Cockpit & Pedals
I have used Look pedals for a long time (since they became widely available late 80's early 90's). On my spouse's most recent bike she had DA pedals. This required different back-up cleats for each of us when we traveled with our bikes. My Look pedals were ready for replacement so I decided to try the DA. I have been very happy with the change so far. The DA pedals feel like they have a wider platform that the Look pedals and a lower profile.
Frequent year 'round gravel and road riding. Easy enter and release. My first pair wore out and were replaced under warranty. They are easy to maintain so I'm on top of it more often now. One major design flaw: What's with the sharp concave edges on the ends of the spindle housing? Real ankle-biters if you scrape up against them. I will dull them off with a file once they're out of warranty (if they last that long!). The ends should be shaped just the opposite in a convex shape.
I’ll be honest I’ve had a Thomson stem on each of my bikes for the past 10 years. These are by far the best stems on the market. Made is the USA as well. I have their seatposts and carbon handlebars on each of our bikes as well. Best looking cockpits in the northwest.
Bought the Shimano XTR PD-9120 trail pedals, for a gravel bike I bought last year. Took some time trying to find the pedals, given limited quantities available. Referred to these pedals by a fellow rider, who has a previous year model. Wanted a solid shoe-pedal interface, to go with the MTB shoes I also purchased from WBW's at same time I bought the pedals. Also wear a size 11 (Euro 45), so was very important for a very stable platform pedal that offered easy clip in, clip out, but at the same time, a good size stable platform to generate power through the pedals to the drivetrain. Also, wanted a pedal that I could easily clip in, clip out of, for varied trail terrain. Paid a bit more money for these pedals - however, based on reviews, these should offer longer term durability and ease of use, for lots of trail rides to come.
