Review: HT Leopard M1 clipless pedals
On the quest for the right clipless pedals Theresia tested many and finally struck gold with the HT Leopard M1. Check it out!
While trying to find the ideal clipless pedal for World Cup racing and training, I have tried different pedal systems and never was completely satisfied. This season, I’m riding on HT Leopard M1 pedals and I’m very confident that I finally found what I am looking for. Read on to find out about how the HT pedal system is designed and why I favour the pedals over others.
HT Leopard M1 - an open design.
Product Specifications
HT is known for their gravity products, with the Leopard M1 pedals they have finally created a pedal for Cross-Country. It comes equipped with HT’s proprietary cleat system.
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| Weight | 298 grams |
| Contact area (width x length) | 68 x 45 mm |
| Body material | Aluminium |
| Axle/Spindle material | Steel, CNC-machined |
| Bearings | EVO+-System, DU-Bushings |
| Spindle/Sole height | 17 mm |
| Release angle | 13° |
The Leopard’s M1 float depends on the cleats used. HT gives several options H30: 4.5°, X1: 4°, X1F: 8°, X2: 4°. I personally prefer little float and ride the X1 cleats.
My personal pedal history
As a little seven year old, I got started on clipless pedals. Back then it was Shimano SPD or Shimano SPD. The relationship lasted for 13 years until I tried Crankbrothers’ Eggbeaters 3 years ago. That did not work out too well as their cleat system and small contact area did not satisfy me completely. When preparing for the current season, I came across the HT Leopards M1 for XC with the proprietary cleat system. It was love at first sight and I never looked back. But why?
I started riding Shimano SPD pedals in 2004.
I switched to HT for the 2017 season.
Why I like the Leopard M1
The Leopard M1 allows you to adjust the release tension across a wide range. Even at the lowest setting available, I feel well anchored in the pedal without excessive float and have never released accidentally.
The tension adjuster works great.
The open design makes it hard for dirt to stick.
Another advantage of the Leopards is their sturdiness. Accidental rock scrapings and falls have not been able to reduce their functionality. Aside from a few scratches, the pedals have walked away from any mishap completely intact.
HT LEOPARD M1
Dirt drops right through the pedal.
The pedal’s performance is at its best in the mud. While I have had problems in the past, the HTs don’t mind mud, dirt and rain, even when I have to release from the pedals and get off the bike and walk through deep mud. In these kinds of situations the cleat system continues to function flawlessly.
Getting off the bike is no problem with the Leopards.
Mud and dirt are no problem for the HT Leopard M1s
Bearing service
The spindle can be removed easily with a provided nut that also allows you to adjust the bearing play.
The HT Leopards M1 are my safety anchor for World Cup racing.
My verdict
The HT Leopard M1 clipless pedals are a well-designed and durable XC pedal. When clipping in, the cleat system gives you two instead of one click as feedback. That takes a moment to get used to and then feels great. I highly enjoy the pedals large contact area and their secure footing. Other riders will also enjoy the large range of release tension adjustment and choice of float depending of the cleats used. For people looking to trim some weight off their race machine, HT also offers a lighter version with titanium spindles.
