Swapping out spin bike pedals should be simple—until you realize there are dozens of SPD, Delta, and cage options that all look the same online. I’ve tested the most popular replacements on bikes like Peloton, Schwinn IC4, and Echelon, and I’ll break down which ones are actually worth buying.
Whether you’re looking for dual-sided pedals that work with regular shoes, or clip-ins that match your SPD cleats, this guide has you covered. I’ll also walk you through the differences between SPD vs SPD-SL/LOOK, which cleats to choose, and what to watch out for when installing new pedals. Let’s make this upgrade the smoothest part of your ride.
Table of Contents
Best Spin Bike Pedals Compared (SPD, Delta & Toe Cage Options)
This table compares the top-rated replacement pedals for spin bikes based on compatibility, cleat type, thread size, and whether they’re dual-sided. All options below are tested and recommended based on my first-hand experience.
| Name & Rank | Dual Sided | Design | Cleats | Thread |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BV Pedals | Yes | 2-in-1 (SPD+Cages) | Not included | 9/16″ |
| Venzo Pedals | Yes | 3-in-1 (Look+SPD+Cages) | Look & SPD cleats included | 9/16″ |
| Wellgo Pedals | Yes | 2-in-1 (SPD+Cages) | SPD cleats included | 9/16″ |
| Shimano Pedals | No | 2-in-1 (SPD+SPD) | SPD cleats included | 9/16″ |
How to Choose the Right Clip-In Pedals for Your Spin Bike
Before jumping into the reviews, here are a few key things I’ve learned (from personal experience) to look for when replacing spin bike pedals. Whether you’re a beginner or upgrading from stock pedals, these features can make or break your indoor cycling experience.
- Pedal Tension Adjustment
Most clip-in pedals allow you to adjust the tension — that’s how hard you have to twist your foot to unclip. This is super important for both comfort and safety. Beginners should look for pedals with a tension screw marked with “+” and “–” symbols so you can dial it down until you get used to clipping in and out. - Pedal Thread Size
Nearly all spin bikes (like Peloton, Echelon, Schwinn IC4, Sunny) use a standard 9/16″ pedal thread. Still, it’s worth double-checking your bike’s specs or manual before buying just to be safe. - Cleat Compatibility (SPD/2-Bolt vs LOOK/3-Bolt)
Don’t buy pedals before checking which cleat system your cycling shoes support. SPD (2-bolt) cleats are the most common for indoor cycling and are easier to walk in. SPD-SL/Look Delta (3-bolt) cleats offer more power transfer but are less beginner-friendly and harder to walk in. - Pedal Weight
Lighter pedals are generally easier to spin and feel smoother underfoot, especially during high cadence intervals. While this isn’t a deal-breaker for most, it’s something more advanced riders might want to consider. - Dual-Sided vs Single-Sided
If your household shares the bike, look for dual-sided pedals that have a clip-in system on one side and a toe cage on the other. This gives everyone the option to ride, whether they’re using SPD shoes or just sneakers. Options like Wellgo and BV SPD + Cage pedals are great for this.
BV SPD + Cage Exercise Bike Pedals Review – My Go-To Dual Option
BV 2-in-1 (SPD+Cages) Pedals
| Model | SPD + Toe Cage |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | SPD cleats and standard athletic shoes |
| Sides | Dual-sided (clip-in SPD + cage) |
| Included | 2 pedals + 2 baskets (no cleats) |
| Thread Size | 9/16″ (fits Echelon, Schwinn IC4, Peloton, etc.) |
| Adjustability | Clip-in tension adjustable |
| Weight | 730g |
Out of all the spin bike pedals I’ve tested, the BV SPD + Cage pedals have been one of the most practical and versatile additions to my home setup. I personally installed them on both my Echelon and Schwinn IC4 bikes, and they fit flawlessly thanks to their standard 9/16″ thread size, which is compatible with the vast majority of indoor cycling bikes.
BV offers several spin bike pedal models, but the one I use and recommend for most home cyclists is the SPD + Cage combo. It’s perfect if you ride with SPD cycling shoes while your partner or kids prefer to pedal with regular gym sneakers. You don’t have to swap pedals or force everyone into cycling shoes – just hop on and go.
