Pedals don't rate real high on the sex appeal scale for product reviews. They don't have the pizzazz of suspension or the visible craftsmanship of a finely welded frame. None the less, what would you do without pedals? Whether you're runnin' platforms, cages or clipless, you've got to have something you're comfortable with or your ride will suffer.

There's no doubt that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. But what does it mean if you simplify the design, have a completely different look and a devoted following? It might mean you're clipped into a pair of Time A.T.A.C. pedals and not Shimanos or the ever popular Shimano copycats.

You've heard it before and I'll say it again, these are possibly the best mud and muck pedals made. The parts are simple yet well designed and built. Regardless of the conditions the "click" assuring my connection to the platform was audible and true. Once clicked in the feeling was solid without feeling locked in. The pedals are well put together and they need to be. There's nothing like the feeling of assuming your "clicked" in, trying to pull some air and then realizing your feet are no longer connected to the pedals. The scream or expletive emitted as you land is usually an octave or two higher than normal.

The last several years I've been riding Shimano knock-offs. The entry motion is slightly different on the Times' and took several rides before I got it down. Like with everyone's first adventure on clipless pedals, I had a couple of spills. For some reason it took longer to get use to the entry and exit movements than on other pedals. This said, the pedal performed without exception once I got familiar with them.

In summary, it's not necessary to ditch your current pedals and switch to Times' tomorrow if your comfortable with what you got. But if your looking for something different or your trails are often wet and muddy, check out what Time A.T.A.C. has to offer. They are available in several models and price points. From the entry model Alium to the high end Carbon-Ti, prices range from about $90 to $250 or so for the unnecessarily expensive end.

Who needs these: muddy trails are a fact of your life

Who doesn't: happy with what ya got