Why Your Pedals Could Be the Next Aerodynamic Upgrade
In cycling, the pursuit of speed is often found in the smallest details. Riders invest in aerodynamic helmets, deep-section wheels, skin suits and optimised bike positions to save precious watts. Yet one component has remained largely overlooked—the road pedal.
Modern road pedals are engineered for power transfer, reliability and low weight, but many designs feature an open cavity on the underside of the pedal body. While this serves manufacturing and structural purposes, it also creates unnecessary airflow disruption. This is where Aercover offers a simple yet innovative solution.
Completing the Pedal
Rather than redesigning the pedal itself, Aercover is a precision-engineered cover that fits seamlessly into the underside of compatible Shimano SPD-SL pedals, creating a cleaner, more complete aerodynamic profile.
The concept is simple: close the opening, smooth the airflow and create a more refined pedal silhouette. The result is a product that not only looks like it should have been part of the original pedal design, but also addresses an often-overlooked source of aerodynamic drag.
Every Watt Counts
Aerodynamics become increasingly important as speed increases. Above approximately 30 km/h, aerodynamic drag accounts for the majority of the resistance a cyclist must overcome. While a single component may only contribute a small saving, cycling performance is built on the accumulation of marginal gains.
Professional teams spend countless hours optimising equipment because saving even a few watts can translate into valuable seconds over a time trial, breakaway or long-distance event.
Aercover applies this same philosophy to one of the few remaining areas of the bicycle that has received little aerodynamic attention.
More Than Aerodynamics
The benefits extend beyond airflow.
By covering the underside cavity, Aercover also helps reduce the build-up of dirt, road grime and water around the pedal body while limiting direct water ingress through the cleat bolt openings. This can help keep pedals cleaner between rides and reduce exposure to harsh riding conditions.
The covers install in seconds using a precision snap-fit design, requiring no tools, no permanent modifications and no changes to the pedal's operation. When servicing or cleaning is required, they can be removed just as easily.
Engineered for Performance
Every Aercover is manufactured from a lightweight PAHT-CF carbon fibre reinforced composite, balancing durability with minimal weight. A complete set weighs just 27 grams for Shimano Dura-Ace PD-R9100 pedals and 32 grams for Shimano Ultegra PD-R8000 pedals, adding virtually no noticeable weight while maintaining a premium finish.
The current range includes models for:
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Shimano Dura-Ace PD-R9100
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Shimano Ultegra PD-R8000
Additional platforms, including the Favero Assioma PRO RS, are currently in development.
Designed for Riders Who Appreciate the Details
Cycling has always rewarded attention to detail. Whether it's optimising tyre pressure, refining your bike fit or selecting the right nutrition strategy, performance improvements often come from combining many small advantages rather than searching for one dramatic breakthrough.
Aercover reflects this philosophy. It transforms an overlooked component into a cleaner, more aerodynamic design while also enhancing protection and visual appeal. For riders who appreciate thoughtful engineering and believe every detail matters, it's another smart addition to a performance-focused bike.
Because sometimes, the fastest upgrades are the ones nobody else has thought to look for.