The Crank Brothers Eggbeater isn’t just one of the most distinctive clip-in pedals on the market, it’s also the first component that comes into our mind whenever someone mentions the Crank Brothers name. Introduced to the market over 20 years ago, the original Eggbeater stripped everything back to the absolute bare necessities to create a distinctive four-sided pedal that was lightweight and almost uncloggable in muddy conditions. Fast-forward to 2023, and while the unique Eggbeater shape remains the same, there have been considerable improvements to the internals and overall construction.
Riders who are looking for a less restrictive feel that isn’t as locked-in as a Shimano SPD pedal will appreciate the float and smoother entry and release.
Crank Brothers Eggbeater 2 Pedals
The Crank Brothers Eggbeater pedals are available in four different variations, with prices starting at $119.95 AUD for the Eggbeater 1. The most expensive option is the Eggbeater 11, which sells for a staggering $769.95 AUD. That pedal uses a liberal amount of titanium and is claimed to be the lightest option on the market at just 179g for the pair. Bonkers!
On test here is a much more utilitarian option; the Eggbeater 2.
All Eggbeater pedals use the same four-sided mechanism that allows for seamless entry and exit. The open design means it’s very hard for mud to accumulate and foul up the mechanism, which is why Crank Brothers pedals are particularly popular for European cyclocross racers.
There are other reasons why you’d use these pedals. Firstly, they’re very lightweight – our Crank Brothers Eggbeater 2 pedals weigh just 279g for the pair, which is lighter than both the XTR Race (312g) and Time ATAC XC 8 (292g), despite being a lot cheaper.
You also get a high quality 6° of float from the stock brass cleats, and you can adjust the release angle from 15° to 20° by switching the cleats from left to right. Riders who are looking for a less restrictive feel that isn’t as locked-in as a Shimano SPD pedal will appreciate the float and smoother entry and release.
Where things differ between the various Eggbeater options is in the quality of materials. The Crank Brothers Eggbeater 2 pedals utilise a cast stainless steel body, and the spring is also made from stainless steel. The wing is made from a cheaper stamped steel, which potentially makes it a bit weaker than the more expensive Eggbeater 3.
The hybrid internals pair an Enduro cartridge bearing with an Igus LL-glide bushing, and it all rolls around a forged chromoly steel spindle. A double seal system keeps the crud out and grease in. The pedals are designed to be easily user-serviceable with an 8mm socket, and Crank Brothers also offers rebuild kits when it’s time for an overhaul. It’s worth noting here that all Crank Brothers pedals come with a 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects, which is impressive.
You’ll also notice two black rings either side of the Eggbeater mechanism on the pedal body. These are Tread Contact Sleeves, and it’s possible to fit a thicker version to help build up the height of the pedal for a tighter fit with your shoes. You also get cleat shims in the box, so there are plenty of options for dialling in the overall fit.
