Nukeproof Horizon Pro Review

Whether you're just dusting the cobwebs off your bike after winter or you've been crushing it non-stop since last season, and you're thinking about a new set of pedals, the Nukeproof Horizon Pro is an excellent choice. These forged 6061 aluminum body pedals with Chromoly axle offer loads of grip and are built to take whatever you dive into whether it be smashing downhill in the steeps and rock gardens, snaking through flowy singletrack, or even racing enduro. They have been meticulously designed with a large platform and angled faces because we all know rocks like to jump up at us from time to time, and are fully serviceable offering the complete package when it comes to a flat pedal.

Performance Comparison

Grip/Traction

The grip on the Nukeproof Horizon Pro pedals is second to none. The extra-long pins and open concave platform create an exceptional amount of traction, making them a spectacular choice if you gravitate towards extended rocky terrain. We found that our Five Ten Hellcats with ultra tacky soles mimic the feeling of being clipped in while riding the Horizon Pro. This high amount of traction provides a secure feeling when charging through hairy sections of trail.

On the flip-side, problems can arise with removing your foot in a slower section or when an unexpected dab needs to happen. Since the grip is super tacky, it can be challenging to reposition your foot. This extreme amount of traction doesn't satisfy all disciplines on the bike and translates poorly to the dirt jump bike. At the bike park, we prefer pedal with a little less grip to allow for trickery and quick foot adjustments. The Horizon pins are adjustable, giving the ability to lengthen them to each rider's desires. Pins can also be removed to lessen the grip and traction if need be.

Platform

The platform on the Horizons is a forged 6061 aluminum body, with a footprint of 100mm x 105mm combined with a width of 15mm. This is by no means the thinnest profile on the market with other pedals such as the HT AE03 at a slim 11mm. This would typically result in more pedal strikes, but with this platform being a bit narrower width they have a little extra ground clearance. We were shocked not to get any pedal bite out on the trail. The Horizons also have a longer distance between the platform and the crank arm, providing a bit more overlap than most pedals. Although these pedals don't have the largest footprint, they still have the feel of a larger platform.

Pedal Mobility

Mobility on the Horizon Pro is smooth and consistent. Even riding more aggressive features, these pedals feel strong, through and through. With two bushings and four sealed bearings, the rotation feels firmly controlled. This is a much-appreciated feature when dropping a foot in flat turns or when slipping off and not having the pedal spin out of control.

Servicing/Build

The Nukeproof Horizon Pro pedal is an 'at ease' pedal having no complications when it comes to servicing or mounting. Check out the Nukeproof Horizon Pro website for a detailed video with Sam Hill's bike mechanic showing step-by-step on how to remove and reinstall new bearings of the Horizon Pro. What better tutorial to watch than of the mechanic for the man himself tearing his signature pedal apart? A rebuild kit for this pedal starts at $16.99 and includes a full set of new pins.

The Horizon pedals are constructed of some of the best materials available but still don't break the bank. They are built with a durable Chromoly axle, riding on four sealed bearings, 2 DU bushings, inside of a forged aluminum body, topped with adjustable pins. These are designed to withstand the most aggressive gravity-bound abuse. Nukeproof also has replacement parts for every function of the pedals, making these easy to repair if

necessary.

Weight

Our aluminum tested pedals weighed in at 450 grams, which was on the higher end of the scale in our group of both aluminum and composite pedals tested. While eliminating weight can be advantageous, we never felt the weight of the Nukeproof as a detriment to their performance or feel. There is an option to purchase this pedal with a Titanium axle, which dramatically drops the weight to 392 grams while increasing the price significantly. Since this pedal is gravity oriented, weight is a non-factor when compared to grip and platform.

Best Applications

The Horizon Pro Aluminum pedal is best suited to trail, enduro, and downhill riding. If weight isn't a huge concern for you enduro riders, then maybe you will want to take a stab at these beauties. Although slightly one of the heavier pedals in the aluminum flat pedal category, the Horizon Pro happens to be the signature pedal for Sam Hill, a World Cup Downhill and Enduro World Series Champion. If he's killing it with these pedals, Nukeproof has must be doing something right.

Value

Currently, many flat pedals out on the market today offering high durability and sleek design are contingent with a hefty cost, but the Nukeproof Horizon Pro pedals happen to be fairly priced. Attention to detail was not left out in the R&D of these bad boys. The strength is in the design, and when servicing is needed, it won't break the bank.

Conclusion

The Nukeproof Horizon Pro pedals may not be the most modern design or made from the fanciest of materials, but they sure do grip and for the price, are hands down one of the best bangs for your buck when it comes to figuring out which flat pedals to buy. The Horizon flat pedals provide a sleek look with multiple anodized colors and a quality machined finish. With a conservative platform design to prevent foot fatigue and long pins to assure traction through rough terrain, Nukeproof produced a true quality pedal. The grip provided may be overkill for the dirt jump crowd, but these are perfect downhill pedals or make a great set of flats for your favorite enduro loop. At the end of the day, most riders are looking for a reliable pedal that won't break the bank, which is why we choose the Nukeproof Horizon as our Best Buy for 2019 flat pedals.