The clipless mountain bike pedal conversation is often limited to Shimano, Crankbrothers, and then everyone else. Ritchey is doing its best to change that by releasing an update to its Paradigm pedals. Indeed, the famed component maker founded by the famous mountain bike pioneer has just started shipping two new pedals, the WCS XC and WCS Trail.

As the name suggests, the WCS XC is geared toward the racer crowd, which includes the likes of multi-time world champion Nino Schurter, who aided in development. You can learn more about that relationship in the this short video.



Ritchey says the new pedal was redesigned from the ground up, and features a revamped engagement system that has a fixed front claw for better entry and release along with reliable mud-shedding. The axle has also been tweaked in an effort to improve bearing life and lower axle-cleat height, and it has a wider body for improved stability.

"Both our new WCS pedals use outboard sealed cartridge bearings with centered needle bearings which is responsible for supporting load better," explains Ritchey PR man Fergus Liam. "We actually do not use any inboard bearings. The sealed needle bearings in conjunction with a revamped stronger axle means our pedals can sustain a higher load. Couple that with a fully serviceable build, and you're looking at a pedal that can stand the test of time."

Claimed weight per pair for the WCS Trail is 347 grams and they have the same 4 degrees of float. Price is $170.

Claimed weight per pair for the WCS Trail is 347 grams and they have the same 4 degrees of float. Price is $170 (click to enlarge).​

Claimed weight for the XC model is 298 grams for the pair, which have a forged alloy body, stainless claws, and a CrMo steel axle. Float is 4 degrees. Price is $150.

The WCS Trail employs the same design upgrades as the WCS XC, but adds a forged alloy cage for an even larger footprint and improved stability. Claimed weight per pair is 347 grams and they have the same 4 degrees of float. Price is $170.

For more information visit ritcheylogic.com.