Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Pedal selection

I picked up my new bike (Surly Cross Check) this week and after a couple of rides have found that my pedals are inadequate.

I have been exploring my options, but thought I would ask what others are using. Are you using clipless, toe clips, platform or some other type pedals? Specifically, what brands and models are you using?

I brought some cheap Bontrager pedals with toe clips at the local bike shop, but I have not installed them and may return them. I think that I may want to go with a large platform pedal because I have wide feet. I may supplement these with a Power Grip pedal strap. Is anyone using this configuration? If so, what is the name of the pedal you are using?

I don't think I am ready for a clipless pedal. I am not going to be winning any races and like to have some flexibility as far as the footwear I choose. Is there a hybrid with a wide enough platform that would work if I was wearing a flip flop? Basically, I am looking for something that would work for a 20 to 30 mile ride, but is still versatile enough for when I want to run down the street to the store.

Any advice that can offer with this selection would be appreciated. Thanks.

Advice? Yeah. Steer clear of the flip-flops. Not good for any sort of athletic endeavor. At least use sneakers.

Knowing that you probably aren't interested, but for what it's worth: I use clipless and won't use anything but.

I'm a big guy (aren't we all in Clydesdales?) with size 12-1/2 wides. I wear 13s (or 48 in European) 'cause that's what fits. I use Look Keo Carbo-Ti clipless. No problems for me with big feet. The speedplays, I hear, also have a nice wide platform. I probably won't be winning any races anytime soon, either. But, there is flexibility in clipless as well (read: SPD's for walking around).

Other than that, sorry, not too much advice here.

I also use clipless -- it ain't about racing, and my shoes are pretty versatile (not all clipless shoes are the same). Shimano pedals. I have the same pedals on both bikes so I can use the same pair of shoes. My riding is mostly city commuting, and you'd never catch me using platforms or clips.

I changed to clipless and would never go back. Presently using the Shimano Ultegra SPD-SL, although I also have a set of Look A3.1's. Found the that the Shimano's were a little more comfortable for me with the Pearl Izumi shoes I wear than the Look pedals. I also use Shimano SPD on my hybrid. There is a nice alternative though, the Shimano PD-M324 which has platform on one side and SPD on the other, so you can either use your SPD MTB shoes or plain shoes. I have these on my wifes bike cause she does not always want to use bike shoes so they are a perfect fit for her.

http://bike.shimano.com/catalog/cycle/products/component.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441763012&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302050757&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181674&bmUID=1180186790679

I use Speedplay pedals exclusively. The X series road model for when I'm riding "just to ride". The Frog mtb model the rest of the time. The nice thing with the Frog is that you're wearing a mountain shoe, which allows you better mobility when off the bike. I had problems with horrible knee pain, when I started out, using SPD-type pedals. The "free floating" nature of the Speedplay pedals ended the suffering, but some people may find it disconcerting, at least at first. I, however, will never ride with ANYTHING but Speedplays again! They may cost a liitle more (no generics out there), but how much are your knees worth?

I'm a retrogrouch and ride with period correct SP-250 Shimano Clip and Strap pedals. I've tried many clipless and just can't make the changeover.

I'm a retrogrouch and ride with period correct SP-250 Shimano Clip and Strap pedals. I've tried many clipless and just can't make the changeover.
I tried the "clip and strap" route, and I just couldn't get comfortable with it. In fact, to me, it just felt unsafe while I tried to deal with them. Funny ol' world, huh?

I tried the "clip and strap" route, and I just couldn't get comfortable with it. In fact, to me, it just felt unsafe while I tried to deal with them. Funny ol' world, huh?
Yep, but it's a hangover from my early touring and racing days, back in the '70's.

...Are you using clipless, toe clips, platform or some other type pedals? Specifically, what brands and models are you using?..

Hi jfw0001!

I use (and like very much) the "Primo Balance Series" pedals. They have a broad platform, well-made spikes that keep your soles in place on the pedal (even in rough travel), and magnesium construction.

I have used toe clips, "mini" toe clips, power grips, and clipless. In my opinion, there is absolutely no need to be fastened to your pedal in any way unless you're racing. Many (most?) prefer clipless pedals, but I think that in most cases they're following style rather than practicality.

The clipless afficionados claim improved pedaling efficiency. There is an efficiency advantage, but it is maximized only at well over 100 rpm pedal cadence ("spinning"). The advantage also applies if climbing, but even there, the advantage is lost of the cadence drops significantly.

The clipless afficionados persistently ignore the hazards of being clipped to the bike in traffic, falling unexpectedly when forgetting to clip out, and being unable to anticipate emergency stops with sufficient lead-time to get unclipped. The hazards of being attached to the pedals far outweigh any (minor) efficiency advantages for the majority of riders.

Racers can justify the disadvantages of clipless because efficiency is everything and they're willing to accept the hazards of the sport. For the rest of us, platform pedals (without toe clips, mini-clips, or power grips) RULE!

Get yourself some good platform pedals with spikes. These are the safest and easiest-to-use of any pedal option you'll find. Happy shopping!

I'm a retrogrouch and ride with period correct SP-250 Shimano Clip and Strap pedals. I've tried many clipless and just can't make the changeover.

I had a pair of clip and strap pedals in the 1970's it was funny, because I rode the bike to the bike shop, and bought the pedals, the guy at the store offered to install them for free, so I said sure.... I rode home with the clips on, it did take a few days to determine the right tightness on the straps, what was tight enough to work, but not tight enough to result in pinched feet. The worry I have now, is if I get a new set, about availability of straps in the future......

