Pedal advice for newbie

[Kestevan]

You'll find that there are die-hard fans on both sides of the argument.

Personally I switched to clipless 4 years ago and I can't say I noticed any major performance benefits, hills didn't suddenly flatten out, and my willy didn't get any bigger. Conversley, my ankles and knees didn't explode, and I have so far managed to avoid forgetting to unclip and falling under a bus.

The main benefits of clipless are that my feet dont slip about - esp in the wet. The shoes are stiffer and more comfortable for long distances, and it's much easier to lift the pedal to TDC for starting off.

The only downsides I've seen are the cost and not being able to wear any shoes I like - depending on the style of riding you do this may be a killer for you.

Like most others who've gone clipless I'd really rather not go back to flats.

 

[zigzag]

i have platform bmx pedals on my commuter and also have some clicky pedals for long distance rides. i like how both setups work and i wouldn't swap them to anything different. there are benefits for clipless system, it makes you a bit quicker and safer in wet conditions, going up steep hills or fast downhills. for general riding (unless you ride fixed), as the article says, non-clicky pedals are just fine and even superior to clicky ones.

 

[BrumJim]

I don't know anyone that has not had at least one clipless moment. I think more recent models of pedals even offer a "money back guarantee" if you dont fall off in the first 3 months .


However, you are correct that injury/damage can occur but statistically the probability of it is low.


I would also add that although clipless is not for everyone, the majority that switch to clipless do not tend to switch back.

Coming up to 11 months of commuting with clipless, and still not had a falling down moment. A few close calls, though.

 

[looe]

Time for a Shoes Ruse link I think:-


http://www.rivbike.c.../the_shoes_ruse

Can't agree more with the Shoe Ruse. I quit SPD's after I got a knee injury by using them. Since then no more pain in my knee.

 

[gillelive]

Another newbie question from me......

I have been reading up on the different pedal types, shoes etc. but still a bit unsure what to do. My main 3 times weekly trip is a work cummute, about a 20 mile round trip. My ride is a Specialized crosstrail comp. I also enjoy some nicer rides at a weekend, upto 35 miles.

Anyway my problem is pedals, I have found that I am slipping off my current pedals on occasions and wondered if it's worth trying clipless. The shoes I use are mtb style shoes that have a cleat plate that I don't use. I use them more like a trainer.

My question is: will I notice a difference with clippless, and what is a reasonable pedal/system to look out for. I want to be able to walk around in the shoes so have been looking at recessed cleats but the range of pedals is confusing, any advice appreciated. I have up to £50 to spend.

...just to add I was look at these on eBay: http://cgi.ebay.co.u...=item43a1ee6b32


Thanks

Me again, and still undecided on pedals. I think I have decided against being clipped in for the time being and have heard a few good reports on these DMR V8 flats http://www.wiggle.co...source=googleps , as Xmas is fast approaching do you think these are worth asking santa for? Any comments on these for commuting use is much appreciated.... Carl

 

[Russell Allen]

I use DMR V8 pedals on my MTB for riding on the dirt , lots of single track stuff. They are great and very grippy but be careful the studs on the pedals make a mess of shins if you slip off and have an "accident" when you do eventually slip off. I only use clip in pedals for my road bikes SPDs on my single speed or tourer and SPD SL's on the racer. I couldn't personally go back to flat pedals for road riding but its a very personal thing, they are a bit like marmite you either love them or hate them.......

Russell

 

[400bhp]

Those are road pedals,you won't be walking far in them.
If you already have the MTB SPD shoes (2 cleat holes) then I would get some Shimano M520 very popular on here,I have them on both my bikes.And at £20

Agreed - just bought a second pair off Fleabay for my 2nd bike for £13 (new, just don't come with a set of cleats).

 

[gillelive]

Thanks again for the replies, for now I have ruled out being clipped in. My commute is about a 20 mile round trip over a mix of on and off road. My ride is a spec crosstrail comp with standard pedals fitted (listed as alloy body, sealed bearings). What I would like is a pedal that will give me a bit more grip as on occasions I am slipping off the pedal. I tend to cycle in mtb shoes, but I have the cleat covered. Any thoughts on the DMRs or an alternate pedal is appreciated, I don't want to spend more than £30. The DMRs look good to me and I can't see me suffering too much from shin gashes as I would not be doing any serious off road riding.

 

[Ticktockmy]

Me again, and still undecided on pedals. I think I have decided against being clipped in for the time being and have heard a few good reports on these DMR V8 flats http://www.wiggle.co...source=googleps , as Xmas is fast approaching do you think these are worth asking santa for? Any comments on these for commuting use is much appreciated.... Carl

When the bike is in Touring mode I use DMR V8 and suffer the pins stabbing my shins when my feet slip, when the bike is in mountainbike mode most of the time I am clipless, only had one clipless moment, caused by mud jamming the release mech.