There’s also a SPD + Delta version, which is great if you’re fully clip-in and don’t need a cage side. Then there’s the Delta + Cage model, which supports Look Delta cleats and regular shoes, but not SPD. I chose the SPD + Cage setup to make things simple and inclusive, especially since not everyone in my house uses cycling shoes. It’s been great for casual rides and letting family jump on the bike without needing special gear.
Installation was straightforward, though here’s something to keep in mind: the pedals are clearly marked with L (Left) and R (Right), and left pedals thread in reverse, which many riders miss. If you’re installing them on a Peloton, Echelon, Schwinn IC4, or even a ProForm, they’ll go right in with a 15mm wrench or a 6mm Allen key (tools not included).
The pedals didn’t include cleats, which was fine for me since I already had SPD cleats mounted on my Giro shoes. They clipped in and out with no issues. The clip-in tension is fully adjustable on both the SPD sides, which I think is a nice touch, especially for beginners. Just use a 3mm Allen key for the SPD side – turn clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to loosen. I personally like to dial it down a bit for easier engagement during warmups or recovery rides.
These pedals also surprised me with their build quality. They have a heavy-duty aluminum body with a clean ED-painted finish and sealed bearings that make the ride feel smooth and solid. Despite the affordable price, they don’t feel cheap underfoot. In fact, you can even use these on an outdoor bike with a 9/16″ crank—so they’re more versatile than you’d expect for the price point.
If you’re still deciding on footwear, here’s my guide on how to choose indoor cycling shoes that actually feel good — it covers cleat types, fit, and what matters most for comfort on the bike.
One thing that stood out right away was the packaging—the pedals came shrink-wrapped instead of in a box, which felt a bit cheap, though it didn’t affect the performance. Some riders mentioned trouble clipping in, but in most cases, that comes down to installing cleats upside down or slightly off-center. I had the same issue at first, so double-check your cleat orientation if you’re struggling to engage properly.
Once everything’s set up, these pedals are quiet, durable, and smooth—a major upgrade from the stock pair that came with my Echelon. If you’re looking for one set of pedals that can handle SPD shoes and regular sneakers without hassle, these are an easy recommendation.
They’re budget-friendly, durable, and beginner-friendly—and they make it easy for your whole household to share one bike without constantly swapping pedals.
Venzo SPD + Delta + Cage Review – Great for Multi-User Households
Venzo 3-in-1 (SPD+Look+Cages) Pedals
| Model | Venzo 4-in-1 (Look Delta + SPD + Toe Cage + Tool) |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | SPD cleats, Look Delta cleats, and regular sneakers |
| Sides | Dual-sided (SPD and Look Delta) with removable cages |
| Included | 2 pedals, 2 toe cages, Look Delta cleats, SPD cleats, cage removal tool |
| Thread Size | 9/16″ (fits Peloton, Echelon, Nordictrack, Schwinn IC4, etc.) |
| Adjustability | Tension adjustable on both SPD and Delta sides |
| Weight | 590g |
When I first saw the Venzo 4-in-1 pedals, I thought they might be overkill. But I bought the full package anyway—SPD side, Look Delta side, toe cages, and even the removal tool – because I knew removing the cages without the tool would be a nightmare (and a lot of reviewers had complained about that).
After using them for a while, here’s my honest take: these pedals are only worth the price if your household needs all three options—SPD shoes, Look Delta shoes, and regular sneakers. If not, I’d skip the $90 price tag and get something simpler like the BV SPD+Cage model for under $60. That said, the Venzo pedals do what they clai — just with some quirks.
The toe cages are the weakest part of the setup. They work, but they’re awkward to use. You can either try to snap them onto the pedal (which takes effort) or slip your shoes into the cage and then click the whole thing in. Either way, it’s clunky, and most of the time, my wife asks me to help because she struggle with it. The removal tool definitely helps, but it feels a bit flimsy – I’d be cautious about torquing it too hard. Still, I’m glad I got the version that includes it.
