Gravel pedals: a practical guide to choosing between Shimano SPD and Crankbrothers
If you ride gravel and are unsure about pedals, this guide is for you. Here you'll find real differences, how to choose based on your riding style, how to adjust your cleats without knee pain, and what maintenance to do to keep everything running smoothly. We focus on the two most popular systems that we carry in our shop: Shimano SPD and Crankbrothers (Eggbeater/Candy/Mallet).
1) What changes in gravel riding (and why the pedal matters)
- Walking : on gravel you get off more often; small cleats and patterned soles help.
- Mud and dust : the pedal must engage/disengage even if there is dirt.
- Technical control : you need to release and re-engage quickly and safely.
2) Systems we recommend
Shimano SPD
The standard in MTB/gravel for its overall balance. Tension adjustment, compact cleats (two bolts), and spare parts available everywhere.
- The best features : overall reliability, screw retention adjustment, cleats that last a long time, easy to find replacement parts.
- Things to note : it evacuates extreme mud somewhat worse than Crankbrothers; slightly heavier in entry-level models.
- Typical profiles : XC (small and light body) and Trail (body with a "cage" for more support when stepping and walking).
Crankbrothers (Eggbeater/Candy/Mallet)
It stands out for its four-sided entry and excellent mud evacuation . Very direct feel and a variety of body types depending on your support needs.
- The best features : easy hook-up from any angle, works very well with mud, natural floating sensation, very lightweight options.
- Important note : There is no tension screw; retention is determined by the cleat and its orientation. Bearing maintenance is required according to usage and conditions.
- Typical profiles : Eggbeater (minimum weight), Candy (multipurpose medium body), Mallet E (more platform for support/aggressive driving).
3) Practical comparison
| Aspect | Shimano SPD | Crankbrothers |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of attachment | Good (2 sides) | Very tall (4 sides) |
| Mud evacuation | Good | Excellent |
| Retention adjustment | By screw (tension) | By type/orientation of cove |
| Cleat durability | High | Medium (depends on use/walking) |
| Spare parts and availability | Very high | High |
| Learning curve | Very easy | Easy; you just have to choose/place the cleat correctly. |
4) Choose according to your use
- Versatile gravel/long rides/bikepacking : Shimano SPD (XC or Trail). Reliable, comfortable for walking, adjustable tension.
- Gravel with frequent mud / competition / technical : Crankbrothers (Candy if you want support, Eggbeater if you're looking for lightness). Ultra-fast engagement and mud-resistant.
- First automatic cleats : Shimano SPD with low tension; or Crankbrothers with easier release cleats.
5) Shoes and cleats: compatibility
- Your shoes must be two-screw (SPD standard) for both systems.
- At Crankbrothers, make sure to fit the washers/spacers that come with the cleat if the sole requires it.
6) Adjusting cleats without tangling your knee
Objective: to allow the foot to support itself naturally, without straining the ankle or knee.
- Longitudinal position : Start with the pedal axle under the area between the head of the first and fifth metatarsals (slightly behind the bunion). If you ride with technique/aggressive riding, move it back 2–4 mm for more control.
- Rotation : Let your foot rest at its natural angle. If you tend to turn your toes out ("clumsy"), rotate the cleat to allow for that position. Avoid forcing a straight toe if your foot isn't naturally straight.
- Q-factor : If you rub your cranks or feel your knees "boxed in", use axle washers or cleat spacers to slightly move your foot away from the frame.
- Tightening : Screw the cleats on gently and check after a few rides; the first break-in usually loosens a little.
7) First outings: how to gain confidence
- In Shimano, lower the spring tension to the minimum to learn; increase it gradually.
- Practice at two pedal strokes from home: engage/disengage while stationary at very low speed.
- In technical situations, anticipate: unhook one foot if you have doubts, re-hook it when you get out of the obstacle.
8) Simple maintenance that avoids surprises
- After mud/dust : rinse, dry and a drop of lubricant on moving points (avoid contaminating pads/discs).
- Check the cleats : if they are very worn or have rounded edges, replace them: you will improve the attachments and avoid unintentional unclipping.
- Bearings : If the pedal has play or makes noise, it needs servicing. Crankbrothers offers bearing/axle kits ; Shimano offers standard cone/ball replacement or a new freehub body, depending on the model.
9) Quick summary
- I want something that always works : Shimano SPD.
- I ride in mud or I'm looking for an ultra-easy hitch : Crankbrothers.
- I walk quite a bit : gravel shoes with a marked sole + flush cleats; pedals with some platform (SPD Trail or Candy).
Any questions? We'll assemble it and adjust it for you.
At Dog Days, we work with both systems daily. We'll help you choose the right pedal, adjust your cleats to your natural angle, and get everything ready to enjoy. Write to us or stop by the shop.
