RaceFace Atlas Aluminum Pedals [Rider Review]

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RaceFace has been making components for Mountain bikes for decades. They definitely know a thing or two when it comes to making quality products. With that said, we were stoked when the new Atlas pedals were released. Our friend, Brent, has been running them on his Specialized. See what they think!

 Overview

If you want pedals that keep you locked to your bike then these are the pedals for you. You say if you want to be locked your pedals then use clip-less pedals but those pedals don't let you use normal shoes. I rode clip-less pedals for over 20 years and never found an advantage over flat platform pedals. I switched back to the old tried and true platform pedals 10 years ago and never looked back.

I typically ride aggressive rock and natural feature-type trails around Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah. Having my foot stay put until I don't want it to is a big plus for these types of trails. When I do have to hike a bike having regular or even grippy bike shoes is much better than prior stiff-sole cycling shoes. Another great feature is fewer moving parts. This is particularly a good thing when it gets mucky out. Trying to get the dirt out of my cleats or my pedals has been causing many missed pedal or shin strikes.

I've had many flat pedals in the past including RaceFace Atlas (prior versions), RaceFace Aeffect, and Pedaling Innovations to name a few. What I like best about these pedals is the closed system for the bearings and the adjustable pins. With the closed system, you get less dirt and less dirt means fewer rebuilds. So far I've put about 700 miles this year on these and there is no play and no grit. When I need to rebuild these pedals RaceFace makes it very easy with a complete rebuild kit. I did have to rebuild the RaceFace Aeffect pedals twice in the same year. This was likely due to the open spindle system and using bushings instead of bearings.

The adjustable pins mean you can tailor the grip and location of the pins. I use them all but some like less grip. If you need to match all the items on your bike then multiple color selections make this an option. You will have to tighten the pins up after you get them because from the factory they tend to loosen quickly. There are spacers that you can place between the pins and the pedals to shorten the height.

One of the best stories about these pedals comes from Moab, UT. We are finishing up part of the Whole Enchilada ride just before we were entering the porcupine rim area. I came to a ledgy rock drop and didn't commit enough to manual off. When I realized the bike was going over and I was going to go OTB I was able to jump off of the pedals and land on the ground avoiding a broken collarbone or arm. Not sure that would've happened if I was clipped in!

Final Thoughts

These pedals are wide enough for almost anyone's feet. However, they are thin enough that you can avoid hitting rocks as you're sailing through the forest, desert, or mountains.