The debate between flat pedals and clipless systems has raged for decades in the cycling world. When it comes to bikepacking—where comfort, versatility, and reliability over multiple days become paramount—this choice takes on even greater significance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore whether flat pedals deserve a place on your bikepacking rig, compare them with clipless alternatives, and recommend some bombproof options that have proven themselves on thousands of trail miles.
Flat vs. Clipless Pedals for Bikepacking: The Great Debate
Before diving into specific recommendations, let's address the fundamental question: should bikepackers choose flat pedals or clipless systems? The answer isn't straightforward and depends on your riding style, route conditions, and personal preferences.
Why Many Bikepackers Are Switching to Flat Pedals
Traditionally, serious cyclists have favored clipless pedals for their perceived efficiency advantages. However, there's been a noticeable shift toward flat pedals in the bikepacking community over recent years. According to a survey of experienced bikepackers conducted by Bikepacking.com, flat pedals are now the preferred choice for approximately 60% of multi-day adventure cyclists.
Logan Watts, founder of Bikepacking.com, explains this trend: "After swearing I would faithfully holdfast the camp of clipless pedals, here I am waving it goodbye. On our last tour I burdened myself with a pair of light hikers, a pair of SPDs and a pair of Chacos. That's a lot of footwear to lug on a bike and it's pretty ridiculous to travel with half a closet's worth of shoes."
Flat Pedal Advantages
- Single pair of shoes for riding and hiking
- Easier foot adjustment on long rides
- Quick foot removal in technical sections
- Better for extended hike-a-bike sections
- No special cleats or cycling-specific shoes required
- Improved comfort during multi-day trips
- Better for river crossings and wet conditions
Flat Pedal Disadvantages
- Slightly less pedaling efficiency
- Foot position can shift during rough terrain
- Less connection during bunny hops and technical moves
- Potential for foot slippage in wet conditions
- Can cause more foot fatigue on very long days
When Clipless Pedals Still Make Sense
Clipless pedals aren't without their merits for bikepacking. Neil Beltchenko, an accomplished bikepacking racer, remains loyal to clipless systems: "Ever since I started mountain biking seriously back in 2012, I've always been a clipless fan. I like the consistent pedal stroke and the feeling you get when you clip in."
For bikepackers focused on covering maximum distance with minimal time off the bike, the efficiency advantages of clipless pedals may outweigh the versatility benefits of flats. They're also preferred by riders who rarely encounter hike-a-bike sections or who prioritize technical riding performance over off-bike comfort.
Bikepacking Scenarios Where Flat Pedals Excel
Let's explore specific bikepacking situations where flat pedals truly shine:
Technical Trail Riding
Imagine descending a loose, rocky trail after eight hours of riding with tired legs. With flat pedals, you can instantly adjust your foot position or dab a foot when needed without the stress of clipping in and out. This freedom can be a significant confidence booster when fatigue sets in during multi-day trips.
Cass Gilbert, a veteran bikepacker who's traversed continents, notes: "By not being locked to the pedals, a rider is forced to employ proper preloading and weight-shifting techniques to manage contact and position on the bike. These tactics allow you to handle the bike in a flowing manner and build riding skills that might otherwise be forgotten."
Extended Hike-a-Bike Sections
Many of the most rewarding bikepacking routes involve sections where riding simply isn't possible. Whether it's a steep mountain pass, a boulder-strewn trail, or a river crossing, flat pedals paired with comfortable, grippy shoes make these sections significantly more manageable.
Joe Cruz, who rode the length of South America on flat pedals, shares: "Best hack you'll read in this article: get a pair of Lambda Ezy-Superiors, the quick-release version of the Lambdas. When you're hike-a-biking, pull off the non-drive-side pedal to walk along your bicycle and not have it keep hitting your shin."
Multi-Surface Adventures
Bikepacking often involves a mix of terrain—from smooth gravel roads to technical singletrack, with some exploration of towns and natural areas on foot. Flat pedals eliminate the need to carry separate shoes for different activities, streamlining your packing list and reducing weight.
Annie Le, who has used Hope F20 pedals since 2016, explains: "I don't ask much from pedals, having used a bunch of cheap plastic sets over the years. But for a long, remote tour, I really wanted something that I could trust."
