(Part 3) Best bike pedals & cleats according to redditors

I just bought these MKS Lambda pedals and I'm very happy with them. They look great, have a ton of surface area, and are very grippy. Also consider the MKS Sylvan which I've used for thousands of miles and are also very good.

Use a mountain style (2 bolt) pedal and cleat, so you can use the same shoe for both bikes. That will also allow more choice of shoes, easier walking, and the pedals are typically cheaper.

I always thought the pedals with a flat side were pretty annoying because you seem to "wrong" side when you put your foot down more often than not. If you absolutely have to have a pedal that works with street shoes and clips in, try these:

http://www.amazon.com/Shimano-PD-M545-Downhill-Clipless-Pedal/dp/B000XNXUUG

Otherwise, I like BMX flat pedals. These are a significant upgrade to plastic test ride pedals that come on most bikes in terms of stiffness and grip. You might find this is more practical for your commuter:

http://www.amazon.com/Wellgo-Alloy-Sealed-Mountain-16-Inch/dp/B00E7UZ6I0/ref=sr_1_13?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1397418488&sr=1-13&keywords=bmx+pedals

>http://www.amazon.com/Shimano-PD-M545-Downhill-Clipless-Pedal/dp/B000XNXUUG

I wouldn't recommend those for riding any distance in normal shoes as the clip mechanism is by necessity proud of the platform.

My brother used to have M545s on his hybrid but got rid of them for that reason he's much happier with the M324 pedals he switched to instead. Getting the wrong side some of the time when you set off is preferable to having no right side. The new [A530 looks even better](http://www.amazon.com/Shimano-PD-A530-Dual-Platform-Pedal/dp/B001MZ2AGO/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1397424911&sr=1-2&keywords=shimano+hybrid+pedals
) with a really nice big platform on the clip free side.

Personally I'd go for Time Allroad Grippers because I like the float atac pedals give you.

Been riding VP Vice pedals for the past few months. Big, thin, super grippy on sneakers. Expensive, but very nice.

https://www.amazon.com/VP-Components-VP-Vice-Pedals-Pack/dp/B006ZH1J5W

I put a pair of these on my bike and it seriously made a huge difference. Much much less of my feet sliding off of my pedals and they are reasonably priced too.

Race Face Chester Pedal One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018J1IZ8K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_I84RCbBMFTZH6

Nonsense. Just buy a pair of these and just spin baby spin.

so its right in the shoe description - Compatible with Shimano SPD SL AND Look. Those are two main players in road pedal systems. So go get SPD-SL pedals or LOOKs. WARNING - road pedals are shit to walk around in. The cleat is added to the sole of the boot that is clear round. So like walking in heels but you have the "heel" in the front. So for commute not so good if you want to go around shopping on your way home


Pedals. to go with SPD-SL try these, they are basic and basically anything higher level is just shaded weight you pay for
https://www.amazon.com/SHIMANO-SPD-SL-PD-R540-Clipless-Pedals/dp/B004JKEG3O/ref=sr_1_15?fst=as%3Aoff&qid=1567885802&refinements=p_89%3ASHIMANO&rnid=2528832011&s=outdoor-recreation&sr=1-15

Yes, if you're going to ride the bike with regular shoes the M324 is the way to go.

I also have the Click'r PD-T400 on my touring bike which are double sided SPD but the clamp is recessed in the platform so you can ride them with regular shoes too. They now have the 421 which has a bigger platform.

For a fixed-gear commuter that encounters a lot of red lights and stop and go traffic, what type of foot retention is best? I just ordered a pair of Pure Fix foot straps, did I make a good choice?

There's always one of the click'r pedals, the 400 or the 700 (the 400 looks like it might be better for when you're in regular shoes)

These: https://www.amazon.com/VP-Components-VP-Vice-Pedals-Pack/dp/B006ZH1J5W ...because they feel like your feet are duct-taped to your pedals, and you don't have to wear clips. So nice to get on and off your bike at will when on a tour.

