The two pedal systems that define MTB clipless: Shimano SPD and Crankbrothers Eggbeater. Bearings, cleat float, and mud-shedding behavior separate them more than weight or price do.
Riders using ordinary flat-soled shoes
It depends on your priorities. Choose a platform pedal after checking platform size and shoe fit.
Riders using cleated cycling shoes
It depends on your priorities. Confirm the cleat standard; pedal systems are not automatically cross-compatible.
Trail riders deciding how much foot retention they want
It depends on your priorities. Terrain and shoe choice matter; the catalog has no comparative grip or release test.
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| Detail | Shimano XT M8100 (SPD) | Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Pedals | Pedals |
| Level | The listing does not state an experience level; its product type is spd-clipless. | The listing does not state an experience level; its product type is eggbeater. |
| Key features | Weight: ~310g per pair; Axle material: Cr-Mo steel; Cleat compatibility: 2-bolt SPD; Bearings: Sealed cartridge; Float angle: 6° | Weight: ~200g per pair (lightest clipless pedal); Axle material: Titanium; Cleat compatibility: Eggbeater (proprietary); Bearings: Sealed cartridge; Float angle: 15° |
| What is included | The catalog does not itemize box contents beyond the named product. Check the exact offer for included hardware or accessories. | The catalog does not itemize box contents beyond the named product. Check the exact offer for included hardware or accessories. |
| Best for | The catalog’s fit/use note: 9/16" thread standard. Q-factor 144mm (narrow). Popular for cross-country and all-mountain MTB. | The catalog’s fit/use note: 9/16" thread standard. Q-factor 142mm. Entry from 4 angles (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°). |
| Main drawback | Fit/use caveat recorded in the catalog: 9/16" thread standard. Q-factor 144mm (narrow). Popular for cross-country and all-mountain MTB. | Fit/use caveat recorded in the catalog: 9/16" thread standard. Q-factor 142mm. Entry from 4 angles (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°). |
Specs and included items reflect the cited product listings; check the seller page for current package details.
| Aspect | Shimano XT M8100 (SPD) | Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pedal/cleat interface | Cleat compatibility: 2-bolt SPD | Weight: ~200g per pair (lightest clipless pedal) | Depends |
| Float | Float angle: 6° | Float angle: 15° | Depends |
| Body or axle material | Axle material: Cr-Mo steel | Axle material: Titanium | Depends |
| Weight and bearings | Weight: ~310g per pair | Weight: ~200g per pair (lightest clipless pedal) | Depends |
| Current catalog price | $119.41 | $123.80 | Option A |
The catalog lists Shimano XT M8100 (SPD) with Weight: ~310g per pair; Axle material: Cr-Mo steel; Cleat compatibility: 2-bolt SPD; Bearings: Sealed cartridge.
The catalog lists Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3 with Weight: ~200g per pair (lightest clipless pedal); Axle material: Titanium; Cleat compatibility: Eggbeater (proprietary); Bearings: Sealed cartridge.
Avasta AVASTA Polypropylene Bike Pedals
The catalog lists AVASTA Polypropylene Bike Pedals as platform, with material: polypropylene / nylon body, steel spindle. Consider it if that stated use and detail better suit your setup.
Avasta AVASTA Aluminum Alloy Bike Pedals
The catalog lists AVASTA Aluminum Alloy Bike Pedals as platform, with material: high-strength aluminum alloy body, sealed-bearing spindle. Consider it if that stated use and detail better suit your setup.
Start with your shoes. Shimano XT M8100 (SPD) is listed with cleat compatibility: 2-bolt spd, while Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3 is listed with weight: ~200g per pair (lightest clipless pedal). Pick the interface that matches your cleats or flat shoes, then compare float and materials only if they matter to your riding. Prices in the catalog are $119.41 and $123.80; offers change, and the record may not itemize every accessory. We have not tested grip, release, mud clearance, or durability. The product listings provide specifications, not a controlled head-to-head test.
This comparison uses public manufacturer and product-listing details recorded for Shimano XT M8100 (SPD) and Crankbrothers Eggbeater 3 in the BikeSize accessory catalog, including stated specifications, fit/use notes, and catalog prices. Claims are public evidence, not independent results. BikeSize did not buy, wear, ride, install, or hands-on test either product and conducted no comparative lab or performance testing.
Our sizing guides and category pages help you narrow the field.