Pedal to the Metal: How to Best Use your Pedals
Brian Lynne | Published on 8/20/2025
When you mention pedals, every cyclist knows what they are and what they are used for. Simply, push your foot down and the bike goes forward, but there is more to these often-ignored devices.
There are many pedal option including different cleat systems and those without cleats. If you are unsure which pedals to use, there is a huge amount of information online, visit your bike shop or talk to other Bike North members at coffee. We have a world of experience and can provide opinions that may be of assistance.
Irrespective of which type of pedal system you use, there are some other things to consider.
Pedals incorrectly used can be dangerous. They protrude from the side of the bike and so are the point most likely to hit a gutter or a low bollard. This year, a rider’s pedal hit a small concrete section whilst crossing a chicane on Botany Bay Bacon and fell, fortunately without significant injury. When you look at bollards, you’ll often see where pedals have scraped the paint. Be aware of these hazards.
When cornering, the inside pedal MUST be raised, preferably to the top of the stroke so that it doesn’t hit the ground. This has other advantages. By placing your weight on the outside pedal, you are lowering the centre of gravity and so increasing your bike’s stability. In particular, on descending left-hand bends, take all your weight on the outside pedal, to the extent that your lift off your seat by about 25mm or so. If you hit some bumps, you will be more stable.
Talking of stability, in a recent easier grade ride, it was observed that some riders just sat on their bike seat over rough roads and speed bumps. This reduces control and probably leaves the rider complaining about the quality of their bike seat. Riders should rotate their pedals so that the cranks are parallel to the ground and take their weight on the pedals, lifting off the seat by around 25mm. On major bumps more clearance may be needed and also move your bottom to the rear. The Mountain Bike rides are great examples of control over bumpy ground.
Trying new techniques should never be left until you need it. If these are new to you, give them a try in a quiet area so that you can have a safer, more enjoyable ride.