One thing they don’t always tell you when switching to flats is that flat pedal shoes aren’t all that grippy when it’s time to hike-a-bike. Or that you’ll likely get bloody shins the first few times out. A new pedal promises to solve both problems by literally flipping the script.
Ontario, Canada-based 9point8, known for their lightweight, innovative dropper posts, recently released their patent-pending iNVRS pedal and stud system. Unlike most flat pedals that feature pins or spikes on the surface, the iNVRS flat pedal (from $69 USD) incorporates a rubber tread that looks awfully similar to the iconic and grippy Five Ten Dotty pattern.
Flat pedals with a rubber coating already exist, notably Look Trail grip pedals that incorporate a Vibram tread. The real innovation appears to be studded cleats 9point8 has developed. The aluminum plates with replaceable carbide studs can be screwed onto a pair of two-bolt clipless pedal shoes.
For those who prefer to run a pair of flat pedal shoes, a stud kit is available for purchase along with the pedals. The studs can be screwed into the tread of a favorite flat shoe or even a pair of hiking boots, similar to how riders can add studs to bike tires for riding on snow and ice.
Speaking of snow and ice, 9point8 suggests their system is especially well suited to riding in these conditions. “In the winter, iNVRS provides EXCEPTIONAL GRIP on the pedals, and on ice and snow!”
A pair of pedals and SPD studded cleats is priced at $118, while a set of pedals with 50 shoe studs sells for $139. See the 9point8 website and the video below for more info.
1 Comments
0 minutes ago
An interesting concept although, I intend to continue riding with my 5-10 Guide Tennies. Only a few hoarded pair remain in the closet, but worthy.