Are Flat Pedals Less Efficient? 14

When it comes to pedalling efficiency, if you ask anyone, they will tell you that flat pedals are less efficient than clipping in. I have even heard crazy claims of 10% or more efficiency gains by clipping in, and you know what?I think it's a load of rubbish.

I've been riding flat pedals for about 5 years and do not feel any loss in power or efficiency whether I ride for a short hour blast, or whether I head out for a 40km epic. I honestly think that flats are comparable to clipping in and it is down to the rider and their level of skill and fitness.I wanted to put this to the test, so having completed a fitness test last week as part of my Fast at 40 video series, I had a data set to compare to. By repeating the test under similar conditions I would be able to get a good idea whether flats or clips are more efficient.

The results were pretty conclusive in 1 respect and left me scratching my head in another. I hope you enjoy the video.

Let me know in the comments whether you ride flats or clips.

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