Published by Andrew on 26 November 2018
In the market for non-cleat pedals? Richard Peace reviews a pair of Acros A-flat XL pedals that are ideal for touring and leisure riding.
Acros A-flat XL pedals
From Oxford Products
RRP £99.99 (discounted online)
Compare other flat pedals at Wiggle
There are some bits of kit that are so vital to a bike’s basic functioning that I find it surprising they seem to get overlooked with the initial specification. It seems to be assumed that more experienced riders will use clip-in pedals, but I can’t cope with them and I'm happy to admit it. But too often non-cleated pedals are small, slippy, plastic affairs, and even decent metal studded ones can be slippery in seriously wet or muddy conditions.
Enter these extra large alloy pedals from Acros. The A-flat XL pedal is aimed at trail riders but I think they would make good touring pedals too, the impressive size of around 11cm square and the relatively light weight of 225g per pedal (for this size of pedal) adding up to a comfortable ride with little chance of loss of grip.
The studs are small allen bolts that can be height adjusted for grip and comfort. My initial riding with these has confirmed they feel as comfortable and secure as they should be and I look forward to using them on longer trips. Even though my feet are a modest UK size 8, these oversize pedals give a luxurious and grippy platform that so far I have found a joy to use.
Removal is with a 6mm Allen key which is handier and probably more useful to carry than a pedal spanner. The bearings are said to be extra long and double-sealed so they should do a good job of keeping water out and taking plenty of hard pedalling punishment. And if you want to pimp your bike in the process they come in a range of eye-catching colours.
Acros A-flat XL Pedals
From Oxford Products
RRP £99.99 (discounted online)
More info on where to by here.
Compare other flat pedals at Wiggle
About our reviewer
Richard Peace is the author of the official English-language guidebook to the Veloscenie Paris-Mont-Saint Michel bike route and the Sustrans guide to the London-Paris Avenue Verte. He also contributes to A to B magazine, Bike Europe and Eurobike Show Daily.