Like I say though, they do work well on bikes where you might, for some reason like to use different footwear, at different times, like riding to church, shopping, etc. I have not personally tried clipless, the idea of spending $100 on a set of pedals, and another $100 on shoes, just doesn't appeal to me at the moment, although my birthday is coming up :D

I had a pair of clip and strap pedals in the 1970's it was funny, because I rode the bike to the bike shop, and bought the pedals, the guy at the store offered to install them for free, so I said sure.... I rode home with the clips on, it did take a few days to determine the right tightness on the straps, what was tight enough to work, but not tight enough to result in pinched feet. The worry I have now, is if I get a new set, about availability of straps in the future......

Like I say though, they do work well on bikes where you might, for some reason like to use different footwear, at different times, like riding to church, shopping, etc. I have not personally tried clipless, the idea of spending $100 on a set of pedals, and another $100 on shoes, just doesn't appeal to me at the moment, although my birthday is coming up :D
Straps are easily available, either in Nylon Web or in Leather, or even in Carbon.

http://www.rivbike.com/webalog/pedals_clips_straps/
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/pedals.html

The clipless afficionados claim improved pedaling efficiency. There is an efficiency advantage, but it is maximized only at well over 100 rpm pedal cadence ("spinning"). The advantage also applies if climbing, but even there, the advantage is lost of the cadence drops significantly.I'd have to argue the point with you on this. I rarely, if ever, "spin" along at a cadence of over 100rpm, yet on more than a few rides I've had my clipless pedals "save my bacon". The problem is that too many people think that the pedals are intended to simply keep their feet on the pedals. They are intended to allow you to use more of your muscles to apply driving force. It's a matter of not just pushing down on the pedals, but pulling up on them as well. I've been able to reach a summit of a climb, more than once, thanks solely to my ability to pull up on my pedals after the other muscles had essentially "given up". I can assure you, I wasn't even remotely close to a 100rpm cadence at the time.


The clipless afficionados persistently ignore the hazards of being clipped to the bike in traffic, falling unexpectedly when forgetting to clip out, and being unable to anticipate emergency stops with sufficient lead-time to get unclipped. The hazards of being attached to the pedals far outweigh any (minor) efficiency advantages for the majority of riders.I've been riding with clipless pedals for years, and have never had any of these issues. In that time I have, however, seen people who weren't using clipless pedals fall flat on their face. The fact that they hadn't been using clipless pedals didn't help them any..... The trick is to be aware of your surroundings, not to mention smarter than your pedals. And, as I pointed out earlier, the efficiency advantage is ANYTHING but minor, as long as you actually know what you're doing when utilizing clipless pedals. They are NOT "shoe retainers".....

Cheers

Straps are easily available, either in Nylon Web or in Leather, or even in Carbon.

http://www.rivbike.com/webalog/pedals_clips_straps/
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/pedals.html

Those are American dealers, paying $10 for a 50 cent piece of leather is bad enough, paying $40 in customs, brokerage and taxes on top of that $10, is insane....

If Nashbar wanted to make a killing, they would set up a deal with a logistics company, where they collect up Canadian orders, which have Canadian destination labels and waybills attached, these are loaded into a container, that is shipped to a logistics company, in Canada. They open the container and cross dock everything to a Canadian courier company, who deliver the items. Because one shipment (the container) crosses the border, only one brokerage needs to be done, a manifest contains all of the items and a single brokerage fee is paid, along with customs duties. A small Nashbar office in Canada processes Canadian payments, and collects the appropriate taxes. A second website (nashbar.ca?) would have Canadian pricing and shipping information, items where customs is due, it would be buried in the price). UPS, Purolator (a Canadian courier company) and Fedex, have logistics operations, not sure about DHL, they are not that big in Canada, and did once charge me US$50 in brokerage fees on a $10 item, that didn't even have customs due!

Check your PM's:D
Those are American dealers, paying $10 for a 50 cent piece of leather is bad enough, paying $40 in customs, brokerage and taxes on top of that $10, is insane....

If Nashbar wanted to make a killing, they would set up a deal with a logistics company, where they collect up Canadian orders, which have Canadian destination labels and waybills attached, these are loaded into a container, that is shipped to a logistics company, in Canada. They open the container and cross dock everything to a Canadian courier company, who deliver the items. Because one shipment (the container) crosses the border, only one brokerage needs to be done, a manifest contains all of the items and a single brokerage fee is paid, along with customs duties. A small Nashbar office in Canada processes Canadian payments, and collects the appropriate taxes. A second website (nashbar.ca?) would have Canadian pricing and shipping information, items where customs is due, it would be buried in the price). UPS, Purolator (a Canadian courier company) and Fedex, have logistics operations, not sure about DHL, they are not that big in Canada, and did once charge me US$50 in brokerage fees on a $10 item, that didn't even have customs due!

JFW,

Sounds like you may be interested in a combination pedal…. platform on one side and SPD on the other. This will allow you to clip in when you are wearing your cycling shoes (i.e. a more vigorous or planned ride) or to jump on with flip flops to cruise down to the store.

The SPD system utilizes a small cleat that is mounted in a recess on the bottom of mountain bike shoes. This allows you to comfortably walk in the shoes without cleat making contact with ground surface (road shoes with or without cleats are not intended for walking nor are they comfortable to walk in). I have the combo pedals on my converted mountain bike which I ride with or without cycling shoes and I have SPD pedals on my road bike. This allows me to ride either bike with the same shoes.

