Gear: Crank Bros. Twin Ti Egg Beater Pedals

I've only put a few days of hell on the Twin Ti's to date, but I've logged considerable saddle time on the standard Egg Beaters. And like their predecessors, entry and release always feels easy and silky-smooth, no matter how wretched the conditions. Due to the Egg Beaters' simplicity, clipping in and out always feels the same, regardless of how clean the surface may be. Forget lubing springs and adjusting tension -- just set up your cleats for the desired amount of float and go. I have yet to get the hang of Crank Bros. recommended "slide forward" or "slide back" clip-in method, however, which is one of the stated advantages of the four-sided design. But, using a standard step-in approach, cleat engagement is very smooth and predictable.

My one and only complaint, as trivial as it may seem, is the lack of surface area while riding in casual shoes. The Egg Beaters' unique design creates a near-round shape that easily rolls down the bottom of street shoes. These pedals are so light and simple, I'll accept that I can't race around in sneakers, since the performance is more than worth it. At 218 grams per pair, the Twin Ti blasts by the competition (the average high-end pedals weigh about 350 grams!) -- a dramatic weight savings. There's also the benefit of two more entry points, and they're great in adverse conditions.

So far, after a few, brief rides, the Twin Ti's are living up to initial expectations. Stay with us throughout the year for updates, as we will continue to test them this coming season to see how they hold up long-term.