Toe cages let riders use athletic shoes, while SPD clips require compatible cycling shoes and cleats. Schwinn's IC4 has dual-sided pedals with both options and its product page says regular sneakers fit the cages; check the exact bike's pedal before choosing shoes or replacements.
Check the pedal on the exact bike before buying shoes. Some pedals provide a toe cage for athletic shoes, while others use clip-in cleats or offer both choices on a dual-sided pedal.
Compare the pedal options
| Pedal setup | Shoe compatibility and example |
|---|---|
| Toe cage | Holds an athletic shoe. Schwinn says regular sneakers fit the toe-cage side of its IC4 pedals. |
| SPD clip-in | Connects with cycling shoes and compatible SPD cleats. Schwinn identifies the IC4 clips as SPD-specific; Shimano describes SPD as a two-hole cleat system. |
| Dual-sided pedal | Has a cage on one side and an SPD-specific clip on the other. Schwinn lists this setup on the IC4. |
These are model-specific examples. Check the pedal included with the bike you are considering; a product family or app name does not tell you which pedal is attached.
Match shoes to the pedal
If you want to ride in athletic shoes, check that the exact pedal includes a toe cage. If you plan to clip in, match the shoe’s cleat compatibility to the pedal system. Read the maker’s fit and installation instructions before changing pedals or shoes.
Check the complete bike fit
Pedal choice is one part of the setup. Compare seat adjustment, handlebar reach and the manufacturer’s listed rider-height range for the exact model in the exercise bike types guide.
Related: exercise bike types comparison, elliptical buying guide, and treadmill buying guide. Visit the cardio equipment hub.
Sources
Common questions
Do I need cycling shoes for an exercise bike?
Not for a bike pedal with a toe cage that accepts athletic shoes. Schwinn says regular sneakers fit the toe cages on the IC4, whose other pedal side has SPD-specific clips.
Can I use regular sneakers on SPD bike pedals?
Use sneakers with the toe-cage side of a dual-sided pedal. The SPD clip side is for compatible cycling shoes and cleats; Schwinn identifies the IC4 clips as SPD-specific, and Shimano describes SPD as a two-hole cleat system.
What does SPD mean on an exercise bike pedal?
SPD stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, an integrated cycling shoe and pedal system. Shimano describes SPD as a two-hole cleat system, so check the exact shoe and pedal compatibility before buying.
Do all stationary bikes have dual-sided pedals?
No. Pedal features vary by model. Schwinn lists dual-sided pedals with cages and SPD-specific clips on its IC4.