CLIPLESS PEDALS
Developments in pedal and shoe technology mean that, as well as being a must for XC racing, clipless pedals have almost completely displaced flats in Elite-level DH, and – with the notable exception of Sam Hill and Morgane Charre – it’s rare to find enduro racers who are performing at the top level without clipping in. Flat pedals will always have a place for more playful riding, and there are riders who just prefer the freedom they give, but if you can adjust to the sensation of having your feet attached, there are a lot of advantages.
Firstly, there’s the confidence gained from knowing your feet are going to stay exactly where you want them through rough terrain. Then there’s that connection to the bike, which makes hopping obstacles or going light over roots that bit easier. Not to mention the pedalling benefit of being able to spin smoother circles and transfer power to the bike more efficiently. The main disadvantage used to be the rigid foot position and lack of mobility, but with systems that offer side-to-side float and shoes with
