I have waited a long time for this: the new magnetic pedal for gravel bike
3.5.2022
Translation: machine translated
Finally it's here, the new Magped for Gravelbike. I have long waited for this magnetic pedal for my gravel bike. For a few days I am now on the road with it and quite satisfied.
It doesn't always have to be love at first sight. Sometimes it takes a little longer for things to click. That's what happened to me with the pedals on my gravel bike. Meanwhile, I'm on the road with the fifth pair. But in order.
Magped Sport, Ultra and Gravel
It all started last spring when I replaced the flat pedals on my new gravel bike with clipless pedals from Shimano. However, riding a bike with clipless pedals was quite a challenge. Even before the first meter ridden, I was lying on the road. Right clicked, left wanted the Cleat simply not in the pedal. Conclusion: handlebars bent, right knee hit. Nothing really bad and after I had bent the handlebars back to right, I actually made it with both shoes in the click pedals and drove off.
However, I was never really happy with it and always felt somehow uncomfortable on the bike. Another solution was needed: magnets in the pedals instead of springs, metal plates on the shoes instead of cleats. After the entry-level model, I was last on the road with the Ultra.
So now there is Magped the new magnetic pedal specifically for gravel bike. This had been announced for some time, now it is finally here. And logically I bought it right away and mounted.
In the Gravel variant, the pedal is made of carbon, the axle of titanium and weighs just 212 grams. For comparison: The Ultra brings 328 grams on the scale.
Magped pedals are usually available in three magnetic strengths:
- 100N <65 kg
- 150N 65-90 kg
- 200N >75 kg
According to the manufacturer, the shoe is held magnetically on the pedal with up to 18 kilograms of traction, depending on the selected magnetic strength. In the new Gravel variant, a 200N magnet is installed. Included are the stronger Strong cleats, which increase the tractive force by about 30 percent. If you've ever boarded over a gravel path at 25 km/h, you'll appreciate this extra power and be glad not to slip out of the pedals.
Speaking of shoes
For the Magped Gravel, you'll want to use a gravel or MTB shoe with a 2-hole SPD mount. I currently have a new model from Shimano on my feet. In addition, the Rincon from Giro and a shoe from Sidi are still in the shoe cabinet.
Interestingly, the grip seems to me with the slightly softer Rincon of Giro on the pedals a little better than with the harder model of Shimano. The Sidi I have not yet tried. The cleat made of rust-treated steel is mounted in a few simple steps on any SPD-compatible bicycle shoe with two screws. Unlike other systems, dirt should not be a problem according to Magped, I can definitely confirm. The magnets hold, however, remains to be seen how that looks in extremely muddy conditions. In addition, the risk of tripping when walking is reduced and the walking comfort is better compared to shoes with cleats. Where I also waddle with these shoes and the small metal plates on the soles in the duck walk through the area.
My first impression
With the Magped Gravel I now have the third model of this brand and the total fifth pedal on my bike. And I am still convinced of this technology. However, it takes a bit of fiddling with the shoes. I guess it's a bit like skiing: The coordination of ski, binding plate, binding and ski boot is complex. It's not quite as complicated here, but it does take patience to find the right combination of pedal and shoe.
The Gravel model has the strongest Magpedmagnet installed with the 200N, as already mentioned. The Strong cleats also increase the traction by about 30 percent. This results in the sum of a secure grip. No matter whether I ride straight ahead, uphill or downhill. The traction acts primarily vertically and a lateral release from the pedal is possible almost without noticeable resistance. Even a quick and easy release in critical situations directly upwards is feasible. However, more force is needed.
In summary: good grip, good traction and a round step. The Gravelpedal is not only a lot smaller and lighter than the Ultra, it also looks more elegant. I find at least. I'm pretty happy with the new pedal and will still continue to tinker with the combination with the shoes. Because firstly, something can always be improved and secondly, the whole tinkering makes me meanwhile also quite fun.
Currently, the Magped Gravel is estimated directly via the manufacturer's website in Austria with 189 euros at the same price as the Ultra. However, I have then effectively paid 166.50 euros including shipping. No idea why it has suddenly become cheaper. In addition, there are customs fees of 33 Swiss francs for the delivery to Switzerland.
Patrick Bardelli
Senior Editor
Patrick.Bardelli@digitecgalaxus.chFrom radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.
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