You were also inquiring about the contact area between shoes and pedals. A decent pair of cycling shoes will have a rigid sole that transfers the pedal contact force relatively evenly over the entire ball of foot. With SPD pedals I haven’t had any problems from pressure points or ‘hot spots’ though some riders seem to.

This might be what your looking for or not….

Good luck

...as I pointed out earlier, the efficiency advantage is ANYTHING but minor...

Hi rs hunter!

I respect your opinion (after all, you are in the majority and I'm not), but I must continue to disagree. Our difference of opinion may be just a difference of terrain. I live in Louisiana (the "land of flat"), and there are just NO hills here. For flats riding, I have tried being attached to the pedals many times and many ways. I just see no difference.

In traffic, however, I frequently must make unanticipated emergency stops. Falling over could be fatal. Having my feet instantly free makes me a more relaxed, a more confident, and ultimately, a safer rider. Your experience may vary... ;)

Shimano mx 30 pedal ?
i use this flat pedal on my cross check,
they work great to just hop on with what ever is
on your feet. i know i loose some efficiency,
the versatility is more important for me; plus
i have big feet- this pedal is large.

Hi rs hunter!
In traffic, however, I frequently must make unanticipated emergency stops. Falling over could be fatal. Having my feet instantly free makes me a more relaxed, a more confident, and ultimately, a safer rider. Your experience may vary... ;)
My wife just got a bike and went with clipless pedals for the first time. At first we got Speedplay Zeros but it was too hard for her being so tiny. Now she uses Speed Play Light action and loves em. They clip in and out with ease much easier then the toe cages she had there before.. She has <100 miles on them and clips in and out like they were just normal pedals. Once you grow accostumed to them it is second nature to get out your not trapped at least not with any clipless I have ever used.

I took her Speedplay Zeros for my Fuji Touring Bike and being 290 the stiffer spring is nothing to me :-) I used to use SPD's but the Zeros are so much more comfortable to ride in and they don't hurt my knees at all. If you ride in bad weather, in hills or anywhere your pushing the pedals relentlessly clipless pedals really pay off. Before I had clipless I slipped a couple times in the rain and it just normal traffic and it never turned out well. Either road rash or bar in my crotch. If your really against clipless I think there are pedals that have pins in them to dig into your shoe a bit so you slip less. That will allow you to use any shoe, get out isntantly and still have some benefits of your foot being stuck to the pedal a little better.

Hi jfw0001!

The clipless afficionados claim improved pedaling efficiency. There is an efficiency advantage, but it is maximized only at well over 100 rpm pedal cadence ("spinning"). The advantage also applies if climbing, but even there, the advantage is lost of the cadence drops significantly.

The clipless afficionados persistently ignore the hazards of being clipped to the bike in traffic, falling unexpectedly when forgetting to clip out, and being unable to anticipate emergency stops with sufficient lead-time to get unclipped. The hazards of being attached to the pedals far outweigh any (minor) efficiency advantages for the majority of riders.

What?!?!?

Hi rs hunter!

I respect your opinion (after all, you are in the majority and I'm not), but I must continue to disagree. Our difference of opinion may be just a difference of terrain. I live in Louisiana (the "land of flat"), and there are just NO hills here. For flats riding, I have tried being attached to the pedals many times and many ways. I just see no difference.

In traffic, however, I frequently must make unanticipated emergency stops. Falling over could be fatal. Having my feet instantly free makes me a more relaxed, a more confident, and ultimately, a safer rider. Your experience may vary... ;)
Hi FH,

I think you're right, if you'd ever done some "nice" climbs (they're only nice after you've gone over the top!), I think you would see all the difference in the world. A ride that REALLY pushes your endurance will also show the benefits. I've had rides where, if it hadn't been for my ability to pull up on the pedals, I would've been stuck sitting on the side of the road. It's a unique workout for "muscles you never knew you had", but it's something you have to teach yourself to be able to do. If a rider doesn't push themselves to their limits, or work at using the "full revolution" pedalling technique, they might not see a significant difference. But, for the recreational cyclist, it's perfectly understandable. After all, not everyone's as fanatical, or obsessive, as some of us are.....:rolleyes: *ahem*

The tension adjustment on most clipless pedals can be a help, but even the light setting can be rather tight on some. The Speedplay Light Action, that 'evblazer' mentioned, gets my vote for "clipless newbies". You get all the benefits, with little restriction.

Cheers

My wife just got a bike and went with clipless pedals for the first time. At first we got Speedplay Zeros but it was too hard for her being so tiny. Now she uses Speed Play Light action and loves em. They clip in and out with ease much easier then the toe cages she had there before.. She has <100 miles on them and clips in and out like they were just normal pedals. Once you grow accostumed to them it is second nature to get out your not trapped at least not with any clipless I have ever used.

I took her Speedplay Zeros for my Fuji Touring Bike and being 290 the stiffer spring is nothing to me :-) I used to use SPD's but the Zeros are so much more comfortable to ride in and they don't hurt my knees at all. If you ride in bad weather, in hills or anywhere your pushing the pedals relentlessly clipless pedals really pay off. Before I had clipless I slipped a couple times in the rain and it just normal traffic and it never turned out well. Either road rash or bar in my crotch. If your really against clipless I think there are pedals that have pins in them to dig into your shoe a bit so you slip less. That will allow you to use any shoe, get out isntantly and still have some benefits of your foot being stuck to the pedal a little better.
I couldn't agree more! If you're sure about wanting platform pedals, try the Speedplay Drillium. They list them as being capable of withstanding 800lbs!!!:eek:

What?!?!?

