Another clipless question

[Willo]

Apologies for another clipless question, but I'm finding the subject fairly confusing so would like to go armed to the bike shop with some knowledge.

Basically, I simply don't like the toe clips that came as standard on my Allez so have taken them off and would like to give clipless a go for longer rides at the weekends. However, I'd like the option to wear normal trainers/shoes on shorter commutes where there is no chance to build up speed/effort between traffic lights etc.

From looking on here and browsing generally, Shimano A530 pedals seem to be what I'm looking for in terms of a double sided pedal with both options. Any feedback/views on these? Any other options that provide both options?

I'd like shoes that I can walk in with a fair degree of comfort. Therefore, despite using on a road bike, am I right in assuming I'd be better off using MTB shoes ? I'm not competitive and just intend to use on my leisurly spins out into the country.

Thanks as always

 

[AlanW]

Apologies for another clipless question, but I'm finding the subject fairly confusing so would like to go armed to the bike shop with some knowledge.

Basically, I simply don't like the toe clips that came as standard on my Allez so have taken them off and would like to give clipless a go for longer rides at the weekends. However, I'd like the option to wear normal trainers/shoes on shorter commutes where there is no chance to build up speed/effort between traffic lights etc.

From looking on here and browsing generally, Shimano A530 pedals seem to be what I'm looking for in terms of a double sided pedal with both options. Any feedback/views on these? Any other options that provide both options?

I'd like shoes that I can walk in with a fair degree of comfort. Therefore, despite using on a road bike, am I right in assuming I'd be better off using MTB shoes ? I'm not competitive and just intend to use on my leisurly spins out into the country.

Thanks as always

TBH, just have just about answered your questions!

But as for shoes, you don't need to buy MTB shoes, as some touring type shoes have a recessed insert.

Plus, once you have ridden with SPD's or similar, I doubt very much if you will wear trainers again.

It is also worth mentioning that on long rides, you "may" prefer to opt for Look Keo pedals/shoe plates or similar. These have a much larger footprint therefore they cover a larger area on the underside of your foot. So the load is spread across your foot, thus making it more comfortable. The down side is that are not suitable for walking in.

 

[Chrisc]

Same route I went a few months back. A530 pedals and shimano MT21 SPD shoes just to get a feel for clipless riding. Been great so far apart from the knee problems but I can't pin that down to the shoes and I certainly won't go back to wearing trainers, feels bloody awful! Can also walk in my shoes no bother as the cleats are recessed into the soles.

 

[gaz]

Same route I went a few months back. A530 pedals and shimano MT21 SPD shoes just to get a feel for clipless riding. Been great so far apart from the knee problems but I can't pin that down to the shoes and I certainly won't go back to wearing trainers, feels bloody awful! Can also walk in my shoes no bother as the cleats are recessed into the soles.

Your knee pains are more than likely down to cleat position. move them around very slightly to get a better position.

 

[yashicamat]

If you buy SPD shoes with a very stiff sole (I use these) then they provide a better platform for longer rides. I find these shoes offer plenty enough support, although they are not as comfortable for walking about in (still a damnsite better than the likes of Look shoes though!).

 

[gaz]

If you buy SPD shoes with a very stiff sole (I use these) then they provide a better platform for longer rides. I find these shoes offer plenty enough support, although they are not as comfortable for walking about in (still a damnsite better than the likes of Look shoes though!).

i have no issue walking around in my SPD-SL's there is only an issue when the cleat gets ice stuck in it and you can't get it out which means you can't clip in!

 

[Willo]

Many thanks for the replies. From a further browse, the A530s look like the ideal pedals for me. With regard to shoes, I was looking at Shimano M076 shoes, but will look at the other recommendations also.

 

[GrasB]

I've come to like the Shimano M424 pedals, clip in both sides & can pedal with normal shoes on both sides too. They also have a big foot platform when clipped in which is better than really stiff shoes.

 

[harry dunn]

Hi check out SHIMANO M424 PEDALS (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)Chain Reaction currently have them reduced to less than £30 ,also the M324 its got a large area flat top on one side and an spd fitting on other . Good starter pedal for the money.They've also got various offers on other more smaller spuds ( shim 520 for less than £20 ). Well worth a look , if you get shoes I would try a few pairs on before purchase dont get them too snug a fit as the foot expands when riding and may cause cramp. I tend to go for velcro strap rather than laces , had a nasty experience once .. got lace trapped in chain nearly ripped my foot off, felt like it did.