Crank Bros Pedals You Need For Road, Mountain & Gravel

Crank Brothers has shaped pedal design for more than twenty years, pioneering four‑spoke clipless platforms and rugged flats that thrive in mud, roots, and rock gardens. From elite cyclocross racers to weekend trail riders, cyclists rely on their pedals for consistent engagement, effortless self‑cleaning and an ideal balance of weight and strength.

Selecting the right pedal for your discipline—road, gravel, mountain, eMTB or downhill—means weighing float angles, platform dimensions, mud‑shedding ability and overall durability. The perfect match not only enhances power transfer but also reduces fatigue and keeps you confident through every turn and descent.

In this guide, we’ll highlight ten Crank Brothers models across their flagship series—Eggbeater, Candy, Mallet and Stamp. You’ll get concise spec breakdowns, recommended use cases, pros & cons, maintenance pointers, pricing insights and any necessary reflector or safety notes.

Let’s kick things off with the Eggbeater line and discover why its minimalist design has become a go‑to choice for riders who demand lightweight performance and unbeatable mud clearance.

1. Crank Brothers Eggbeater 3 Pedals

The Eggbeater 3 pedals carry on Crank Brothers’ signature four‑spoke design, marrying minimalist weight with exceptional mud‑shedding performance. At just 280 g per pair, these pedals excel when the trail turns sloppy, while the open‑body construction clears muck with every revolution.

Overview

Featuring a forged SCM435 chromoly steel axle and a cast 300‑series stainless steel body and wings, the Eggbeater 3 focuses on durability without adding unnecessary bulk. Its simple yet sturdy architecture earned a reputation among cyclocross and gravel racers for reliable engagement and self‑cleaning in the gnarliest conditions.

Key Specifications

Axle: forged SCM435 chromoly steel
Body & wings: cast 300‑series stainless steel
Spring: 300‑series stainless steel
Bearings: outer sealed cartridge bearing; inner needle bearing
Cleats: premium brass race cleats with 15° or 20° float
Weight: 280 g per pair
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Eggbeater 3 pedals shine in settings where mud, slush, or debris would gum up conventional platforms. You’ll find them at home on:

Cyclocross courses with rapid mount/dismount sequences
Gravel grinders tackling dirt, sand, and small rocks
Winter commutes through rain, sleet, and road salt
Technical, muddy singletrack sessions

Cleat Float and Knee Safety

Thanks to the 15° or 20° float options, Eggbeater cleats let your foot rotate slightly during each pedal stroke, accommodating natural knee motion and reducing repetitive stress. Research indicates controlled lateral rotation can lessen peak ligament strain—see the biomechanical study on float and knee loading at PubMed.

Reflector and Safety Compliance

Crank Brothers ensures Eggbeater 3 pedals meet CPSC reflector requirements (16 CFR § 1512.16): amber or colorless reflectors placed on both front and rear surfaces, secured to endure impacts and weather exposure. These built‑in reflectors boost visibility from multiple angles—details are outlined in the CPSC pedal reflector standards.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Outstanding mud clearance with open four‑spoke design
Featherlight build enhances acceleration
Durable construction stands up to abuse

Cons:

Smaller platform can feel unstable to newcomers
Limited foot support on long, hard road rides

Maintenance & Durability

Service the sealed cartridge and needle bearings every 50–100 hours, or sooner after wet, muddy rides. Rinse off caked debris with mild soapy water, then dry completely. Periodically check spring tension—if engagement feels loose, replace the spring to maintain crisp entry and exit.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: $159–$169
Includes a 5‑year manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship

2. Crank Brothers Eggbeater 11 Pedals

Delivering an ultralight clipless platform that feels more like a feather than a pedal, the Eggbeater 11 stands at the pinnacle of the Eggbeater lineup. With a titanium axle and hollow stainless‑steel wings, it caters to riders chasing every gram saved without sacrificing mud‑shedding prowess or durability.

