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Bicycles

Spring-mounted BIUS1 bike pedals move to keep your joints happy

By Ben Coxworth
December 09, 2013
Spring-mounted BIUS1 bike pedals move to keep your joints happy
BioConform's spring-mounted BIUS1 pedal
BioConform's spring-mounted BIUS1 pedal
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The BIUS1 features aluminum studs for grip, yet its spring-mounted design allows the pedal body to move around relative to its own axle
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The BIUS1 features aluminum studs for grip, yet its spring-mounted design allows the pedal body to move around relative to its own axle
BioConform's spring-mounted BIUS1 pedal
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BioConform's spring-mounted BIUS1 pedal

When we walk or run, our feet are able to land on the ground in whatever orientation makes life easiest for our hips, knees and ankles. When we're on a bike, however, our feet are at least somewhat held in place against the pedals. This can damage our leg joints, if they're forced to move in a stressful fashion. Germany's BioConform is now offering what it claims is a solution, in the form of its adaptable BIUS1 pedals.

First of all, there are already "clipless" pedals that feature a fair degree of float, keeping the shoe joined to the pedal while also allowing it to pivot around a bit as necessary. There are also, of course, non-grippy platform pedals that let the sole of the shoe slide back and forth – although it's always best if your pedals are designed to keep your feet from slipping off.

The BIUS1 features aluminum studs for grip, yet its spring-mounted design allows the pedal body to move around relative to its own axle
The BIUS1 features aluminum studs for grip, yet its spring-mounted design allows the pedal body to move around relative to its own axle

The BIUS1 features aluminum studs for grip, yet its spring-mounted design allows the pedal body to move around relative to its own axle. This means that the shoe stays in place against the platform, but the pedal can move in and out, twist to one side or the other, or tip forward and backward (like a regular pedal) in order to let the leg do what it wants.

According to BioConform, riders can choose to pedal using a skating-like motion. Additionally, besides reducing the risk of injuries, the pedals are also claimed to work a wider variety of leg muscles than conventional pedals, potentially allowing for more power.

BIUS1 pedals are made from aircraft aluminum, weigh 245 grams (8.6 oz) each, and feature Teflon-coated bearings. You can buy a pair for €225 (US$309) via the link below.

Source: BioConform (German)

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BicyclesErgonomicPedalJointsInjuries
7 comments
Ben Coxworth
Ben Coxworth
Based out of Edmonton, Canada, Ben Coxworth has been writing for New Atlas since 2009 and is presently Managing Editor for North America. An experienced freelance writer, he previously obtained an English BA from the University of Saskatchewan, then spent over 20 years working in various markets as a television reporter, producer and news videographer. Ben is particularly interested in scientific innovation, human-powered transportation, and the marine environment.

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7 comments
Slowburn
Granted I never used toe clips but the only time I had problems with my joints from riding a bicycle the cranks were warped making the peddle slightly wobble.
MG127
everytime i find something interesting, i have to laugh when i read the price tag ...
sk8dad
$20 says the designer isn't an accomplished rider.
The only application of spiked platform pedals is on a MTB. As it is, full suspension riders don't need it by virtue that their fully adjustable shocks can much better control shock. Rigid frame rider usually have a suspension fork that take up much of the shock. Those with rigid forks choose to because of the precision, simplicity, light weight, and efficiency. I can't see these guys wanting to ride on pedals that wobble. Next, while riding seated, majority of the shock is transferred to the saddle, so the feet only really sense shock when riding out of saddle. In such cases, you had better be riding on the balls (or arches for some bmx and DH riders) in which case the calf muscles absorb the shock. Now explain to me again what's gained by adding more unnecessary moving parts to one of the primary human interface points? Do you really want your feet to slide and twist while hitting a rough patch of trail?
David993
Yet another (expensive) solution for a problem that does not exist!
streuthm8
Beg to differ, the point here is that many cyclists have issues with joint axis either at knee level or more often in the foot..the subtalar and midtarsal joints . For people with a deviated axis, more than normal internal or externally rotated joint axis in the midfoot &/or rearfoot, locking the forefoot into a clik pedal system( even with 10 degrees float), can then force their knee internally ( the subtalar joint has a sort of cork screw effect on leg motion) or less often externally. Thus the idea here is to allow more abduction / adduction motion of the forefoot in relation to the rearfoot..SPARING THE KNEE. Ideal for example if you walk like a duck..with your feet more than normally pointing outwards , often due to abnormal torsion/ twist in your lower leg bones..ie your stuck with it mate. It will be interesting to see how it is combined with a clik system, if you don't have issues..you don't need it , but i have several patients with structural issues that will be getting a heads-up about this from me,
moreover
I use Bebop pedals which have over 20 degrees float and weigh and cost half. My knees (previously injured) approve.
unklmurray
I don't understand the need for all the stuff about peddles,on my first bike [1957] I had bolts sticking out from the peddle arms and would be sure to wear boots with good soles when riding,later on I would take a 2 x 4 ,6 in long and drill a hole in it about half way ,and fill it with grease ,it worked ......then when I graduated to newer peddles,I was so thankful to have peddles with good bearings in them,I never tried for anything better , I saw the ''clip ons'' but thought they were stupid as I could never find shoes that were in my size and they made you ride on the balls of your foot,only racer bikers road that way,I thought and still think the 10 speed road bike puts you in a stupid riding position,.....I sit upright,with my arms straight out from my shoulders,even Mtn bikes get a handle bar change,I use ''StingRay or ApeHanger style'' high rise handlebars ..........LOL :-)