The Q Factor of the pedals is mainly related to the length of the pins. The pedals Shimano (Dura Ace) were the first to offer two axle length versions, the standard one and the one 4mm longer. Now also Time expands the availability for the Xpro version, thanks to well three pin lengths, 51, 53 and 57 mm.
What does it mean to have a support platform closer or further from the crankset? How do you choose the length that best suits your needs? What does it mean in terms of technical performance? We delve into the topic thanks to the contribution of Alessandro Colò, former rider and now specialized biomechanic center Bodyframe from La Spezia.
What is the Q-factor of the pedal and its axle?
In essence it is the parameter that moves the foot/shoe away from or closer to the crankIn my opinion, a premise is necessary. The variations related to the Q factor pedals are a value that it doesn't make a big difference in terms of overall performance, not as much as a saddle height, just to give an example.
Is there a standard?
Talking about road pedals, we can consider 53mm a sort of standard for all producers.
What does tightening or loosening the Q factor entail?
It should never be done from one day to the next, because it requires a adaptation periodEvery small change on the bike must include an adjustment period for the body. risk of getting hurt it's real, especially when it comes to joints, especially that kneecap.
Who is the increased width intended for?
Generally speaking, anyone who presents any very bowed legs and a work corner of the feet with the toes pointed outwards. To anyone who has a intertrochanteric distance greater than 36 centimetersThese are rare cases, but they do exist. While the pins with very short length are aimed at those who have a very, very narrow pelvis, With the reduced distance between the femoral headsIt is essential to start from a correct measurement, avoiding the risk of making mistakes.
Mechanically speaking, can a pedal Q-factor be advantageous?
Mechanically yes, perhaps for lightning-fast performance or for those who can deliver many watts in a short time. The correct evaluation must consider the subjectivity of the person, before everything else.
Wrong choice, is there a way to fix it?
In part yes and the simplest solution is to insert one or more washers, when the pin is short and the need is to widen it, respecting the thread of the crank between the pedal stop and the crank itself.
Is there one aspect of pedaling that is more important than others?
An important, but not peremptory, rule is respecting the axis between knee and foot. However, even in this case it is essential to also take into consideration the background of the cyclist subjectThose who have undergone surgery on their lower limbs may need to assume a position that is not perfectly aligned, but adequate for their needs. Accidents have a significant impact on our bodies. And then it has to be taken into consideration the movement of the ankle, which should never be too closed or too open.
In conclusion
The ability to choose the width of the pedal spindle (parallel to the cleat type) is a further step forward in the search for the best performance. Pedal axle width and its Q-factor have never been a primary topic, but it has come to the attention of many thanks to the new Time pedals. It's not the Q-factor of the cranks, because they are two different things. The latter is represented by the distance between the external sections of the two cranks. The choice of a pedal with the right axle length should not be made randomly, but supported by a correct and in-depth evaluation by an expert biomechanic, capable of reading and interpreting even the subjective characteristics of the athlete.
