epzamora wrote:Do you feel you really need a "trail" pedal (the kind with cage)? You save weight by going without.
I think the 530 model (cheapest) is a painted pedal, not anodized.
I bought my trail pedals thinking it would be great for when i wear regular shoes for a quick jaunt. I don't think i noticed much of a difference. They may be more for pedal protection from rock strikes. I do know i've read varying reviews on the success of the cage acting as a platform for shoes. all depends on the style and design.
if you stay away from the cheapest, you get a lighter weight pedal, slimmer stack height, and overall smaller package generally. Do note though medium to high range pedals often do not have flats for a pedal wrench. It's quite normal for good pedals to require a hex wrench into the end to remove or tighten.
eric/fresno, ca.
The older models did just seem to be for protecting the cage. But newer Shimano trail pedals XT and XTR offer bigger platforms for real support. I like them when i am standing on the pedals.
Thank @Conan I ended up ordering the XT's as I couldn't justify the huge price difference for only 29grams difference in weight and a tiny thickness difference.
Now it's just a test of patience. I have $960 left to pay off and my local doesn't take AfterPay; groan. But I am paying half in 2 days and the rest in 2 weeks.
Can't wait to see the speed differences I achieve. I have not been riding seriously for 20 years, always as a hobby only, but am now using Strava and getting competitive on my local trails. Hitting just under 35 mins for a 16 km gravel ride with 7 gates to weave through. Best Strava time on the trail is 29.19 on a Specialized Tarmac (unsure of the version). Hoping I can get to around 30 mins with the Norco. Maybe even beat that time. No idea. I am 39.
