clipless recommendations

[Kevoffthetee]

I've been told that my first purchase should be a clip less pedal system but there are so many versions/brands that my mind has boggled. There seems to be quite a bit of love for Shimano but I'm not sure if thats cost or quality.

can anyone recommend a budget combo as I'm wanting to have a go before committing to a newer bike and accessories

 

[Kevoffthetee]

Still looking on the web but I'm thinking MTB clip less seems the way forward and shimano does look a good buy

 

[vickster]

Shimano spd, m324 if you may want to wear trainers as well, m520 if always going to clip I

Shoes, get ones that fit your feet, so go to your local shops. If buying online, you may need to go a size up. Buy from Wiggle or chain Reaction as both do free collect+ returns, as may be best to buy two pairs in different sizes

 

[Smurfy]

Shimano spd, m324 if you may want to wear trainers as well, m520 if always going to clip I

Shoes, get ones that fit your feet, so go to your local shops. If buying online, you may need to go a size up. Buy from Wiggle or chain Reaction as both do free collect+ returns, as may be best to buy two pairs in different sizes

I'd second that. You can't go wrong with Shimano as a first system, it's cheap, simple, you can walk in the shoes, and it's stood the test of time against newer designs remarkably well.

 

[Nigelnaturist]

A520 or A530 is dual sided (flat on one side clip on the other) both are more road orientated then the M series, the A520 is just single sided but the pedals usually present the cleat so its easy to clip in (with a little practice), both can be had between £20-30 if you look around.

 

[vickster]

I have a600 which are the posher touring shoes and due to their shape and size, they are really uncomfortable with trainers. I'd stick with the m324 which is the shape of a traditional flat pedal

 

[Nigelnaturist]

I have a600 which are the posher touring shoes and due to their shape and size, they are really uncomfortable with trainers. I'd stick with the m324 which is the shape of a traditional flat pedal

I would agree, but I never wear trainers, not even to the shops, just giving options.

 

[vickster]

Just seems to make sense that if getting dual side pedals that they are actually comfortable with different types of shoe

 

[BrynCP]

I've been using the A530 pedal, paid £28 I think with M064 shoes, paid £38 I think. Good thing with the SPDs, as said above, is you can walk in the shoes (e.g. no problems should you have to walk 4 miles due to a broken spoke)

I started off while I waited for my shoes to be delivered using trainers with the flat side of the A530s with no problems. Then after practising with the clipless shoes for 10 minutes I have never used the flat side again, except maybe at busy junctions.

 

[Nigelnaturist]

Just seems to make sense that if getting dual side pedals that they are actually comfortable with different types of shoe

I can if need be pedal on the clip side without clipping in, having used the flat side from time to time, but always in cycling shoes so I cant comment on trainers, I wouldn't for any distance especially if its wet, 98% I clip in no problem the odd time I just rotate the crank lift left foot pedal presents itself away you go, I sometimes have problems with the over shoes at the start of a ride. In hindsight I would have just got the A520 as they look better, cant afford the A600 yet.

 

[vickster]

I am sure they are smoother and lighter, but I wouldn't spend £60 again on the a600. I am as happy on m520 on the other bike, easier having both sides to clip into as mine never ever seem to be the right way round!

 

[Nigelnaturist]

I am sure they are smoother and lighter, but I wouldn't spend £60 again on the a600. I am as happy on m520 on the other bike, easier having both sides to clip into as mine never ever seem to be the right way round!

Thats probably why its only 98% of the time i clip in , I am doing up an old Carleton, though it won't be original, I will get some A620 for my current bike, though there are some traditional style ones.

 

[Kevoffthetee]

Would you guys recommend buying new for the lower end stuff or paying the same for second hand higher end gear?

 

[vickster]

What stuff? personally, no to second hand shoes but it really does depend what your budget is?

M520 are around £15 with cleats

 

[mrbikerboy73]

I bought some of these last week, they come with cleats, a bargain

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/shimano/oe-m530-spd-trail-wide-pedals-ec050921