TESTED: Tag Metals T3 Pedals
We put Tag Metals' first flat pedal offering to the test.
Words: Will Shaw
Photos: Tim Bardsley-Smith
I’ve already reviewed a number of TAG Metals’ cockpit components, and I was impressed by their performance. For those that haven’t heard of TAG, they’re a big player in the dirt bike world entering the mountain biking arena with a selection of high-end components. This is a move that’s been successful in the past, most notably with Renthal and their premium cockpit offerings.
In this issue I’ve got TAG’s T3 platform pedals, which are a set of nylon flat pedals that retail for $82.95. The pedals spin on a fairly standard DU bushings and sealed bearing combo, which are easily accessed for servicing. Over the course of two months of testing the pedals are still running smoothly and play free. This is to be expected, but good to see nonetheless.
The T3’s 110mm x100mm size is both roomy and comfortable, reducing pressure on the outside of your foot nicely. This size accommodates 40 x 3mm replaceable pins. The pedals’ size, pins, and concave shape keep your foot in place and supported. For those after a bigger fit, TAG offer their higher end aluminium pedals in a 115mm x 120mm platform for $219.95.
Need some shoes for your new flat pedals? Check out some flat pedal shoe reviews below:
TESTED: Ion Scrub and Scrub Select
Whilst Nylon is marketed (and priced) as an inferior option to alloy pedals, a well-executed set can reduce weight and deliver a quality product at a lower price. In the case of the T3 this is certainly the case, as the T3s offer everything I need in a flat pedal. The downside to using a nylon body is the scuffs and scrapes the body can suffer, which was evident on my set after a couple of months of testing. Despite looking a bit more worn, there’s been no significant damage to the pins and no play in the pedal axle, so the wear is primarily aesthetic.
I rode the T3s with a set of Unparalleled Dust Up shoes. These shoes are incredibly grippy, and the combination with the T3s provided a slip free experience. I also rode the T3s in a set of Five Ten Impact Pros and found them to be similarly grippy.
Weighing in at 362 grams for the set, the T3 pedals are in the ballpark for nylon pedals at this price point. One Up Component’s Composite Pedals are in the same price range at $79.95, and they weigh in at 355 grams. Another options in this market are Deity’s Deftraps, which are priced at $95 and come in at 391 grams per pair.
From my experience I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the T3s. Similar to their cockpit components, the T3s are a measured and well-designed entry to the flat pedal market from TAG. The T3 pedals are available in 8 colours, so there should be something there to suit most bikes colour wise. TAG also have an aluminium pedal that’s similar to the T3 priced at $215.95, as well as the oversized alloy model priced at $219.95.
Hits:
- Great price to performance ratio
- Excellent grip
- Replaceable pins
Misses:
- Nylon body scuffs up easily
RRP: $82.95
From: echelonsports.com.au
