Silicon Valley company Proton Locks started after founder Don Iller witnessed a young BMX rider break his leg after failing to release his foot from the pedal during a fall. By replacing the normal shoe cleat and pedal locking system in clipless pedals with a heavy duty magnet, the Proton magnetic clipless pedals claim to reduce the risk of injuries for cyclists by making it much easier to lock in and unlock.
The magnetic clipless pedals allow the rider to maintain a positive attraction to the pedal while riding, even while riding hard. If the rider falls, the side shear force can quickly and easily release the rider from the bike. Mavic also has their own version of a magnetic clipless pedal with the EZ Ride system but it requires you to completely change out your shoes and bike pedals.
The Proton magnetic clipless pedals are made from A380 aluminum with a nickel plated, high power magnet, chrome-molly spindle and sealed ball bearings. The magnetic clipless pedals come in three sizes for various uses from road riding to down hill mountain biking. The units range in price from $145 to $165 and can be bought from the Proton Locks online store.
I would love to hear from anyone who has tried these- perhaps at Interbike Outdoor Demo. I keep my clipless pedals on the loosest setting because on my knee and ankle problems. I am wondering if it requires less of a twisting motion to get out of the magnetic clipless pedals and do you run the risk of slipping a pedal when climbing or riding hard?