Overview

The Eggbeater 11 takes Crank Brothers’ signature four‑spoke design and elevates it with high‑end materials. A titanium spindle mated to hollowed stainless‑steel wings, Enduro sealed cartridge bearings, and IGUS glide bushings ensure engagement is silky smooth. At this level, every detail—from spring tension to axle finish—gets premium treatment.

Key Specifications

Axle: titanium
Body & wings: hollow 300‑series stainless steel
Bearings: Enduro sealed cartridge; IGUS glide bushings
Cleats: brass race cleats with 15° or 20° float
Weight: ~250 g per pair
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Built for fast, demanding environments, the Eggbeater 11 excels in:

Elite cyclocross races where rapid mud clearance is crucial
High‑speed gravel grinders over mixed terrain
Lightweight touring when every ounce counts

Performance Compared to Eggbeater 3

While the Eggbeater 3 tips the scales at 280 g, the Eggbeater 11 pares that down to about 250 g—noticeable savings during long stages or sprint efforts. The premium Enduro and IGUS bearings spin with minimal drag and stand up to muck just as well, preserving the open‑body cleaning advantage that made the Eggbeater design legendary.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Ultra‑lightweight build ideal for racers
Premium bearings for smoother engagement
Retains class‑leading mud clearance

Cons:

Premium price point may deter budget‑minded riders
Titanium axle finish can show wear under extreme conditions

Maintenance & Durability

Service the sealed cartridge and IGUS bearings every 50–100 riding hours, especially after wet or muddy outings. Clean with mild degreasers and a soft brush; avoid abrasive tools on the titanium axle to maintain its finish. Inspect bushings for play and replace them if entry or release feel sloppy.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: approximately $230
Includes a 5‑year manufacturer warranty against material and workmanship defects

3. Crank Brothers Candy 1 Pedals

When you’re just getting into off‑road riding or want reliable clipless performance without breaking the bank, the Candy 1 has your back. It strikes a smart balance between lightweight design, dependable mud shedding, and a price point that beginners—and value‑minded vets—can appreciate.

Overview

The Candy 1 pedals combine a composite body reinforced with stamped steel wings and a forged SCM435 chromoly axle for strength where it matters most. While it doesn’t boast the premium bearings of higher‑end models, its straightforward construction prioritizes hassle‑free engagement and exit—ideal for riders finding their clipless groove.

Key Specifications

Body: composite with stamped steel wings
Axle: forged SCM435 chromoly steel
Bearings: outer sealed cartridge bearing; inner bushing
Cleats: brass race cleats offering 15° or 20° float
Weight: 270 g per pair
Warranty: 2‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Candy 1 pedals shine in these setups:

Cross‑country loops where nimble clipping in and out speeds up technical sections
Entry‑level trail rides, from mellow singletrack to gravel farm roads
Beginner‑focused cyclocross practice, where easy maintenance keeps you rolling

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Friendly price tag around $99
Decent mud clearance for mixed conditions
Lightweight feel helps keep overall bike weight down

Cons:

Composite body can scuff or crack under heavy abuse
Inner bushing wears faster than sealed bearings
Shorter 2‑year warranty compared to premium lines

Maintenance & Durability

To keep Candy 1 pedals spinning smoothly, swap out worn bushings and monitor spring tension every few months—or sooner if you ride in gritty conditions. A quick rinse after muddy days prevents debris buildup, and a light grease on the axle threads during reassembly extends overall life.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: around $99 per pair
Backed by a 2‑year manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship

4. Crank Brothers Candy 3 Pedals

The Candy 3 pedals step up to a two‑piece machined aluminum body with cast steel wings, delivering a broader, more stable platform without tipping the scales too heavily. At 309 g per pair, they strike a sweet spot between support, durability, and a self‑cleaning open design. You can find them among BoyerCycling’s mountain bike pedals for anyone seeking a reliable trail partner.

