Best Clipless Pedals in 2026: 5 Top Picks for Road, Gravel, MTB & Commuting
The Shimano PD-M520 is our top pick for the best clipless pedals for most riders because it combines excellent durability, adjustable release tension, easy engagement, mud-shedding performance, and a very reasonable price. Its two-sided SPD design makes it particularly practical for gravel, mountain biking, commuting, touring, and riders buying their first clipless pedals. Shimano specifically highlights its adjustable tension, sealed cartridge bearings, and open binding that sheds mud and debris.
For road cyclists, the Shimano 105 PD-R7000 is our preferred three-bolt option, while the Shimano PD-M8100 XT is the better upgrade for riders who want a lighter, more refined SPD pedal. The Look Keo 2 Max is an excellent road alternative, and the Shimano PD-EH500 is especially useful for commuters who want clipless performance on one side and a flat platform on the other.
Quick Comparison of the Best Clipless Pedals for Road Cycling, Gravel, Mountain Biking, Commuting, Touring, and Everyday Riding.
| Product | Best For | Weight* | Adjustment Type | Key Feature | Check Price |
| Shimano PD-M520 | Best overall | ~380g/pair | Adjustable SPD tension | Durable dual-sided entry | View on Amazon |
| Shimano PD-M8100 XT | Best MTB/gravel upgrade | ~342g/pair | Adjustable SPD tension | Lightweight, wide contact area | View on Amazon |
| Shimano 105 PD-R7000 | Best road pedals | ~265g/pair | Adjustable SPD-SL tension | Stable wide platform | View on Amazon |
| Look Keo 2 Max | Best Look road option | ~250g/pair* | Adjustable spring tension | Easy engagement and good stability | View on Amazon |
| Shimano PD-EH500 | Best for commuting | ~383g/pair | Adjustable SPD tension | Clipless + flat platform | View on Amazon |
*Pedal weights vary slightly by version and manufacturer specification. Clipless pedals do not have a “weight range” in the way adjustable fitness equipment does, so this table uses approximate pair weight instead.
Product Reviews: Best Clipless Pedals
1. Shimano PD-M520
Best for: Most riders, beginners, gravel, MTB, and commuting
The Shimano PD-M520 is one of the easiest clipless pedals to recommend because it does so many things well without trying to be expensive or overly complicated.
Its SPD mechanism is double-sided, so you don’t have to hunt for a specific side of the pedal when clipping in. That is particularly helpful for beginners and commuters, where quick engagement matters.
The open binding design also helps shed mud and debris. Shimano says the pedal has adjustable tension, a chrome-moly spindle, and sealed cartridge bearings.
Cyclingnews also currently includes the M520 among its top clipless pedal recommendations, highlighting its durability, adjustability, weather resistance, and value.
Key Features
- Shimano SPD clipless system
- Double-sided entry
- Adjustable release tension
- Chrome-moly spindle
- Sealed cartridge bearings
- Open, mud-shedding binding
- Compatible with Shimano SPD cleats
- Suitable for MTB, gravel, commuting, and touring
Pros
- Excellent value
- Extremely durable
- Easy to clip into
- Two-sided entry
- Adjustable release tension
- Easy to service
- Good mud clearance
Cons
- Heavier than premium pedals
- Basic appearance
- Smaller platform than trail-style clipless pedals
Why We Recommend It
The M520 is the best starting point for most people getting into clipless pedals.
It is inexpensive enough that you don’t have to make a major investment to try SPD pedals, but durable enough that you can continue using them for years if you enjoy the system.
It is also a particularly sensible choice for gravel and commuting because the metal SPD cleat is recessed into compatible cycling shoes, making walking much easier than with most road-oriented three-bolt systems.
2. Shimano PD-M8100 Deore XT
Best for: Cross-country MTB, gravel, and riders wanting a lighter SPD pedal
If the M520 is the practical value choice, the Shimano PD-M8100 Deore XT is the performance upgrade.
The M8100 retains Shimano’s familiar SPD mechanism but uses a lighter, more performance-oriented design. Shimano describes it as a stiff, lightweight XC pedal with wider edge-to-edge contact points and a body designed to shed mud effectively.
The lower-profile design and broader pedal-to-shoe contact area are particularly useful when you’re riding technical terrain or spending several hours on the bike.
Key Features
- Shimano SPD system
- Dual-sided entry
- Adjustable entry and release tension
- Chrome-moly spindle
- Wide pedal-to-shoe contact
- Low-profile design
- Mud-shedding body
- Designed for XC and gravel riding
- Shimano SPD cleats included with many versions
Pros
- Lighter than the M520
- Excellent durability
- Strong power transfer
- Good mud clearance
- Stable platform
- Proven SPD mechanism
Cons
- Considerably more expensive than the M520
- Less platform support than larger trail pedals
- Weight savings may not matter to recreational riders
Why We Recommend It
The M8100 makes sense when you’ve already decided you like SPD pedals and want something lighter and more refined.