Installation was simple. Just remember the left pedal is reverse-threaded. I used a basic wrench, but you’ll want a thin one – adjustable wrenches won’t fit in the tight space between the pedal and crank. And yes, these have the standard 9/16” thread, so they fit perfectly on my Peloton, Schwinn, and Echelon without any issues.
Performance-wise, the pedals feel solid and smooth. I did need to lube them up a bit on the first ride—they were squeaky out of the box—but a quick spray of T-9 fixed that. The build quality is better than I expected from a brand I had never heard of before. After months of use (and even outdoor rides on gravel and touring bikes), they’ve held up well. The die-cast aluminum body and sealed bearings are a big plus.
What makes these pedals stand out is the true dual-sided functionality—SPD on one side, Look Delta on the other—and the option to clip cages on or off depending on who’s riding. It’s great if, like me, you use SPD shoes, your partner rides with Look Delta, and sometimes you just want to hop on in sneakers for cross training. I also like that both sides have adjustable tension, so you can customize how tight or loose you want the engagement and release to feel.
These pedals are ideal for families or shared bikes where people use different cleat systems and shoe types. But if it’s just you or two people using the bike with the same shoes, they’re honestly more than you need. The cage system is clunky, and the included tool, while helpful, isn’t built like a tank. Still, I give Venzo credit for packing a lot into one package.
I’m impressed with their warranty support too – I read about people getting replacements with no hassle when something went wrong. The pedals ride smooth, support a lot of torque (I’m a heavier rider who trains hard), and I’ve had no structural issues so far.
If you’re looking for maximum flexibility and plan to share your spin bike with multiple riders using different gear, this set is a good bet. Otherwise, you’re better off with a simpler dual-sided pedal.
Wellgo SPD + Cage Pedals Review – Best Budget Option for Most Riders
Wellgo 2-in-1 (SPD+Cages) Pedals
| Model | WPD-E003 (SPD + Toe Cage) |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | SPD cleats and regular athletic shoes |
| Sides | Dual-sided (clip-in SPD + cage) |
| Included | 2 pedals + SPD cleats |
| Thread Size | 9/16″ (fits Peloton, Echelon, Sunny Health, Schwinn IC4, etc.) |
| Adjustability | Clip-in tension adjustable |
| Weight | 770g |
If you’re looking for no-frills dual-function pedals that just work, the Wellgo SPD + Cage pedals are one of the best value options on the market. I installed these on a Peloton and an Echelon Connect Sport, and they were up and running in minutes. The build is solid, they feel stable, and they cost less than most SPD-compatible pedals I’ve tested – ncluding the BV and Venzo options.
Unlike BV or Venzo, Wellgo only makes this one model (to the best of my knowledge), and it sticks to the essentials: SPD clip-in on one side, toe cage on the other. There’s no Look Delta compatibility, no removable cage system – just straightforward functionality that covers what most indoor cyclists actually need. In a typical household, you either clip in with SPD shoes or use sneakers – this pedal does both without overcomplicating things.
The toe cages are surprisingly generous in size. Both my wife and I found them easy to adjust and use, and they’re much more secure and comfortable than the stock pedals most magnetic spin bikes ship with.
The SPD side works well, though the clip-in tension was a little stiff at first – it loosened up nicely after a few rides. Thankfully, the SPD tension is adjustable, and the included 98A SPD cleats worked great with my Shimano-compatible shoes (I use Tommaso and Giro MTB shoes).
These pedals feel night-and-day better than the stock pedals I had on my Sunny bike and even better than the original Peloton cages, which are overpriced and poorly designed. Installation was smooth—just remember the left pedal is reverse-threaded, and add a little grease to the spindle to avoid seizing. I used a regular wrench, and it was done in 5 minutes.
I wouldn’t say these are high-end or ultra-refined, but for under $50, they’re shockingly solid. They’ve held up to daily use for years in some households – including heavy riders doing tough intervals. One user even noted using them 3x a week for four years before they failed. For most people starting indoor cycling at home, that’s a pretty decent run.
The only downside is that removing the cages can be difficult—some screws are tight, and not everyone has the right tools to safely strip them. But honestly, I wouldn’t bother taking them off unless you’re fully committed to SPD use only (and if that’s the case why would you buy dual-sided pedals in the first place).