Firstly, congrats on the ride! Keep it up!

I have the same bike (color and everything) so I can offer a few tips for the new(ish) rider with this rig. Treat it well and you will be happy with it for a long time. I have over 1200 miles on this bike.

First, as everyone has said, foot retention. I have the Pure Fix straps from amazon. If you can swing it I suggest upgrading the pedals as well when you buy retention. I have a nice slim platform from fyxation. About $25 but you can get something better than what is on that bike starting around $12 on up.

2nd, Seat. Keep doing 40+ mile rides and you will quickly realize the stock seat has to go. I have a charge spoon I paid around $26 for. Non-bike friends tell me how uncomfortable my seat looks and I tell them that you should see the original seat that came with the bike! I love the charge.

You see the black streaks from your brake pads on your wheels? Eventually that will cause a streaking noise that is horribly embarrassing if anyone is within a one hundred yard radius. It will also stop like shit. I taped off the rim and sanded the paint off of that edge, then replaced the pads with a really nice pad/shoe from amazon for about $10 a set. No noise, no black marks on the rim and nice braking.

Tires. Keep an eye out for a nicer set of tires. The stock ones will get the job done for a while but they are cheap. Keep an eye out on steepandcheap.com or theclymb.com or wherever. I picked up a set of Vittoria slicks online somewhere for around $16 each and it was a world of difference.

I did replace the brake levers but I broke one of the stock ones. The stock levers are cheap but no rush to replace them if you dont need to. Again, there are a ton of better options out there starting at around $15 when you are ready to upgrade.

I also replaced the bar tape but it was mostly because I was not happy with my install. The stock tape is fine.

I hope this helps a bit. I just wanted to show cheap bikes like this can get a lot of flack round these parts but a few reasonably priced upgrades can make this a nice bike that lasts you a long time.

Here is a few shots of mine. Disregard the blue bottle cage, its on there from a 50 miler i did a few weeks ago. my bike

I use dual platforms but without reflectors. Heres some Shimanos on Amazon. At $80 theyre spendy though http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005M9CG5Q?keywords=shimano%20deore%20pedals&qid=1453173710&ref_=sr_1_2&sr=8-2 Heres some cheaper ones from Wellgo http://www.amazon.com/Commuter-Reversible-Clipless-Shimano-Platform/dp/B005ZS0WMS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1453173852&sr=8-3&keywords=dual+platform+pedals

Race Face Chester

I recommend cycling in boots (or trekking sandals), because you will want something rugged for all the walking you are going to be doing on your rest days, exploring a city with a Warm Showers host, say, or taking the opportunity to make a short hike. Bike shoes and clipless pedals, in my opinion, are a gimmick with sports cyclists in mind, not tourers. If you want more power on the upstroke, you can get Power Grips instead, though most tourers are not even going to find those more than a gimmick.

Also, clipless pedals are tiny little things because Shimano chases the ultra-lightweight sports market. For touring, I would recommend instead MKS Sylvan Tour pedals. It's comfortable on tour to have a nice, wide pedal.

Had the same problem. Every time I got up in the saddle, the clear clicked like it released and then re-engaged. No amount of adjustment made a difference.

I ended up switching to a set of Look Keo pedals and applicable cleats. So much better!

Look Keo 2 Max Pedal - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005QXLI98/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LTXYDbY9M943P

Hah. Looking for concrete answers?

Buy these. https://www.amazon.com/MKS-18092030213-Sylvan-Touring-Pedals/dp/B000MXOLAK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=mks+sylvan+touring+pedals&qid=1569467532&s=gateway&sprefix=mks+s&sr=8-1

Not so sharp that she’ll dump you for getting them but still really grippy.

Nice classic look that would nice on a road bike.

When I learned to ride clipless, I picked up the crank brothers Mallet to learn on. They had a big enough platform so if I ever felt unsure about a section, I could unclip going into it and still have a solid pedal underneath me. They helped a lot. I eventually gave them to a buddy, and he successfully made the transition from flats.

If you want to ride with clipless pedals, you should stick with them. I don't think it will ever get any easier. The main thing is to try to think ahead of when you might need to unclip. Eventually, it will become second nature. Everyone takes some knocks when they first start with them, though. I fell three times during my first ride.

The VP ones on Amazon are excellent pedals for the money.

https://www.amazon.com/VP-Components-VP-Vice-Pedals-Pack/dp/B006ZH1J5W

Much tougher than Wellgos or other metal pedals in the <$50 range. Shimano Saints are a little more expensive, but bombproof.

Never tried plastic pedals.

Out of the list you have there, I think the most important ones are "tires" but I am also thinking he is asking for a new bike. Let me explain.

First, ask him why he wants clipless pedals. If it is because of the terrain is too rough and his feet are bouncing so much that he gets off the pedals, then that is the correct answer, If it is because everyone is using them, that is the wrong answer. You can always accommodate for this with technique. So for me, clipless pedals are just one more expense with not a lot of backing. There are downhill racers racing with flat pedals. I have personally avoided this expense and I prefer to get better in my technique of riding than solving the issues with clipless pedals. I have chosen to spend my money in other things like tubless tires and grips. BTW, the original pedals of this bike are terrible. If he is riding with those, then that's a must. I would change to flat pedals though... So ask him. (Chester flat pedals are affordable and great looking, plastic and can be reused in any other bike you get.)

https://www.amazon.com/RaceFace-Chester-Pedal-Turquoise-Size/dp/B06XKV7VH5/ref=asc_df_B06XKV7VH5/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312065280674&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7548884091665632536&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011905&hvtargid=aud-800703102928:pla-440833654491&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=62425943472&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312065280674&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7548884091665632536&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011905&hvtargid=aud-800703102928:pla-440833654491

​

Second, "grips" grips are a good thing to get if you know about grips, like a lot. This can be one of the main things on that list and kind of cheap to get. That is because there are two point of contacts between your body and the bike, and that is pedals and grips. Grips come in first, that's how you handle the bike. again, ask him why grips, is it because he wants a nice color? or because his hands are slipping? is it sweat? is it that they are too big? or too small? Asses the issue and get those grips at a store where he can test them. I would think that gloves are more important since they protect your fingers (get full finger protection) and they enhance gripness and avoid slipping since sweat is mitigated. If it is size and diameter and his hands are getting off the grip, then the grip he has currently is too large.

"Tires": they are the one thing that makes the whole thing go. Depending on the terrain and how rough it is. They can make a ride in the woods where there are a lot of rocks and roots a pain in the butt if they don't have larger knots and spacing and dont grab a thing. again, ask him what is the problem with the tires, if it is the terrain he is riding, is it too soft, or too rooty? is he asking for speed tires? or grippy tires? (The original tires of this bike are not great, I've seen them and they have very little grip.) For me, tires are important because they can make you slip all the time in humid and rooty conditions and you can fall a lot. You might want to get tires with a lot of grip and allow the bike to advance without hesitating on "is it gonna grab or not?"

https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/us/en/maxxis-minion-dhf-mtb-tyre-exo-tr/rp-prod149555?gs=1&sku=sku545269&istCompanyId=64a3dd19-9b5e-411d-a4f3-46f21c06bfee&istFeedId=504a9a46-d791-4ab6-bde1-bd49b4b78bc6&istItemId=iwxxialaw&istBid=t&pgrid=53546199518&ptaid=pla-424288834263&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=PLA+All+Products&utm_medium=base&utm_content=mkwid|sv58zieAv_dc|pcrid|253668879799|pkw||pmt||prd|545269US&gclid=Cj0KCQjwgNXtBRC6ARIsAIPP7RsbvGDXWN5Z_gQMqPkpkkamCyorYg05zbvjGI_9Ai3UhDg2-27vrOoaAuWMEALw_wcB

​

Brakes: Brakes are usually not well adjusted. Check them. If they are hydraulic brakes, they need to be bleed. The pads might need to be changed and the rotors need to be cleaned with alcohol. (Be carefull when you oil the bike, if oil gets into the break system they stop working completely) Maintenance is usually number one with brakes. The original breaks of this bike are decent.

"Fork" If he is asking for a new fork, then he is getting better. That fork in that model if I am not mistaken is a coil fork. This fork offers very little adjustment possibilities. The fork should be fine for his weight and size but if after adjusting he still doesn't like it. Then I would say this is one major expense. Whatever you put in this bike, he is not gonna be happy. Once you feel the suspension is not working well for you, then you are most likely asking for a new bike... Sorry but that's what this is. Forks are too expensive. For me, personally, I would look into a new bike if I have to change the fork. This goes well with the answer to question number 1, clipless pedals. Usually when you start riding harder and going faster on rough terrains, the suspension does not react well, the rear is too bouncy (on short travel bikes and hard tails), and your feet are coming out of the pedals. These are all signs of "I need a new bike".

I am surprised he has not spoken about a dropper post. If he is running faster, going downhill faster and feeling the pain in his behind, he would be asking for a way to mitigate that problem. A dropper post is a must once you start riding harder...

My recommendation would be to talk to him and find out more about the issues he is having. Understand him more in how he is riding, conditions of the terrain and his personal experience. Then, from that point see what you can change. I am guessing tires would be the first thing, pedals second. Change the rear tire first. That is a $70 to $75 expense that might just do the trick (if you install them yourself).

I have a friend who bought a Marin 7, 6 months ago, and just last week he got a $2100 giant full suspension. He sold this marin. That is because he was riding harder and changing one or two things weren't' going to improve the whole thing... Sorry...

Look into Marin bikes. They are very affordable bikes... I would tell him to get a 27.5 instead of a 29er. He will have more control and enjoy more a 27.5. I am 200 pounds and 6'2" and I ride 27.5 on a XL frame. They are great and give me enough flexibility in the trail. I do not race so I leave 29er for people who race.

I hope this helps and I am sorry if my answer is not something you were expecting to hear.

Btw. Hydraulic forks run around $300 I believe. Half of the cost of the marin. Not worth it. instead look at full suspensions bikes like the ones below.

​

https://www.the-house.com/qgtve27504rd18zz-gt-bikes.html?utm_source=shopzilla&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=shopcomparefeed&CAWELAID=600004150004501914

​

https://www.bikebling.com/Marin-Hawk-Hill-JR-Kids-Bike-p/marin19-hawkhill-jr.htm?gclid=Cj0KCQjwgNXtBRC6ARIsAIPP7Rt5lrqMivkRN6Emq_76ha_9bsDFLRutqcQADN1q08K4CqU5zvVum_saAolfEALw_wcB&Click=120514&utm_source=googlebase&utm_medium=shoppingengine

I like my Crank Bros Mallet 1's.

They're reasonably priced, easy to get in and out of, and can be used with regular shoes if necessary.

I use Power Grips on my platforms

http://www.amazon.com/Power-Grips-Sport-Pre-Assembled-Strap/dp/B00PUGNURO

Hell yeah, you're gonna love it. The pedals are Race Face Chesters and the grips are ESI Chunky foam grips. Almost wish I would've went with the ESI Extra Chunkies though, I have pretty big hands at 6'2".

Fyxation Gates slims. I use them with Hold Fast straps and they work flawlessly.

I use the cheap Fyxation Gates Pedal and it works fine. If you're looking for something a little sleeker the slim version would work as well.

https://www.amazon.com/MKS-RMX-Platform-Pedals-Silver/dp/B006EPPB7M

Hands down the best all-round platform pedal in my experience. Made in Japan, grippy but not spiky, rolls smooth, will last forever. They're seriously sorta magical. I have no idea how they hold a shoe as well as they do, but they grab better than some MTB platforms I've ridden than will tear your skin off.

If you want clipless pedals it sorta depends on what cleat you want. I don't ride clipless very much but my preference is definitely for SPD, and I just use the Shimano pedal that best suits the bike for that purpose - they make ones for mountain bikes, road bikes, and "touring" which has a platform side and a clip-in side.

I use those : https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00MJYQN0Q/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Only one I ever used by I am quite happy with them.

Found 'em!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003Q3SNKW/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/190-8449799-8472463

I like them...pretty light. You can get new ones for $60 on Amazon

One of mine has this one.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LCSO2C6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&th=1

I wouldn't call it "upgrade" but at least you can choose a color. It's working okay but I haven't put on a lot of miles. (I have 7 bikes so some of them aren't used as much as others.)

Nashbar has a few of them. If you want a platform, try this one.

http://www.nashbar.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10053_10052_549650_-1___204720

I've used "Rodeo" and "Soho" pedals from Nashbar. It's inexpensive (esp. when they do 20-25% off), and they back it up with decent warranty.

So, I just bought a road bike (Trek 2300). My first bike in over 10 years.
I'm pumped about getting started and I have been trying to figure out which type of shoes I should actually get.
I will be training for a few sprint triathlons this year, however I am just aiming to finish not place. I will also be using biking as a hobby/exercise throughout the year. however my training areas will be mostly mixed with roads so i will have to deal with traffic as well. In addition I might be doing some walking around with my occasional biking around town.
Natuarally I would love to get two pairs of shoes and pedals, however my bank account doesnt seem to want to cooperate.
For reference I have been looking at these shoes and pedals: http://www.giro.com/us_en/privateer-r-hv-18.html
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005DVDCVK/ref=twister_dp_update?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
or
http://www.giro.com/us_en/products/men/cycling-shoes/road/apeckx-ii-hv-18.html
https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-SPD-SL-PD-R-540-Black/dp/B004JKEG3O/ref=sr_1_4?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1483905260&sr=1-4&keywords=road%2Bbike%2Bpedals&th=1&psc=1
I have strange wide feet, and I have read that the Giro HV line is excellent for that.
My question is for an all around shoe will going with the mountain shoe really hold me back that much when riding around?

Those HT AE01 look pretty cool, but MSRP of $150!! Holy cow!

I really like the MKS RMX "sneaker" flats for my commuter. $26, bombproof, and really comfortable in all kinds of footwear. No pins, but enough grip to keep your feet in place, IMO.

EDIT: I should add that the MKS RMX pedals may not be the best choice for rainy climates. They are great for me here in San Diego, or in Phoenix where I used to live, but probably they aren't grippy enough for real rainy weather riding. I've heard good things about the Redline Lo-Profile pedals with the sealed bearings for only $40. if I lived in a real rainy place, I'd consider switching to those.

How about this http://amzn.com/B000XNXUUG

Try these ($25)
http://www.amazon.com/Fyxation-Gates-Slim-Platform-Pedal/dp/B009V7M75Y/

or these :
http://www.amazon.com/VP-Components-LB-Aluminum-Replaceable/dp/B00EE7YKYC

or even these ($13):
http://www.amazon.com/Retrospec-Bicycles-Profile-Freestyle-Multi-Use/dp/B00NHP0FH8

The thing about flat pedals with pins is that they will be really grippy but will shred your shins if you slip off the pedal. You may want to take the pins out or find some that have softer pins, or go with all-plastic ones like those fyxations. I ride metal flats with sharp pins and grippy rubber shoes on my MTB.

Yea i completely get that. I don't disagree. Different movements use a different set of muscles so it will take time for my body to develop/adjust to mountain biking.

