If you ride with clip-in pedals, you’ve currently got more options than ever before. In the past few years, numerous component brands have thrown their hats into the proverbial ring, with Wolf Tooth and OneUp Components being a couple of the most recent examples. Renthal is the latest to join the clip-in pedal party, with two new SPD-compatible models aimed at downhill and trail riders.
Renthal entered the pedal market with its Revo-F flat pedal almost exactly two years ago. Now the brand is giving clip-in riders the option to run its pedals, leveraging a familiar, time-tested SPD-compatible system with two models featuring forged, CNC-machined aluminum bodies. The Revo-TRC trail pedal looks fairly standard, but the Revo-DHC downhill model stands out with one of the largest platforms we’ve ever seen on a clip-in pedal.
Renthal Clip Pedals
Renthal didn’t reinvent the clip pedal with these two new models, instead opting for an SPD-compatible binding mechanism of its own design. According to Renthal, this proprietary binding “features easy entry geometry, a huge range of spring tension adjustment, and is fully SPD compatible.”
Both models also rely on Renthal’s patent-pending axle system, which the brand claims to allow for full serviceability at home with standard tools. The unique axle system reportedly also allows for the removal and reinstallation of the bushing, as well as pressing the bearings into place. The pedal bodies are made from forged 6016 aluminum, which is then CNC’d to reduce weight. And its those pedal bodies that really separate these two new pedals. Let’s take a closer look.
DHC Downhill Clip Pedals
The DHC is aimed at downhill racers seeking flat pedal support from a clip-in pedal. The goal was to provide riders with the security and pedaling efficiency of a clip pedal with the support, feedback, and control that a flat pedal offers. As such, the DHC’s pedal body shares the same silhouette and dimensions as Renthal’s Revo-F flat pedal, making it one of the largest clip-in platforms we’ve ever seen. Additionally, the perimeter of the platform features 8 adjustable pins per side for customizable grip and pedal feel.
Compared to most clip pedals, even those made for DH like the Shimano Saint or the Crankbrothers Mallet DH, these pedals look massive. While the binding mechanism appears significantly offset from the middle of the pedal, it shares the same 55mm spacing from the crank to the binding as the TRC version. That big platform just extends out from there, providing more lateral support for the soles of your shoes.
With the wider platform, the DHC uses a full-length spindle that spans the width of the pedal. It spins on an inboard Igus bushing plus three outboard cartridge bearings, one of which is positioned at the pedal’s outermost edge. The claimed weight is reported to be ~640 grams for the pair. They come in anodized Black and AluGold colors, and retail for $226.20.
TRC Trail Clip Pedals
The new TRC is similar in looks and size to many other trail-oriented pedals already on the market. The mid-sized pedal body features a platform on both sides of the binding mechanism, as well as a cage that wraps around the front and rear. We couldn’t find the exact dimensions of the TRC listed anywhere, but it appears to be comparable to pedals like the Shimano XT Trail or the Look X-Track En-Rage.
Renthal says the CNC-machined body and lightweight chromoly axle help to keep the weight down to 394 grams for the pair. Inside, an inboard Igus bushing, full contact wiper seal, three central cartridge bearings, and an end cap with an O-ring aim to provide smooth rotation and long-term durability. The TRC Trail pedals come in anodized Black or AluGold, and retail for $213.52
Renthal DHC and TRC Clip Pedals: Availability
Renthal’s new clip-in pedals are available now through the brand’s website. Head there to learn more or pick up a set.
