and strengthen the pedal, but also add to the cost rather astronomically, and I feel the law of diminishing returns then comes into play. The pedal that broke will be getting replaced with the same pedal simply because I like the all... Read review

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