Clipless pedals

Buying advice for: Bicycle pedals: Clipless pedals

• Types of kick pedals

  Kick pedals, also known as "support pedals", are specially designed for children's bikes or as a transitional solution for beginners. The most common types are standard kick pedals and adjustable kick pedals. Standard kick pedals are fixed and provide solid support for children who do not yet have the coordination to ride on normal pedals. Adjustable kick pedals, on the other hand, allow the height to be adjusted to adapt to the child's growth and therefore offer a longer service life.

• Kick pedal brands

  Leading kick pedal brands include children's bike manufacturers such as Puky, Kettler and Decathlon. Puky is known for its high-quality and robust kick pedals, which have been specially developed for the requirements of children's bikes. Kettler also offers a wide range of kick pedals, which are valued for their durability and safety. Decathlon, a major sporting goods retailer, has a selection of kick pedals that are both affordable and functional, ideal for beginners and children just learning to ride a bike.

• Materials and workmanship

  The materials and workmanship of kick pedals are crucial to their durability and safety. High-quality kick pedals are usually made of hard-wearing plastic or aluminium. Plastic pedals are lighter and cheaper, but are less robust. Aluminium pedals are more stable and durable, but can be somewhat heavier. The finish is also important: pedals should have a smooth surface and well-protected bearings to ensure a smooth and safe ride. Padded or non-slip pedals are particularly important for beginners to prevent slipping.

• Technical features

  Important technical features of kick pedals are the size of the pedalling surface, the adjustment options and the safety features. The size of the pedal surface should be large enough to comfortably support the child's foot. Adjustable kick pedals offer the option of adjusting the pedal height to grow with the child. Safety features such as reflective elements or anti-slip surfaces are important to improve visibility and grip. Good workmanship of the bearings ensures easier pedal movement and reduces the risk of malfunctions during use.