Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Toe Clips n Straps

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dropnroll
06-17-04, 10:38 PM
I have a singlespeed bike I use for fun, work, and for just riding around. I have these big fat almost bmx like pedals on them. I have no problem with these, it's just that I've been trying to seriously work on my spin and my form as a whole. At high cadences I feel like I lose a lot of momentum sometimes because I'm readjusting my feet on the pedals. I don't feel like I'm getting a full distribution throughout my pedaling rotation. My question is, should I put pedals with toe clips and straps? I've read from a couple of you that this helps with a sort of "push and pull", instead of just having your feet just "float" on the up-rotation.
Also, my bottom bracket is pretty low. Will clips become a problem with this? Should I just shelve it in and get clipless? I'm not sure they're for me.
Thanks for your help.
pyze-guy
06-17-04, 11:12 PM
I've alway riden with toe-clips and don't feel the need to go clipless. Never had a problem with a low bb either.
TimArchy
06-18-04, 06:22 AM
the only problem I see with a low BB is sometimes scraping the clips on the ground when you're walking the bike. I do that whenever I ride my geared bike.
tim
SyntaxPC
06-18-04, 07:42 AM
Going from plain old platforms to clips was like night and day for me. I haven't used clipless pedals extensively, so I can't comment on them, but I like clips so much I don't see any need to switch to something else (at the moment). Once you learn to "kick in (http://www.63xc.com/gregg/101_7.htm)" efficiently, the low BB shouldn't be a problem. If you do decide to go with clips, make sure you get a good quality pair of metal ones; in my experience, the cheaper, plastic ones aren't even usable. I've never been able to try leather straps, though, because I couldn't find any long enough for my big fat feet, so you'll have to consult someone else for the leather vs. nylon debate.
Moonshot
06-18-04, 08:23 AM
I use clips without straps. It's easier to get in and out and the clips still hold my feet in place.
merztime
06-18-04, 10:10 AM
clips and straps make a world of difference. I never realized how much physical and mental effort it took to keep my feet on the pedals at any decent cadence. Even the kind without straps will make a diffence. You won't be able to pull up as much, put at least your feet won't slide forward
dropnroll
06-18-04, 11:45 AM
Thanks for all your help. i'm heading to the lbs today to check out what they have.
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