Pedals are for sure not the most glamorous components on your bike, but they’re one of the most vital. If you can’t trust your feet to stay put on that steep climb or a long gravel descent, the whole ride can feel off. And for many of us, especially those who value practicality and walkability, the choice of pedals for that secure but walking-friendly pedal is a two-bolt cleat system.
Unlike traditional road pedals that use three bolts and large plastic cleats, two-bolt systems are typically smaller, metal, and recessed into the shoe sole. That means they’re easier to walk in, less prone to clogging, and often more durable in the long term. Whether you’re gravel riding, mountain biking, commuting, or just want a low-fuss setup for road rides, two-bolt pedals are the functional choice.
As part of our Collective Favourites series, we asked our team, and you, our members, which two-bolt pedals you use and like. We also take a look at what sets the different systems apart, and what to consider if you're buying a pair for the first time, or just looking to try something new.
Why two bolts?
Two-bolt pedal systems are often associated with mountain biking and gravel cycling, but over the years, they have found a strong foothold across cycling disciplines. The main selling point of them is the smaller two-bolt cleat, which fits into a channel in the shoe sole, making them less cumbersome for walking than their road cleat counterpart.
Additionally, the metal cleats don’t wear down from a few cafe strolls or rocky hike-a-bike sections nearly as easily as plastic road models. And the pedal systems they pair with – especially the simpler, metal-bodied ones – tend to be impressively bombproof and sometimes last a lifetime.
For many of us, two-bolt is the system we start with when first riding clipped in, partially because the clipping-in motion for the two-bolt pedals is a simpler push down rather than a more pronounced "hook the front in and press down" movement that you do for road pedals.
Many two-bolt pedals are also dual-sided, where both sides feature the clip-in mechanism, so you don't have to look down or make sure you're catching the correct side of the pedal to clip in. Other two-bolt pedals feature one side as a traditional flat pedal, while the other side features the retention mechanism. This makes them ideal for those who might want to ride with flats to the shops and clipped in on the weekend rides.
More options than just SPD
When talking about a two-bolt pedal and cleat system, you'll often hear them being referred to as "SPD" – the Shimano Pedaling Dynamics system introduced in 1990 – but that's just one two-bolt cleat type. In reality, the market offers a few distinct two-bolt cleat and pedal systems, each with its own feel, strengths, and weaknesses.
Shimano's SPD is by far the most common two-bolt pedal system. It's widely available at local bike shops, reliable, and extremely durable. The pedal entry and exit are easy to work out, and the cleats last a long time. Many riders stick with SPD because it just works, and pedals like the PD-M520, M540, and XT series have developed a great reputation for longevity.
Recently, after three decades of SPDs, Shimano also launched a new CL-MT001 cleat which allows multi-directional engagement – you can now clip in toe-first, heel-first, or just press down. A related, modular addition called Shimano's Pontoon Cleat System adds outboard tread blocks to provide platform stability on shoes with minimal outsole tread, such as Shimano's new RX901 gravel shoe shown below.
But SPD isn't the only option, and it’s not necessarily the best for every rider or condition. Even within the SPD options, there are pedals with more surrounding pedal platform for added stability, and then those minimalistic pedals that have nothing but the clipping-in mechanism and a spindle. And similarly, other brands offer two-belt pedals and cleats in many variations.
Crankbrothers has long offered an alternative with its Eggbeater and Candy designs. These pedals use a four-sided engagement mechanism (the appearance of which inspires the Eggbeater name) that excels in muddy or snowy conditions. The feel is lighter and floatier than SPD, with less of a defined “click” on engagement. That float is appreciated by some riders with knee issues, and the pedals’ minimal design appeals to weight-conscious racers. On the downside, Crankbrothers pedals can require more frequent servicing, and cleats wear faster on pavement.
Then there’s Time, whose ATAC system also prioritises float and mud-shedding. Time pedals engage a bit differently – slightly more springy, with a softer entry feel – and offer generous side-to-side and angular float. Mud clearance is another strength, making ATACs popular among cyclocross racers and winter riders. Like Crankbrothers, though, Time pedals sometimes need a little more care to keep spinning smoothly.
Look's X-Track range rounds out the list of main alternatives, offering a platform that closely resembles SPD, and is cross-compatible with those Shimano cleats. Look's take on pedals is generally a bit more race-focused, with lighter weights and more aggressive retention, but the design is familiar and appeals to those who want something close to SPD with a slightly different feel or aesthetic. You'll also find two-bolt pedal systems from a variety of smaller brands, like Ritchey, One Up, Hope and HT, among others.
In addition to the above options, there are also power-meter pedal versions available in the two-bolt configuration. Favero Assioma Pro MX-2 SPD is often regarded as one of the most accurate systems out there.
What to look for in two-bolt pedals?
There are not quite as many two-bolt pedal options as there are bib short options, for example, but it's a diverse category.
If you want something you never have to think about, with widely available spares, then Shimano SPD might be the answer. If you regularly ride in filthy conditions or want more float, Crankbrothers or Time may offer a better ride experience. If you want matching colourways, then look for options from Time, Wolf Tooth, or OneUp.
Cleat feel is another important factor. Some riders prefer a tight, locked-in connection; others want more movement underfoot. The float, spring tension, and even the sound of the engagement can influence what feels "right."
Speaking of float: not all pedal systems feel the same once you're clipped in. Shimano SPD cleats come in different versions with varying amounts of float – the standard SH-51s offer a firm four degrees of float with single-direction release, while the SH-56 cleats allow multi-directional release. Crankbrothers pedals, on the other hand, offer either none or six degrees of float by default, and Time ATACs come with five degrees of angular float. The extra movement allowed by float can be more comfortable on the knees, especially for riders who don’t want to feel locked in. Some riders love that freedom, others find it feels unstable – it’s a personal preference worth considering.
Another fitting factor to consider is Q-factor, or the distance between your feet when clipped in. Some pedal systems, like Shimano's XTR, offer multiple spindle length options (52 mm or 55 mm) to help dial in your ideal stance. A narrower Q-factor can feel more efficient and natural on road or gravel bikes, while a wider one offers stability for mountain biking. The options for different spindle lengths are more limited than for road pedals, so if you have specific requirements in terms of your stance, pay attention to this.
Platform size matters too. Cross-country or gravel riders might opt for minimalist bodies, but if you do more technical riding, a pedal with a platform – like Shimano’s Trail models or the Crankbrothers Candy – offers more shoe support.
Then there’s serviceability. Shimano pedals have a reputation for going years without issue. Crankbrothers and Time offer great performance but may require more hands-on maintenance over time. Replacement cleats, too, can vary in price and availability depending on the system.
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