The TIME DH 8 [paid link] pedals are designed for gravity riders who demand precision engagement, consistent performance, and reliable durability under aggressive riding conditions. However, optimizing their compatibility with the rest of your drivetrain and shoe system is crucial to ensure peak function and rider comfort. This guide explores in detail how the DH 8 [paid link] pedals interact with various cranksets, cleats, and shoe models, while highlighting the most common compatibility pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Understanding the TIME DH 8 Pedal Design
The TIME DH 8 pedals feature a dual-arch retention system and ATAC (Auto Tension Adjustment Concept) mechanism, engineered for intuitive entry and mud-shedding capability. Constructed from aluminum with a hollow steel axle, the DH 8 is tailored for enduro and downhill applications.
This model’s axle spacing and platform width are slightly wider than TIME’s XC and MX series, improving stability and foot support during descents. The spring tension and cleat interface geometry make it compatible only with TIME’s ATAC cleats [paid link], specifically the 13°/17° or 10° release angle options.
Because of its unique engagement mechanism and wide stance, ensuring compatibility with cranksets, cleats, and shoes is essential to prevent premature wear, disengagement issues, or biomechanical misalignment.
Crankset Compatibility
TIME DH 8 pedals use a standard 9/16″ x 20 TPI (threads per inch) spindle, making them compatible with nearly all modern MTB and DH crank arms. However, crankset compatibility extends beyond just threading—it involves clearance and Q-factor alignment.
- Best compatibility: Shimano Saint, SRAM Descendant, Race Face Atlas, and Truvativ Holzfeller cranksets. These models offer sufficient spacing between the crank arm and pedal body to prevent rub during pedaling.
- Potential issues: Narrow-profile XC or gravel crank arms can cause interference with the DH 8’s outer cage due to its extended body.
- What to avoid: Do not use cranksets with pedal spacers exceeding 3mm unless you are addressing shoe clearance problems, as excessive spacing can reduce bearing life and alter rider stance width.
Before installation, inspect the crank’s pedal threads for debris or cross-threading. Apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound or light grease to the pedal spindle threads to prevent galling and corrosion.
Cleat Compatibility
TIME DH 8 pedals exclusively use TIME ATAC cleats [paid link], available in two float configurations—13°/17° (brass) and 10° (steel). While both cleat types engage identically, they differ in release feel and lateral float.
- Optimal pairing: Use the 13°/17° brass ATAC cleats. They provide a natural float that reduces knee strain, particularly beneficial for riders with a wide stance or variable pedaling form.
- Not compatible: Cleats from LOOK, Shimano SPD, or Crankbrothers systems will not engage with the DH 8 retention bars and may damage the mechanism.
- Avoid mixed cleat setups: Installing different release-angle cleats on the same pair of shoes can lead to uneven engagement, premature release, or knee alignment issues.
It’s important to periodically inspect the cleats for wear. Worn cleats will cause inconsistent engagement and can lead to accidental release under torque. Replace the cleats when edges begin to round off or when float feels excessive.
Shoe Compatibility
The DH 8’s wide platform works best with flat-soled, reinforced MTB or downhill shoes that include a recessed cleat pocket. Shoe compatibility affects not just engagement but also rider comfort and stability.
Recommended shoes:
- Five Ten Kestrel Pro Boa
- Shimano AM9 / AM7
- Ride Concepts Hellion Clip
- Northwave Clan Clipless
These models provide firm sole stiffness and sufficient tread clearance for the ATAC cleat to engage without interference.
Avoid:
- Road shoes with narrow tread patterns (as they limit lateral float).
- Shoes with deep, soft tread that can clog around the cleat interface, reducing engagement precision.
Ensure that cleats are installed with even torque—typically 5–6 Nm—and positioned to allow neutral foot alignment. A slight toe-out position often improves comfort during extended descents.
Drivetrain and Chainline Considerations
Though the pedals themselves don’t directly affect chainline, their stance width and rider positioning can influence drivetrain stress. Riders using boost-spacing cranksets (52mm chainline) will benefit from the DH 8’s slightly wider platform, which aligns naturally with the increased Q-factor of modern enduro frames.
However, when installed on non-boost setups, the wider stance may cause minor clearance concerns with chainstays or crank protectors. Verify crank arm spacing before tightening the pedals fully.
Common Compatibility Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Using SPD cleats with ATAC pedals: This is the most frequent issue. TIME’s mechanism is proprietary, and mismatched cleats will not engage properly.
- Improper shoe tread trimming: Some riders over-trim tread around the cleat pocket, reducing traction and compromising stability on technical sections.
- Cross-threading during installation: Always hand-thread the spindle before tightening with a wrench to prevent damage to crank threads.
- Insufficient grease on threads: This leads to corrosion and makes future removal difficult, particularly after wet rides.
- Ignoring Q-factor symmetry: Unequal stance width can cause knee pain and reduce pedaling efficiency.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures a longer pedal lifespan and consistent engagement every ride.
Optimizing Performance and Fit
To achieve the best pedal feel, adjust the cleat fore-aft position to match your pedaling style. Riders with aggressive downhill stances often prefer a slightly rearward cleat position for better control and stability.
After installation, perform a few static engagement tests. Step in and out of the pedals repeatedly to verify even engagement resistance on both sides. If engagement feels tight, lightly lubricate the spring bar pivots with a dry PTFE-based spray—avoid heavy grease as it attracts dirt.
Finally, check pedal bearings periodically. Although the DH 8 uses sealed cartridge bearings, dust and moisture can still affect long-term performance.
Compatibility Summary Table
| Component Type | Compatible Options | Not Recommended | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cranksets | Shimano Saint, Race Face Atlas, Truvativ Holzfeller | Narrow XC crank arms | Ensure 2–3 mm clearance from crank arm |
| Cleats | TIME ATAC 13°/17°, ATAC 10° | SPD, LOOK, Crankbrothers | Replace every 1000–1500 km |
| Shoes | Five Ten Kestrel, Shimano AM9, Ride Concepts Hellion | Road shoes, deep tread shoes | Check for tread interference |
| Drivetrain | Boost and non-boost MTB setups | Road drivetrains | Verify Q-factor alignment |
Conclusion
The TIME DH 8 pedals deliver outstanding downhill performance when paired with the right crankset, cleats, and shoes. Ensuring compatibility across these components prevents engagement issues, reduces mechanical wear, and enhances control on rough terrain. By adhering to the manufacturer’s specifications and performing routine checks, you’ll maintain optimal performance and safety throughout the pedal’s lifespan.