As of recent, more and more folding bike riders are switching to quick release (QR) pedals citing advantages over the standard folding pedal. Also, Folding Bike manufacturer Dahon has being shipping QR pedals as standard on some of its models.

So what are the advantages of quick release pedals over folding pedals?

• With the pedal unclipped, the base does not stick out from the crank near as far as a folded pedal.
• The base is smooth and is much less likely to scratch or catch on something than a folding pedal.
• They are more solid than any folding pedal leading to lower pedal failure rate.
• It's easy to switch platform types or switch pedals between bikes.
• They will accept toe clips and/or straps.
• Removing the pedals is an easy extra deterrent to ride-away thieves.

The disadvantages of quick release pedals are:

• More expensive - up to 2/3 times more expensive than a folding pedal.
• As the pedal detaches completely, greater likely wood of mislaying or losing.
• QR pedals unclip from the base without tools but do take a moment longer than folding a pedal.

MKS is the biggest manufacturer of quick release pedals. The below 6 pedal options are compatible with the original Ezy coupler system as shown:



MKS Promenade-Ezy:

The MKS promenade-Ezy(Pictured on top left) features a double-sided wide alloy platform offering plenty of foot support and typically excellent MKS bearing quality. The pedals weigh 351gms/pair and we have found these retailing online for both Stg £39.14 and US $70.00.

MKS MM-Cube Ezy:

These are a clipless removable pedal, so you can use with your road or mountain shoes. The included cleat is proprietary. Pedal features a tough alloy body and strong clip in system. These weigh 415gms/pair and they retail online for both Stg £68.50 and US $128.00.

MKS AR-2 Ezy:

The MKS AR-2 Ezy accepts toe clips/toe straps or Power Grips and has flip-tab to help flip the pedal to guide your foot into the toe clips (or Power grips). It comes with a bag to stow the pedals in. Weight is 340 gms/pair. These retail online for US $64.97. We could not find an UK stockist/price.

MKS XP-Ezy:

The MKS XP-Ezy features a tough nylon body, reflector and typically excellent MKS bearing quality. Weight is 330 gms/pair. These pedals retail online for Stg £29.35. We could not find a US stockist/price.

MKS MT-E EZY:

MKS MT-E Ezy is quick release detachable one piece forged black alloy platform with raised knobs for grip. Like all the pedals above, the 9/16 threaded coupler remains on crank while pedals are detached. These can be used as a high quality alternative to folding pedals. Weight is 370gms/pair. The US online retail price is $59.00. We were unable to find a UK retailer/price.

MKS Compact-Ezy:

The ultra low profile/low volume shape is perfect for city bikes and folding bikes. The superlight one piece extruded alloy body is extremely robust and the CNC machined sealed bearings and bushings are both silky smooth and will withstand all weather conditions. The pronounced edgings mean that its diminutive size does not compromise grip. The ultimate compact pedal. Weight is 302 gms/pair. The UK online retail price is Stg £89.99. We were unable to find a US retailer/price.

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The below 3 pedal options are NOT compatible with the original Ezy coupler system , only the newer Ezy Superior system as shown:



MKS Esprit Ezy-Superior:

MKS Esprit Ezy-Superior is an automatic return with no safety clip pedal consisting of the newer coupler system (not compatible with the original Ezy system). Pedals have a silver alloy body and cage with a gripper edge. Weight is 414gms/pair. These retail online for Stg £69.99. We were unable to find a US retailer/price.

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MKS EXIM Ezy-Superior:

MKS Exim Ezy Superior come with a black one piece alloy body with some grip. Again, they have the newer coupler system that is not compatible with original Ezy system. Weight is 414gms/pair. As these are very new to the market, we were unable to find a US or UK retailer/price.

MKS Lambda Ezy-Superior:

MKS Lambda Ezy Superior are a one piece alloy body pedal with some grip. Compatible only with the newer Ezy system. Weight is 437gms/pair. As these pedals are new to the market, we were unable to find a US or UK retailer/price.