Time X-ROC S Pedals
For more than 20 years, Time has been a key player in clipless pedals. They
were one of the first to latch on to the idea. Since then, they have become a
leader in design with reliable pedals and high-tech features. The Time X-ROC S
pedals are designed to offer a wide platform with a lower weight than their
alloy body Z-series pedals, and they feature the proven “Auto Tension
Adjustment Concept” (ATAC) technology Time has come to be known for. They are
targeted at aggressive trail or gravity riders who demand a larger contact
patch between their shoe and pedal.
Tech features: Time’s X-ROC series use a carbon composite body surrounding the
engagement mechanism for stability while riding. The X-ROC S is the top model
featuring a spring tension adjustment. The pedals sport 5 degrees of angular
float with 6 millimeters of lateral float. This allows the pedal to ride
comfortably, even for those with bad knees. By switching the right cleat to the
left shoe, the release angle can be adjusted from 13 degrees to 18 degrees. Our
test pedals weighed in at 1 pound. A pair of X-ROC S pedals will set you back
$135, and the more basic X-ROC pedals (without the spring tension adjustment)
go for $110. Time can be contacted at (877) 727-7661.
Field test results: The pedals’ larger-than-average platform gives them
a bulky, heavy appearance, but the scale will tell you otherwise. The cleats
install easily, and we ran them in the 13-degree release setting for the duration
of the test. The large platform couples well with the dual-sided ATAC retention
system to provide quick clip-in entry without a learning curve. The float
provides comfortable engagement. It’s easy to clip in and quicker to clip out
for a quick dab or Johnny Tomac-style three-point turn. While the entry and
exit on these pedals are comfortable and easy to use, the engagement is not as
pronounced as with other pedals. There is no “click” to let you know you are
secure. These pedals are designed for aggressive trail riders, and they will
also feel at home on downhill bikes. The platform provides ample support for
any type of riding shoe, even one with a flexible sole. Despite their large
appearance, the pedals never interfered with our shoes, and we did not have to
cut down the sole of the shoe for clearance.
While the wide platform provides excellent support, we would have preferred
a slightly lower profile. The leading edge of the pedals had a tendency to snag
rocks more than thinner designs. The leading edge measures almost an inch at
its widest point. If you frequently ride in rocky terrain, or you ride a bike
with a low bottom bracket, this has to be a consideration. The X-ROC S pedals
held up well for the duration of the test. These are trail-worthy pedals with a
user-friendly feel. They are 2.4 ounces lighter than Time’s Z-series pedals
without giving up the performance benefits of a larger platform, especially for
the aggressive rider. Trim them down a bit and you can start adding stars.
Reprinted from the October 2011 issue. Like us on Facebook