Cyclocross - Rocky Solo CXR

I just ordered an 09 Rocky Mountain Solo CXR. I have a XC background but not much road and no cross saddle time. I wanted something to use for commuting (35 km one way), can handle the rougher sections of road, light trails, road riding, and just to have fun. I spent days and hours talking to the LBS and they were all great. They set me up on road bikes and cross bikes and said get out there riding each type and level of bikes and you will be able to make up your own mind. I just fell in love the cross bikes. So the bike will be here in approx 2 weeks.

My next mission is to figure out what kind of pedals I should get. XC or Road style shoes? I know the road shoes have a larger cleat area that is more comfy on longer rides but I also know road shoes and dirt don't mix.

Steve

i'd say go with mtn clipless pedals.

Solos are da bomb.

A stiff-soled MTB shoe on a MTB pedal is almost as comfy as a road shoe on a big road pedal on a long ride. I gotta be riding a couple hours before I can feel the difference between an XT and an Ultegra pedal with carbon-soled shoes on.

As you may know, stiff race shoes for MTBs are $$$; I'd even knock the pedal budget down a bit to get the stiffest-soled shoes I can, if need be.

And I did have road pedals on my cross bike last year. No go.

Thanks for the info. I think that the stiff sole MTB shoe is the way to go.

Steve

Stiff soled MTB shoe; Crank Bros. eggbeater pedals. Smooth as butter release and no fouling from mud. Again, stiff sole required to save your feet. I used to use this combo for my road bike as well (now defunct).