Here's the bike: http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/elite_trail.htm

I got it some years ago, back in ~2012? Honestly dont remember what size I have. It's either the 15.5" or 17.5" since i'm 5'9". I've upgraded a few parts. I've put on

• Raceface Chester pedals
  
• Raceface Atlas Handlebars
  
• Raceface Half Nelson lock grips
  
• Truvativ Stem
  
• Wake Bar end plugs (not really a performance upgrade lmao)

my Virtue Truck with accessories from left to right:

Thule Yepp Maxi Rack Mount Child Seat

Thule Yepp Maxi Easyfit Adapter

Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet - Teddy Bear

Brooks Saddle (used - exact make unknown)

Velo Orange Copehagen Double Kick

RockBros MTB Pedals

Origin8 Urban-Pro Riser Handlebar

Origin8 Time Clock Bell

Cork Chop Bicycle Grips

21x15" Wald 157 Giant Delivery Basket

15x15” Bungee Net

Kobra Ultra Bright Bike Light - 1200 Lumens


I love everything currently on her, but may end up going a bit wider on the bars now that I'm riding the rig fully loaded.

OP, i just got Chesters yesterday. I'll be taking them out on my bike tomorrow to some black diamond XC trails...but they look gnar as fuck! i'll report back. i got them on amazon for les than $50 shipped

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018J1IZ8K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

XT Loveliness

I've been using power grips (just the straps, not these pedals) for commuting and couldn't imagine any other way. I often wear dress shoes with a flat leather sole that slips right off the pedals, and these let me ride in anything.

Definitely flat platform. I ended up ordering these, but there's still several hours to cancel and order something else before it'd ship if you have any other reccomendations. I wasn't really interested in spikes because I didn't want to tear up my shoes or shins.

I was in the market for a set but the only ones at my shop were awful M324 knockoffs. No way in hell was I paying $40 for those, or even $30 if they're still there.

I bought some shorts from Dicks Sporting goods. They have the spandex style with padding on the inside but also have cargo pants attached to the outside so you don't look like you are attempting the tour de france when you go into work. It looks like you are wearing shorts. I love the padding, mainly because I don't have an ass (Ha!). I steered clear of clipless, I recently bought some toe clips from amazon for 6 bucks after someone here on reddit recommended them. I figured for 6 bucks, its worth a test. It is very easy to slip your foot out even if you are strapped in. I'd say if you have enough hills, they are pretty helpful. Here are the Toe Clips.

suggestions on a cheap seat??

how about this for a saddle ? http://www.citygrounds.com/crew-bike-co/crew-bike-co-street-saddle-w-crmo-rails-3772

and these for straps http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00933WSTQ/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

and these for pedals http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EMYUNC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Grippy platform pedals with spikes like VP Vice:

https://www.amazon.com/VP-Components-VP-Vice-Pedals-Pack/dp/B006ZH1J5W

Bogs Rubber Boots with low cut ankle for flexibility, they make a couple different kinds:

https://www.bogsfootwear.com/shop/style/71330-001.html

https://www.bogsfootwear.com/shop/style/72362-001.html

https://www.bogsfootwear.com/shop/style/71395-001.html

I use diagonal straps for commuting and I think they're a good compromise. But fitting big winter boots can be problematic.

Is this similar to what you are describing?

http://www.amazon.com/Avenir-Clip-Strap-Large-X-Large/dp/B002BW3AD4/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1407360739&sr=1-3&keywords=toe+clip+strap

These pedals with these straps

Don't you turn your foot on the pedal to get out? I have the Shimano XT T780 with very basic Shimano SPD-shoes and I just rotate my foot on the pedal a bit to get out. Works like a charm and in the emergency I had with these pedals they have release my feet properly. I never fell over in more than a year. I'm pretty cautious though. As soon as there is a situation where I might have to react switfly, I release one foot, just in case I might have to stop.