If you’re looking for an affordable, dual-function pedal that’s compatible with almost any indoor cycling shoe (and sneaker), the Wellgo SPD + Cage pedals are a no-brainer.
Shimano SPD Pedals Review – Best Build Quality for SPD-Only Setups
Shiman 1-in-1 (SPD) Pedals
| Model | Shimano PD-M520L SPD Pedals |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | SPD cleats (Shimano SH51 & SH56) |
| Sides | Dual-sided (both sides for SPD cleats) |
| Included | 2 pedals + Shimano SH51 cleats |
| Thread Size | 9/16″ (fits Schwinn IC4, Peloton, Bowflex C6, Sunny, etc.) |
| Adjustability | Clip-in tension adjustable on both sides |
| Weight | 230g |
If you’re only riding with SPD cycling shoes and don’t need a cage for sneakers, this is hands-down the best quality SPD pedal you can install on your spin bike. The Shimano PD-M520L pedals are smooth, silent, solid—and honestly underpriced for what you get from a brand like Shimano.
What sets them apart is the dual-sided SPD design. Unlike Wellgo, Venzo, or BV where one side is for SPD and the other for cages or Delta, both sides on these are dedicated SPD interfaces. That means no flipping pedals to find the right side. Whichever side is up, you can clip right in. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference when you’re mid-workout and need quick engagement.
I installed these on my Schwinn IC4 and also tried them on a Bowflex C6 – both setups felt ultra-smooth and whisper-quiet. The bearing system is noticeably better than anything in the budget range. There’s zero squeak, no creak, and they just feel premium underfoot. They even came with Shimano SH51 cleats, which are super high quality (though keep in mind, these require slightly more force to release than the SH56 cleats).
Installation was simple and straightforward. Just remember, like all pedals, the left pedal is reverse-threaded. I added a little grease on the threads, tightened them with a wrench, and that was it. They’re a perfect fit for any bike with a standard 9/16” crank arm—including Peloton, Schwinn, Echelon, Sunny, and Bowflex indoor bikes.
As for ride feel—these pedals give you maximum stability and pedal efficiency, especially if you’re doing longer Zwift sessions or higher resistance climbs. Because both sides clip in, I find it easier to stay focused and just ride without adjusting for foot placement.
I don’t recommend these pedals if someone in your household needs to ride in sneakers. There’s no toe cage, no flat side – it’s SPD or nothing. But if you’re fully invested in clip-in riding with SPD shoes (like I am), these are perfect.
They’re durable, dead-silent, and deliver a rock-solid pedal stroke. I have had them only for a few weeks but some users online mentioned getting more than 6,500 km out of these with zero issues, and I’ve seen them hold up to hard sprint intervals at 1,000+ watts. If you want long-term reliability from a brand you can trust, Shimano delivers.
Also, I love that this is the same design they’ve used for decades. One rider said they still have a similar pair from 30 years ago that still works—and I believe it. These are built to last. So if your indoor cycling setup is SPD-only, and you want the best experience without spending a fortune, the Shimano PD-M520L is the set of pedals you’re looking for.
What to Know Before Replacing Spin Bike Pedals
If you’re new to indoor cycling pedals, it can be confusing to figure out the differences between SPD, Look Delta, and all the various cleat types. Before choosing your next set of spin bike pedals, here’s what you really need to know.
SPD vs Look Delta Pedals: Key Differences Explained
Both SPD and SPD-SL/Look Delta systems are widely used for indoor cycling, but they serve slightly different purposes.
| Type | Used In | Cleat Bolt Pattern | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPD | Mountain bikes, indoor bikes | 2-bolt | Indoor cycling, walking, all-purpose |
| Look Delta | Road bikes, some spin bikes | 3-bolt | Power transfer, long road rides |
- SPD pedals have a smaller interface and use a two-bolt cleat. They’re popular for mountain biking and indoor cycling because they’re easy to walk in and clip in/out of.
- Look Delta pedals have a larger platform and a three-bolt cleat, offering more pedal stability and power transfer, but they’re not ideal for walking around.
