Gravel cycling offers the freedom of the road with the thrill of off-road adventure. Choosing the right pedals is essential for safety, comfort, and confidence—especially for beginners in their 50s.
Pedal Types
| Type | Pros | Cons |
| Flat Pedals | No special shoes needed, easy foot release | Less efficient pedaling, feet may slip |
| Clipless (SPD) | Secure connection, efficient power transfer | Requires special shoes, learning curve |
| Combination | Offers both clipless and flat options | Heavier, more expensive |
Recommended Pedals for Beginners
1. SPD Clipless Pedals
For confident beginners ready to commit to clipless riding.
- Shimano M520
Dual‑sided SPD, reliable entry-level pedal with great off-road durability. View here - Crankbrothers Candy 1
Lightweight and mud-shedding, with a small cage and intuitive clip-in action. Available here
2. Flat Pedals
For casual riders or those who want a stress-free learning experience.
- RaceFace Chester
Grippy composite platform with metal pins—excellent control and value. View on tredz.co.uk here - OneUp Components Composite Pedal
Large, comfortable platform with superior grip and light weight. View here
3. Combination Pedals (Clipless + Flat)
Ideal for riders transitioning to clipless systems.
- Shimano PD‑EH500
SPD on one side, grippy platform on the other. Best-in-class for beginner versatility. Available here - Crankbrothers Double Shot 1
Combines a basic flat pedal with an eggbeater-style clipless side—good for light gravel use. View on Crankbrothers webiste here
Final Recommendations
- Nervous about clipping in? Start with flat pedals like RaceFace Chester.
- Ready to try clipless? Choose SPD clipless like Shimano M520.
- Want both options? Go with a combination pedal, especially Shimano PD-EH500.
Choosing the right pedal lets you build confidence, enjoy longer rides, and stay in control—whatever the terrain throws your way. Happy gravel riding!
As you take your first steps—or rather, pedal strokes—into the world of gravel cycling, the right pedals can enhance your comfort. The appropriate choice can improve your cycling experience, improving your control and boost your confidence. You might lean toward flat pedals for their simplicity. Alternatively, you might explore clipless options for better power transfer. The key is finding what suits your riding style and comfort level best. We hope this guide helped clarify your options!
If you have any questions, drop a comment below. Feel free to share what pedals work for you. We’d love to hear from fellow riders in their 50s just getting into the gravel scene. Don’t forget to subscribe. You don’t want to miss our next post. We’ll dive into shoes, cleats, and how to make them all work together seamlessly.
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