Mountain Biking - more pedal questions

Right now, I'm using a clip style pedal without clips with soft soled Vans. I'm getting hot spots on my feet during long singletrack rides. Would a platform pedal with more support area help? I've tried SPD's and Times and find that I'm more comfortable unclipped.

Thanks!

let's see what others think, but i would think getting more rigid sole shoes would help more - also you loose a lot of pedalling efficiency with soft-soled shoes b/c you have to bend and unbend the shoe with every stroke.

there are some pretty big and wide platform pedals that definitely would have a bigger surface...

but yeah, if you're not clipping-in then it seems like the clipless pedals are a waste, so why not just get some basic flat pedals?

Definatley move to a flat pedal. Those pedals are generally tiny and will focus very sharply in one area. To be honest I use a 'skater' shoe to ride. It allows the pegs to drive into the bottom of the shoe which simulates a small amount of clipping.

If you want to test it out there are a few companies making cheap platform pedals for under 20$. Just something to try.

I'm sorry, I wasn't very clear. I'm using these type of pedals, not clipless pedals.

Originally posted by Maelstrom
Definatley move to a flat pedal. Those pedals are generally tiny and will focus very sharply in one area. To be honest I use a 'skater' shoe to ride. It allows the pegs to drive into the bottom of the shoe which simulates a small amount of clipping.

If you want to test it out there are a few companies making cheap platform pedals for under 20$. Just something to try.


Very good suggestions...if you are not clipping in into your clipless pedals then move to some good platforms which will provide much more support and prevent those "hot spots".

Now, if you do decide to start clipping in get some shoes with stiffer soles.

Originally posted by cat
I'm sorry, I wasn't very clear. I'm using these type of pedals, not clipless pedals.

Those are old school pedals :D...but they do have the same affect as the clipless. Hotspots and numbspots. Get flats.

These are expensiveish and will be my next set but it gives you an idea of the size.

http://www.bikecanada.com/catalog/components/cpedals/funn01.shtml

They are at least double the size of your current pedal

I'll go with some flats. Thanks for the replies!