Pedals are one of the most important yet overlooked upgrades on any mountain bike. From classic flat and clipless designs to lightweight composites, smart power-meter pedals, and the groundbreaking 8 Degree floating flat pedal, today's innovations are improving comfort, control, efficiency, and rider confidence on every trail. Discover eight pedal technologies that are changing the way mountain bikers ride.
At Bentonville Bike Fest, women riders discovered the innovative 8 Degree Pedal—the world’s first flat floating pedal. Designed to promote natural foot movement, it combines the freedom of flat pedals with improved comfort, efficiency, and reduced joint fatigue. Whether you're tackling technical trails, gravel roads, or bike park laps, 8 Degree Pedal helps you ride farther, feel stronger, and stay confident on every adventure.
In the quiet Sierra mountain town of Avery, California, 26-year-old April transformed a dream into a thriving mountain bike community. What began as a vision to recreate the welcoming bike-shop culture she loved in Santa Cruz became Mountain Aloha MTB Co.—a rider-driven hub that now connects locals, visitors, and trail advocates alike. Despite industry skepticism, financial risks, and personal setbacks, April built more than a business; she created a place where riders gather, friendships form, and mountain biking continues to grow throughout the region. Her story is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and believing in an idea before anyone else does.
Modern mountain bike pedals now go far beyond basic platforms, with options like flat, clipless, composite, and smart power-meter designs improving performance and control. A new innovation—floating flat pedals such as the 8 Degree system—adds controlled movement to better match natural foot motion, aiming to boost comfort and reduce joint strain.
More than just a bike shop, Straight Wheel Cycling has become the heart of Half Moon Bay’s cycling community. Founded on a passion for riding, inclusivity, and genuine human connection, owners Amy Thompson and Bart Draper have created a welcoming gathering place where riders of all ages and abilities feel at home. Through community involvement, mentorship, and a shared love of cycling, Straight Wheel Cycling continues to inspire the next generation of riders while strengthening the bonds that make Half Moon Bay unique.
Our MTB Girls Magazine Cover Girl, Vida Lopez De San Ramon, is quickly emerging as one of the most exciting young talents in international mountain biking. At just 19 years old, the Sebastopol, California–based racer delivered a breakout season on the UCI World Cup mountain bike circuit, proving that confidence, resilience, and a deep love for riding can take an athlete from local trails to the world stage.
MTB Girls Magazine Issue 13, The Art of the Ascent, by editor Liz Donahey is a powerful reflection on women, mountain biking, leadership, resilience, and the shared climb toward strength, joy, and becoming more.
This MTB Girls Magazine cover story article follows Canadian twins Ava and Bella Holmgren from local trails to world champions, showing how their versatility, resilience, and humility are inspiring the next generation of women in cycling.
#ThrowbackThursday: Trail House Santa Rosa—Bikes, Brews & Building Community Since 2016 When Trail House opened in December 2016, it wasn’t...












