It’s certainly been a long road, but the Speedplay Syzr is finally here. First shown as a prototype as far back as Interbike 2009, with each iteration Speedplay kept finding areas they wanted to improve upon. Knowing that the Syzr not only had to work, but work better than most of the competition right off the bat made designing the pedal no easy task. However, like all good things Speedplay promises it’s worth the wait…
Compared to other pedals on the market, one of the biggest differences is how the Syzr interfaces with the shoe and cleat. Speedplay points out that on the road, the connection between the cleat and the pedal is what transfers the energy. You would never use a soft material for this purpose since it would rob you of energy. So why do many mountain bike shoes rely on the rubber from the tread to push against the pedal (providing it is set up properly)? Speedplay instead wanted the full effort of each pedal stroke to be directed from the cleat into the pedal using Direct-Drive metal to metal contact. Shown above mounted to a road sole just to make it easier to see, Speedplay claims the Syzr will be the most efficient mountain bike pedal available.
The production version also carries forward their ceramic roller cam release technology which uses 4 tiny little ceramic rollers built into the cleat to prevent metal on metal binding during release. Tested in all conditions, Speedplay says any combination of mud, dirt, sand, or grit will not cause the pedal to bind. The cleat also offers Micro adjustable float with up to 10° of range built in. Even though the mountain pedal is new to the lineup, it uses all of the same service items as the rest of Speedplay’s pedals. Available in chromoly, stainless, and titanium spindles, claimed weights are 338g, 320g, and 275g per pair and they will sell for $165, $199, and $389 respectively. With the exception of the chromoly model which will ship in November, all other Syzrs are shipping now.
The other newest addition to the lineup is the Zero Aero, which is already proven to be fast capturing the UCI Hour Record and the IronMan bike course record.
The single-sided pedal forgoes ease of dual sided entry for improved aerodynamics with a dimpled surface. All Zero Aero Pedals are compatible with all Zero Cleats and the same goes for the Zero Aero Walkable cleat which will be available separately. There is also an Ultra Light Action Walkable cleat, and both Walkable options include Cleat Buddies which plug the hole when you’re not clipped in, and attach to each other for storage in your jersey pocket, when you are.
Zero Aero pedals will be offered in stainless or titanium spindles for $275 dollars or $399, and 210 g or 158 g respectively.
