Mountain Biking - Recomend a pedal for a newbie

Hi everyone,

I'm just getting back into cycling with the purchase of a used Trek 8500 MTB that luckily fits my body perfectly. I was wondering what you would recommend for a clip-on (?) pedal for someone who has never used them ... and anticipating a few falls. I do what to get something that is half-way decent but still relatively easy to use. I was thinking of the Shimano M520 pedals (about $55), and hoping to stay under the $60, unless there is a really big reason why I should pay a whole lot. Also, can I get any shoe or specific ones that fit the clip? How does it pair with shoes?

I've been a runner for several years, and have some miniscule coordination. I’m planning on riding 1-2 times a week (still love running), and probably putting 20-30 miles per ride just for starters. The only off-roading I anticipate is on fire trails.

Thanks a lot!
Ravi

Learn to ride the bike before you fit clipless pedals.

Pssh, get pedals and then ride. Makes things more interesting. But really if you want a SPD type pedal then check out the nashbar knock-off's. Same design and everything for about 19 bucks. I got some and they work great

I'd go with MichaelW on this one. I got clipless pedals almost as soon as I started to ride, and loved them but I realized that I was relying on them way too much. I would say to ride the bike at least a few months without them if you can. If you really want them now though I would go with some shimano or shimano knock-offs to start (like hammer stated, you can get them cheep at nashbar.com).

congrats on the bike as well, have fun.

Maybe I need to clarify my definition of "newbie". I've been riding a bicycle since I was 5, and have been riding off-and-on. I have even completed a mini bi-athlon (6 mile run, 25mile bike ride several years ago on a bicycle with regular pedals. I definately know how to ride a bicycle.

I'm not a hard-core go ride 60 miles or more kinda guy, but would like to get there. I was hoping to make the jump to clipless pedals to add efficiency to my ride as I'm thinking of starting to ride on a more regular basis. Back to my question, how's the Shimano M520 for this purpose?

Thanks - Ravi

well, they are talking about riding on trails. and on trails, it is best if you learn the basic handling skills, bunnyhopping, etc, without clipless pedals.

However, I'm not sure why they were saying that. because you aren't going to be riding on trails. You are essentially a road cyclist. and clipless pedals are awesome for road bikes. The M520 would probably be fine for your uses.

I use eggbeaters for both road/mtb. I really like them, easy to engage/disengage and they are very simple to maintain.

The only road pedals I have used are speedplay x2 I think they are called.

well, they are talking about riding on trails. and on trails, it is best if you learn the basic handling skills, bunnyhopping, etc, without clipless pedals...

Ah, that makes sense! And you're right, I'm basically a road cyclist with a mountain bike that might take it on mild dirt roads, but noting too adventurous.

Ravi

... and loved them but I realized that I was relying on them way too much.

Just curious, how does one rely on keeping their feet on the pedals too much? :)

I agree with earlier posters -- get some clipless pedals (any of the mainstream models), don't worry and ride!

if you're gonna but pedals spend to get the best b/c cheap pedals suck a** and make learning to ride them that much harder. If i were you i'd look into Eggbeaters, Shimano 959's(no lower, the lower models are death traps) or a Time ATAC pedal. These three seem to be the standard for good pedals. FYI I have eggbeaters

Learn to ride the bike before you fit clipless pedals.


Psssssh, I learned it all at once and I managed fine.

i recommend power grips. they are cheap, easy to get out of, and easy to install. plus you can wear normal shoes.

at least 4 of my riding buddies have them, and we all swear by them.

get just the grips here:
http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=108&subcategory=1077&brand=&sku=1270&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=

or get the pedals w/grips here:
http://www.pricepoint.com/detail.htm?stylepkey=11545&detailName=Eko%20Sport%20Power%20Grip%20Pedal%20Kit&style_id=240%20EKOPP1&dept_id=&deptName=&sub_id=&subName=&lprice=29.98&hprice=29.98

Just curious, how does one rely on keeping their feet on the pedals too much? :)


I couldn't even bunnyhop or do anyhting elso really without clips. I just figure that it is good to learn to handle the bike and keep your feet on the pedals yourself before you get something that will keep them on for you.