Whether you're a biker who values the comfort of platform pedals or you favor the efficiency only the clipless variety can offer, there will likely have been times when you wished you had the best of both worlds. FlyPedals are adapters that can turn almost any clipless pedal into a flat surface for regular shoes, meaning there's no need to trod around on those awkward cleats when you're only making a quick trip to the shops.
Many cyclists see clipless pedals as the only way to ride, with cleats worn on the bottom of shoes clipping (despite the name) into a mechanism in the pedals to form a solid connection with the bike. While clipless pedals provide better power transfer through every rotation of the crank, the cleats, some of which protrude from the sole of the shoe, don't exactly make for the most comfortable of footwear after you dismount.
FlyPedals are aluminum adapters designed to work with both two-bolt and three-bolt pattern cleats, which according to the company will make them compatible with every major clipless road and mountain pedal on the market. Of the major models, these include all Shimano SPD and SPD-SL, models LOOK Keo, Crank Brothers Egg Beaters, Time ATAC and SpeedPlay.
By attaching cleats to the underside of the FlyPedal adapter, they will clip in and out of the clipless pedals in much the same way as a pair of bike shoes. This effectively transforms the narrow, disagreeable nature of these pedals into flat, street-shoe friendly surfaces, meaning you can leave those uncomfortable bike shoes at home.
Pedal adapters such as these have been existence for some time, though they are typically designed for specific types of pedals. It must be said, some will be just as happy to change over the pedals as they shed the lycra and make for the bar (or carry an extra pair of shoes in their bag), but the universality and easy fitting is sure to see FlyPedals appeal to some.
The team is currently raising funds on Kickstarter to set its pedal adapters in motion. Early pledges of US$30 will put you in line for a pair, though if you're looking to clip them onto either ATAC or Crank Brothers Egg Beater pedals, then you'll need to shell out another $15 for an extra adapter. Shipping is slated for July 2014 if all goes to plan.
The team's pitch video can be viewed below.
Source: FlyPedals