Did I stutter?

Hi rs hunter!

I respect your opinion (after all, you are in the majority and I'm not), but I must continue to disagree. Our difference of opinion may be just a difference of terrain. I live in Louisiana (the "land of flat"), and there are just NO hills here. For flats riding, I have tried being attached to the pedals many times and many ways. I just see no difference.

In traffic, however, I frequently must make unanticipated emergency stops. Falling over could be fatal. Having my feet instantly free makes me a more relaxed, a more confident, and ultimately, a safer rider. Your experience may vary... ;)
Mine does. I live in a very hilly region of Massachusetts, but I ride my commuter bike in Boston. No hills to speak of, no shortage of crazy traffic, and I use clipless and love them. They're perfectly functional for flat city riding. It's a comfort level thing -- many people feel psychologically uncomfortable with clipless, fearing that they will be "attached to the pedals" in a way that prevents them from getting loose when they need to. That isn't really true, but if it's your fear, then it can easily become true, if you know what I mean. In that case, best stick to whatever you're comfortable with.

...It's a comfort level thing...

Hi lil brown bat! Thank you - we agree. In my opinion, though, "comfort level" doesn't just apply to psychological comfort.

My summary of reasons for why I dislike clipless pedals follows:

1. ERGONOMICS: I am bow-legged and flat-footed. The soles of my feet normally meet the pedal platform at an angle (the shoe sole is farther from the pavement on the inside of the foot than the outside). With platform pedals, I can push on the pedal with any part of my foot that I wish. With clipless pedals, the shoes and clips hold my soles parallel to the pavement causing ankle and heel pain. Some rare few adapters or pedals can address this, but why bother?

2. SAFETY: Not all emergency stops can be anticipated. For riders adept at unclipping and perfect (I said perfect) at anticipating emergency stops, then (and only then) are clipless pedals as safe as platforms. Unfortunately, riders can't always clip out nor can they anticipate every emergency stop. In most cases, the fall is trivial - only a bruise or scuff (or a blow to the ego). It only takes once, however, for that fall to be fatal. The likelihood of serious injury or death rises significantly if you're riding in close urban traffic. I do.

3. COST: Special (and expensive) shoes and pedals are required. Clipless pedals typically cost more than equivalent platforms. Clipless shoes (if I can find them in my size and width) are expensive. The shoes and clips must match the pedals.

4. UNREALIZED BENEFITS: The efficiency factor is not significant for me. I don't race. I don't spin. I don't climb. Ever. If you want to do any of those things and are willing to tolerate the safety hazards of clipless, then yes - you're a clipless candidate. On flat pavement, at moderate speeds, in traffic, the "efficiency" factor of clipless pedals is zero.

5. CONVENIENCE: I like to hop on the bike any time of the day or night to run an errand. My convenience would be impaired if I had to don special shoes to use the bike. This objection can be alleviated with pedals that have a clip on one side and a platform on the other, but only if your pedal manufacturer makes such a pedal (not all do).

6. UTILITY: Road pedals are typically sold with rigid-soled shoes with protruding clips. Such shoes make normal walking impossible (thus the famous "spastic-duck" gait of the road rider in her/his pair of clipless shoes). The cleats damage floors. Floors damage cleats. How do I get off the bike, go into a restaurant (that requires shoes) and not get tossed out for damaging their floors? MTB shoes with recessed cleats alleviate some of this, but the cleats are often not fully recessed. This causes the same set of problems as with road shoes. No matter how you cut it, cycling shoes are just darned impractical off the bike.

7. AESTHETICS: I don't wear jerseys. I don't like gaudy shoes either. When I ride, I do, however, wear spandex shorts (their comfort and abrasion-resistance justify them). I ride with a long T-shirt overhanging the shorts. This minimizes their embarrassing appearance. If I had Floyd Landis' body, I wouldn't worry; but this is the Clydes' forum, after all. I'd prefer not to attract additional attention with glow-in-the-dark shoes with clanky hardware that make me walk even funnier than I normally do. You may not care, but this is an issue to me (and this is my list).

8. ORTHODOXY: I resent being told by the obviously clueless that I'm not a "real cyclist" until I use clipless pedals & shoes. I've been bicycling since before the majority of the "cycling-fashion-police" were born! I've done half-centuries on platform pedals without issues while my fellow riders (in their natty clipless gear) were lame after their rides. Why should my riding style have to conform to someone else's idea of what works? I have used toe-clips-with-straps (as early as the 1960's), half clips (on a fixed-gear!), clipless-pedals-with-dedicated-shoes, and power-grips. Having been there and done that, I find that I prefer platform pedals. So sue me!

In summary, there are advantages to clipless pedals. If those advantages are of use to you and if you can otherwise tolerate the multiple disadvantages of clipless, then go for it! On the other hand, I've seen time and time again here on Bike Forums - posters gang up on the undecided and virtually brow-beat them into choosing and using clipless systems regardless of whether that option is the best or not. The amazed comments (What?!?!) that follow any recommendation against clipless are unwarranted. There are multiple valid reasons why clipless may not be the best solution for a specific rider. Only by fairly evaluating both sides of the decision can an individual select the best personal option. I say clipless may be fine - but you should fully evaluate the alternatives too.