Not sure if clipping in is worth it? Here’s what I’ve learned about why clipping into pedals can actually improve your indoor rides.
SPD Cleats: SH51 vs SH56 — Which One Should You Use?
Shimano SPD cleats come in two versions—Single Release (SH51) and Multi Release (SH56).
| Cleat Model | Release Direction | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| SH51 | Outward only | Advanced users, MTB |
| SH56 | Outward, inward, upward (multi-release) | Beginners, indoor cycling |
- SH51 cleats require you to twist your heel outward to unclip. They’re more secure but take a little practice to get used to.
- SH56 cleats let you unclip in multiple directions, which makes them easier to disengage in emergencies—ideal for beginners or casual indoor riders.
SPD-SL / Look Delta Cleats: Red vs Yellow vs Blue Float Comparison
If you’re using SPD-SL pedals, the type of cleat you choose affects how much your foot can move (float) while clipped in.
| Cleat Color | Float | Pivot Point | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow | 6° | Center of the cleat | Beginners, joint protection |
| Blue | 2° | Front of cleat | Intermediate, efficient movement |
| Red | 0° | Fixed | Advanced cyclists, max power |
- Yellow SPD-SL/Look-Delta cleats are ideal if you’re new to indoor cycling—they allow more foot movement and reduce joint stress.
- Blue SPD-SL/Look-Delta cleats offer limited float, ideal for riders who want better pedal efficiency while still protecting joints.
- Red SPD-SL/Look-Delta cleats offer zero float and lock your foot in place. Only recommended if your bike setup is perfect and you’re experienced.
If you’re more into data and performance tracking, you might want to check out my roundup of the best power meter pedals for spin bikes and Zwift.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spin Bike Pedals
Can I use regular gym shoes with SPD pedals?
Not directly. SPD pedals are designed to work with cycling shoes that have SPD cleats mounted underneath. If you want to use regular sneakers, you’ll need pedals that include a toe cage or platform side — like the BV SPD + Cage or Wellgo SPD + Cage models I’ve tested. These give you the best of both worlds: clip-in efficiency for training days and flat pedals for casual rides or family use.
What’s the difference between SPD and Look Delta pedals?
Good question — I get asked this a lot. SPD pedals use a 2-bolt cleat system, which is easier to clip in and out of, and better for walking around. That’s why they’re super popular for indoor cycling and mountain biking.
Look Delta (or SPD-SL) pedals use a 3-bolt cleat system with a wider platform. They give you better power transfer, which is great for road cycling or if you’re riding high resistance a lot, but they’re harder to walk in and not as beginner-friendly.
Are dual-sided pedals better for beginners?
Absolutely — especially if your spin bike is shared with others in your home. Pedals that have SPD clips on one side and a cage on the other are ideal. That way, you or your partner can ride clipped in with SPD shoes, and someone else can hop on with regular sneakers.
I always recommend dual-sided pedals like BV or Wellgo for new indoor cyclists because they’re more flexible, more forgiving, and just more practical for everyday use.
Will these pedals fit my spin bike?
Most likely, yes. Almost all indoor cycling bikes — including Peloton, Schwinn IC4, Echelon, Sunny, and Bowflex C6 — use a standard 9/16″ thread size. All the pedals I reviewed in this guide fit that standard.
Still, if you’re not sure, check your bike’s user manual or remove one of the stock pedals and measure the thread. It’s a 30-second check that saves you a lot of hassle later.
Do I need cleats for spin class?
Not always, but they definitely make a difference. Most spin studios and at-home bikes come with clip-in pedals (usually SPD or Look Delta), so if you want a more efficient, secure, and powerful ride, cleats are worth it.
That said, if your pedals have toe cages, you can get by with regular athletic shoes. But from personal experience, once you try SPD shoes with cleats, it’s hard to go back — the connection just feels more stable and your pedal stroke gets smoother.
Which cleats are easier to unclip from pedals?
If you’re new to clip-in pedals, I highly recommend Shimano SH56 multi-release cleats. They let you unclip by moving your foot outward, inward, or even upward — which gives you more freedom and confidence, especially if you’re worried about getting stuck.
