Flat, clip-in, or something in between? This guide walks through the main types of bike pedals — how each system works, what they’re made of, and how to pick the right set for the way you ride.
Types of Bike Pedals
There are three systems to know: flat, clip-in, and one-sided hybrids. Here’s how each works and who it suits.
Flat (Platform) Pedals
Flat pedals are the simplest system: a wide platform, no clips, any shoes. You can put a foot down instantly — handy in traffic or on technical trails — and the textured surface grips most soles well. That makes them the default choice for beginners, commuters, and plenty of experienced trail riders.
In Funn’s range, that means the Python, Funndamental, Taipan and Black Magic.
Python Flat Pedals
Thin, concave and seriously grippy — the flagship Funn flat pedal for aggressive trail riding.
VIEW PYTHONClip-In Pedals
Clip-in pedals (also known as clipless) lock a cleat on your shoe into the pedal — the two-bolt SPD-style system is the mountain bike standard. Being attached means you can pull up as well as push down, so power transfer is noticeably better. You’ll need compatible cycling shoes.
Clicking in and out takes practice — especially the panic exit. Spend some time on quiet ground before taking clip-in pedals onto technical trails. New to the system? Start with our guide: What Is Clipless Pedals? | Beginner’s Guide
From Funn: the Mamba, Mamba S and Ripper.
One-Sided Clip-In Pedals
One-sided pedals like the Mamba and Mamba S put a flat platform on one face and a clip-in mechanism on the other. Clip in for efficiency, flip over for quick dismounts — ideal if you’re moving to clip-in but want a bail-out option. You’ll still need compatible shoes for the clip-in side.
Mamba Clip-In Pedals
Clip on one side, flat on the other — the long-time favourite for riders who want both worlds.
VIEW MAMBATypes of Bike Pedal Materials
Material drives a pedal’s weight, durability and price. Here’s how the common options compare:
Aluminum
Aluminum is the industry standard: light enough, stiff enough for clean power transfer, and durable enough to shrug off seasons of abuse. Most of the Funn lineup — Mamba, Mamba S, Ripper, Funndamental and Python — is built from it.
Plastic
Reinforced plastic costs far less than alloy or carbon, which makes it popular with BMX riders and anyone starting out. It’s also a little more forgiving in a crash — plastic gives more than metal when it meets a shin. Funn’s Black Magic and Taipan are both reinforced plastic.
Carbon Fiber
Carbon-reinforced pedals are mostly a road-bike thing: lighter and stiffer than anything else, at a clearly higher price. If you’re chasing grams, the trade-off can be worth it.
How Do I Choose the Right Pedal? 4 Factors to Consider
| At a glance | Flat | Clip-In | One-Sided |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Commuting, casual rides, beginners | MTB & road riders chasing efficiency | Riders transitioning to clip-in |
| Shoes | Any shoes | Compatible cycling shoes | Both |
| Key benefit | Quick foot placement & removal | Push-and-pull pedaling power | Clip in or ride flat — your call |
| Funn picks | Python, Funndamental, Taipan, Black Magic | Mamba, Mamba S, Ripper | Mamba, Mamba S |
Riding style
Casual rides and commutes favour flats; long climbs and road miles favour clip-in.
Comfort
Big platforms spread pressure; cleats cut foot fatigue on long days.
Convenience
Flats take any shoes; one-sided pedals cover both lives.
Installation and Maintenance
Fit with the right tools, service occasionally.
Step-by-step instructions here: Easy Way to Install and Remove Bike Pedals | DIY Guide
Conclusion
There’s no single best bike pedal — only the right match for how you ride. Sort out the system first (flat, clip-in or one-sided), then the material, and the rest of the choice makes itself. Get it right and you’ll feel it on every ride: more control, more efficiency, more fun.
Find the pedals that match your ride
Flat, clip-in or both — race-proven components engineered in Taiwan since 1997.
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