If you are an XC afficionado and want a minimalist pedal set-up, or a rider who just prefers a simple, lightweight, SPD style pedal system, the WCS Paradigm pedal set is a great choice. If you compare weight to any pedal in the sub $150 price point, you won't come close to the value and equipment grade Ritchey offers in the WCS Paradigm, at 242 grams. Ritchey has a long history of designing and delivering high performance, lightweight mountain pedals. The minimal, forged aluminum body is light, but tough, and ready for fast pedaling action. The adjustable tension, spring loaded retention system holds securely, and the open body design allows mud to clear easily. The low profile cleat design immediately delivers power to the axle.

The axle itself is a CroMoly steel, and is carried by three bearing systems within the body. The outer bearing carries the most load, and is served by a sealed cartridge set-up. The middle section has fine needle bearings which keep spin movement true and balanced, while in the lightest load section, closest to the crank, a bushing is used. The pedal is serviceable via an outboard allen bolt. Ritchey has used the SPD cleat for several years now, so although the supplied 4mm cleat is stamped Ritchey you can use your Shimano SPD cleats with the WCS Paradigm.

One note on usage. Due to the truly minimal contact area, softer-soled cycling shoes are not recommended. The stiffer the better. It can also take a little getting used to this minimalist interface, but by using a stiff shoe, and simply getting out on the trail a few times, you will come to appreciate the stiffness of the body and clamping mechanism, and find yourself powering right down through the cleat. Ritchey designed these pedals with World Cup XC racing in mind, so cornering clearance, solid retention, and lightweight were preferred over a wide platform. These pedals are tough enough to take a few ground impacts, but not exactly designed for all-mountain use. Over the years, Excel has sold thousands of Ritchey pedals and when used and maintained appropriately, they last as long as XC race pedals we sell that are twice the price, and are still lighter or weight competitive. The WCS Paradigm; a model for XC race pedals, from Ritchey, of course.