Overview

Candy 3 shares Crank Brothers’ signature mud‑shedding architecture but beefs up the footprint for riders who crave extra stability. The two‑piece body creates ample contact with your shoe, while the open styling continues to fling debris clear of the mechanism. Dual bearings keep the spindle spinning freely under load, making each pedal stroke feel crisp and controlled.

Key Specifications

Body & wings: two‑piece machined 6061‑T6 aluminum body with cast steel wings
Spindle: forged SCM435 chromoly steel
Bearings: outer sealed cartridge bearing; inner needle bearing
Cleats: brass race cleats with 15° or 20° float
Weight: 309 g per pair
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Candy 3 excels when you mix cross‑country speed with all‑mountain challenges, including:

Fast XC loops demanding quick power bursts
Mid‑mountain trails with punchy climbs and mellow descents
Moderate technical sections where precise engagement and stability matter

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Generous two‑piece platform offers excellent support
Smooth engagement and release thanks to dual‑bearing setup
Robust construction stands up to rocks and root‑choked lines

Cons:

Heavier than composite‑bodied pedals like Candy 1
Mid‑range price (~$149) may stretch entry‑level budgets

Maintenance & Durability

To keep Candy 3 spinning freely, service the sealed cartridge and needle bearings every 75–100 riding hours or after particularly wet or dusty rides. Rinse away grit with mild soap and water, then dry thoroughly. Inspect both the aluminum body and steel wings for deep gouges, and check spindle torque against Crank Brothers’ specs.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: approximately $149 per pair
Backed by a 5‑year manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship

5. Crank Brothers Candy 7 Pedals

The Candy 7 sits at the top of the Candy line, marrying a spacious platform with clipless precision. Designed for aggressive trail and enduro riders, these pedals deliver the stability of a flat pedal with the security and power transfer of a clip-in system. Whether you’re railing berms or bombing technical descents, the Candy 7 keeps your foot locked in place—no slipping, no second‑guessing.

Overview

Crank Brothers built the Candy 7 around a 6061‑T6 aluminum body with a chamfered edge design that repels mud and debris. A forged chromoly spindle underpins the assembly, while Enduro sealed cartridge bearings and IGUS glide bushings ensure a slick pedal stroke. What really sets the Candy 7 apart is the Interchangeable Traction Pad technology: you choose pad placement and shape to dial in exactly how your shoe contacts the platform.

Key Specifications

Body: 6061‑T6 machined aluminum with chamfered edges
Spindle: forged SCM435 chromoly steel
Bearings: Enduro sealed cartridge bearing; IGUS glide bushing
Traction Pads: interchangeable, multiple profiles included
Float & Release: adjustable cleat angles and tension settings
Weight: 320 g per pair
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Candy 7 pedals excel when the trail gets rowdy. Perfect for:

Aggressive trail rides with high‑speed chunder
Enduro stages where every second counts
Technical descents demanding consistent foot placement

Traction Pad Technology

Crank Brothers’ Traction Pads let you fine‑tune your pedal interface. Each kit ships with slim, medium, and tall pad profiles—swap them out to adjust how deep your shoe sits in the platform. Move pads toward the center for a tighter, more secure “grip,” or shift them outward for quicker entry and exit. Pad shapes also influence mud clearance and shoe‑sole contact, giving you a bespoke feel underfoot.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Rock‑solid platform feel under heavy loads
Customizable traction and float via pad placement
Durable build stands up to rocks and roots

Cons:

At 320 g, heavier than the Candy 3
MSRP sits at a premium level for trail pedals

Maintenance & Durability

Inspect and rotate your Traction Pads every 50–75 riding hours—or sooner if you ride in gritty conditions. Pads pop out easily with the included wrench, and replacements are available through BoyerCycling’s spare parts. Service the Enduro bearings and IGUS bushing at 100‑hour intervals: clean with a mild degreaser, re‑lubricate, and spin to check for smoothness.

Price & Warranty

Candy 7 pedals are MSRP $179 per pair and backed by a 5‑year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.

