[Originals] Magnetic pedals, is it worth it?

In a vast market of pedals, there are many doubts about the most suitable type. In this article I'll share my experience with magnetic pedals.

Posts Jan 31, 2024 0 45 Add to Reading List

[Originals] Magnetic pedals, is it worth it?

The pedals we use on our bikes are a very personal choice. The two main categories have long been platform pedals and clip-on pedals, and there is also a combination of both, which are platform pedals with clip-ons. The variety available is immense, different models from various manufacturers with the most varied characteristics, which makes it very difficult to choose what suits us best.

There are those who prefer to ride with their feet attached to the pedal, those who don't feel comfortable with it and like the ease of movement and those who, like me, would like to have an option in the middle that combines both. It is from this last perspective that we can opt for magnetic pedals. The idea isn't new, others have tried it, but in recent years it has gained a few fans, especially with the appearance of the Austrians from Magped.

Generally speaking, we can point out the main advantages and disadvantages of each of these three options:

Fitting (with or without platform)

Greater pedaling efficiency (the foot that climbs helps actively participate in the effort of the movement)
Less chance of the foot coming off the pedal on rough terrain.
Facilitates the placement of the rear of the bike.
Fitting and un-fitting implies a more technical and therefore less natural foot movement
It requires some maintenance, checking adjustments and tightening.

Platform

Easier to put on / take off the foot.
Cheaper than plug-in or magnetic ones
Less efficient pedaling
Less maintenance
Cheapest option.

Magnetic

Greater pedaling efficiency compared to platform pedals
Easier to attach / detach than snap-on ones
More expensive than the platform ones and even a good number of the plug-in ones
Little maintenance, checking adjustments and tightening

I've always been a bit wary of clipping in for fear of not being able to unclip in a more urgent situation. I used platform pedals, with a "loose" foot, but I didn't feel totally comfortable and my foot came off the pedal quite often on rougher terrain, with damaging consequences for my shins. So, about three years ago, I decided to try magnetic pedals and it's been a journey of no return. I feel more confident, I don't have the fear of not being able to unclip and I've improved my pedaling efficiency. It's true that my feet aren't as trapped as if I were clipped in and yes, I've lost contact with the pedal a few times, very rarely, but it has happened. When it has happened, it's been more my fault than the pedal's. In a hurry, I haven't positioned my foot properly or, in muddy conditions, the dirty sole hasn't allowed the magnet to make proper contact with the plate on the shoe.

I use Magped endurance pedals, with magnets on both sides (there are also magnets on one side), which means I don't have to worry about whether the correct side of the pedal is in the clamped position, I don't even have to look, just put my foot on and listen to the metallic click between the magnet and the plate. In my case, I use a magnet with 200 Newtons (there are also magnets with 150N), which means I have to exert a force of around 20kg to release my foot. It doesn't require specific shoes, you can use it with normal shoes prepared to fit cleats, instead you put the metal plate that will make contact with the magnet. Bear in mind that a very uneven sole may not work so well; a smoother, softer sole with little relief will be more suitable.