
( Brand: Crank Brothers ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 16175 ), ( Model: CANDY-3 ), ( Part Type: Pedal Candy Cleat ), ( Pedal Axle Size: 9/16 In ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 5 Years ), ( Bearing Type: Sealed Cartridge Bearings ), ( Color: Red ), ( Compatible Bike Type: Cyclocross Bike, Downhill Bike, Gravel Bike, Mountain Bike, Road Bike ), ( Set Includes: Pedals W/ Cleats ), ( Material: Aluminum )
The **CrankBrothers 16175 Candy Pedals** are a standout choice for cyclists seeking a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and style, designed to elevate both the riding experience and the aesthetic appeal of any bicycle. These premium road pedals feature a **9/16-inch thread cleat system**, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cycling shoes, from entry-level options to high-performance road and triathlon footwear. Engineered with CrankBrothers signature precision, the Candy Pedals boast a **durable, lightweight aluminum construction** that balances strength and weight efficiency, making them ideal for both casual riders and competitive cyclists alike. The **smooth, rounded platform** provides a secure yet comfortable stand-on surface, allowing for effortless push-offs and a natural pedal stroke, while the **integrated cleat retention system** ensures a snug, vibration-dampening fit that minimizes fatigue during long rides. The **sleek, candy-colored finish** available in vibrant hues like pink, blue, green, and yellow adds a playful yet polished touch to any bike setup, making these pedals not just functional but visually striking. Whether used for daily commutes, weekend group rides, or training sessions, the Candy Pedals deliver a **responsive, reliable performance** that enhances pedal efficiency and rider confidence. Their **low-profile design** also makes them an excellent choice for riders who prioritize aerodynamics without sacrificing versatility. With a focus on both form and function, these pedals are a testament to CrankBrothers commitment to innovation, ensuring that every pedal stroke feels as good as it looks.
The **CrankBrothers 16175 Candy Pedals** (9/16" thread, 9/16" cleat spacing) are a popular choice among cyclists, particularly for road and gravel riding. Below is a detailed breakdown of their pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the CrankBrothers 16175 Candy Pedals**
1. **High Performance for Road and Gravel**
- Designed specifically for road and gravel riding, these pedals offer a stiff, responsive platform that enhances power transfer. The flat, wide surface provides excellent grip for cycling shoes with 9/16" cleats, making them ideal for riders who prioritize efficiency and control.
2. **Durability and Build Quality**
- CrankBrothers pedals are known for their robust construction, featuring high-quality materials like aluminum and steel components. The Candy model, in particular, is built to withstand the demands of rough terrain without compromising performance.
3. **Compatibility with a Wide Range of Shoes**
- The 9/16" thread and cleat spacing are standard for many road and gravel cycling shoes, including brands like Shimano, Look, SPD-SL, and others. This makes them a versatile choice for riders who already own compatible shoes.
4. **Lightweight Design**
- While not the lightest pedals on the market, the Candy pedals are relatively lightweight for their category, reducing unnecessary weight without sacrificing stiffness or durability.
5. **Easy to Clean and Maintain**
- The flat, smooth surface of the pedals is easy to clean, which is particularly useful for gravel and dirt riders who frequently encounter mud and debris. Regular maintenance ensures longevity and consistent performance.
6. **Positive User Feedback**
- Many riders praise these pedals for their reliability, comfort, and ability to handle rough conditions. The stiff platform is appreciated by those who want a more direct connection to the bike, reducing energy loss.
7. **Affordable for Their Class**
- Compared to some high-end road pedals, the Candy pedals offer excellent value. They strike a balance between performance and cost, making them accessible to a broad range of riders.
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### **Cons of the CrankBrothers 16175 Candy Pedals**
1. **Not Ideal for Mountain Biking or Extreme Gravel**
- While these pedals are great for road and lighter gravel riding, they are not designed for aggressive mountain biking or extreme off-road conditions. The flat surface and lack of a toe clip or cage system make them less suitable for riders who need additional grip or protection in rough terrain.
2. **Less Comfortable for Long-Distance Riding**
- Some riders report that the stiff platform can lead to discomfort during long rides, especially if the shoes are not perfectly fitted. The lack of cushioning or flexibility may cause fatigue over extended periods.
3. **Requires Compatible Shoes**
- These pedals are not compatible with standard SPD (mountain bike) cleats or flat shoes. Riders without 9/16" cleat shoes will need to invest in new shoes, which can be an additional cost.
4. **Limited Adjustability**
- Unlike some pedals with adjustable cleat tension or float, the Candy pedals offer minimal adjustability. This can be a drawback for riders who need to fine-tune their cleat positioning for comfort or performance.
5. **Potential for Cleat Wear**
- Over time, the cleats on compatible shoes may wear down, especially if the pedals are used frequently on rough surfaces. This can lead to reduced grip and may require occasional shoe replacements.
6. **Not as Versatile as Cage Pedals**
- For riders who occasionally use regular shoes (e.g., for commuting or casual riding), cage pedals like the SPD-SL or Look Keo offer more flexibility. The Candy pedals are strictly for cycling shoes.
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### **Conclusion**
The **CrankBrothers 16175 Candy Pedals** are an excellent choice for road and gravel cyclists who prioritize performance, durability, and compatibility with 9/16" cleat shoes. They excel in providing a stiff, responsive platform that enhances power transfer and handles well on smooth and lightly rough surfaces. Their build quality and affordability make them a practical option for riders who want reliable pedals without breaking the bank.
However, they are not ideal for mountain biking, extreme off-road conditions, or riders who need versatility with different types of shoes. Additionally, their stiff design may not be the most comfortable option for very long rides unless paired with well-fitted shoes.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the CrankBrothers 16175 Candy Pedals if:**- You primarily ride on road or light gravel trails.
- You already own or plan to purchase 9/16" cleat cycling shoes.
- You value a stiff, responsive platform for efficient power transfer.
- You want a durable, high-quality pedal at a reasonable price point.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You ride heavily on rough terrain or trails where additional grip or protection is needed (e.g., consider CrankBrothers Dead Flat or SPD-SL pedals).
- You frequently switch between cycling shoes and regular shoes (e.g., consider cage pedals like the Shimano SPD-SL or Look Keo).
- You prioritize comfort for very long rides (e.g., consider pedals with built-in cushioning or flexibility).
For most road and gravel riders, the **Candy Pedals are a solid, well-rounded choice** that delivers on performance and durability. If your riding style aligns with their strengths, they are highly recommended.
The 9/16 thread size ensures compatibility with most bikes, while the included cleats provide a secure attachment for optimal power transfer. Scuffed but still good The CrankBrothers Candy 3 Pedals are a high-quality set of clip less pedals designed for various bike types such as road, cyclocross, downhill, gravel, and mountain bikes. With a durable aluminum construction and sealed cartridge bearings, these pedals offer reliability performance for cyclists.