6. Crank Brothers Candy 11 Pedals

The Candy 11 represents Crank Brothers’ flagship XC pedal, striking a rare blend of weight savings and platform support. Its machined aluminum body integrates a Traction Pad right into the shell, delivering crisp power transfer while keeping overall weight down to around 297 g per pair.

Underneath, a titanium axle rides on Enduro sealed cartridge bearings and IGUS glide bushings for a silky‑smooth spin. Whether you’re lining up at the start gate of a marathon event or pushing hard on your favorite XC loop, these pedals lock you in with confidence—and you can find them in BoyerCycling’s mountain bike pedals collection.

Overview

Built for racers and performance‑driven riders, the Candy 11 elevates the clipless XC experience. The broad platform invites efficient torque delivery, while the integrated Traction Pad ensures consistent shoe‑to‑pedal contact under sprint efforts or sustained climbs. Its open design still sheds mud effectively, though not quite as aggressively as the Eggbeater models.

Key Specifications

Body: machined 6061‑T6 aluminum with integrated Traction Pad
Axle: titanium
Bearings: Enduro sealed cartridge bearing; IGUS glide bushing
Cleats: brass race cleats offering 15° or 20° float
Weight: approximately 297 g per pair
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Competitive cross‑country races
Marathon and multi‑stage events
Technical XC courses featuring punchy climbs and fast descents

Advanced Float Customization

Candy 11 pedals let you fine‑tune your float and release angles in precise increments. By adjusting cleat tension and release settings, you can dial in just the right amount of lateral movement for your pedaling style. This level of customization supports both aggressive accelerations and podiatric comfort over long distances.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Lightweight yet supportive platform
Premium materials and smooth bearings
Integrated Traction Pad for secure shoe interface

Cons:

Higher price point than entry‑level models
Slightly reduced mud‑shedding compared to four‑spoke designs

Maintenance & Durability

Service the Enduro and IGUS bearings every 75–100 riding hours, especially after rain or mud. A gentle degreaser and soft brush will clear debris, and a drop of light grease keeps the axle spinning freely. Keep an eye on the Traction Pad—swap in replacement pads when you notice diminished grip or uneven wear.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: around $210 per pair
Backed by a 5‑year manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship

7. Crank Brothers Mallet E Pedals

Electric mountain bikes demand a pedal platform that’s spacious, grippy, and ready for extended climbs. The Mallet E flat pedal answers that call with a concave CNC‑machined aluminum body, replaceable steel pins, and robust bearings designed to handle the extra torque and vibration of e‑MTB riding.

At approximately 348 g per pedal, it strikes a balance between durability and weight—ideal when you’re charging steep technical trails or grinding out long climbs with confidence.

Overview

Built specifically for e‑MTB applications, the Mallet E features a broad, concave platform that cradles your foot for predictable traction under power. Its reinforced aluminum body and strategic pin layout ensure you stay planted, even when sprinting out of corners or powering up rocky pitches. Sealed cartridge bearings keep grit at bay, so the pedals spin freely ride after ride.

Key Specifications

Platform: CNC‑machined aluminum, concave profile
Pins: 16 replaceable steel pins per side
Bearings: dual sealed cartridge bearings
Platform dimensions: 100 × 105 mm
Weight: ~348 g per pedal
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Mallet E pedals excel on:

E‑MTB trails where extra torque can twist lesser platforms
Technical singletrack riddled with roots, rocks, and jumps
Long, steep ascents demanding consistent foot placement
Endurance rides where traction and comfort matter most

Platform and Pins

The pedal’s concave shape supports your foot at the edges, creating a naturally locked‑in feel. Each side holds 16 steel pins, which you can swap out individually when they wear down. To replace a pin, simply back it out with a 3 mm Allen key, drop in a new pin, and torque to the recommended spec. This modular approach keeps you rolling without needing a full pedal replacement.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Broad, concave platform offers exceptional stability under power
Replaceable pins extend pedal life and maintain grip
Sealed bearings resist mud and grit for reliable rotation

