あの名作ペダルが現代に。MKS×BLUE LUG「XC-Ⅲ BEAR TRAP PEDAL」の魅力

A Legendary Pedal Reborn: The Appeal of the MKS × BLUE LUG XC-III Bear Trap Pedal

June 24, 2026

Eirin Imadegawa Kyodai-mae Branch Annex

The MKS × BLUE LUG XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL is a special flat pedal that carries forward the character of the legendary SUNTOUR XC-II while rebuilding it with modern manufacturing technology.

Its distinctive serrated cage, commonly described as a “bear trap,” provides excellent grip, while the smooth rotation reflects the quality expected from MKS. Add BLUE LUG’s extensive color selection, and the result is a pedal with plenty of appeal for classic MTB enthusiasts, gravel riders, touring cyclists, and customized city bikes alike.

Its attraction goes beyond visual impact. The pedal also feels reassuringly stable underfoot. From relaxed everyday rides in sneakers to routes that include slightly rougher surfaces, it provides dependable support.

- Contents -

Model, Price, and Size Information
A Special MKS × BLUE LUG Pedal Inspired by the Legendary SUNTOUR XC-II
More Than Just Looks: The Grip of the Bear-Trap Cage
Smooth MKS Rotation and a Comfortable Platform for Everyday Riding
Available in 13 Colors: Change the Character of Your Bike from the Pedals Up
Conclusion｜Classic MTB Character for Modern Bikes

MKS × BLUE LUG XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL｜Model, Price, and Size Information

【Suggested Retail Price】¥7,700-8,250 including tax, depending on color
【Colors】Black, Silver, Titan/Black, Red, Blue, Turquoise, Orange, Green, Purple, Titanium, White, Black/Silver, All Black
【Size】W100 × L90mm
【Weight】400g per pair
【Spindle Size】9/16 inch
【Recommended Bikes】MTB, BMX, fixed-gear bikes, gravel bikes, commuters, and more

▼Check available colors

A Special MKS × BLUE LUG Pedal Inspired by the Legendary SUNTOUR XC-II

For riders familiar with the mountain-bike scene of the 1980s and 1990s, the name SUNTOUR XC-II may carry a particularly special meaning.

Its serrated cage, substantial platform, and instantly recognizable bear-trap silhouette gave it a strong presence as a functional bicycle component. It offered a very different character from today’s thin, low-profile pedals.

The XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL brings the spirit of the SUNTOUR XC-II into the present through a collaboration between MKS and BLUE LUG. More than a cosmetic reissue, its cage shape was reconsidered using the original drawings and then rebuilt with modern production techniques.

MKS is widely respected as a pedal manufacturer committed to production in Japan. Its products are known for smooth rotation, durability, and the reassurance that comes from components designed for years of everyday use. Combined with BLUE LUG’s deep affection for bicycle culture and playful approach to customization, the result is more than a reproduction. It is a pedal that feels completely at home on contemporary bicycles.

It naturally suits classic mountain bikes and old-school BMX builds, but it also works surprisingly well with modern gravel bikes, steel touring bikes, and commuters. Its slightly rugged, tool-like appearance gives the entire bicycle a more defined character.

It feels nostalgic without being outdated. The fact that it has been thoughtfully adapted to the way people enjoy bicycles today is what makes this pedal so interesting.

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More Than Just Looks: The Grip of the Bear-Trap Cage

The first thing you notice about the XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL is its distinctive cage shape.

The term “BEAR TRAP” refers to the aggressively serrated cage surrounding the platform. Its bold silhouette carries the unmistakable character of a classic mountain-bike pedal.

The design does more than create visual impact. It also plays a major role in the pedal’s grip. The edges of the cage hold the sole securely, creating a reassuring connection when your foot meets the platform. It is particularly easy to use with sneakers and other everyday footwear.

Even during city riding, stable footing matters when accelerating away from a traffic light, rolling over a curb, or riding on damp roads after rain. The secure support beneath the foot provides welcome confidence in these everyday situations.