Peace!

Hi lil brown bat! Thank you - we agree. In my opinion, though, "comfort level" doesn't just apply to psychological comfort.

My summary of reasons for why I dislike clipless pedals follows:

Peace!

I think that both sides will need to agree to disagree on this one, some people prefer clipless, some people prefer clips/straps, and some people prefer neither.

My brother-in-law swears by clipless, I still think clips work just fine, if it worked perfectly in 1978, i should work just as well today, some technologies need to be updated (I wouldn't want to type this on a Commodore Pet for example:p ), some technologies really don't. Then again, I really wish I still had my 1978 Sekine 10 speed, man that bike was a dream.......

For you, with your leg problems use the platforms, the thing is, to just get out there, and ride.....

I resent being told by the obviously clueless that I'm not a "real cyclist" until I use clipless pedals & shoes.
I hope my previous posts didn't lead you to believe that this was what I was doing, FH. It certainly wasn't my intention to do so. If I did in fact offend you, I do apologize. I have a tendency to answer a number of posts in just one, without quoting each.

It amazes me how emotional people get over an issue like this. My advice to the original poster is to go with whatever works for you. However, I'll tell you my own experiences in the hope that they will help you make an informed decision:

Clips and Straps - I've never tried them and don't plan to.

Power Grips with platform pedals - They actually work surprisingly well. They can take a little getting used to getting your foot into them since the weight of the Power Grips flips the pedal over. They have to be adjusted to fit your shoe and may not fit all shoes even of the same size. The regular size Power Grips are retained at one end by a clamp; I have had the clamp come loose while riding. The Extra Long size does not have this problem as they are retained by a screw through a hole in the Power Grip strap. You need a fairly smooth platform pedal to make it easy to get your foot in and out; the MKS GR-9 works great for this (do not use this pedal without some retaining mechanism such as Power Grip or Toe Clip; you will slip off and possibly get injured).

BMX style Platform Pedals - These work well although they don't give you quite the mechanical advantage that clipless pedals do. Look for ones with studs that are easily replaceble (I like ones where you replace the studs from the back side). When you buy them, make sure you get the right crank threads as some older BMX cranks use 1/2" threads not the 9/16" threads most of our bikes have. Also, even though the spikes make slipping off the pedal unlikely, it can happen. On a regular upright bike, this can make hamburger out of your shins. I ride a Crank Forward so this is not a problem for me.

Clipless Pedals - I have a love/hate relationship with these. I really believe I can detect an improvement in my pedalling efficiency with clipless, although it may just be "perception". I have never tried road style pedals since I like to be able to walk around off the bike without breaking my neck. I have tried three different styles of MTB clipless pedals.

I first tried SPD compatible (not Shimano brand). Even with the tension set at its minimum, I had a terrible time getting in and out of these pedals and quit using them after a short time. If I had used a different brand, perhaps my experiences would have been different.

After reading up on the web, I bought Crank Bros. Candy SL pedals. I actually like these pretty well and still use them on my trike (where there is no real need to clip out at every stop). While better than the SPD, I still find them harder than I would like to clip out of quickly. While riding an MUP about a month ago, I stopped suddenly and was unable to clip out quickly enough and fell. This would not have bothered me, but I hit my head on the (concrete) pavement, cracked my helmet and gave myself a concussion (ER trip). That is when I started using the BMX pedals.

Since my fall, I have been scared of clipless pedals, but did not want to give up on them entirely. So, this week I installed Bebop pedals on my Crank Forward. I rode using them yesterday and today on a grassy area. So far, I am very pleased. Although I still have to remember to clip out, it is a much more natural and easy motion than with either of the other brands of clipless pedals. Only time will tell if I continue to use the Bebops or go back to the BMX platform pedals.

This has been a rather long and rambling post, but I hope it gives you the information you need to begin to discover what works best for you. Good luck in your search! :)

I hope my previous posts didn't lead you to believe that this was what I was doing, FH. It certainly wasn't my intention to do so. If I did in fact offend you, I do apologize. I have a tendency to answer a number of posts in just one, without quoting each.

Not at all, rs! - You're a pleasure to disagree with, and I mean that sincerely. It's just that I've been on Bike Forums long enough now that I've occasionally run into the "clipless-Nazis." It isn't enough that they want their view to prevail, they also feel obligated to belittle anyone who disagrees.

This is one of the best things about the Clydes forum. Civility rules! I appreciate disagreements here because one can learn from them without getting flamed too much.

No apology needed on your behalf - I've enjoyed our discourse! If my postings ever get rowdy, just let me know, please.

Thanks! Far.

Did I stutter?

No you didn't stutter... I just don't think you can reasonably say platforms have no difference in performance from clipless unless you're on a hill or riding fast. I personally use toe clips (wanna get clipless though) and thos work MUCH better than platform. I don't ride more than 15 mph most of the time, about 60 rpm's, and I noticec a difference with just clips and straps. CLipless pedals would have an even better effect.

I always thought cliplless should be called strapless because they do have clips but not toe straps. If using platforms means that I am not a cyclist, then I am not one. Maybe down the line, but not now.

If you're riding, you're a cyclist.
But strapless makes me think of bras

No you didn't stutter... I just don't think you can reasonably say platforms have no difference in performance from clipless unless you're on a hill or riding fast. I personally use toe clips (wanna get clipless though) and thos work MUCH better than platform. I don't ride more than 15 mph most of the time, about 60 rpm's, and I noticec a difference with just clips and straps. CLipless pedals would have an even better effect.

