Forged stainless wings handle the engagement loads where stamped steel would flex under repeated clipping. The Eggbeater 3 from Crank Brothers uses 17-4PH stainless steel wings that are forged rather than stamped - a manufacturing process that aligns the metal grain structure for strength at the cleat contact points. The cast stainless steel body and forged SCM 435 chromoly spindle provide the structural framework, while 300 series stainless steel springs manage retention without adjustable tension.

The open-cage design lets you engage from any of the four sides rather than hunting for pedal orientation. The wings rotate under pressure to accept the cleat, then return to position once loaded. That architecture also sheds mud since there's no platform to trap debris between the cleat and pedal body. Enduro MAX cartridge bearings run outboard while Igus LL-glide bearings handle inboard duties - an upgrade over standard Enduro bearings that improves bearing life and reduces friction under load.

Standard Release cleats ship with the pedals and provide 6 degrees of float with either 15 or 20 degrees of release angle depending on which pedal you mount to which side. The cleats recess flush with shoe treads for walking traction and mount to any 2-bolt mountain or gravel shoe. These cleats are not compatible with Shimano SPD despite the similar 2-bolt pattern - the engagement geometry differs between the systems. Easy Release cleats are available separately if you prefer 10 degrees of release angle.... Read More