For serious gravel riders and cross-country mountain bikers, the upgrade is easier to justify. For casual riders, however, the M520 remains the better value.
3. Shimano 105 PD-R7000
Best for: Road cyclists and long-distance road riding
The Shimano 105 PD-R7000 takes our road-pedal recommendation.
Unlike the M520 and M8100, this pedal uses Shimano’s SPD-SL three-bolt road system. The larger cleat and pedal platform provide a stable interface between cycling shoe and pedal, making it well suited to road riding.
Road.cc currently rates the PD-R7000 as its best clipless pedal overall, highlighting its stability, wide tension adjustment, durability, low profile, and value.
Key Features
- Shimano SPD-SL three-bolt system
- Carbon-fiber-reinforced resin body
- Wide pedal platform
- Adjustable entry/release tension
- Sealed bearings
- Stainless-steel body plate
- SM-SH11 yellow cleats included
- Approximately 265g per pair
Pros
- Excellent stability
- Strong power transfer
- Durable construction
- Wide tension adjustment
- Relatively affordable
- Good long-term reliability
Cons
- Three-bolt shoes are less comfortable to walk in
- Not ideal for muddy off-road riding
- Less versatile than SPD pedals
Why We Recommend It
For a road cyclist, the PD-R7000 hits a particularly useful price-to-performance sweet spot.
You get many of the characteristics that make higher-end Shimano road pedals attractive without paying flagship-level prices.
The wide platform also gives your foot a stable connection to the bike. Shimano’s yellow SH-SH11 cleats provide 6 degrees of float, while Shimano also offers alternative cleats with different float characteristics.
4. Look Keo 2 Max
Best for: Road riders who prefer the Look cleat system
The Look Keo 2 Max is a strong alternative to Shimano’s SPD-SL road pedals.
Look developed the original clipless pedal system, and its Keo platform remains one of the most established road-pedal standards. The Keo 2 Max uses a composite body, adjustable spring tension and a large contact surface. BikeRadar’s current road-pedal guide highlights its pedaling stability, adjustable tension and relatively light construction.
The standard version comes with Look’s 4.5-degree-float cleats, giving riders a moderate amount of freedom to move their feet while clipped in.
Key Features
- Look Keo three-bolt system
- Composite body
- Chromoly axle
- Adjustable spring tension
- Large contact area
- 4.5-degree-float cleats included
- Suitable for road cycling
Pros
- Easy engagement
- Stable pedaling platform
- Adjustable release tension
- Good value
- Relatively lightweight
- Well-established cleat system
Cons
- Road cleats are awkward to walk in
- Less suitable for mud and off-road use
- Cleat wear matters more if you walk frequently
Why We Recommend It
The Keo 2 Max is particularly appealing if you prefer the feel and availability of Look’s road cleat ecosystem.
It’s also a strong choice for riders who are upgrading from basic road pedals but don’t need an expensive carbon-bodied race pedal.
5. Shimano PD-EH500
Best for: Commuters, recreational riders, and mixed-use bikes
The Shimano PD-EH500 is different from the other pedals in this lineup because it combines a clipless SPD mechanism with a flat platform.
That makes it especially useful for riders who don’t want to wear cycling shoes every time they get on their bike.
One side gives you the SPD connection, while the opposite side provides a conventional platform. This makes the pedal particularly practical for commuting, errands, casual rides, and bikes that serve multiple purposes.
Key Features
- Shimano SPD clipless mechanism
- Flat platform on opposite side
- Adjustable release tension
- SPD cleat compatibility
- Good grip for regular shoes
- Designed for recreational and commuter use
- Two-sided hybrid design
Pros
- Extremely versatile
- Works with cycling and regular shoes
- Excellent for commuting
- Familiar SPD cleat system
- Adjustable tension
- Good choice for mixed-use bikes
Cons
- Heavier than minimalist SPD pedals
- Only one side is clipless
- Can take practice to orient correctly
Why We Recommend It
The EH500 is the pedal we’d recommend if you regularly switch between cycling shoes and normal sneakers.
That makes it a particularly good choice for commuters, students, recreational riders, and anyone whose bicycle isn’t exclusively used for training.
Cycling communities also frequently recommend the EH500 for this exact use case, particularly for commuting and mixed road/gravel riding.
