OneUp Goes Full Lycra with New XC Clip Pedals

Canadian brand, OneUp, set the world on fire early last year with the release of their Clip pedals. The brand had previously only offered flat pedals – so the move was a shift. Fast forward another year and OneUp brings the clip pedal party to the XC crowd with the release of their very straightforwardly named ‘XC Clip Pedals’.

At $259.99, they’re in the ballpark price range of Shimano’s XTR 9200-series pedals, and at first glance they look quite similar in profile, but there are a range of differences that make the OneUp XC pedals unique. 

Super Light, Super Slim

It’s no secret that the XC crowd loves counting grams – whether it be weight savings in titanium bolts of grams per hour of carbohydrate – they’re number focussed. It’s pretty impressive that OneUp have managed to scour their XC pedals down to 300g (actual), 3g lighter than advertised and over 10g lighter than XTR pedals. Will 10g win you the race? Probably not. But it demonstrates OneUp’s intense commitment to the XC pedal-hustle.

There are lighter systems available – think Time Atac and Crankbrothers Eggbeaters – but they use a completely different retention system from SPD-style pedals and subsequently ‘feel’ and ride quite differently.

OneUp claim that the XC Clip Pedals are the thinnest dual-sided mountain bike clipless pedals on the market, with a super svelte 26.8mm width. Something that any crank masher who loves riding uphill rocky tech will appreciate. OneUp have used their existing proven axle and bearing system (Igus bushings, two cartridge bearings, chromoly axle) for extra confidence in the XC pedal’s integrity, in case of pedal strikes. 

Cleats

The provided cleats are OneUp branded, but the pedals are SPD compatible – handy if you’re moving over from Shimano pedals. The pedals have 1mm cleat spacers included, useful if you have shoes with a deep recess. The cleats feature a standard 5º float with 12º disengagement angle.

First Impressions

We have just gotten on a fresh pair ahead of the release – and can tell you initial impressions are good. They’re noticeably more compact than the existing XTR pedals on my bike, and installation is as easy as swapping over your pedals. 

Without having spent heaps of time on the XC pedals so far, one thing I have noticed so far is the firm retention system – which can easily be adjusted. I have also felt like I do have more pedal clearance – but the difference between the OneUp’s and XTR is around 3mm. Could I really feel that?

One thing to note is that the OneUp XC pedals are available in 55mm axle option only – the same as Shimano’s standard option, but Shimano also offer a 3mm narrower option for those chasing a tighter Q-factor. 

For those looking for a pop of colour on the race bike, the OneUp XC Clip pedals are available in Black, Bronze, Dark Blue, Dark Green, Grey and Purple.

I am excited to pull on the lycra, rip off the helmet visor, and engage in some heavy breathing as I put the OneUp XC Clip pedals to the sword on local loops, Strava chasing and maybe a sneaky race or two.

Stay tuned for a full review.

RRP: $259.99
More info: oneupcomponents.com