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Race Face has released an updated version of the Chester pedal, featuring improved grip and the choice of two sizes.
Chester pedals have long been a staple in the Race Face line-up with the concept of an “affordable — yet high-quality — composite pedal”.
A spokesperson for Race Face adds: “Durable, comfortable and available in a gamut of colours, Chester was the premier pedal choice for bike shop employees outfitting a customer’s new bike.
“This caught the attention of our competition, who have released new or updated composite pedals in an attempt to knock Chester from the top spot.
“After years of service to riders of all levels, Chester was due for an update. We wanted a pedal with better ride feel, more size options and updated aesthetics. A pedal that would exceed the expectations of novice and diehard composite pedal riders alike.”
Race Face took the learnings from the original Chester and set out to solve the rider’s pain points. Rider feedback told the brand that the pedals were too convex, and would benefit from added grip and being offered in multiple sizes.
As a result of this feedback, Race Face has addressed these pain points and made additional improvements by considering pedal shape, platform size, pins and Q-factor.
So what’s new?
Pedal shape – The previous iteration had a bulge in the centre of the pedal platform to house the pedal spindle.
Many composite pedals need more material in this area to achieve desired strength (aluminium is stronger and requires less metal to achieve the same strength). The drawback of the bulge is that it can lead to an insecure, convex feel.
With the new Chester, Race Face has slimmed down the spindle housing without compromising strength, almost eliminating the bulge entirely and resulting in a more concave and secure feel.
Platform size – The new Chester will be available in two sizes, Small (105 x 100mm) and Large (115 x 110mm) to better suit the needs of all riders.
Platform size is largely a matter of rider preference, but research from Race Face found a rough correlation to shoe size.
Pin placement, type and quantity – Chester now has nine metal pins and two moulded plastic pins for a total of 11 pins per pedal side (three more than previous model).
The pins were strategically placed for more consistent grip around the entire pedal circumference and a more concave feel. The metal pins also have smaller, threadless tips, which improves grip and lets riders reposition their feet as needed.
Threadless pin tips make pin removal easier for when riders replace them, as well as making the pins less damaging to skin in the event of a “shinner.”
Q-factor – Race face has eliminated the wrench flats from the pedal spindle to reduce Q-factor, meaning the rider’s feet will sit closer to the cranks.
The new Chester pedal comes with Race Face’s Lifetime Warranty. Crashes included.
Now available to order in eight colours to via the brand’s UK distributor, Silverfish UK, at an RRP of £49.95.
