Originally Posted by
George
Don't forget the multi release shoe clips. They make it pretty easy to get unclipped..
There are a lot of good cleat types. I believe all bike shoes are compatible with other than just SPD types. However, the SPD's are the only design that offer the multi release cleat.
Being a cleat wimp, I refuse to use anything else. They release by pointing the toe down slightly and pulling up in addition to releasing by rotating the foot (hell in or out). For me, they release with out thinking when falling, yet the newer design (#56) hold well enough to do a bunny hop. The old design (#55) would release too easily. The 55's are still sold, but I would avoid them.
You have to buy the cleat separately as #51's come with the SPD pedals.
I'd go with the 540 pedal. Light, supposedly with cartridge bearings according to some reviews and they get very good user reviews on mtbreview. I think they can be had for about $60 (inc. ship.) on the web from Chain Reaction Cycles.
Al