Magped Magnetic Pedals Review: Easy to Use plus the Benefits of Cycling Power and Efficiency

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As an avid cyclist and triathlete, I’m always on the lookout for innovations that can elevate my riding experience, I recently decided to try out the Magped ROAD2 magnetic pedals. Having spent several weeks with these pedals across various terrains, here's my comprehensive review.

Website: magped.com

Price: €189 for the Magped ROAD2

Use code: IRONMAN24 for 10% off.

Pedal overview:

• Magnetic pedal which is an alternative to clipless pedals but easier to use
• pedal body crafted from xCarbon
• Titanium spindle
• Weight per pair: 214g or 107g each
• 200N magnets – recommended for all body weights of approximately 45 kg or more

You need a road bike shoe with 3-hole mount such as those detailed in this link.

Magped ROAD2 magnetic pedal and cycling shoe cleat

Introduction

For my review I got to try the Magped ROAD2 pedals which as the name would suggest are aimed at road bike cyclists or triathletes. They have three other models, the SPORT2 for multi-purpose use, ENDURO 2 for downhill, ULTRA2 for mountain bikes and GRAVEL for gravel and cyclocross.

I’m a triathlon coach and coach athletes at all levels so have wanted to try these pedals for a while to see if they were suitable for my athletes who do not get on with traditional clipless pedals or are new to cycling and want to try clipless style pedals.

What’s in the Box?

The box contained the following parts:

• A Pair magped ROAD2 pedals (L & R)
• Magnets
• Metalic plates for 3-hole road bike shoes
• Plastic plates for 3-hole road bike shoes
• Magnetic screws
• Allen keys
• Sticker

Here’s the unboxing video I made to show what’s in the box:

Magped ROAD2 Magnetic Pedals Unboxing Video on ChiliTri YouTube Channel

Installation

The installation requires a road bike shoe with three holes. Place the magnetic plate on the shoe and attach with the longer screws and tighten with supplied Allen key. Adjust so your big toe joint is over the spindle. Then put the plastic cover over the metal plate and fix in place using the shorter screws and tighten.

Magped metal plate installed on my Nike road cycling shoes

Now you need to set up the pedals and the first step is to put the rotation limiters in place, and I would recommend trying the mid-size ones first to see if this suits you. These spacers change the amount of float your foot has on the pedal. Once the spacers are pushed into the pedals you can secure them with the tiny screws.

The final step is to set up the magnet height. When you attached the shoe to the pedal there should be 0.5mm between your shoe and the pedal. If the distance is not correct you can use two Allen keys to adjust the magnet height. Then you can attach the pedal to your bike using a standard 8mm Allen key (not supplied). The video below shows more details on the set up.

In the setup video for the magped ROAD pedal you learn how to mount the skid plates, install the rotation screws and adjust the magnet height optimally.

Installation video:

Magped ROAD2 Setup Instructions Video

Build Quality

The main body of the pedal is made from xCarbon which makes it strong and lightweight. The spindle is titanium so also very strong. Overall, the pedals feel built to last and will last for many years.

xCarbon Magped ROAD2 pedal with Titanium Spindle and plastic rotation limiters

Magnetic Connection

The magnetic connection is very positive and using your hands to remove is very hard but with your foot is easier. The magnetic connection is enough to make positive contact with your pedal and the feeling of being clipped in, but you can remove your foot from the pedal easily when you need to do so. This mechanism is ideal if you are not confident with standard clipless pedals or your have an injury or range of motion issues and can’t use other clipless pedals.

The magnets are very strong, and I did not experience any accidental disengagements while riding.

Magped ROAD2 Magnetic Connection between your pedal and shoe

Triathlon Transitions and Ease of Use

The metal and plastic plates that attach to your cycling shoe as flat unlike the cleats for Shimano or Keo Look pedals so in a triathlon transition these could help when running with your bike with your shoes on. The pro’s may be adept are running shoeless and then jumping on their bike and putting their feet in their shoes on the bike, but most age group triathletes find it easier and less stressful to put on their bike shoes and running in them.

When you get passed the mount line and get on your bike the Magpad pedals will pay dividends as there is no need to clip-in but just use the magnets to align your shoe and pedal and you are away!

For new triathletes or even seasoned age grouper this could be a good reason to invest in a pair of Magpad ROAD2’s.

Magped ROAD2 Plastic Cleats which are Flat for Ease of Walking in - great fro triathlon transition

Performance & Testing

When I tested the Magped ROAD2 pedals I decided to install just one pedal on the right and keep my Keo Looks on the right side of the bike so I could assess the difference in clipping in and out.

When comparing how easy it was to clip in the Keo was more difficult to spin and locate the pedal where as the Magped can be done without looking because the magnet guides your foot into the right position. This will be a big benefit in triathlon transition and when starting off when stopping at lights etc.

To unclip they needed about the same strength to do this. If this is too much for you, you can adjust the magnet height and you could also try a different size of rotation limiter (see installation instructions above).

I was able to come out of the saddle with ease and confidence knowing my foot was fully engaged on the pedal.

Both in and out of the saddle these pedals perform well allowing you to use your full pedal stroke to transfer power and thus pedalling more efficiently than using standard flat pedals.

