It’s not often a new pedal system is launched, so when we saw these magnetic pedals at the Taipei bike show they caught our attention.
And it’s rare that new gear surprises us, how many times have you heard the ‘there’s nothing new in cycling’ line? But these magnetic pedals, spotted by our good friend Harry Kooros who was at the Taipei International Bike Show, do seem quite interesting.
MagPed ROAD2 pedals, could be described as a revolutionary addition to the world of road cycling. That said, they’re not a new company, having released their first pedals in 2019. As the MagPed name suggests, rather than using a variant of the traditional and time-tested clip in system, the pedals across the range – road, gravel, sport, enduro and gravel – use strong magnets to hold the shoe to the pedal.
‘How strong?’ You’ll no doubt ask. Well the pedals are shipped with a white plastic spacer between the base and magnet just to help you separate them by hand. According to the manufacturer there’s 15kg of pull in each pedal, or around 200nm of force.
So how secure is the shoe when locked in? Well, you certainly wouldn’t race and definitely wouldn’t sprint with this set up. But for day-to-day rides, easy local loops, or commuter rides to work it is a lighter, simpler and less cumbersome alternative.
Quality
At just 214g per pair, the MagPed ROAD2 pedals offer an impressive combination of minimal weight and solid construction.
Crafted with precision from carbon, we’ve been riding Magpeds and can say the pedal body boasts exceptional durability while maintaining a lightweight design. Paired with a titanium spindle, these pedals strike an impressive balance between strength and weight.
Clipping in is very similar to so called ‘clipless’ pedals. It’s the usual toe first technique. but without having to push down to lock in the 200nm magnet pulls your shoe into position. One of the smart design inclusions are the float adjustments.
Doubling as a centering locator to ensure the shoe is correctly lined up, once the cleat is close to the magnet it pulls into the recess and provides a snug connection. Releasing is just as simple and straightforward – twist and tilt the foot and pull upwards.
Summing up, the MagPed ROAD2 would probably best suit newer riders who may be getting used to clipping in and out. Or, if you’re a more serious rider who just wants a simpler pedal system for commuting or maybe family weekend recreational rides. The MagPeds are a unique, interesting and appealing indoor or road cycling pedal alternative.
More info at www.magped.com