You’ve just bought your first road or gravel bike, and a question comes up pretty quickly: should you switch to clipless pedals or stick with flat pedals?
Some cyclists will tell you that clipless pedals completely change the experience. Others prefer to keep the freedom of being able to put a foot on the ground at any time.
So, who is right?
In reality, both systems have their advantages. And contrary to a fairly common misconception, you don't need clipless pedals to be a "real" cyclist.
The right choice depends primarily on your experience, your bike, and how you enjoy riding.
FLAT PEDALS: FREEDOM FIRST
Flat pedals are the ones found on most city bikes and many mountain bikes.
The principle is simple: you place your foot on the pedal and you pedal. No mechanism to engage, no special shoes required.
This is precisely what makes them an attractive option for beginners.
You can start easily, adjust your foot position, and put your feet on the ground instantly at a red light or if you lose your balance.
They are particularly well-suited if:
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You are starting road or gravel cycling.
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You ride mainly in the city, with frequent stops.
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You prefer to wear your regular shoes.
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You want to build confidence before investing in more professional gear.
Another advantage: with good flat pedals featuring a wide surface and grip pins, foot stability can already be excellent.
Their limitation? On long, high-intensity rides, your foot may shift more, especially when you increase your cadence or ride on uneven terrain.
CLIPLESS PEDALS: WHY DO CYCLISTS LOVE THEM SO MUCH?
The name might sound strange, but clipless pedals obviously don't do the pedaling for you!
They work thanks to a small part called a cleat, fixed to the sole of a compatible shoe. When you place your foot on the pedal, the cleat locks into a mechanism that holds your shoe in place.
To release your foot, you generally just need to twist your heel outward.
The main benefit is keeping your foot firmly positioned on the pedal, even when you accelerate, stand up to pedal, or increase your cadence.
With appropriate footwear, you also benefit from a more stable base and a sense of direct connection with the bike.
However, this doesn't automatically mean you will ride much faster. Gains depend on your specific riding style, technique, and comfort level.
DO YOU INEVITABLY FALL WITH CLIPLESS PEDALS?
This is likely the question everyone asks before switching to clipless pedals.
And it must be admitted that those first few rides can be a bit intimidating.
The classic mistake? Approaching a red light, slowing down, and then forgetting to unclip before coming to a stop.
The good news is that the movement quickly becomes a reflex with a little practice.
To start out with peace of mind, we advise practicing in a quiet place away from traffic. Lean against a wall or a stable barrier to repeat the clipping and unclipping motion several times.
If your pedals allow it, adjust the spring tension to its minimum setting to make releasing your foot easier.
And above all, practice unclipping well before you stop, not at the very last second.
SPD OR SPD-SL: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
If you start looking at clipless pedals, you will quickly encounter two major system families.
SPD pedals: practical for gravel and commuting
Systems of the Shimano SPD type generally use small metal cleats that can be recessed into the soles of compatible shoes.
Their great advantage is that they allow you to walk more easily once you get off the bike.
It is a popular choice for gravel riding, mountain biking, bike touring, and even certain daily commutes.
Many SPD pedals also allow for dual-sided entry, which makes them easier to use.
Road pedals: for a more athletic approach
On road bikes, we primarily see systems like Shimano SPD-SL and LOOK KEO.
They use larger cleats, paired with road shoes featuring a rigid sole.
This combination offers a stable platform, which is appreciated during athletic rides and long distances.
However, walking in these shoes is less convenient, especially on slippery surfaces or stairs.
Note: SPD, SPD-SL, and LOOK KEO systems are not interchangeable. You must choose cleats compatible with your pedals and the appropriate shoes.
WHICH PEDALS SHOULD YOU CHOOSE BASED ON YOUR RIDING?
| Your usage | Our advice |
|---|---|
| First road bike | Flat pedals to gain confidence, then switch to clipless if you feel the urge |
| City bike and daily commutes | Flat pedals |
| Gravel and bikepacking | Flat or SPD pedals depending on your preference |
| Regular athletic road rides | Road clipless pedals |
| Mountain biking and technical trails | Flat or SPD pedals depending on your skill level and style |
| Bike used with several types of footwear | Flat or hybrid pedals |
It is worth noting that hybrid pedals are worth your attention: some models offer one flat side and one clipless side.
This is an interesting solution if you use the same bike to commute to work during the week and head out for athletic rides on the weekend.
SHOULD YOU SWITCH TO CLIPLESS PEDALS ON YOUR FIRST ROAD BIKE?
Not necessarily.
If you are a complete beginner, the most important thing is to first be comfortable with your bike: knowing how to start, brake, shift gears, and manage your balance at low speeds.
Flat pedals allow you to learn all of this without adding another challenge.
However, if you already have good cycling experience and want to embark on longer rides, you can absolutely start directly with clipless pedals.
You just need to take the time to get used to the mechanism.
The idea isn't to switch to clipless as soon as possible. It’s to do it when you feel the desire and the need for it.
OUR ADVICE: CHOOSE COMFORT OVER PERFORMANCE
We often hear that a road bike must necessarily be equipped with clipless pedals.
However, it is not an obligation.
You can perfectly well cover 50 or 100 kilometers with good flat pedals if they suit you.
Conversely, some cyclists feel immediately more at ease with their feet held in place by clipless pedals.
The best equipment is the kind that allows you to ride with confidence, without having to worry at every stop.
And if you are still hesitating, why not start with flat pedals and upgrade later? Nothing forces you to decide on the very first day.
NEED HELP CHOOSING YOUR PEDALS? STOP BY ROUTES&ROADS
Flat pedals, road clipless, SPD, or hybrid models: every solution meets a different need.
At Routes&Roads, we can help you choose the pedals suited to your bike, check the compatibility of cleats with your shoes, and walk you through the initial adjustments.
📍 Routes&Roads — 14 Place de Rungis, 75013 Paris
The most important thing isn't having the same pedals as everyone else. It’s choosing the ones that make you want to ride more often and further.