5 Durable Flat Pedals Optimized for Bikepacking
Based on extensive testing by experienced bikepackers and our own analysis, here are five exceptional flat pedal options that offer the perfect balance of durability, grip, serviceability, and weight for bikepacking adventures:
1. OneUp Components Composite Pedals
These affordable yet incredibly durable composite pedals have become a favorite among bikepackers for their excellent grip, reasonable weight, and remarkable longevity. At just $40-50, they offer exceptional value for money.
Logan Watts of Bikepacking.com reports: "I now have a couple of pairs of OneUp Composites that have survived over 3,000 miles—probably closer to 4,000—and are still going. I have one pair that ultimately endured bikepacking and trail riding in Armenia, Colorado, New Mexico, and countless rides around Pisgah, and they're still running smoothly."
- Weight: 355g per pair
- Platform Size: 115mm x 105mm
- Pins: 10 per side, replaceable
- Colors: Black, purple, red, green, blue
2. Hope F20
Made in the UK, Hope's legendary CNC machining produces these exceptionally durable and grippy pedals. Though pricier than some options, their longevity and serviceability make them a worthy investment for serious bikepackers.
Cass Gilbert, who's been using the same pair since 2016, shares: "I've been running the same Hope F20 pedals on pretty much every trip since 2016. Their all-round quality is nothing short of superb. The pins are adjustable in depth to suit your intended uses, and whilst they've softened over time, the pedals are still amply grippy for technical trail riding."
- Weight: 390g per pair
- Platform Size: 105mm x 100mm
- Pins: 20 per pedal, adjustable depth
- Colors: Black, silver, red, blue, purple, orange
3. Race Face Chester
These nylon composite pedals strike an excellent balance between affordability, durability, and performance. Their lightweight design and sealed bearings make them ideal for bikepacking in all conditions.
The Chester pedals have developed a cult following among bikepackers for their combination of lightweight design and impressive durability. Their nylon composite body actually has advantages over aluminum for bikepacking—it's less likely to get damaged from rock strikes and won't get as cold in freezing temperatures.
- Weight: 340g per pair
- Platform Size: 110mm x 101mm
- Pins: 8 per side, replaceable
- Colors: Multiple color options available
4. Shimano PD-GR500
Shimano's reliability shines through in these affordable aluminum flat pedals. With their serviceable cup-and-cone bearings and reasonable weight, they're a dependable option for bikepackers on a budget.
While not as flashy as some options, these pedals benefit from Shimano's legendary reliability and parts availability. The cup-and-cone bearing system means they can be serviced anywhere in the world with basic tools—a significant advantage for remote bikepacking trips.
- Weight: 460g per pair
- Platform Size: 100mm x 105mm
- Pins: 10 per side, replaceable
- Colors: Black
5. Crankbrothers Stamp 1 Small
Available in two platform sizes to match different foot sizes, these composite pedals offer excellent grip, reasonable weight, and impressive durability at a competitive price point.
One of the Stamp's standout features is the availability of two platform sizes—small for shoe sizes US 5-10 and large for sizes US 10-15. This allows riders to choose the optimal platform for their feet, enhancing comfort on long bikepacking trips.
- Weight: 329g per pair (small)
- Platform Size: 100mm x 100mm (small)
- Pins: 9 per side, replaceable
- Colors: Black, red, blue
Choosing the Right Footwear for Flat Pedal Bikepacking
The pedal is only half of the equation—your choice of footwear significantly impacts comfort, efficiency, and grip when using flat pedals for bikepacking. Here are three excellent options to consider:
Mountain Bike Specific Shoes
Shoes like the Five Ten Freerider feature sticky rubber compounds specifically designed for flat pedals. They offer the best grip and power transfer but may be less comfortable for extended hiking.
Best for: Routes with minimal hike-a-bike sections and technical riding.
Approach Shoes
Originally designed for rock climbing approaches, these shoes offer a good balance of hiking comfort and pedaling performance. The Five Ten AEscent is a popular choice among bikepackers.
Best for: Mixed routes with significant off-bike exploration.
Trail Running Shoes
Lightweight and quick-drying, trail runners work surprisingly well with quality flat pedals. They excel in wet conditions and for routes with river crossings.
Best for: Wet conditions and routes with multiple water crossings.
