TIME XPRO 12 Pedals

TIME’s XPRO 12 pedals, put to the test on Italian tarmac and strade bianche.

As a cycling journalist perpetually chasing those marginal gains, especially given my slight 49 kg frame, I’ve always held a particular fascination for components that promise both weight savings and performance enhancement. TIME’s XPRO 12 pedals, with their sleek carbon body and titanium axle, immediately piqued my interest. It’s been totally overdue, as our last TIME pedal test was back in 2015!

These pedals aren’t just about aesthetics though; they represent a commitment to efficiency and power transfer that resonates with a rider like myself. After putting them through the wringer across several Italian races, I can confidently say they’ve become an integral part of my racing setup.

Out of the box, the XPRO 12s exude quality.

I was concerned that after TIME joined forces with SRAM, their reputation for quality could take a negative turn. I needn’t have worried though. The carbon composite body is immaculate, and the overall design is both modern and purposeful.

The weight (94g per pedal) – or rather the lack thereof is immediately noticeable. Not necessarily during the ride, mind you. Compared to other high-end pedals I’ve used, the XPRO 12s feel almost ethereal. This is a crucial factor for a lighter rider like me, where every gram saved contributes to a more responsive and agile feel on the bike. While their visual appeal is undeniable, what truly matters is how they perform under pressure. That’s a question I aimed to answer on the demanding roads of Italy.

Testing conditions

My baptism of fire with the TIME XPRO 12 pedals came during a series of races in the heart of Italy. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sharp, leg-burning climbs of the Dolomites, these pedals faced every challenge the Italian landscape could throw at them. And it wasn’t just on tarmac that I tested these pedals. I’m a huge advocate of using road pedals in gravel races. Hence these pedals have also been tested on some strade bianche.

One of the races I rode is notorious for its challenging mix of paved and gravel roads, demanding both power and finesse. The race begins innocently enough with a gentle roll through the Tuscan countryside. However, it quickly descends into a chaotic frenzy as the peloton hits the first strade bianche sector. Dust billows, bikes jostle for position, and the air crackles with tension!

It was here, amidst the chaos, that the XPRO 12 pedals truly shone. The wide platform provided a stable and secure connection, allowing me to maintain consistent power even as my bike bounced and wove across the uneven surface. The efficient power transfer ensured that every ounce of energy was translated into forward momentum, helping me to stay near the front of the group. I just had to pay attention, I didn’t want an unplanned unclipping and dismounting; after all, I am wearing road shoes!

Secure engagement

As the race wore on, and the strade bianche sectors grew longer and more challenging, the XPRO 12s continued to perform flawlessly. The secure engagement inspired confidence on the descents, where even the slightest hesitation could mean losing valuable time. On the steep punchy climbs, the lightweight design helped me to maintain a high cadence, conserving energy for the final kilometres.

The final sector of strada bianca was a gruelling uphill drag. The air was thick with dust, the fatigue palpable in every rider’s face. With the finish line in sight, I dug deep, summoning every last reserve of strength. The XPRO 12s responded instantly, providing the solid platform I needed to unleash a final surge of power. I crossed the line exhausted but elated, knowing that the pedals had played a crucial role in my performance.

Other races in the Italian series presented different challenges: relentless climbing, where the lightweight design of the XPRO 12s proved invaluable in maintaining a high power-to-weight ratio. Through it all, the XPRO 12s remained a constant, reliable companion. They provided the performance and confidence I needed to compete at my best.

Clipping in

Clipping into the XPRO 12s is a secure and reassuring experience, just like in my old TIME-days. TIME’s iClic system offers a positive engagement, and the adjustable tension allows for a customised feel. After numerous races and training rides, the iClic system remains consistently reliable, even in muddy or dusty conditions. Thankfully, I wasn’t really confronted with literal, deep mud, so that was manageable.

What truly sets these pedals apart is the feeling of direct connection with the bike. There’s no sense of vagueness or floatiness; every watt of power feels like it’s being translated directly into forward motion. That’s another overused description of the feeling of not losing any energy by pushing the pedals. Mind you, that is really evident with TIME. This is especially noticeable during accelerations and sprints, where the immediate response of the pedals allows for explosive bursts of speed.

Efficient power transfer

For a rider of my stature, this responsiveness is invaluable, despite the fact that admittedly, I am not able to generate power like an 80 kilogram time-trial specialist! On climbs, the XPRO 12s provide a solid platform for efficient power transfer, allowing me to maintain a consistent cadence even on steep gradients.

During sprints, the secure engagement inspires confidence, ensuring that I can unleash maximum power without fear of unclipping. This confidence is paramount in the heat of competition, where split-second decisions can make the difference between victory and defeat.

A stable platform

The wide platform further enhances stability, particularly during out-of-the-saddle efforts, providing a solid base for generating maximum power. This is one of the aspects I really like about TIME’s XPRO 12 pedals. They boast a generously wide platform, which contributes to their stability and efficient power transfer. The increased surface area allows for a more even distribution of pressure, reducing hot spots and improving overall comfort, especially on long rides. And I have to emphasize the comfort, being very sensitive to hot spots.

The use of a titanium axle shaves off precious grams, while the carbon body provides a stiff and lightweight structure. Some hardly noticeable damage is visible, though, after so many gravel kilometres. The combination of these materials results in a pedal that is both incredibly light and remarkably strong, capable of withstanding the rigours of racing.

XPRO 12 uses iClic system

TIME’s iClic system, with its pre-opened design, makes clipping in incredibly easy, a welcome feature for both seasoned racers and recreational riders. Even in the midst of a hectic race start, clipping in is quick and effortless, allowing me to focus on the task at hand.

Additionally, while the iClic system is generally user-friendly – and I stick to this statement, despite some not so positive experiences of my fellow editors! Some riders may find the engagement slightly different compared to other pedal systems. A period of adjustment may be necessary to fully adapt to the unique feel of the TIME pedals. Finally, while the open design of the pedal body effectively sheds mud and debris, occasional cleaning and maintenance are still recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Durable

After a full season of racing and training, the TIME XPRO 12 pedals have proven to be remarkably durable. Despite being subjected to harsh conditions, including gravel roads, rain, and mud, the pedals show minimal signs of wear and tear. The carbon body remains intact, and the titanium axle shows no signs of corrosion. The bearings continue to spin smoothly and efficiently, providing consistent performance. This durability is a testament to the quality of the materials and construction, justifying the premium price tag.

The TIME XPRO 12 pedals are a testament to the pursuit of cycling perfection. They offer a rare combination of feathery weight, exceptional power-transfer, and a secure, confidence-inspiring feel. For a lightweight rider like myself, the benefits are particularly pronounced. Making these pedals a worthwhile investment for those seeking to elevate their performance to the next level.

XPRO 12-Premium quality and price tag

However, it’s worth noting that the XPRO 12s are positioned at the premium end of the pedal market. The price reflects the advanced materials and construction techniques employed. While the durability has proven excellent throughout my racing season, potential buyers should consider the investment relative to their riding needs and budget.

My experiences racing in Italy have only solidified my belief in the XPRO 12s as a top-tier performance pedal. While the price may be a barrier for some, they represent a true performance upgrade that is sure to impress even the most discerning cyclists. They’ve become an indispensable part of my racing arsenal, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to any serious cyclist looking to gain a competitive edge.

These pedals aren’t just an accessory; they’re a performance enabler. The TIME XPRO 12 pedals have earned their place as a premium component worthy of serious consideration for any cyclist striving for peak performance.

Take a look at the XPRO 12 pedals on the SRAM site.