Shimano M520 vs M8100 vs 105 R7000
The three Shimano pedals above cover very different types of riding.
| Feature | PD-M520 | PD-M8100 | PD-R7000 |
| System | SPD | SPD | SPD-SL |
| Entry | Double-sided | Double-sided | Single-sided |
| Best use | MTB/gravel/commute | MTB/gravel/XC | Road |
| Approx. pair weight | ~380g | ~342g | ~265g |
| Cleat | 2-bolt SPD | 2-bolt SPD | 3-bolt SPD-SL |
| Tension adjustment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Walking | Easy with SPD shoes | Easy with SPD shoes | Difficult |
| Main advantage | Value | Performance | Road stability |
Size and Platform
The M520 is compact and functional. It doesn’t offer a large surrounding platform, but the SPD mechanism is extremely reliable.
The M8100 adds a more refined platform and lower-profile design, helping provide a more direct connection between shoe and pedal.
The R7000 takes a different approach. Its large road-style cleat creates a broad interface between the shoe and pedal, which can feel particularly stable during high-output road riding.
Adjustment Mechanism
All three allow you to adjust release tension.
That’s important for beginners.
If you’re learning to ride clipless, starting with relatively low release tension can make it easier to disengage your foot.
As you become more comfortable, you can increase tension to create a firmer connection.
Durability
All three are built around Shimano’s established pedal systems.
The M520 is arguably the easiest to recommend if you abuse your equipment. Its simple design and serviceability are major advantages. BikeRadar has long praised its straightforward adjustment, reliability and maintenance.
The M8100 is the premium off-road option while the R7000 is optimized for road riding.
Price
The M520 wins on value.
The M8100 costs more in exchange for reduced weight and a more performance-oriented design.
The R7000 occupies the middle ground for road riders and can be an excellent buy if you’re building a road bike without wanting to spend heavily on pedals.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Clipless Pedals
Buying clipless pedals is less complicated once you understand that there are two major categories: two-bolt off-road systems and three-bolt road systems.
Cyclingnews notes that road pedals generally use three-bolt cleats, while gravel and off-road pedals commonly use two-bolt designs that are easier to walk in and less prone to clogging with mud.
Pedal Type: Road vs SPD
Two-Bolt SPD
Two-bolt pedals are generally best for:
- Mountain biking
- Gravel
- Commuting
- Touring
- Bikepacking
- Recreational cycling
- Cyclocross
The cleat attaches to a recessed section of the shoe, making it much easier to walk.
The Shimano M520 is the classic example.
Three-Bolt Road Pedals
Three-bolt systems are generally best for:
- Road racing
- Fast road riding
- Long road rides
- Time trials
- Performance cycling
The larger cleat provides a broad connection between shoe and pedal, but walking is considerably less convenient.
The Shimano R7000 and Look Keo 2 Max fall into this category.
Weight
Pedal weight matters, but don’t overpay for a tiny weight reduction.
A few dozen grams are unlikely to transform your riding.
For most recreational cyclists, durability, reliability and easy engagement are more important.
If you’re racing or building a lightweight bike, however, premium pedals can make more sense.
The M8100 is a good example of a performance-focused SPD pedal that reduces weight while retaining the familiar Shimano system.
Adjustment Mechanism
Look for pedals with adjustable release tension if you’re new to clipless riding.
Lower tension generally makes it easier to release your foot.
Higher tension creates a firmer connection but requires more deliberate movement to disengage.
The M520, M8100, R7000 and EH500 all provide adjustable tension. Shimano’s M520, for example, allows riders to customize the force required to clip in and out.
Beginner Tip
Don’t learn on a busy road.
Practice clipping in and out somewhere safe and quiet.
It’s also worth practicing the movement repeatedly before attempting a stop in traffic.
Cleat Float
Float refers to how much your heel can move laterally while the cleat remains engaged.
Some riders prefer a more fixed feeling.
Others prefer more float because it allows natural foot movement.
Shimano offers SPD-SL cleats with different float characteristics, while Look’s Keo system also provides multiple float options.
If you’re unsure, don’t automatically choose the most restrictive cleat.
Size and Platform
A larger platform can provide more support and may feel more stable underfoot.
That’s especially useful for:
- Aggressive trail riding
- Long rides
- Larger riders
- Riders who prefer a supportive platform
For road racing, however, a large platform isn’t necessarily essential.
Durability
Look for:
- Sealed bearings
- Quality axle materials
- Replaceable or serviceable components
- Strong retention springs
- Corrosion-resistant hardware
- Good mud clearance for off-road riding
The M520 is particularly strong here because its simple construction has proven durable over years of use. Shimano uses a chrome-moly spindle and sealed cartridge axle on the pedal.
Mud Clearance
If you ride gravel or mountain trails, mud clearance is important.
An enclosed mechanism can become difficult to engage when packed with mud.
Open SPD-style designs are generally better suited to these conditions.
The M520 and M8100 are both designed to shed debris around the binding mechanism.
Walking Comfort
This is one of the biggest differences between pedal systems.
If you regularly walk into:
- Coffee shops
- Offices
- Stores
- Train stations
- Restaurants
- Bike shops
a two-bolt SPD shoe is generally much more convenient.
