The TIME ATAC XC 2 [paid link] pedals are a popular choice among cross-country and gravel riders who value reliability, low maintenance, and mud-clearing efficiency. However, compatibility is a frequent point of confusion when pairing these pedals with shoes, cleats, and other drivetrain components. Understanding what works seamlessly with the ATAC XC 2 [paid link] system—and what doesn’t—can prevent performance issues, premature wear, and poor engagement on the trail.
Understanding the ATAC XC 2 Pedal System
The ATAC XC 2 uses TIME’s proprietary Auto Tension Adjustment Concept (ATAC) mechanism, which provides consistent engagement and self-cleaning action even in muddy or gritty conditions. Unlike Shimano SPD pedals, the ATAC system uses a bar and arch design that allows for lateral and angular float, reducing knee strain and enhancing comfort on long rides.
Each pedal features a composite body and steel axle, designed to balance lightweight performance with long-term durability. The engagement is tuned for off-road use, prioritizing stability and easy clip-in, even in unpredictable terrain.
Cleat Compatibility: The Foundation of Proper Function
The ATAC XC 2 pedals are compatible exclusively with TIME ATAC cleats [paid link]. These cleats are unique in their design and not interchangeable with SPD or Crankbrothers systems. Two versions of the cleat exist:
- ATAC Easy Cleats: Offer a 10° release angle for riders who prefer quicker disengagement, ideal for beginners or gravel riders who frequently unclip.
- ATAC Standard Cleats: Provide a 13° or 17° release angle depending on cleat orientation, designed for riders seeking a more locked-in feel during technical or high-effort pedaling.
Both cleat types use a two-bolt mounting system, compatible with most MTB and gravel shoes featuring standard SPD-style holes. However, riders must ensure adequate sole clearance—some road or cyclocross shoes with low tread depth may cause interference, preventing proper engagement.
Shoe Compatibility: Ensuring Proper Fit and Engagement
When choosing shoes for the TIME ATAC XC 2 pedals, sole shape and tread design play a major role in performance. Shoes with deep tread patterns or narrow cleat pockets can cause binding, leading to inconsistent engagement or difficulty clipping out.
For optimal compatibility:
- Select shoes specifically designed for XC, gravel, or trail riding, which generally provide better cleat pocket clearance.
- Avoid shoes with thick or heavily contoured soles around the cleat area unless they’re verified to fit TIME ATAC systems.
- Ensure cleats sit flush with the sole and do not recess too deeply, which can interfere with release tension and rotational float.
TIME recommends brands like Specialized, Giro, Fizik, and Sidi, as many of their MTB and gravel models are designed with ATAC pedal compatibility in mind.
Crank Arm and Q-Factor Considerations
The ATAC XC 2’s Q-factor (distance between crank arms at the pedals) is 54 mm per side, offering a balanced stance for most riders. This measurement affects hip and knee alignment during pedaling, so it’s important to confirm the spacing matches your body geometry and frame design.
Crank compatibility is generally broad—any crankset with standard 9/16″ pedal threads will fit. However, riders using carbon crank arms should install pedal washers to prevent surface damage or creaking at the interface. Avoid using threadlock compounds on the pedal spindle threads; instead, apply a light layer of anti-seize or grease to ensure easy removal during servicing.
Cleat Position and Float Range: Fine-Tuning Compatibility
The TIME ATAC system provides 5 mm of lateral float and up to 13° of angular float, which helps protect knees and enhance comfort during long rides. However, improper cleat positioning can compromise this benefit.
When installing ATAC cleats [paid link]:
- Position the cleat so the ball of the foot aligns directly over the pedal spindle.
- Adjust the cleat angle to allow a natural release motion without forcing the ankle outward.
- If you experience unintentional releases, double-check the cleat orientation—reversing the left and right cleats changes the release angle from 13° to 17°.
Regular inspection is critical. Worn cleats can cause inconsistent engagement, excessive float, or difficult release. Replace them if they appear rounded or heavily scored after extended use.
Drivetrain and Bike Compatibility Factors
Although pedals operate independently of the drivetrain, their stack height and stance width can subtly affect fit and biomechanics. The ATAC XC 2 has a low stack height of approximately 19 mm, improving pedaling efficiency and ground clearance. Riders using wider cranksets—common on gravel and adventure bikes—will find the XC 2’s narrower stance beneficial for maintaining a neutral pedaling line.
However, if using boost or super-boost cranksets, verify that the pedals do not cause heel rub on the chainstays. This is especially relevant on smaller frame sizes or bikes with asymmetrical chainstays.
Common Compatibility Failures to Avoid
- Using SPD cleats with ATAC pedals: The systems are mechanically incompatible and can cause pedal or shoe damage.
- Mixing ATAC models and older TIME cleats: Cleats from the pre-2016 generation may not fit newer ATAC pedals due to subtle shape changes.
- Over-torquing pedal threads: Excessive torque can strip aluminum crank threads or stress the pedal axle. Follow TIME’s torque specification of 30–35 Nm.
- Neglecting shoe tread interference: This is a common reason for engagement issues; always verify clearance after cleat installation.
- Ignoring worn cleats: Dull or rounded edges can lead to premature pedal wear or slipping during high-torque efforts.
Optimizing ATAC XC 2 Pedals for Maximum Performance
For riders seeking the best performance, regular maintenance enhances compatibility and engagement quality. Clean and lubricate the retention bars with a dry-film lubricant every few rides, particularly after wet or muddy conditions. Periodically check for play in the pedal bearings, as looseness can affect clip-in precision.
For advanced users, upgrading to bronze or carbon-bodied models like the ATAC XC 6 [paid link] or XC 8 offers improved stiffness and lower weight without sacrificing cross-compatibility with ATAC cleats.
Conclusion
The TIME ATAC XC 2 pedals deliver exceptional performance and reliability when paired with the right cleats, shoes, and crankset configuration. Their compatibility depends on precision alignment, correct cleat orientation, and regular inspection to prevent wear-related issues. By understanding the nuances of the ATAC system and avoiding mismatched components, riders can achieve consistent engagement, long-term durability, and an optimized pedaling experience—no matter the terrain.