The SH51 single-release cleats only unclip outward, which is fine once you’re experienced, but they can feel too tight for beginners. For SPD-SL (Look-style) cleats, the yellow ones with 6° float are the most forgiving and beginner-friendly.
How do I install spin bike pedals?
It’s easier than it sounds. All you need is a 15mm wrench or 6mm Allen key, depending on your pedal design. One thing to remember: the left pedal is reverse-threaded, so you tighten it counterclockwise (the opposite of what most people expect).
Here’s my routine: I apply a bit of bike grease on the threads (prevents seizing), hand-tighten each pedal to start the thread correctly, then finish tightening with a wrench. Takes 5 minutes, tops. Just don’t overtighten or cross-thread them — that’s where people get into trouble.
What’s the difference between SPD and Look Delta pedals?
The main difference comes down to the size and shape of the clipping interface and how it affects your ride and movement off the bike.
SPD pedals use a 2-bolt cleat system with a smaller, recessed clipping area, which makes them easier to clip in and out of — and much easier to walk in when you’re off the bike. Most SPD-compatible cycling shoes have the cleats recessed into the sole, so you can walk around the house or gym without wobbling or damaging the cleats. That’s why SPD pedals are super popular for indoor cycling, mountain biking, and anyone who values ease of use.
Look Delta pedals (or SPD-SL, depending on brand) use a 3-bolt cleat system with a much larger clipping surface. This bigger contact area gives you more stable power transfer and can feel more supportive, especially during intense rides or long climbs. But because the cleats protrude from the shoe, they’re much harder to walk in and not ideal for beginners or shared use households.
So when you choose a pedal system, you’re really choosing what type of cleats and shoes you’ll be committing to. If you need something practical and versatile, go SPD. If you want maximum pedal efficiency and road-bike feel, Look Delta might be worth it — just be prepared for less comfort off the bike.
Final Verdict: Best Spin Bike Pedals for Home Use (My Top Pick)
BV 2-in-1 (SPD+Cages) Pedals
After testing all these pedals across different spin bikes and shoe setups, my go-to recommendation — hands down — is the BV SPD + Cage pedals. If you’re looking for the best bang-for-your-buck, these pedals just nail it. I’ve used them on both my Echelon and Schwinn IC4 bikes, and they’ve never let me down.
What makes them stand out is how well they balance versatility, price, and performance. I love that I can clip in with my SPD shoes on one side and let my wife or guests hop on with regular sneakers using the cage side. No swapping pedals, no fuss. They’ve basically made our bike accessible to everyone in the house — and that’s a big deal if you share your setup.
They also have the standard 9/16” thread, install in minutes, and give you that adjustable tension for fine-tuning the clip-in feel. I didn’t even use the cleats that came with them — I just clipped in with the SPD cleats already on my Giro shoes, and it was smooth from the start. The ride feels secure, quiet, and solid, and the cages are roomy enough for any regular shoe.
Sure, they’re not packed with high-end features like dual cleat types or removable cages, but honestly? Most indoor riders don’t need all that. For the price, you get more value out of the BV pedals than any others I’ve tested — and I’ve tried everything from Shimano to Venzo.
So if you want one set of pedals that just works, fits your bike, fits your shoes, and fits your life — go with the BV SPD + Cage pedals. It’s the set I keep coming back to, and I recommend it to anyone who asks me what to buy.
I have muscular dystrophy and need a recumbent bike with pedals that are easy to get into and also need easy on and off with low threshold in center.
Hi, I may be looking for a non existent pedal, but hoping you can help. I prefer SPD-SL pedals and my road bike shoes and would like to use them on my spin bike. However, my family uses the same spin bike, so looking for a pedal that is SPD-SL compatible + toe straps. I see lots of options for SPD + toe straps, but none with my preferred configuration. Have you come across what I am seeking? Can you recommend solutions? Thanks!!
Hello Greg, thanks for stopping by and we are sorry for the late response.
At the top of my head, I can only think of the “pedal platforms/cover”, you can search this ASIN (B07CGWQJVT) on Amazon and see if it would resolve the issue.
I hope it helps
Best,
YEB