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Keep Your Feet on the LaunchPad with Launch’s new Aluminum Pedal

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LaunchPad Aluminum pedal (3)

After the release of their Magnesium Launchpad, Launch Components are back with an aluminum version of their eye catching pedal. While the alloy body reduces the price from the Mag version, it still keeps the weight in check at an impressive 367g per pair. CNC Machined from 7075 T6 billet and hard anodized, the aluminum Launch pads keep the super low profile of the originals with their concave body and wide 120mmx100mm platform.

Developments were made in the bearing system as well – more on that after the break.

Launch Pedal 1

Instead of the three outboard bearings offered in the original Launchpad, the newest version includes a solid fiber composite bearing from IGUS which includes their 3 year warranty, and 2 years free servicing from the purchase date. Traction pins are still of the 5mm sacrificial type, meaning if you hit something they will break off to save the pedal body. If that happens, you can still easily remove the pin from the back with a 3mm allen key. Anyone who has ever flattened traction pins that thread in from the front know how important this is. Optional 7mm pins are also available.

Launch Pedal 2

The oversized, tapered HSLA steel axle offers downhill strength while keeping the pedals XC light with a hard nickel coating for durability. Aluminum LaunchPads will retail for £139.99 or $216 US.

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Ryan
Ryan
10 years ago

Oh wow! Perfect timing for me! I like what I se—$216?!? @#$%. I can afford half that.

Nick
Nick
10 years ago

They look super wide and your feet stick out pretty far compared to most pedals. Crampon Ultimates still look better…

satisFACTORYrider
satisFACTORYrider
10 years ago

the middle of the cage is pretty important. it’s why you run flats. pass.

Colin
Colin
10 years ago

Igus bushings are great and all, but how are they sealing it and keeping crap out of them?

Ryan
Ryan
10 years ago

“No dick moves – Interchangeable with standard M4 cap screws*. So if you get stuck, you don’t get stuck”

Funny.

Alex
Alex
10 years ago

This looks like a flat pedal that an engineer who doesn’t ride flat pedals would design.

Alan (Launch Components)

Hey Guys,

Thanks so much for posting this up. Hopefully we’ll get a set out to you soon for a proper review.

satisFACTORYrider – By removing the inner cage your weight is distributed to the edges of of the pedals, concentrating your mass on the pin areas and therefore maximising grip. These pedals are designed for the Scottish conditions where its almost always wet and you don’t want a big flat slippery surface in the middle of the platform.

Colin – from the crank face the seals are as follows – Labyrinth seal>bearing seal>cartridge bearing>bearing seal>o-ring>exposed axle>o-ring>composite bearing>o-ring sealed end cap. So as you can see everything’s kept cosy.

And Alex, as the designer I can confirm that I do and always have ridden flats, these took a large number of prototypes, optimisations and iterations to end up in this configuration, I’m sure if you get to try a pair you’ll understand the logic behind them. If anyone wants more info give me a shout at info(at)launchcomponents.com and I’ll be happy to answer any queries you have.

Thanks again, Alan (Engineering Design for Launch Components)

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