OneUp is coming in hot into the XC pedal market with an all-new, ultra-slim, and lightweight design (only 304g for the pair), and they come in six colors to match your race rig. Meet the OneUp XC Clip Pedal.
The new XC Clip Pedals are purpose-built for modern cross-country, marathon, and gravel. They’re light at a claimed 303g (304g actual) per pair, dual-sided, and measure just 26.8mm at the binding (14.4mm at the body). OneUp says they’re the thinnest dual-sided MTB clip pedals on the market – and I believe it, but more on that later.
I’ve had lots of early (and muddy) ride time on them, and the initial impression is strong. They have excellent ride feedback, a satisfying “click” engagement, and a thoughtfully executed design. That said, the bulk of my season is still ahead, so long-term durability—especially of the bushings and bearings—remains to be proven. If they track with OneUp’s usual output, there’s reason to be confident.
But let’s break it down.
Thin Where It Counts
At 26.8mm total thickness, these pedals are undeniably low profile. The platform measures 75mm x 68mm, with a 55mm stance width (from the center of the binding to the crank face). That’s a very nice modern XC footprint, supportive enough under a stiff race shoe, without adding unnecessary bulk. You don’t feel perched on a narrow spindle (like the Eggbeaters), and you don’t feel like you’re hauling around extra material either; they feel comfortable.
The pedal body itself is minimalist but doesn’t feel fragile. It’s clearly designed for efficiency, not abuse, but it doesn’t come across as delicate.
Custom SPD-Compatible Cleat
Rather than relying on an off-the-shelf system, OneUp built a custom SPD-compatible binding mechanism for the XC Clips, but it’s very SPD. The goal: a tighter cleat interface, a wider range of retention adjustment, and consistent engagement and release.
OneUp XC Clip Specs:
- 5° of float
- 12° release angle
- Integrated cleat ramps for predictable exit
- 1mm cleat spacers included for shoe fit tuning (I didn’t use)
On trail, the engagement feels deliberate and precise. Sorta like an older Time pedal mixed with an SPD with a fresh cleat. There’s a defined click when you clip in, and once you’re locked in, the connection feels solid under power. During out-of-the-saddle efforts and short sprints, there’s no vague movement or micro-shift between cleat and mechanism. It’s not revolutionary, but very well executed and will have your eyes wandering from your favorite pedals (if you’re an SPD rider).
It’s tight—but not overly restrictive.
Release at 12° is predictable. It doesn’t feel abrupt or sticky. The float feels controlled, and the transition out of the pedal is smooth. If you’re used to traditional SPD-style pedals, this feels familiar—but slightly more dialed in.
For race-focused riders who want a firm, consistent interface, or those who tighten the spring nearly all the way (raise hand), the XC Clips will check the box.
Internals & Serviceability
Inside the XC Clip Pedals, you’ll find:
- An inboard Igus® bushing
- Two outboard cartridge bearings
- A chromoly steel axle with black ED coating
- Double-axle sealing
They also share a rebuild kit with OneUp’s Wave and Clip Pedals, which simplifies service and parts availability. And in classic OneUp fashion, a dedicated Pedal Bearing Nut Tool (last photo of the three above) is included in the box so riders can service the pedals at home.
That’s not just a nice extra—it reflects the brand’s broader philosophy. OneUp tends to design components with long-term ownership in mind rather than just showroom appeal. I’ve had the same OneUp dropper lever on my bike for years, and it’s now on its second bike.
So far, the pedals have been quiet and smooth. No play, no creaks, no resistance. But the real test is longevity. Bushings and bearings don’t reveal their true character for the first few months. They reveal themselves over months of dust, mud, pressure washers, and hard mileage.
The biggest chunk of my season is still to come. Spring races, long summer days, marathon efforts, sloppy pressure-washer aim… that’s when durability will be fully tested. For now, they feel solid. If they perform like the rest of OneUp’s lineup, I expect good things.
But the jury is still out until I log more hours.
On-Trail Feel & Power Transfer
The thin stack height creates a direct, connected feel. Your foot sits closer to the spindle axis, which subtly enhances stability and responsiveness. It’s very close to the updated XTR m9200 in stack height and overall performance. There is no weight limit (like ti-spindle pedals), and the weight is an undeniable advantage of the design.
And importantly, they’ve been silent.
Weight & Positioning
At 303g per pair, the XC Clip Pedals land in a competitive weight range for performance-oriented MTB clipless pedals. They’re not chasing the absolute lowest number with titanium axles or ultra-exotic materials. The chromoly spindle suggests a deliberate balance between weight and strength.
Color Options & Finish
The XC Clip Pedals are available in:
- Black, Bronze, Dark Blue, Dark Green, Grey, and Purple
It’s a surprisingly wide palette for a race pedal. If you’re building a color-coordinated bike, there are options beyond standard black or silver.
The finish has held up well so far, with minimal scuffing and thats use to the scuff clip pad on the pedal interface. That said, pedals live a hard life, and cosmetic durability will always vary depending on riding style and terrain.
Pricing
- US – $159.99, CAD – $218.99, UK – £142.99, EU – €159.99, ROW – $186.99
That places them squarely in the performance XC market. Considering the custom binding system, included cleat spacers, service tool, and shared rebuild kits, the pricing feels fair for what’s on offer.
Early Verdict
The OneUp XC Clip Pedals are a confident entry into the race-focused clipless space.
They’re thin. They’re light. The engagement is tight and consistent. The platform offers solid support without excess bulk. Serviceability is clearly a priority. And on trial, they simply work.
The only unanswered question is the long-term durability of the bushings and bearings. My season is just ramping up, and real-world mileage will ultimately determine how they hold up. If they perform like the rest of OneUp’s component lineup, there’s a good reason to expect they’ll prove reliable.
For now, they’ve delivered a strong first impression, and if you’re a racer (who uses SPD-style cleats) looking to trim the rotational weight (and keep some money for race fees), the OneUp XC Clip is an easy choice.