If you ride from your garage to a group ride and spend almost the entire time on the bike, three-bolt road pedals make more sense.
Commuting
For commuters, the PD-EH500 deserves special attention.
Being able to use the flat side with regular shoes means you don’t necessarily have to carry cycling shoes to work.
If your commute is performance-oriented and you always ride in cycling shoes, the M520 may be preferable because both sides are SPD.
Beginner-Friendly Features
If you’re buying your first clipless pedals, prioritize:
- Easy engagement
- Adjustable release tension
- Double-sided entry
- Widely available cleats
- Durable construction
- Reasonable replacement cleat costs
That’s why the M520 is such a strong first choice.
It’s affordable, proven and forgiving enough to let you learn the system without spending a lot.
Do You Need Clipless Pedals?
Not necessarily.
Clipless pedals aren’t automatically faster for every rider.
Their primary advantage is creating a consistent connection between your shoe and the pedal and making it easier to maintain a consistent foot position.
They’re especially useful for riders who:
- Ride frequently
- Train seriously
- Ride long distances
- Want consistent foot positioning
- Ride technical terrain
- Participate in road or gravel events
Flat pedals remain perfectly suitable for casual cycling, commuting and many types of recreational riding.
FAQs
Are clipless pedals worth it for beginners?
Yes, if you ride regularly and want to learn the system. Start with a pedal such as the Shimano M520 because its adjustable tension and double-sided entry make learning relatively straightforward. Practice clipping in and out somewhere safe before riding in traffic.
Are Shimano SPD pedals better than road pedals?
Neither is universally better. Shimano SPD pedals are generally more practical for gravel, MTB, commuting and walking, while SPD-SL road pedals provide a larger shoe-to-pedal interface that many road riders prefer.
What are the best clipless pedals for beginners?
The Shimano PD-M520 is our top beginner choice. It’s affordable, durable, double-sided and has adjustable release tension, making it easy to learn without investing in an expensive pedal system.
Should I get SPD or SPD-SL pedals?
Choose SPD if you ride gravel, MTB, commute, tour or expect to walk in your cycling shoes. Choose SPD-SL if you’re primarily a road cyclist and want a larger three-bolt road cleat and stable pedal platform.
Are clipless pedals safer?
Clipless pedals aren’t automatically safer, but they can provide a consistent connection between your feet and the bike. Beginners need to learn how to release their feet before stopping; practicing this skill is essential.
Can you use clipless pedals with normal shoes?
Most traditional clipless pedals aren’t designed for regular shoes. The Shimano PD-EH500 is an exception because it has an SPD mechanism on one side and a flat platform on the other, making it much more practical for commuters and mixed-use bikes.
Final Verdict: What Are the Best Clipless Pedals?
For most cyclists, the Shimano PD-M520 is the best clipless pedal to buy.
It isn’t the lightest or most expensive option, but that’s exactly why it works so well. The double-sided SPD mechanism, adjustable release tension, durable construction, mud-shedding design and reasonable price make it suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. Shimano itself emphasizes its durable spindle, sealed bearings and adjustable tension, while current cycling guides continue to recommend it as a standout value pedal.
For performance-focused MTB and gravel riders, upgrade to the Shimano PD-M8100 XT.
For road cycling, the Shimano 105 PD-R7000 is our top choice because it delivers an excellent combination of stability, adjustability, durability and price. Road.cc currently rates it as its best overall clipless pedal.
The Look Keo 2 Max is an excellent alternative if you prefer Look’s road cleat system.
And for commuters or riders who alternate between cycling shoes and everyday footwear, the Shimano PD-EH500 is the most versatile option.
Our Final Rankings
| Rank | Pedal | Best For |
| 1 | Shimano PD-M520 | Best overall |
| 2 | Shimano PD-M8100 XT | Best MTB/gravel upgrade |
| 3 | Shimano 105 PD-R7000 | Best road pedal |
| 4 | Look Keo 2 Max | Best Look road pedal |
| 5 | Shimano PD-EH500 | Best commuter/hybrid pedal |
Choose the PD-M520 if you want the best combination of price, reliability and versatility.
Choose the PD-M8100 if you’re willing to spend more for a lighter, performance-oriented SPD pedal.
Choose the PD-R7000 if your bike is primarily a road bike.
Choose the Keo 2 Max if you prefer Look’s road-pedal ecosystem.
Choose the PD-EH500 if you need to switch between cycling shoes and regular shoes.
The most important thing is to match the pedal to your riding style. A lightweight road pedal isn’t necessarily the best choice for someone riding muddy gravel, just as a heavy dual-sided SPD pedal may be unnecessary for a dedicated road racer. Start with the cleat system that matches your shoes and riding, then prioritize reliable engagement, adjustable tension, durability and comfort over chasing small weight savings.