Cons:

Heavier than standard flat pedals due to robust construction
Pin maintenance required after abrasive use
Premium price point compared to entry‑level flats

Maintenance & Durability

Inspect and tighten pins every 50–75 hours of riding, or sooner in sandy or rocky conditions. Clean the platform with mild soap and water, avoiding high‑pressure sprays on bearing seals. Re‑lubricate the cartridge bearings with light grease at 100‑hour intervals to preserve smooth spin under e‑MTB stresses.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: around $159 per pair
Backed by a 5‑year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship

8. Crank Brothers Mallet DH Pedals

When you’re sending it off cliffs or screaming through rock gardens at warp speed, you need a flat pedal you can trust under the harshest conditions. The Mallet DH is Crank Brothers’ answer for riders who demand rock‑steady footing and premium durability on downhill runs and bike park laps. Its beefy construction and thoughtfully arranged pins give your shoes a firm grip, even when you’re smashing roots or slamming berms.

Overview

The Mallet DH features a 6061‑T6 forged aluminum platform designed to absorb impacts and resist deformation. With a wide footprint and strategic concave shape, these pedals help you stay planted when gravity takes over. Dual sealed bearings keep the pedal spinning smoothly, while the replaceable pins offer a customizable interface tailored to aggressive riding.

Key Specifications

Body: forged 6061‑T6 aluminum
Pins: 16 adjustable steel pins per side
Bearings: dual sealed cartridge bearings
Platform dimensions: 106 × 112 mm
Weight: ~457 g per pedal
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Mallet DH pedals excel when you’re tackling:

Downhill gravity trails with high‑speed sections
Bike park features, jumps and technical drops
Freeride lines that demand consistent traction under massive loads

Platform and Pins

Crank Brothers arranged 16 steel pins on each side in a pattern that maximizes contact with your shoe sole. The outer pins bite in first, while the inner pins resist lateral movement, creating a layered grip strategy under hard braking or cornering forces. You can tweak pin height or swap them out entirely to dial in just the right balance between bite and entry‑ease.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Unwavering grip under heavy impacts
Robust forged aluminum withstands rocks and roots
Replaceable pins extend pedal life

Cons:

At ~457 g per pedal, it’s one of the heavier flat options
Premium price tag may stretch your budget

Maintenance & Durability

Inspect pin height and tightness every 50–75 riding hours, especially after abrasive or muddy sessions. To replace a worn pin, use a 3 mm Allen key to back it out and install a fresh one, then torque to spec. Service the dual sealed bearings at 100‑hour intervals: clean with a mild degreaser, relubricate, and check for smooth spin.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: around $199 per pair
Backed by a 5‑year manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship

9. Crank Brothers Stamp 1 Flat Pedals

As the simplest flat pedal in the Stamp lineup, the Stamp 1 lives up to its name by offering a bare‑bones platform that’s light on weight and easy on the wallet. If you’re stepping into trail riding or just need a reliable commuter flat, this model delivers enough grip for confidence without bells and whistles.

Overview

The Stamp 1 features a durable composite body shaped for a flattering concave profile. Its nine fixed steel pins per side bite into most shoe soles, providing a stable connection whether you’re rolling through town or hitting mellow singletrack. At around 308 g per pair, these pedals barely make a dent in your rotating mass.

Key Specifications

Body: composite
Pins: 9 fixed steel pins per side
Bearings: sealed cartridge bearings
Platform dimensions: 99 × 101 mm
Weight: approximately 308 g per pair
Warranty: 2‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Casual trail loops where simplicity is key
Daily commuting and urban riding
Bike park laps with modest jumps and berms

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Very affordable, MSRP around $49
Lightweight design keeps overall bike weight down
Adequate grip for beginners or casual riders

Cons:

Composite body is less impact‑resistant than aluminum
Only nine pins per side limits maximum traction
Shorter 2‑year warranty compared to premium options

Maintenance & Durability

With a composite platform and fixed pins, the Stamp 1 requires minimal upkeep. Simply wipe away mud and debris after rides, and check pin tightness every 20–30 hours of use. Spin the pedals occasionally to ensure the sealed bearings stay smooth; if you notice roughness, a light cleaning and re‑lubrication can extend their life.