Compatibility

The Magped ROAD2 is not directly compatible with clipless pedals on the market but they are compatible with any road bike shoe that has a three-mount hole configuration. I used my Nike carbon road shoes, but they work with shoes from Shimano, Scott, Specialized, Giro, Sidi, Fizik and more.

Maintenance

You can easily service your pedals yourself and the video below shows how you can do this. If you hear a clicking in your pedals, then you simply need to readjust your magnets using the Allen keys provided and put a little grease on it.

From time to time, you should clean your spindles and bearings and it’s easy to do by opening your spindle caps, undoing the screw and remove the pedal from the spindle. Clean the spindle with paper and then apply fresh grease. Reassemble the pedals and that’s it.

You can also replace the magnets if you need to, using the Allen keys provided.

I must admit I have never serviced pedals before, but I will from now on!

In this maintenance video you will learn how to maintain your pedal and how magnets can be replaced.

Magped ROAD2 Pedal Maintenance Instructions Video

Price vs. Value

The Magped ROAd2 pedals are similar in price to Keo Blade Carbon Ceramic (110g) or Shimano Ultegra R8000 (124g). The Magped ROAD is 107g in weight so if your buying criteria is weight then these weigh less than it's rivals.

If you want good quality and easy to use pedals that could help with speedy triathlon transitions then the Magpad ROAD2 is worth a look. They offer a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t get on with them you could always send them back.

Conclusion

I found the Magped ROAD2 pedals easy to set up and easy to use plus they look sleek on your bike.

Walking in your bike shoes is also easier so they will be easier to walk in, in triathlon transition.

When you get on your bike after the mount line in transition connecting your bike shoes to your pedals will be a breeze – one less thing to worry about on race day!

These pedals are ideal for people who have never used clipless pedals before or a nervous about trying them. They are also great for triathletes who find clipless pedals hard to use due to injuries or mobility issues as they get older.

They may not be the lightest pedals on the market due to the magnets, but they are excellent quality and built to last plus have a positive feel and connection when pedalling so you can be confident you get all the benefits of clipless pedals but the ease of use of standard pedals.

Karen Parnell is a Level 3 British Triathlon and IRONMAN U Certified Coach, WOWSA Level 3 open water swimming coach, 80/20 Endurance Certified Coach and NASM Personal Trainer and Sports Technology Writer. 

Need a training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and FinalSurge:

TrainingPeaks

FinalSurge

I also coach a very small number of athletes one to one for all triathlon distances, open water swimming events and running races, email me for details and availability. Karen.parnell@chilitri.com

Magped Pedals FAQ

Q1: What are Magped magnetic pedals?

Magped magnetic pedals are a unique type of bicycle pedal that utilizes a magnetic connection between the pedal and the cycling shoe. This connection is designed to provide a secure yet easily disengaged link between the rider and the bike.

Q2: How do Magped pedals work?

Magped pedals work by using strong magnets embedded in the pedal and connect to a corresponding metal plate on the cycling shoe. The magnetic force creates a connection, allowing the rider's foot to stay attached to the pedal during pedalling and providing stability. To disengage, the rider twists their foot to break the magnetic bond.

Q3:  Are Magped pedals compatible with all cycling shoes?

Magped pedals are generally compatible with cycling shoes that have a three-hole mounting system. However, it's essential to check the specific compatibility details provided by Magped for your pedal model, as there might be variations in the design and attachment mechanisms.

Q4: Can I use Magped pedals for mountain biking?

Yes, Magped have specific pedals that are suitable for mountain biking. In fact, some cyclists find the magnetic connection advantageous in off-road conditions, providing a secure attachment while allowing for quick and easy foot release when needed.

Q5: Are Magped pedals easy to install?

Magped pedals are designed to be user-friendly and can be installed with basic tools which are included in the box. The installation process typically involves assembling the pedals, attaching the metal plate to your shoes and attaching the pedals to the bike crank arms and adjusting the tension settings according to personal preference.

Q6: How strong is the magnetic connection?

Magped pedals use a strong magnetic connection to ensure a secure link between the shoe and the pedal. The strength of the magnetic bond can often be adjusted to suit the rider's preference.

Q7: Can I adjust the release tension on Magped pedals?

Yes, Magped pedals usually have adjustable release tension settings by changing the height of the magnets. This allows riders to customize the ease with which they can disengage their feet from the pedals. This feature is particularly useful for riders who prefer different levels of retention.

Q8. Are Magped pedals suitable for beginners?

Magped pedals can be suitable for beginners, especially those who are transitioning from flat pedals to a clipless system. The magnetic connection offers a balance of stability and ease of disengagement, providing riders with a smoother learning curve.

Q9: Do Magped pedals require special cleats?

Yes, Magped pedals require specific cleats that are equipped with a metal plate to engage with the magnetic system. These cleats are typically provided with the Magped pedal purchase.

Q10. How do I maintain Magped pedals?

Magped pedals generally require minimal maintenance. Periodically check for any loose components, clean the pedals as needed, and ensure that the magnetic surfaces are free from debris for optimal performance.

Remember to consult the specific user manual, user videos and guidelines provided by Magped for your pedal model, as details may vary.