How do you spell this footrest apparatus: Footpeg, footpegs, or foot peg, foot pegs?
This was one of the most controversial topics in my bike peg investigation: how do you actually spell it? One Harley-Davidson article spelled it two different ways in the same article, so confusion abounds in this disputed debate.
Plural form
In the motorcycle world, both the plural form "footpegs" and "foot pegs" are commonly used to refer to the cylindrical extensions on which the rider places their feet. However, "footpegs" is the more commonly used term in the motorcycle industry. So, if you’re specifically talking about motorcycle footrests in the plural: it’s "footpegs."
Singular Form
When talking about just one of the pegs on either side of your ride, the most common spelling is "foot peg.” The word "footpeg" is not a recognized word in standard English; however, some motorcycle manufacturers and enthusiasts might use "footpeg" as a shorthand or industry-specific term for foot peg adding fuel to the fire of this hotly contested feud.
What are motorcycle footpegs?
What is the definition of motorcycle footpegs?
Footpegs on a motorcycle are the metal or aluminum pegs that are attached to the frame of the motorcycle creating a surface for the rider's feet to rest on for even weight distribution. Footpegs come in various designs, materials, and sizes depending on the type of motorcycle and the intended use.
Footpegs can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Providing a stable and comfortable platform for the rider's feet
- Protecting the rider’s legs in an accident or tip-over
- Improving control and grip while riding
- Facilitating weight transfer during cornering and other maneuvers
- Allowing the rider to stand up on the motorcycle during off-road riding
- Allowing the rider to stand up on the motorcycle for stunts.
What kind of motorcycle footpegs are there and what are their weight limits?
Standard footpegs
OEM or standard stock bike pegs are the most common type and are typically included with the motorcycle from the factory. They are designed for general-purpose riding and commuting and are usually made of steel or aluminum. Some brand names with standard stock bike pegs are ProTaper, Renthal, and MSR with weight limits of standard varying based on the manufacturer and model and supporting between 200-300 lbs each.
Adjustable Aftermarket footpegs
Adjustable footpegs are often after-market and allow the rider to adjust their height, upper-body riding position, and handle more weight according to their level of comfort and their ultimate purpose. They are perfect for riders who want to customize their riding experience to suit their own style and preferences. Some brand names with adjustable bike pegs are Rizoma, Gilles Tooling, and Woodcraft. The weight limit of adjustable bike pegs varies based on the manufacturer and model, but most can support more weight than standard and are between 250-350 lbs each.
Folding footpegs
Folding bike pegs are designed to fold up when storing your bike in a limited space or in the event of an accident or a fall it can reduce the risk of damage to the motorcycle or injury to the rider. Some brand names with folding footpegs are SW-Motech, Puig, and R&G Racing, and the weight limit of most folding bike pegs is similar to that of adjustable footpegs supporting between 200-300 lbs each.
Racing footpegs
Racing footpegs are designed to provide maximum grip and control during high-speed riding or racing at an extreme lean angle and are typically made of lightweight, high-strength materials such as aluminum or titanium. Some brand names with racing footpegs are Sato Racing, Driven Racing, and Lightech with weight limits supporting between 200-300 lbs each.
Passenger footpegs
The passenger pegs are designed to provide a comfortable and secure riding experience for passengers and are usually located toward the rear tire. The pegs attached to the frame can be foldable to preserve every square inch of the bike and are typically made of steel or aluminum. Some brand names with passenger footpegs are Kuryakyn, Show Chrome Accessories, and Cobra. The extra weight of a passenger can easily be handled by these pegs which can support between 200-300 lbs each.
How do you choose the right motorcycle footpegs?
Materials Options
Choosing the material of your pegs can be tricky. You want it light, but if it’s too soft, like aluminum, it can bend easily. If it’s strong and light like titanium but it doesn’t bend, it could easily break when you drop your bike. Stamped solid steel pegs are the most common material, but stainless steel pegs are better because they’re stronger than aluminum and won’t rust. It’s not as strong as titanium, but it won’t break under pressure.
Finding Your Fit
Your individual riding position preference will determine which set of pegs is best for you. It’s about feel and your ability to control the bike while shifting under centrifugal forces. How you ride and where you ride are important factors.
If you race, commute, or go off-road, the position and quality of pegs will be specific to your style. For off-roading, you’ll need pegs with reliable, good grips, and for cruising you’ll need more comfortably positioned pegs closer to the front wheel that is stronger to handle the extra weight.
With custom pegs, it’s all about form and function. The form is what you want them to look like whether they are blacked out, chromed, or flat brushed steel, it should match the style and model of your bike. These pegs come in every shade of metal or chrome and every color of the rainbow.
Function is most important because pegs handle so much weight, help control your bike, and add to the overall comfort of your ride. They need to fit your body type, style of riding, and road conditions. Some people stand on them for tricks or riding off-road so they need to be pretty tough and feel solid. Certain bikes will stress the peg more than others, so every rider needs to be aware of their weight limit.
For cruising, the pegs will hold additional weight and will need to be comfortable for both long trips and a short ride. The pegs will be most comfortable in front of the seat with your leg slightly bent.
For racing, the pegs are behind your legs and are usually foldable for safety reasons. The pegs must be sturdy with excellent off-road grip because even though there is less weight, the violent terrain changes will put pressure on the inside peg.
What are some leading brands of motorcycle footpegs along with their weight and price?
Pro Taper ($76–$178) is known for producing high-quality footpegs for motocross and off-road riders and is rated for weight limits ranging from 220 to 265 lbs each.
IMS Products ($79–$250) is a brand that makes a variety of footpegs for all types of motorcycles. Their footpegs are designed to be durable and provide excellent grip and are rated for weight limits ranging from 250 to 350 lbs each.
Pivot Pegz ($90–$198) produces footpegs that are designed to move with the rider's feet providing better control and reducing fatigue. Their weight limits are typically around 265 lbs each.
Touratech Pegs ($169–$299) make high-end bike pegs that will last a lifetime. Never worry about bent pegs again, as Touratech bike pegs are lightweight, durable, and made from billet aluminum and are patented with two adjustable collar heights settings. They support about 250 to 350 lbs each.
Hammerhead Designs ($287) makes high-end footpegs that are designed to be lightweight and strong with a weight rating typically between 220 to 265 lbs each.
Tongze ($24) makes inexpensive 8mm foldable, universal footpegs for passengers made from aluminum and are rated for weight between 220 - 280 lbs each.
Kuryakyn ($150) produces adjustable, lightweight pegs that can be attached to the engine guard tubing with Magnum Quick Clamps and have a weight limit rating of between 250 to 300 lbs each.
Moose Racing ($127-$138) are industry-leading bike pegs that hold up to most any conditions. Moose racing pegs range in weight limits from 250 - 350 lbs each.
JFG RACING ($34-$128) are aluminum pegs and are made for light-weight dirt-bike racing and are weight rated between 200 to 250 lbs each.
