Described by TIME as their lightest off-road pedal, the ATAC XC 12 combines a carbon body with a titanium axle. This pairing creates a lightweight platform intended for cross-country riders who value both speed and durability. The construction philosophy mirrors the XPRO 12 SL's road-focused approach — minimum weight without sacrificing the structural demands of off-road riding.

A wide-angle positive cleat engagement is designed to make clipping in straightforward, allowing riders to get moving quickly after starts, technical sections, or unexpected dismounts. The wide-angle design reduces the precision required to engage the pedal — a meaningful advantage on technical terrain where the rider may be moving, off-balance, or under time pressure.

Once clipped in, the pedal provides both lateral and angular freedom of movement, allowing the foot to move naturally during pedaling. According to TIME, this design helps reduce muscle fatigue while also lowering the risk of injury during extended rides. The combination of easy engagement and natural foot movement addresses two of the most common complaints about clipless pedal systems on technical trails.

Trail riding introduces mud, dirt, and debris that can interfere with pedal engagement at the worst possible moments. The ATAC XC 12 addresses this through a self-cleaning design that clears mud and debris each time the rider steps into the pedal. This feature is intended to maintain reliable engagement across changing trail conditions without requiring additional cleaning or maintenance during the ride.

Adjustable engagement tension allows riders to personalize the release feel to match individual preferences while maintaining consistent engagement throughout the ride. The adjustment accommodates both riders who prefer a firm engagement for aggressive trail riding and those who want an easier release for technical sections requiring frequent foot placement.

The carbon body and titanium axle combination is designed to handle the demands of cross-country trail riding — impacts, debris, and variable conditions that road pedals are not engineered to withstand. Cleats are included with the pedal system, allowing riders to install and ride without purchasing additional components.