Test platform pedal XLC PD-M23: In the BMX sector, plastic platform pedals have long since secured a permanent place on the sales shelf alongside the aluminum and magnesium versions. The reasons for this are certainly the low weight, the attractive purchase price and the variety of shapes and colors. But can a plastic platform pedal like the XLC PD-M23 also convince on MTB?
The classic design of the XLC PD-M23 platform pedal is similar to that of many metal versions. The tread, measuring around 108 x 108 mm, has two fixed plastic pins and eight exchangeable metal pins on each side. The metal pins are commendably not just screwed in, but secured from below with screws. The height of the concave pedal is a flat 21 millimeters. The one-piece pedal body made of polycarbonate encloses a continuous CroMo axle. The slide bearings should ensure smooth service.
Visually, the XLC Pedal PD-M23 makes a high-quality impression. Despite the use of polycarbonate, the matt surface ensures an elegant design. The pedal body rotates smoothly and silently around the axle. The large recesses in the pedal body also promise good self-cleaning in adverse conditions. A look at the scales is also convincing: the weight of the two XLC pedals is a slim 290 grams - really not a bad value.
The positive impression continues on the trail. The position on the XLC Pedal PD-M23 is good and even rough passages are not able to move the foot even a millimeter from the location. The pins bite into the sole and guarantee a solid hold. A major weakness of plastic pedals is generally wet weather conditions, but here too the grip remains excellent thanks to the metal pins and the slightly rough surface of the pedal body. Self-cleaning is also great thanks to the generous cut-outs.,
We had the XLC Pedal PD-M23 in hard practical use for several weeks, the first positive impression was confirmed until the last day of the test. The slide bearings are still doing their job noiselessly and without play, and the metal pins are all still there. However, the solid plastic pens, which had to give up a lot of feathers, suffered. However, since the main load rests on the metal pins, this does not really affect the safe stand.
After this time, it is of course interesting to look at the pedal body. Unlike metal pedals, plastic pedals do not show obvious scratches. However, the plastic reacts to hard ground contacts in connection with sharp-edged stones with quite strong quirks. Metal pedals are much less susceptible here. Nevertheless, the XLC Pedal PD-M23 is a very good alternative to conventional platform pedals made of metal. Not only the price and the weight are impressive, but also the grip and the look.
Product details
- Price: € 39,95
- Weight: 290 grams (pair)
- EAN: 4055149219888