Road Cycling - To Float or not to Float?

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seturner
07-31-04, 10:10 AM
Hello all,
I am new here and am getting back into cycling for fitness. About 8 years ago I quit cycling after getting
PFS in my right knee on a MS150 ride. I used Look pedals with red cleats which float. I recently have been riding my new Specialized Sirrus with toe clips, and notice my knee feels great, even though my foot points straight ahead and doesn't really "float". I also just ordered some Eggbeater Candy SL's, which have no option for locking out float. I am worried that float originally caused my knee problem.

When I stand normally, my right foot splays out some, due to a collapsing arch and overpronation of the foot and ankle. I recently started wearing store bought orthotics, which helps some. I think my natural right toe pointing out gait causes or allows pattellor mistracking, and forcing toe straight makes it track better. Any Opinions? Or am I F.O.S.?

Thanks,
Scott

Flaneur
07-31-04, 06:54 PM
I've always had to be careful about my knees. Missed almost a whole season once............

I wondered why you were buying the eggbeaters, if the pedals you currently have are working? I have become quite conservative about trying new stuff and risking a recurrence of knee problems.

Did you ever take professional advice about your overall position- especially foot-over-pedal/ knee-over-axle type stuff?

If your hypothesis is correct about tracking, wouldn't a little bit of float still be a useful safety feature?