Price & Warranty

Stamp 1 pedals come in at an MSRP of about $49 per pair and carry a 2‑year manufacturer warranty against defects. They’re a no‑frills entry into the world of crank bros pedals, perfect for riders who want dependable flats without a hefty price tag.

10. Crank Brothers Stamp 7 Flat Pedals

The Stamp 7 pedals represent Crank Brothers’ top-tier flat platform, engineered for aggressive trail riders who demand maximum grip without sacrificing weight. By combining a forged aluminum body with adjustable pins and premium bearings, these pedals deliver a secure, low‑profile interface that excels when you’re railing corners or launching off lips.

Overview

Stamp 7 steps up from the entry‑level Stamp 1 with a full forged 6061‑T6 aluminum body, enduro sealed cartridge bearings, and ten height‑adjustable steel pins per side. Its concave shape cradles your foot, promoting a locked‑in feel that inspires confidence on technical lines. Despite its robust build, the Stamp 7 clocks in at just about 268 g per pair—light enough to please weight‑weenies yet tough enough for rugged terrain.

Key Specifications

Body: forged 6061‑T6 aluminum
Pins: 10 steel pins per side, adjustable for height and bite
Bearings: Enduro sealed cartridge bearings
Platform dimensions: 102 × 102 mm
Weight: approximately 268 g per pair
Warranty: 5‑year manufacturer warranty

Ideal Riding Conditions

Stamp 7 pedals shine in scenarios where control and feedback are paramount:

Aggressive trail rides featuring tight switchbacks and root‑laden descents
Enduro stages demanding quick transitions and precise foot placement
Downhill laps where every millimeter of contact counts

Platform and Pins

With its shallow concave profile, the Stamp 7 naturally guides your foot toward the center of the pedal. Each of the ten replaceable steel pins can be tuned to your preference—raise them for maximum bite or dial them back for easier foot removal. A simple 2.5 mm Allen key lets you pop pins in or out, making on‑trail adjustments a breeze.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Superior grip from ten adjustable pins and concave platform
Light for a flat pedal, enhancing acceleration and maneuverability
Durable forged aluminum withstands repeated impacts

Cons:

Pins require periodic inspection and replacement after heavy use
Premium materials and manufacturing push the price toward the higher end

Maintenance & Durability

Check pin tightness and height every 50 hours or after particularly abrasive rides. Remove worn pins with a 2.5 mm Allen key and install replacements torque‑to‑spec. Service the Enduro sealed bearings at 100‑hour intervals by cleaning with a mild degreaser and re‑lubricating to maintain smooth rotation under demanding conditions.

Price & Warranty

MSRP: around $119 per pair
Backed by a 5‑year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship

Gear Up for Your Next Ride

Now that you’ve seen what the Eggbeater, Candy, Mallet, and Stamp lines bring to the table, it’s time to match your next pedal to the terrain and riding style you love. Whether you’re chasing gravel PRs, hammering XC laps, tackling technical enduro descents, or just commuting in the rain, there’s a Crank Bros pedal built to optimize power transfer, grip, and comfort.

Take a moment to revisit the ten models we covered and jot down which features—float angle, platform size, mud clearance, pin configuration, weight, and price—matter most for your rides. Are you after feather‑light performance with the Eggbeater 11? Looking for the budget‑friendly reliability of the Candy 1? Or perhaps the adjustable grip of a Stamp 7 is exactly what you need for aggressive trail days.

When you’re ready to lock in your choice, explore our complete selection of crank bros pedals and all the latest cycling gear at BoyerCycling.com. Your next adventure starts with the right pair of pedals—ride on.