Power Grips Standard Strap Set (Black)

What a power strap is

A power strap is a diagonal band that holds the front of your shoe to the pedal using your foot angle instead of a buckle or cleat. The Power Grips standard set is the original version, made by MRP, and fits ordinary shoes up to 12 inches around the widest point.

The strap runs from one corner of the pedal to the opposite corner. Point your toe inward and the strap lines up with your foot, leaving room to slide in. Straighten your foot and the strap twists across the top of your shoe, pulling tight. Roll your heel outward and back and it lets go.

That makes it a halfway house between flat pedals and toe clips: your foot stays put over bumps, but you leave with a natural foot movement.

Who the standard size suits

The standard set suits most adult sneakers, casual shoes, and flat-soled work shoes. Power Grips’ rule is to measure around the widest part of the shoe: up to 12 inches, buy standard; over 12 inches, buy the XL set.

Standard is the better choice whenever it fits, because a shorter strap leaves less slack and holds a normal shoe more securely.

Setting up the strap and tension

Getting the tension right takes a few short rides. Start a little loose and tighten gradually.

1. Fit the straps. Remove any toe clips, toe straps and front reflectors. Bolt the strap ends to the pedal diagonally using the supplied hardware, following the instruction sheet for left and right pedals.
2. Set an initial tension. Using a 4mm Allen key on the micro-adjustable bracket, set the strap so you can slide your shoe in with your toe angled inward.
3. Test it standing still. With the bike against a wall, slide in, straighten your foot and try to lift your heel. The shoe should stay put.
4. Ride a short loop. Practice entering and exiting a dozen times on a quiet street or parking lot.
5. Fine-tune. If your foot pulls out when you pedal hard, tighten the bracket a little. If you have to force your foot in, loosen it.

If you switch between thin and thick shoes, set the tension for the thicker pair and check that the thinner pair still stays put. If no single setting works for both, one pair may be outside the standard size.

Compatible pedals

Power Grips mount on metal cage pedals that accept toe clips and straps. Classic double-sided touring pedals, such as the MKS Sylvan Touring, are a good match; see cage pedals for options.

Modern pinned flat pedals usually lack suitable mounting points, and plastic pedals are not what Power Grips specify. If your bike has flats you want to keep, look at strap systems designed for platforms in the toe clips and straps guide, such as the Wellgo W8 double straps.

If you are buying new pedals for the straps, check the thread: most adult cranks take 9/16” pedals, and the left pedal is reverse threaded.

How it compares with toe clips and clipless

The power strap is easier to enter and exit than a toe clip and strap, and it works with more shoes, because there is no clip to size. A toe clip with a tight strap holds harder, which is why track riders still use them.

Clipless pedals are more precise again, but need cycling shoes and cleats.

Check the mounting bolts after the first few rides and every few months after, and replace a strap that starts to crack or fray.