The same grip is also valuable on gravel routes and light unpaved roads. It feels more relaxed and approachable than a clipless pedal while still providing the secure connection expected from a capable flat pedal. This balance between accessibility and practical performance is a major part of its appeal.

You may initially choose it for the appearance, but once you ride it, you quickly realize that it is also genuinely comfortable and secure underfoot. The natural combination of classic design and real usability is what makes the MKS × BLUE LUG XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL so successful.

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Smooth MKS Rotation and a Comfortable Platform for Everyday Riding

Appearance matters, but pedals are used every day, making platform comfort and smooth rotation equally important.

The XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL features a wide W100 × L90mm platform. It supports the foot securely and works well not only on mountain and gravel bikes, but also on everyday commuters.

The generous platform also means you do not need to be overly precise about foot placement. It feels natural with sneakers and other casual footwear, making it suitable for commuting, school runs, shopping, and relaxed weekend rides.

As expected from an MKS pedal, the rotation is also exceptionally smooth.

Smooth pedal rotation creates a more natural sensation when starting and cruising, allowing you to continue pedaling comfortably over longer periods. It may not be the most visually obvious specification, but it is an important detail that contributes greatly to satisfaction while riding.

The XC-III lets you enjoy a classic appearance without sacrificing everyday comfort. That substance beneath the styling gives it the dependable quality associated with an MKS pedal.

It is an easy recommendation not only for riders building a classic MTB, but also for anyone wanting to add a subtle old-school element to a gravel or touring bike.

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Available in 13 Colors: Change the Character of Your Bike from the Pedals Up

Another major attraction of the XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL is its broad color selection.

In addition to classic Black and Silver, the lineup includes Titanium, White, Red, Blue, Turquoise, Orange, Green, Purple, and more, for a total of 13 options. You can keep the bike understated or use the pedals as a deliberate accent.

When customizing a bicycle, attention often goes first to larger components such as the handlebar, saddle, or tires. Pedals, however, can also make a surprisingly large difference to the overall impression.

Pair Silver with a steel frame for a refined and classic appearance. Black or All Black gives the lower part of the bike a sharper look and works easily with gravel bikes and commuters. Choosing Turquoise, Purple, or Orange can add a playful accent to the entire build.

Being able to choose based not only on function but also on how the pedal coordinates with the rest of the bike reflects BLUE LUG’s approach to customization.

You may begin imagining how a particular color could change the whole bicycle, or how the pedals might coordinate with the grips or bags. This is the kind of component that naturally encourages those ideas.

The XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL carries the character of a classic component while offering plenty of freedom to experiment on a modern bicycle. Its appeal lies not only in performance, but also in the enjoyment it brings as a custom part.

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Conclusion｜Classic MTB Character for Modern Bikes

A special MKS × BLUE LUG flat pedal inspired by the legendary SUNTOUR XC-II
The serrated bear-trap cage holds the sole securely and delivers excellent grip
A wide W100 × L90mm platform provides stable footing for city riding and gravel routes
Smooth MKS rotation makes the pedal comfortable and enjoyable for everyday use
Thirteen color options suit everything from classic MTBs to modern gravel bikes

The MKS × BLUE LUG XC-III BEAR TRAP PEDAL is more than a nostalgic reproduction.

It respects the distinctive character of the legendary SUNTOUR XC-II while using MKS manufacturing expertise to create a flat pedal that feels natural on modern bicycles.

The grip of the serrated cage, the stability of the wide platform, the smooth MKS rotation, and BLUE LUG’s extensive color selection all come together in a product filled with details that bicycle enthusiasts will appreciate.

It is an obvious match for old mountain bikes and BMX builds, but it is equally interesting on gravel bikes, touring bikes, and city commuters.

Changing a component at your feet can dramatically alter the character of a bicycle. For riders who want to enjoy classic styling, practical performance, and the pleasure of customization in a single pedal, this is an especially compelling choice.

▼Check available colors

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