[Rock_Bottom]

I have been looking at pedals for my bike and I have a couple of questions about pedals in general. First of all, I keep seeing stuff like "9/16" or "1/2" what does that mean? Another thing, what are the pros and cons of platform pedals and cage pedals? Are platforms for street and cage for dirt? Which one of the two is stronger? why would you choose one over the other? OK, I think I'm done asking questions now. Thanks for your help.

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[pnj]

9/16 and 1/2 are the two different sizes that fit one piece cranks and three piece cranks.

9/16 for three piece and 1/2 for one piece.

cages are usually lighter pedals. lighter means they won't hold up to the abuse that street, ramps and hardcore dirt jumping puts on them. cages are usually what racers use.

here is an example of a caged pedal
http://www.albes.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=258

and here is a platform pedal
http://www.albes.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1002

there are different variations for each pedal(super light weight, heavy duty, etc..)

I would suggest getting platform pedals because they will hold up to more abuse, once you discover what type of riding you really like, you can upgrade.

[PGZX3]

I strongly recommend the S&M platform pedal if you have 3 piece cranks, they are guaranteed for life, and if you ever do need to replace them you can ask for any color they make, all you pay is shipping. sounds good to me, pedals for life, I bought a pair to replace my sun ringles on my old race bike but gave them away when I sold it. worst decision ever.

[Ninshadow]

An important thing with pedals is traction. You want as much as you can get. I have the stock pedals on my mosh and they have no traction. I have been hit in the chins countless times and am quite sick of it. The longer the pins the more traction. Just watch your chins on the the longer pins.

[PGZX3]

problems with your shins??? get shin guards, I still have the same ones I bought 7 years ago!!!

[pnj]

traction IS a good idea. keep in mind that the better the traction, the more skin you will lose when you slip a pedal. and you WILL slip. I have only scar tissue on my shins after 22 plus years of pedaling around a little kids bike....

[Ninshadow]

I have been hit in the calves to. Bummer to don't make feather weight fully flexable body armor. lol