pedalen

Pedals are foot-operated devices that translate the motion of the legs into mechanical action. The term covers a range of applications, most commonly bicycle pedals and the pedals used on pianos and pipe organs.

On bicycles, pedals attach to the crank arms and drive the chain through the sprockets. They can be platforms, where the sole rests directly on a flat surface; toe-clips, which hold the shoe in place; or clipless systems, which secure a specialized shoe via a cleat. Materials range from aluminum and steel to composite plastics, and some high-end pedals use carbon fiber. Pedals contain bearings and a spindle; proper adjustment ensures smooth rotation and minimizes foot strain. Regular maintenance includes cleaning, lubrication, and inspection for wear.

In musical instruments, pedals modify sound rather than propulsion. A piano typically has three pedals: the soft (una corda), damper (sustain), and sostenuto (selective sustain). Pedals on large organs or pipe organs control stops or coupling mechanisms, or operate expression pedals for dynamic control.

Beyond these, pedals may appear on machinery, vehicles, or game controllers, always serving to actuate a function via the feet. The design focus across applications includes reliability, grip, ergonomics, and safe disengagement.