I have a very old 18" bass drum whose spurs aren't long enough to install a bass drum riser on the batter head hoop. With this bass drum pedal, on its lowest setting, the beater hits bang in the middle of the drum head. The way it collapses is very clever, so when in transit, the spring isn't working and the whole thing becomes very flat overall. I play both heel up and down. I have to say it's very smooth and sensitive using either technique. Tama never disappoints.