In the world of bike pedals, there are a several different types that are designed for various uses. Egg beater pedals are a unique design of pedals that feature cleats as part of the configuration. Made for use by serious biking enthusiasts, the egg beater pedals make excellent use of the energy expended during the pedaling process, providing the ability to do more than the usual thrusting down in order to propel the bicycle.
A first look at egg beater pedals will reveal why these unique pedals are given such a colorful name. Literally, the pedals look as if the egg beaters from an electric mixer were attached in the place of the standard platform pedals that come on most bikes. Constructed of stainless steel or titanium, they feature "wings" that hook onto the cleats of a cycling shoe, and eliminate some of the slippage that may occur with standard pedals. This means that the rider is less likely to have his or her feet slip off the pedals by accident. The presence of the wings, along with the circular design of the pedals, also means there is the chance for increased speed, generated by the fact that the bike is propelled by more than just pushing down on the pedal.
Because the wings lock the feet securely in place on the egg beater pedals, forward motion is created by both downward thrust and the upward motion that follows. This means that the rider can use both types of movement to achieve the level of speed that is required. As an added bonus, the usage of the egg beater pedals enhances the health providing aspects of the exercise. Muscles that would not receive much of a workout on a bike outfitted with standard pedals will be challenged by the need to thrust upward. The result is that more muscles receive a sustained workout during bike riding, which in turn leads to increased muscle tone in the legs and stomach areas, as well as helping to sustain a healthy heart rate.
Another advantage of egg beater pedals is they are ideal for biking in odd road environments. Often, this would involve running through mud and dirt that would cake on the platform pedals. The action of the egg beater pedals tends to give them a partial self-cleaning action, flinging away dirt and mud while riding. This aspect helps to make it easier to clean the bike after a long period of riding.
