Ludwig

collapse expand iconDescription

The Ludwig Speed King Bass Drum Pedal is back and better than ever. This iconic pedal set the standard for bass drum pedals in the early 1900s and has remained popular in the imaginations of drummers worldwide. Now Ludwig has remastered their classic pedal with advanced features to thrill modern players. The new Speed King has improved cam bearings, a smoother direct-drive linkage and heel plate bearings for increased reliability and response. All wrapped in a polished chrome finish, this pedal delivers the performance and style drummers have come to expect from Ludwig.

A Modern Take on a Vintage Classic

There's no piece of drum hardware more iconic than the Speed King. For decades, the Speed King has been the bass drum pedal of choice for famous drummers like John Bonham, known for his lightning-fast kick drum work. While vintage models are still prized, Ludwig has brought the Speed King into the 21st century. The remastered Speed King features upgraded parts like cam bearings and a redesigned linkage for a fluid, responsive feel. These modern touches expand on a time-tested design, creating a pedal that pays homage to its roots while pushing bass drum performance into the future.

Built to Ludwig's Legendary Standards

The Speed King embodies Ludwig's commitment to quality that has made them an industry leader for over 100 years. The pedal's baseplate and footboard are made of rugged cast aluminum for stability and durability. Its heel plate and linkage are forged steel, built to withstand years of use. All metal parts are finished in a polished chrome that gleams under stage lights. Known for their craftsmanship, Ludwig has brought all of their expertise to bear in creating a pedal that lives up to its famous name.

Responsive Performance for Any Style

The Speed King's direct-drive design provides an unparalleled level of control and feedback. Drummers can feel the beater make contact with the bass drum head through the pedal, allowing for precise articulation and control of dynamics. With a fully adjustable cam and spring, drummers can customize pedal tension and response to suit any playing style from light and bouncy to hard and aggressive. No matter how a drummer chooses to adjust it, the Speed King delivers a fast, accurate performance to keep up with even the most demanding footwork.

A Piece of Drumming History

For over a century, the Ludwig Speed King has shaped the sound of rock, jazz, blues and more. This iconic pedal has powered classic recordings and live performances from drumming legends. Now an entire new generation of drummers can experience the Speed King for themselves. With its blend of vintage style and modern performance, the Ludwig Speed King Bass Drum Pedal is a must-have for any serious drummer.

Ludwig Speed King Bass Drum Pedal
Ludwig Speed King Bass Drum Pedal
Ludwig Speed King Bass Drum Pedal

collapse expand iconFeatures

  • Remastered version of Ludwig's classic bass drum pedal
  • Same essential design used by some of the most influential drummers ever
  • Enhanced with more reliable modern cam, links and bearings
  • Chrome finish

collapse expand iconWarranty

Maple and birch drum sets (drums only) - 3 year warranty.
Marching and tympani drums - 3 year warranty.
Sticks and hardware - one year warranty.
Cases - one year warranty.
Accent Drum line - one year warranty.

Featured Articles

collapse expand iconReviews

4.69

13 Reviews

85%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend

Most Liked Positive Review

4

My Last Speed King

This pedal is everything I remember it to be. It's responsive and fast and smooth. After reading that the pedal has been upgraded and it will no longer have the proverbial squeak it is well known for I thought I would good ahead and get it. 6 months later that old squeak is back. I remember that I used to have to borrow valve oil from the trumpet players. Unfortunately, I am no longer playing in any bands I now have to go out and buy my own valve oil.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

3

No

Not enough adjustments for the cost. But a nice pillow.

Filters
Best Uses
  1. Concerts10
  2. Practicing9
  3. Back-Up5
  4. First Choice1
Cons
  1. The proverbial squeak is still there.1
Describe Yourself
  1. Experienced8
  2. Professional Musician4
  3. Novice1
Pros
  1. Easy To Use13
  2. Functional11
  3. Good Quality11
  4. Improves Sound8
  5. In a league of its own1
  • The best kick pedal of all time

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted4 months ago

    byShane

    fromLos Angeles, California

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    There is something about this pedal that makes the beat line up. All of the greatest drummers. All of the English drummers. The list goes on and on!

  • Just the best

    5

    submitted6 months ago

    byJ

    fromNC

    From the 60's on,after using the Speed KIng, no other pedals I tried really matched it!!

  • As good as I as when I was drumming 60 years ago!

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted9 months ago

    byJohn

    fromTyler, TX

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Solid and easy response.

  • Excellent "old school" bass drum pedal.

    4

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitted9 months ago

    byKevin

    fromColumbus, Ohio

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    I've owned a speed king since the mid 70's. Was thrilled when Ludwig brought it back. The pedal is smooth to use and the direct drive has a solid feel under foot. Enjoy how it breaks down for easy transport. Solid pedal and a great investment for your drum gear. You will not regret purchasing a speed king pedal.

  • My Last Speed King

    4

    submitted10 months ago

    byJay

    fromLilburn, Ga

    This pedal is everything I remember it to be. It's responsive and fast and smooth. After reading that the pedal has been upgraded and it will no longer have the proverbial squeak it is well known for I thought I would good ahead and get it. 6 months later that old squeak is back. I remember that I used to have to borrow valve oil from the trumpet players. Unfortunately, I am no longer playing in any bands I now have to go out and buy my own valve oil.

  • It's a classic for a reason!

    5

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitteda year ago

    byDaniel

    fromParis, KY

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Got this for my new Ludwig NeuSonic kit after decades as a Pearl guy. There's a reason this design has been a standard for decades. It simply works without a bunch of "added features" I don't really need.

  • Previous
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • Next

collapse expand iconQ&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

  • asked byEric

    fromHINESVILLE

    Do the storage bag come with it?

    Do the storage bag come with it?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    I’m sorry, but no.
  • asked byDoug

    fromMt

    If its not faster than my tama can I send it back? Thanks, Doug

    If its not faster than my tama can I send it back? Thanks, Doug

    Open Reply - Kenneth
    Yes, we have a 45 day return period
  • asked bySonny

    fromBoca Raton Florida

    When will this be available?  Thanks!

    When will this be available? Thanks!

    Open Reply - Beau
    This is a new item that should be available in early 2021.