The Crankbrothers Mallet E LS are mountain bike pedals with large cages. They won the pedal group test of our sister magazine ENDURO, which is why we had to test them for gravel bikes too. Besides that, many pro enduro riders rely on these pedals, and the LS (Long Spindle) version tested here – featuring longer axles and thus a wider Q-factor – is a popular choice amongst them.
Trail performance for gravel bikes: the Crankbrothers Mallet E LS
The clipless mechanism of the € 179.99 Mallet E LS is the same as that of the Crankbrothers Candy 7, so the feeling you have when riding with these pedals is very similar. For more information about the customisable float, release angle and pedal footprint, simply check out our review of the Candy 7.
Due to the large cages of the Mallet E LS pedals, they provide a very secure footing while the adjustable height of the six pins and traction pads on each side allows you to adjust the grip to suit your preference. Unfortunately, however, the pins get screwed in from the top, which means that they’re very difficult to adjust or replace if there’s dirt in them or if they’ve gotten damaged from striking the ground. At 428 g, the pedals are quite heavy, too, though they’re still significantly lighter than the 474 g Acros pedals, which are the heaviest on test. Due to the long axles, resulting in a 57 mm Q-factor, your stance on the pedals is relatively wide, which instils you with confidence on the descents, though it might feel unusual at first and comes at the cost of efficiency. That said, they’re also available with shorter spindles, giving them the same 52 mm Q-factor as the Candy model.
The large platforms of the Mallet E LS pedals make them relatively comfortable to use with casual shoes, though the large spindle in the centre gets in the way, unlike on the Acros. They’re a great choice for adventurers who tend to ride in rough terrain and occasionally have to walk. When combined with clipless shoes with soft soles, you’ll be prepared to face any challenge. The excellent self-cleaning of the pedals is a good trait to have in this case, too, allowing you to click in even when your shoes are covered in mud.
| Brand | Model | Weight | Price | System | Float | Release angle | Q-factor | Stack height |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crankbrothers | Mallet E LS | 428 g | € 179.99 | Crankbrothers | 0°/6° | 10°/15° | 57 mm | 15.5 mm |
Our conclusion on the Crankbrothers Mallet E LS
Thanks to their big cages, the Crankbrothers Mallet E LS pedals are very practical in day to day use, though they also make faithful companions on hike-a-bike adventures due to their excellent self-cleaning characteristics. Thanks to the adjustable height of the pins and traction pads, you can also adjust the grip to suit your preferences. Due to the long axles, however, the pedals are better suited to trail use, offering more stability than pedalling efficiency.
Tops
- secure footing even with casual shoes
- excellent self-cleaning
Flops
- heavy
- pin height difficult to adjust when dirty or damaged
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of GRAN FONDO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.
Words: Simon Kohler Photos: Simon Hänle
About the Author
Simon Kohler
Editor
Simon loves speed. He has many years of racing experience as a longboard downhill skater, blasting down alpine passes on his board. In the meantime, he’s swapped four wheels for two, charging down trails and bike park lines aboard his mountain bike instead. He’s savoured some of Europe’s finest trails on various road trips through the Alps. Having lived in Austria for some time, he knows the local Austrian bike parks like the back of his hand. He’s a tech nerd through and through, using the skills and know-how from his engineering degree and his attention to detail to put the latest bikes and components through their paces for our reviews. As an early riser and self-declared muesli connoisseur, he lives his life powered by oats and the strength of his legs.