Hi bailcash09!

I've not noticed a significant difference between being attached to the pedal and not. Obviously, you do. The difference may be because of different terrain, different ergonomics, or different bikes. Who knows? If you like being attached to the pedals, then you'll REALLY like clipless. In my humble opinion, clipless is the best way of getting attached to pedals if that's what you want. For my riding style, I really like not being attached to those pedals...

I stand by my statement that (for my riding) there is no difference in efficiency between attachment and non. As I've already pointed out, though, the majority of riders do find an efficiency difference.

I stand by my statement that (for my riding) there is no difference in efficiency between attachment and non.

Right. You'd more more than anyone the affect being attached to the pedals had for you. Unfortunately for you, when you say this you end up arguing with the minority. Fortunately for you, you don't have to pay for clipless pedals and shoes:D

No apology needed on your behalf - I've enjoyed our discourse! If my postings ever get rowdy, just let me know, please.
hehehe.....

I don't think I'd worry much about that FH, if I were you. As my 'user title' hints, my two-wheeled world stretches beyond bikes that are human-powered. Compared to some of the 'biker' guys that I enjoy wrangling with, on my favorite motorcycling forum, the guys on BF who think they're gruff strike me as something akin to 'posie-pushers'! Sorta' like the difference between using Charmin and 80 grit, if ya' know what I mean.....:D

But strapless makes me think of bras
Yeah, and gawd knows we inspire enough giggles as it is.....:D

Lol

My take on clipless:

As a 'structurally challenged' as well as an out of shape person, I need all the help I can get with pedaling. Clipless gives additional power to my pedal stroke. It also helps me keep my feet in the best position to deliver power to the pedals; even when not clipped in, knowing where the cleat should go helps me avoid pedaling with my arch or heels. It helps me work my left hamstring, which doesn't have a full extension and which I need to stretch as much as possible to minimize my limp. Platform pedals don't do any of this for me.

As far as the "dangers" associated with clipless falls, I generally avoid them by unclipping if I am going to travel through an area with high traffic.

That said, I'd never criticize another cyclist for using something other than clipless. Riding against traffic at night without lights, yes, but not over platform pedals. :-)

I use Shimano 520 SPD pedals and Nike MTN bike shoes. Comfortable on or off the bike. I was very worried about clipless pedals as I've had some nerve damage due to back problems that affected my left foot. I was worried about being able to unclip when I needed to be unclipped. I've fallen twice, both times because I wasn't paying attention. Of course, both times the fall was at zero MPH, which if one is going to fall off a bike, is the correct speed to choose for that activity. No damage to me or to bike either time. I'm well adjusted now, and don't sweat riding with them anywhere. I set the release tension close to the lightest setting. No problems coming unclipped when I don't want to be unclipped and same same, no problems unclipping in a flash when I want to be unclipped. It's second nature now. And FWIW, I think safer than other pedals, as even with spiked BMX pedals, sometimes my feet would leave the pedals unintentionally and hardly ever at a good time. That does not happen any more.

Hi lil brown bat! Thank you - we agree. In my opinion, though, "comfort level" doesn't just apply to psychological comfort.

My summary of reasons for why I dislike clipless pedals follows:

1. ERGONOMICS: I am bow-legged and flat-footed. ...
Got it.


2. SAFETY: Not all emergency stops can be anticipated. For riders adept at unclipping and perfect (I said perfect) at anticipating emergency stops, then (and only then) are clipless pedals as safe as platforms. Unfortunately, riders can't always clip out nor can they anticipate every emergency stop. In most cases, the fall is trivial - only a bruise or scuff (or a blow to the ego). It only takes once, however, for that fall to be fatal. The likelihood of serious injury or death rises significantly if you're riding in close urban traffic. I do.
So do I.

Your arguments can all be made against platforms, thus: "Unfortunately, riders can't always stay on a platform pedal nor can they anticipate every emergency stop." I'm trying to think of an "emergency stop" situation where a rider who was somehow incapable of unclipping would end up worse off than someone on platforms. Can you be more specific about this danger you're thinking of?


3. COST: Special (and expensive) shoes and pedals are required. Clipless pedals typically cost more than equivalent platforms. Clipless shoes (if I can find them in my size and width) are expensive. The shoes and clips must match the pedals.
Well, what's "expensive"? I've got a pair of SixSixOne SPD shoes that cost me $45 or so. How much do you normally pay for shoes? Take a look at these (http://www.backcountryoutlet.com/outlet/SSO0002/Six-Six-One-Expert-Mountain-Bike-Shoe.html?CMP_ID=SH_MSN002&CMP_SKU=SSO0002&mv_pc=r108&CP=MSNShop&CMP=SPC-MSNShop&ATT=SSO0002&GCID=C14965x009&keyword=SSO0002+expert+mountain+bike+shoe), for example.


4. UNREALIZED BENEFITS: The efficiency factor is not significant for me. I don't race. I don't spin. I don't climb. Ever. If you want to do any of those things and are willing to tolerate the safety hazards of clipless, then yes - you're a clipless candidate. On flat pavement, at moderate speeds, in traffic, the "efficiency" factor of clipless pedals is zero.
Well, no, it isn't. What would be an accurate and perfectly valid statement is that, as you said in your first sentence, it's not significant for you. That's perfectly okay, but it seems me as a silly reason to dislike clipless pedals. It's like saying I dislike red wine because it has heart benefits that aren't important to me.


5. CONVENIENCE: I like to hop on the bike any time of the day or night to run an errand. My convenience would be impaired if I had to don special shoes to use the bike.
This is less of a factor for me because I wear Tevas as often as I can, which means I have to change shoes anyway. My bike shoes have velcro closures and take about fifteen seconds to put on.


6. UTILITY: Road pedals are typically sold with rigid-soled shoes with protruding clips. Such shoes make normal walking impossible (thus the famous "spastic-duck" gait of the road rider in her/his pair of clipless shoes). The cleats damage floors. Floors damage cleats. How do I get off the bike, go into a restaurant (that requires shoes) and not get tossed out for damaging their floors? MTB shoes with recessed cleats alleviate some of this, but the cleats are often not fully recessed. This causes the same set of problems as with road shoes. No matter how you cut it, cycling shoes are just darned impractical off the bike.
People keep saying "SPD" and you keep ignoring them. Why is that? Have you had a pair? Have you walked in a pair? This is something I do on a daily basis, whereas you seem to be talking from hearsay.


7. AESTHETICS: I don't wear jerseys. I don't like gaudy shoes either. When I ride, I do, however, wear spandex shorts (their comfort and abrasion-resistance justify them). I ride with a long T-shirt overhanging the shorts. This minimizes their embarrassing appearance. If I had Floyd Landis' body, I wouldn't worry; but this is the Clydes' forum, after all. I'd prefer not to attract additional attention with glow-in-the-dark shoes with clanky hardware that make me walk even funnier than I normally do. You may not care, but this is an issue to me (and this is my list).
My shoes are black with a small amount of gray. If you would be deeply ashamed to be seen wearing a pair of black and gray shoes, I guess these aren't for you.


8. ORTHODOXY: I resent being told by the obviously clueless that I'm not a "real cyclist" until I use clipless pedals & shoes. I've been bicycling since before the majority of the "cycling-fashion-police" were born! I've done half-centuries on platform pedals without issues while my fellow riders (in their natty clipless gear) were lame after their rides. Why should my riding style have to conform to someone else's idea of what works? I have used toe-clips-with-straps (as early as the 1960's), half clips (on a fixed-gear!), clipless-pedals-with-dedicated-shoes, and power-grips. Having been there and done that, I find that I prefer platform pedals. So sue me!
I won't sue you, but I do think you're projecting. Where has anyone told you that you're "not a 'real cyclist'"? Where and when have you been cited by the "cycling-fashion-police"? Who is pressuring you to conform to anything? You came into this thread, it seems to me, with an unwarrantedly defensive attitude towards clipless pedals and those who use 'em. Now you're talking about some perceived "orthodoxy" and railing about those who would bludgeon you into mindless conformity, and I just don't see any evidence of it whatsoever. You might want to consider the possibility that all these sneers and insults are much more the product of your imagination than they are real.


In summary, there are advantages to clipless pedals. If those advantages are of use to you and if you can otherwise tolerate the multiple disadvantages of clipless, then go for it! On the other hand, I've seen time and time again here on Bike Forums - posters gang up on the undecided and virtually brow-beat them into choosing and using clipless systems regardless of whether that option is the best or not. The amazed comments (What?!?!) that follow any recommendation against clipless are unwarranted.
Well, see, here's the projecting I'm talking about: the "What?!?!" comment has been explained in detail. It has nothing to do with "ganging up" or "brow-beating" in the least.


There are multiple valid reasons why clipless may not be the best solution for a specific rider. Only by fairly evaluating both sides of the decision can an individual select the best personal option. I say clipless may be fine - but you should fully evaluate the alternatives too.
Well, yeah. But you know, in the interests of allowing people to "fully evaluate the alternatives", it might be best to make a careful distinction between individual preferences and opinion, and fact. "I like platforms and here's why" is good info to someone who's evaluating their choices; "I have the following experience with platforms and the following experience with clipless and here's why I like platforms better" is better still.

Well, see, here's the projecting I'm talking about: the "What?!?!" comment has been explained in detail. It has nothing to do with "ganging up" or "brow-beating" in the least.
.
THANK YOU. I don't even ride clipless so I'm not gonna gang up on someone and get them to.

...Your arguments can all be made against platforms...I'm trying to think of an "emergency stop" situation where a rider who was somehow incapable of unclipping would end up worse off than someone on platforms. Can you be more specific...?

The next-to-last time I fell, I was beside a busy street with fast traffic. I had on toe clips & straps (substitute "clipless pedals & shoes if you wish). A car pulled out in front of me abruptly and I had to emergency-stop. Since I couldn't get out of the pedals, I fell over into the lane of traffic. The car that swerved to avoid me (by inches) almost caused a head-on. If I could have gotten my feet down, I'd never have fallen.

The "couldn't get unclipped and fell" scenario is common to those who ride attached to the pedals. For you to claim otherwise is blatantly dishonest. The bike-shop motto is "there are two types of clipless riders - those who have fallen and those who will." It may not have happened to you yet, but that doesn't mean it won't. My experiences and the anecdotal experiences of others lead me to believe that chances of falling increase when feet are attached to the pedals. If you think otherwise, give me your evidence (that contradicts common knowledge).


Well, what's "expensive"?...People keep saying "SPD" and you keep ignoring them. Why is that? Have you had a pair? Have you walked in a pair?

Expensive is having to buy a specialized pair of shoes that I can't use otherwise. The shoes that my LBS sold me had rigid soles, protruding cleats, and were unusable except on the bike. I had a second set that were SPD-compatible MTB shoes, but the cleats still messed up the floor. I don't claim to be intimately familiar with all the varieties of clipless shoes. There may be plenty that work fine. I just don't know of them.


Where has anyone told you that you're "not a 'real cyclist'"? Where and when have you been cited by the "cycling-fashion-police"?...You might want to consider the possibility that all these sneers and insults are much more the product of your imagination than they are real.

You're not familiar with the road cycling forum?


But you know, in the interests of allowing people to "fully evaluate the alternatives", it might be best to make a careful distinction between individual preferences and opinion, and fact...

I have clearly admitted that my opinion is in the minority, that the majority of riders find benefits to being attached to the pedals, and that if you want to be attached to the pedals, that clipless is the best option. It seems to me, bat, that you're the one coming to the party with a defensive attitude.

I've stated my opinions and my reasons for those opinions. You've opined that some are valid and others not. Fair enough. We can agree to disagree.

The next-to-last time I fell, I was beside a busy street with fast traffic. I had on toe clips & straps (substitute "clipless pedals & shoes if you wish). A car pulled out in front of me abruptly and I had to emergency-stop. Since I couldn't get out of the pedals, I fell over into the lane of traffic. The car that swerved to avoid me (by inches) almost caused a head-on. If I could have gotten my feet down, I'd never have fallen.
YMMV, but I can get out of clipless pedals a lot quicker than I could ever get out of clips.


The "couldn't get unclipped and fell" scenario is common to those who ride attached to the pedals. For you to claim otherwise is blatantly dishonest.
Oh, so now I'm a liar? That's the noun that I'd associate with a "blatantly dishonest" person. And yet this "common" scenario has only happened to me once, when I first got clipless pedals and was doodling around a parking lot. How common is "common"? Once a week? Once a year?


The bike-shop motto is "there are two types of clipless riders - those who have fallen and those who will."
I'm sure that's hanging up on the wall at some lbs. OTOH, the guys at mine didn't exactly sit me down and give me a major heart-to-heart about how I'd better prepare for some major orthopedic surgery since I was going clipless. In fact, if I were to ask them, I strongly suspect they'd say, "There are two types of riders -- those who have fallen and those who will." You're going to fall, too, FH.


It may not have happened to you yet, but that doesn't mean it won't. My experiences and the anecdotal experiences of others lead me to believe that chances of falling increase when feet are attached to the pedals. If you think otherwise, give me your evidence (that contradicts common knowledge).
Hey, it's fine with me if you say that "chances of falling increase when feet are attached to pedals". I'm sure you're correct, if you sufficiently constrain the conditions and/or define "increase" as any amount at all, no matter how infinitesimal (although how you establish that Jack fell twice this year while wearing clipless pedals and would not have fallen at all while using platforms is beyond me). The question is, is this an issue, in practical terms? For me and for other clipless riders, clearly it's not: if we were getting bollixed up and failing to remember how to get our feet out of our pedals on anything like a "common" basis, do you think we'd still be using them? Nobody likes falling even at 0 mph, which is the speed you'd be falling at if you couldn't get your feet out. I'm not saying that there aren't people out there for whom this would be an issue...but clearly it's not the large majority of riders, or the use of clipless pedals would be confined to a tiny subset of the riding population.


Expensive is having to buy a specialized pair of shoes that I can't use otherwise. The shoes that my LBS sold me had rigid soles, protruding cleats, and were unusable except on the bike. I had a second set that were SPD-compatible MTB shoes, but the cleats still messed up the floor. I don't claim to be intimately familiar with all the varieties of clipless shoes. There may be plenty that work fine. I just don't know of them.
Yeah, see, this is where YMMV. Out of curiosity, what footwear do you use for riding?


You're not familiar with the road cycling forum?
Familiar as in, know it exists? Or familiar as in read? Yes on one and no on two.


I have clearly admitted that my opinion is in the minority, that the majority of riders find benefits to being attached to the pedals, and that if you want to be attached to the pedals, that clipless is the best option. It seems to me, bat, that you're the one coming to the party with a defensive attitude.
Heh, that's funny -- at least I didn't call you "blatantly dishonest". IME, from what I see while commuting, you're in the majority as far as the type of pedal you use; however, your opinion is somewhat in the minority of users of all types of pedals in viewing clipless pedals as a significant menace.

Oh, so now I'm a liar? That's the noun that I'd associate with a "blatantly dishonest" person.
Heh, that's funny -- at least I didn't call you "blatantly dishonest"..
BLATANTLY DISHONEST? COME ON!:lol: :roflmao: :lol:
I agree brown bat lol. Just say liar - don't worry about hurting feeeling we're all friends:D

Hey if my last post comes across bad I apologize - no offense intended. Just seems funny to me getting all worked up like this. :)

In the interest of avoiding a meltdown on this thread...it's getting dangerously close to flames. I'm not a mod, but I'd hate to see a flame war break out. We've never had one yet on Clyde's and I for one would like to see that record continue.:)

EDIT: OOps, i see you already broke out the fire extinguisher, bail!:D

Lil brown bat - we just disagree. It's OK. You like clipless, I don't. Adios.

Lil brown bat - we just disagree. It's OK. You like clipless, I don't. Adios.

And at the end of the day, we are all cyclists. Let's get along.

WOW!!! And here I've always thought a pedal, was just a pedal.....

I think I see what ya' mean, FH....

Cheers