SPD's v Crank Brothers

hobbo31

Thinking of getting some new pedals but can't decide which ones, like the big platform of the Clank Bros but don't know what there like, used spds for years on normal trail rides, any feed back would be great

gixer5

I used SPD's years ago when I first started cycling, but when I returned to cycling a couple of years ago I liked the idea of the low maintenance and no setup with the Crank Brothers (and they look good). I now have two sets. The candy c on my commuter, which has been used in all weathers for the past two and half years without any problems and no maintenance (apart from cleaning). I also have the eggbeater 3 on my Mojo SL. There are two release angles which can be set by having the cleat with the dots on your left or right shoe. I use the later release angle most of the time, but swap to the earlier release when the conditions are really slippy i.e. snow and ice. In my opinion they a very good and I would definitely recommend them.

njee20

Which Crank Brothers are you looking at? Presumably Mallets if you're talking about a big cage.

Shimano are more reliable, but heavier. They have less float than CB, tend to feel a bit more 'fixed', but IMO also have a more distinct clip in/out. They do some with platforms, either trail types like the new XTRs or like the M647s.

.blitz

Shimano's trail spds are pretty good but the platform doesn't do much ime. Despite claims of increased contact area it's difficult to feel anything different when wearing spd shoes they are not like flats or other caged pedals.

One of the biggest advantages is that they are easier to flip round & clip into on a techy section but otherwise I find them no different to normal spd pedals.

Hacker60

I am fitting some CB Mallet 2's on my FS Spesh this weekend, and using Shimano AM45 SPD's
also new purchase, I normaly use Flats, but need more control a good 5hr blast in Epping Forest
should give me a Idea if there any good. I send back a review for what it's worth.

From what I've read the Mallets should be just the job, Clipped or Flat, which suits me fine.

bennett_346

Hacker60 wrote:

I am fitting some CB Mallet 2's on my FS Spesh this weekend, and using Shimano AM45 SPD's
also new purchase, I normaly use Flats, but need more control a good 5hr blast in Epping Forest
should give me a Idea if there any good. I send back a review for what it's worth.

From what I've read the Mallets should be just the job, Clipped or Flat, which suits me fine.

They do not work as flats at all. The platform is there only to assist with clipping in.

Hacker60

Only what I read, so just marketing BS then, so what would you recommend then ? need some prey quick
they look the part and the pins look like should hit the flat part of the soles.

I suppose I want a clip in pedal that also is a useable Falt, I am asking for the impossible ?

cooldad

Yes - one or the other, anything trying to do both will generally but a bit rubbish at either.

hobbo31

Thanks for all that going to get so crank brothers mallets and give them a go

lostboysaint

Mallets on both my mtbs. Fantastic. Pins do enough if for some reason you don't get engaged first time. Get the cleats the right way round for easy release angle, Good float. Just fantastic pedals.

Hacker60

Lostboy, missing the clip is my fear that's why I want Flat support, and as it's my
first venture into SPD thought I would take it carefully as my riding style is full-on.

Going to pick up my pedals tomorrow, Epping Forest Sunday 7am, just me and my Mallets