Pro Tip: When using non-cycling specific shoes with flat pedals, look for models with relatively flat and firm soles. Deeply lugged hiking boots typically perform poorly with flat pedals as the pins can't engage properly with the sole.
Maintaining Your Bikepacking Pedals for Maximum Longevity
Quality flat pedals can last for thousands of miles of bikepacking adventures with proper maintenance. Here are some essential tips to keep your pedals spinning smoothly:
Regular Maintenance
- Periodically check pin tightness, especially after rocky rides
- Clean pedals thoroughly after muddy conditions
- Apply a drop of light oil to the spindle-body junction
- Carry spare pins and the appropriate tool on longer trips
Full Service (Every 1,000-2,000 miles)
- Disassemble pedals according to manufacturer instructions
- Clean all bearings and internal components
- Inspect for wear and replace damaged parts
- Re-grease bearings and reassemble
- Consider purchasing a rebuild kit for your specific pedals
Cass Gilbert notes about his Hope F20 pedals: "Most surprisingly, the bearings are still running ridiculously smoothly, with absolutely zero play at all. And I mean zero!" This level of durability is achievable with most quality pedals when properly maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bikepacking Pedals
Can I use hiking shoes with flat pedals for bikepacking?
Yes, but with some caveats. Light hiking shoes or approach shoes with relatively flat, sticky rubber soles work best. Heavy hiking boots with deep lugs typically perform poorly with flat pedals as the pins can't engage properly with the sole. For optimal performance, look for hiking shoes with a relatively stiff midsole and "sticky" rubber compounds similar to those used in climbing shoes.
Do flat pedals reduce fatigue on long bikepacking rides?
Many bikepackers report reduced foot fatigue with flat pedals on multi-day trips. This is primarily because flat pedals allow for subtle foot position changes throughout the day, preventing pressure points from developing. Additionally, the ability to easily remove your feet from the pedals at stops eliminates the repetitive clip-in/clip-out motion that can cause ankle and knee strain over time.
However, some riders with proper bike fitting and well-adjusted cleats may experience less fatigue with clipless pedals due to more efficient power transfer. It's highly individual and worth experimenting with both systems.
What's the weight difference between quality flat and clipless pedals?
High-quality flat pedals typically weigh between 330-460g per pair, while clipless mountain bike pedals generally range from 290-380g per pair. However, when considering the total system weight including shoes, flat pedal setups can sometimes be lighter since you don't need to carry separate off-bike footwear.
Are composite flat pedals durable enough for long bikepacking trips?
Modern composite (plastic) flat pedals like the OneUp Composite and Race Face Chester have proven remarkably durable for bikepacking. They offer several advantages over aluminum pedals: they're lighter, less expensive, and often survive rock strikes better as they can flex rather than bend. The main durability concern is the pins, which are typically metal and can still be damaged or sheared off. Carrying spare pins is recommended for any long trip, regardless of pedal material.
How do I prevent foot slippage on flat pedals in wet conditions?
To maximize grip in wet conditions:
- Use pedals with longer, sharper pins (like the Hope F20)
- Choose shoes with sticky rubber compounds (Five Ten Stealth or Vibram Megagrip)
- Keep your pedals clean and free of mud
- Consider applying a small amount of skateboard grip tape to smooth areas of your shoe soles
- Position your foot properly with the pedal axle under the ball of your foot
Are Flat Pedals Better for Your Next Bikepacking Adventure?
After examining the evidence and expert opinions, it's clear that flat pedals offer compelling advantages for many bikepacking scenarios. Their versatility, comfort during hike-a-bike sections, and compatibility with regular footwear make them an excellent choice for multi-day adventures that involve more than just riding.
However, the "best" pedal system ultimately depends on your specific route, riding style, and personal preferences. Many experienced bikepackers maintain bikes with both systems, choosing flat pedals for technical routes with significant off-bike sections and clipless pedals for smoother routes focused on covering distance efficiently.
If you've traditionally been a clipless pedal devotee, consider giving quality flat pedals a try on your next bikepacking trip. You might be surprised by the freedom and versatility they provide—and your feet will thank you during those inevitable hike-a-bike sections that lead to the most memorable views.
Ready to Try Flat Pedals for Bikepacking?
Our top recommendation for most bikepackers is the OneUp Components Composite Pedals—offering exceptional durability, grip, and value in a lightweight package.
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