If you’re a BMW GS fan, you probably already know that the R1200GS has standard size footpegs while the more off-road oriented R1200GS Adventure has larger cleated footpegs. The folks at Black Dog figured if larger is good, then bigger is even better, and their virtually indestructible Platform Footpegs were born.

Black Dog Cycle Works is proud of their extensive field testing and their line of platform footpegs justifies it. Their precision-machined aircraft alloy footpegs are built to withstand the toughest off-road impacts. We installed a pair of Black Dog Cycle Works Footpegs on the 2014 BMW R1200GS Adventure to review how they perform.

Included in the package are new springs, an installation pin and clear instructions, which allowed us to switch the pegs in about 10 minutes. During the installation, we discovered there are subtle differences between the Black Dog springs and the stock ones, so be sure to use the supplied springs when installing the pegs.

Upon installing the Black Dog Cycle Works Footpegs, you immediately feel a difference. At first the shifter felt a bit cramped, but a quick readjustment of the shifter made it feel right at home. We tested the footpegs on the highway and there was no noticeable difference in vibration compared to the stock pegs. A larger surface area gives you more options for finding a comfortable foot position as well.

You’ll appreciate that each footpeg comes with a built-in bottle opener!

The real joy in these pegs comes into play when you hit the dirt. With a more even weight distribution, you can forget about getting ‘hot foot’ when standing on the pegs for long periods. We’re taught to steer with our feet when riding off-road and the folks at Black Dog say: “It’s like adding power steering to your bike.” This seemed like a bit of hype until getting into some of the technical stuff. Here you quickly realize how much easier it is to make a 600 pound dirt bike change direction.

Steering takes less effort, because your weight can be shifted further out from the center of mass and you have more leverage with the larger footpegs. The beautifully machined ridges did a great job of keeping our feet from sliding off the footpegs as well.

Each of the Black Dog Cycle Works Footpegs measures 4.25 in. (108 mm) long by 2.5 in. (63.5 mm) wide and weigh only 8 ounces (227 grams). From the photos, you can see the relative size difference compared to the stock BMW R1200GS and R1200GS Adventure footpegs.

Size comparison between BDCW Platform Footpegs and stock BMW R1200GS footpegs.

Size comparison between BDCW Platform Footpegs and stock BMW R1200GS Adventure footpegs.

.
So, you may ask, if bigger footpegs are so great, why don’t they come stock from the factory that way? Well, there is a small trade-off. The bigger pedals do force you to put your legs out further when you stop. If you do lots of stop-and-go city riding, you may feel the pedals get in the way. Most riders should get used to the wider footpegs spread quickly, but you can always change back to your stock footpegs in around 10 minutes for your daily commute.

Black Dog Cycle Works Platform Footpegs are available in silver and black anodized finish for most BMW and KTM Adventure Bike models, as well as the Triumph Explorer 1200. They also offer a ‘Low’ version that provides taller riders with more leg room.

 
Shopping Options: