Pedal Dabs clipless to platform converters

Pedal Dabs' clipless to platform converters are designed to clip in to your pedals, allowing you to ride short distances safely in street shoes. Made from rugged composites, there are two versions, depending on whether you are running Look or SPD systems. Our Look type has been tested on several Keo patterns, both bling and budget, with similarly pleasing results.

Attachment is very straightforward: flick the pedal over and introduce the pedal dab in with the platform up, ensuring it goes fully home. Now, flip your pedal over again. Hold the platform steady while pressing the rear section into the pedal using the heel of your hand – basically the same motion as you would use to engage a shoe cleat.

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To remove, simply reverse the process, although if you run your spring tension particularly high, they are designed to be prised off with the assistance of a small Allen key or flathead screwdriver.

The overall aesthetic reminded me of Look's very own 'Lego' pedal from the 80s, and yes, I have a pair of those somewhere... The profiles are sensible, wide enough to provide support to trainers right through to steel toes. Because they are no wider than their hosts' rear section, you can corner at your usual angles without grounding a pedal.

Their dimpled platforms also provide decent purchase with most sole types, even in the rain. Traditional leather-soled loafers are the one exception – I had a few heart-in-the-mouth moments on a two-mile loop. Otherwise, even riding a fixed, they're easily flicked into position, making for speedy getaways at the lights and feeling surprisingly rigid under moderate load.

> Check out our guide to the best clipless pedals

Tempo-wise, 12mph or thereabouts is realistic, fine for commuting 2-3 miles across town, running errands, or when checking gears or brakes on the road following a bike build, say, or a couple of days before a big ride/race.

Ultimately, they do exactly what it says in the blurb and they're well executed. I've found myself using them with increasing regularity – usually for checking adjustments/setups but with the odd post-office run thrown in, so they could prove a very shrewd buy in the longer term.

That said, their RRP of £19.95 is, in some respects, quite steep – I've known carpenters and similarly skilled trades to whip up their own takes on this concept from scrap wood. A cheap but cheerful set of SPD/flat hybrids can be had for similar money, which in my book is a better choice for regular commuting or pool bikes.

Verdict

Well-executed and surprisingly handy converters for short distance riding