Quick Take Review
A couple of years ago, I switched to platform pedals and never looked back. My old standbys remain a set of Answer Rove FRs originally reviewed back in the spring of 2013. These bad boys continue to serve me well on my Marin through all types of conditions. These days, however, I’m in the midst of a test on a Bulls Wild Cup — a pretty sweet 27.5-inch dual suspension mountain bike. When it arrived sans pedals I made a quick trip to the local bike shop in search of a new set of platforms to match to that ride. What I found was a reasonably priced set of Giant Original MTB pedals.
At $55 MSRP, the Giant Originals present a low-cost entry into the platform pedal world. The Answer Rove FRs by comparison sit at just under $100 MSRP (but street price closer to $70). Others can run you upwards of $300. So walking out the door of the shop for less than a Benjamin felt pretty good to me.
Installation was pretty standard stuff. Just have a long-handled hex key available to tighten down the pedal from the rear of the axle.
Specs
Material: Cro-Mo Axle
Bearings: Sealed
Size: 4.1 in x 4 x .75 inches
Weight: 13 oz (pair)
The Giant Original MTB pedals look a little less wide and slightly taller than the Answers. Nothing outrageous, but notice-able when the pedals are side by side. I prefer the lower-profile look. But performance-wise, the Giant’s more than held their own next to the Answers. They both have 10 replaceable and adjustable pins for grip. Both utilize smooth-turning sealed cartridge bearings. The Giants have a slight weight advantage. While the Answers boast a larger top deck.
All in all, if you’re looking for an inexpensive option for a platform pedal, the Giant Original MTB pedal is a good way to go. Not quite as stylish as the Answer Rove FR, but good bang for buck.