I use the Diamondback Trace Dual Sport Clipless Pedals.. they are relatively light, and offer clipped riding on one side and mountainbiking/regular shoes riding on the other. Extremely well made!

https://www.amazon.com/Diamondback-Trace-Clipless-Pedals-Silver/dp/B00MJYQN0Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469977747&sr=8-1&keywords=diamondback+dual+pedals

Wife has the ezs. Supposed to be for lighter / smaller riders but usually available for $59. You can find Keo classics for $100 online. Keo Max for 139 usually but sometimes cheaper. So worth it.

Keo 2 max in Amazon @ 74. Look Cycle Keo 2 Max Road Pedals Black, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005QXLI98/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_L22yxb07AD59G

Keo 2 classic @ 59. Look Cycle Keo Classic 2 Pedal Black/Grey, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GA2JIL4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_532yxb0YAMTSH

And comes with cleats.

I really like the MKS RMX pedals.

Yes, there are many different kinds of clipless pedals. Popular options include SPD ( a system by Shimano), eggbeaters ( by crankbrothers), and Time ATACs.

Take a look at MTB flats! The pins help "grab" a shoe and provide better grip. In terms of flat pedals they would be considered on the very aggressive end. They might tear up your shoes a bit over time but will proved wayyyy more grip than you're currently getting. There are tons of options out there in between crappy pedals and MTB though.

I use these on my fixed gear bike with pedal straps:

https://www.amazon.com/Fyxation-Gates-Platform-Pedal-Black/dp/B005EMYUNC/ref=sr_1_6?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1473969975&sr=1-6&keywords=origin+8+pedals

They aren't amazing but for $20 they're pretty good.

What pedals did you throw on?
I've been eyeing some cheap Origin8 ones but I'm open to any suggestions.

The A530, M324, A600, PDT400, M545, and M647 are some good options here. Some are one-sided SPD, some have combination platform-clips on both sides.

RaceFace Chester Pedal Turquoise, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XKV7VH5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NPzBCbZVPCRZN

Nah, def need the turqouise raceface chester pedals. FOOKER also makes a similar set with a bit darker teal. I own the cookers and my feet stick to them on my gravel bike.

In mountain biking we have pedals that lowkey have spikes on them .
Here is what they look like https://www.amazon.com/Race-Face-Chester-Pedal-Green/dp/B018J1IZ8K/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1539959688&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=raceface+chester+pedals&dpPl=1&dpID=41l81DS0uLL&ref=plSrch

Replying again to make sure you see it: I'm pretty sure they're these.

I've used a set of Rockbros that look basically identical to #2 (https://www.amazon.com/Rockbros-Bicycle-Pedals-Platform-Cycling/dp/B00LCSO2C6). No complaints for the price. Light weight, cro-mo axles, cartridge bearings, good grip, decent size platform. But definitely lower quality than the Wellgo MG-1 pedals I have on my commuter (which only cost about 30% more).

First, you're right, mountain bike shoes are easier to walk in.

That said, I also recommend Crank Brothers' "Mallet" pedals because you can use them with regular shoes in an emergency or for a short ride.

http://www.amazon.com/Crank-Brothers-Mallet-Black-Pedals/dp/B004XNFOAG/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1417192472&sr=1-3&keywords=crank+brothers+mallet

Don't do a combo. They won't be grippy enough for flats.

https://www.amazon.com/Race-Face-Chester-Pedal-Purple/dp/B018J1IX3C/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1502130991&sr=1-3&keywords=raceface+chester

https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-PD-M520-Clipless-Pedals-White/dp/B000WYAENC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1502131024&sr=8-2&keywords=shimano%2Bclipless%2Bmountain%2Bbike%2Bpedals&th=1&psc=1

They are these ones, I think, but I got them at my LBS. Cheap, easy to install and feel great so far.

People seem to like these www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00933WSTQ