Which pedals for e-bikes? - Which pedals for e-MTBs?
E-mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Electric assistance enables longer tours and steeper climbs that would be difficult to manage without additional power. In order to exploit the full potential of your e-mountain bike, choosing the right pedals and shoes is crucial. On the e-bike, pedals and shoes should form a unit that is coordinated with each other to ensure an optimal riding experience. In this article you will find out which pedals and shoes go best together and what you should pay attention to when choosing.
The importance of the unity of pedal and shoe also on e-bikesA well-matched pedal-shoe system not only improves comfort and efficiency when driving, but also increases safety. This unit is particularly essential for e-MTBs, which are ridden on a wide variety of terrain and often under demanding conditions. The right combination ensures that you always have a firm grip with the right e-bike pedal and that the power transmission works optimally.
The best pedals for e-MTBs
1. Flat pedals are also ideal for e-bikes:
Flat pedals are an excellent choice for e-mountain bikers who value maximum flexibility and safety. The motor also ensures a smooth pedaling, which compensates for the lack of pull phase of clipless pedals. On the e-bike, flat pedals with a sufficient number of PINs and a large platform are also suitable for hiking shoes and casual shoes (although we would generally give priority to special flat pedal shoes). Thanks to numerous PINs, they offer excellent pressure distribution, which is important for avoiding signs of fatigue and optimally supporting the foot. The many PINs ensure that there are always enough contact points even in jagged shoe soles, which is particularly advantageous when using mountain boots on an e-bike. When using casual shoes, a large platform with many PINs ensures even pressure distribution so that individual PINs cannot be felt through the sole.
Recommendation for hiking and leisure shoes on e-bikes:MC-AIR Flatpedal
The TATZE MC-AIR flat pedals offer a large platform and 56 gentle PINs. These pedals feature a high level of grip and an extremely stable construction, ideal for demanding trails and rough terrain.
Recommendation for special flat pedal shoes on e-bikes: LINK flat pedals
The TATZE LINK flat pedals offer a large platform and up to 56 aggressive PINs. These pedals are characterized by excellent grip and a very thin and light construction. This pedal is specifically designed for those who value a lot of grip and ground clearance on challenging terrain.
The LINK is also available in the cheaper test winner version as LINK Composite .
2. Combination pedals on the e-MTB for versatility and safety:
Combination pedals are an excellent solution for e-mountain bikers who want to use both the efficiency of clipless pedals and the safety of flat pedals. These pedals also offer a clip side on the e-bike for efficient pedaling uphill and a platform side that allows quick release from the e-MTB, which is particularly advantageous on demanding descents. It is particularly important to note here that combination pedals that were actually designed for touring bikes - recognizable by a very small platform side and simple ring construction - are only suitable to a very limited extent for use on e-mountain bikes. The small and often relatively high pedal platform can suddenly turn over when the bike moves suddenly, e.g. when driving over roots or stones, which usually leads to the shoe slipping. In addition, platforms without PINs often offer little grip for the shoe and thus limit safety when riding downhill.
Recommendation for e-bikes: TWO-FACE combo pedals
The TATZE TWO-FACE combination pedals offer a versatile solution with a click side and a large, strong-grip platform side. They are ideal for e-mountain bikers who ride on different terrains and want to take advantage of both pedal systems. In addition, the TWO-FACE has some additional features: the pedal does not continue to rotate independently, meaning that the pedal side remains up, even if the foot is taken off the pedal. This can prevent accidental clicking in the field.
3. Clipless pedals on the e-bike for a firm connection:
Clipless pedals are the best choice for e-mountain bikers who prefer particularly efficient power transmission and a firm grip. These pedals also make it possible to transfer power to the pedals on the e-bike, both when pedaling and when pulling, which is particularly advantageous on steep climbs and technical sections.
Recommendation: MC-FLY clipless pedal
The TATZE MC-FLY clipless pedals offer an excellent connection between shoe and pedal. With easy entry and a great adjustment range, they are ideal for e-mountain bikers looking for a tight connection and maximum efficiency.
The best shoes for e-mountain bikers
1. MTB shoes for flat pedals:
MTB shoes that are specifically designed for use with flat pedals offer a stable sole and excellent grip. They are less sensitive to dirt and offer protection and comfort thanks to their stable construction.
Here are some recommendations:
- Five Ten Freerider Pro
- First Degree Flite XT
- Specialized 2FO
-
Ride Concepts Hellion Elite
2. Shoes for mountain bike combo pedals:
For combination pedals, you need shoes that work well with both the click mechanism and the platform side. These shoes should offer a stable sole and a comfortable fit to ensure optimal support and comfort on both long climbs and technical descents.
You can find our recommendations including background information at this LINK .
3. Clipless shoes for clipless pedals:
Shoes with clipless pedal cleats provide a secure connection and efficient power transfer. They are available in different variants, from lightweight cross-country shoes to robust all-mountain models. For e-MTBs, we definitely recommend more robust versions for more protection and better walking characteristics.
Our recommendation is robust shoes from Shimano, Giro, Northwave or similar brand manufacturers.
Conclusion: The perfect combination for your e-mountain bike
Choosing the right pedals and shoes can make a big difference when it comes to your e-mountain bike riding experience. Flat pedals with many PINs offer flexibility and security, especially in combination with sturdy MTB shoes. For more efficient power transmission and a firm grip, clipless pedals and matching clipless shoes are the best choice. Combination pedals offer the ideal solution for e-mountain bikers who want to benefit from both the efficiency of clipless pedals and the safety of flat pedals.
Whether you're on technical trails or long tours, the perfect pedal and shoe unit will help you get the most out of your e-mountain bike.