chewa

I've just started using SPD's on my commute. I love the idea, and the specialized Body dynamic shoes are excellent (if a little stiff to walk in).

However, I still get a moments panic when releasing my foot from the pedal, and am presently clicking out a good bit before junctions. I feel the pedal release and then drag and I think I'm stuck. I can remember clips and straps took a while to get used to but at least I could leave them loose if in traffic. I have the tension right down here.

I think I need a self help group. Does anyone else have this feeling?

gmason

Give it a few Km - all will be well. I like them so much that I use Shimano pedals and SPD-equipped sandals on my city bike. Once you get used to the control, I suspect that you will not change.

Cheers...Gary

Bokkie

Chewa, it takes a while to (a) get used to them, (b) get the tension right, (c) wear off the rough edges so that pedal and cleat join smoothly together.

Support groups. There's plenty of those. If you can't release your foot in time, and fall off and hurt yourself, your local hospital A&E should provide all the support you need.

Persevere. I had big problems with the M545s but the ones I had on my road bike (wish I'd kept them) were absolutely superb. I'm using flatties off road. The only criticism with clipless pedals is the absence of a platform can make riding around congested traffic a little awkward. You'll adjust.

jmlee

I had other, unpleasant feelings coming from my knees. I might have needed a support group, but I got rid of the pedals instead.

Sorry, that's probably not what you wanted to hear, but I never liked my SPDs. There are plenty around who do, however, especially for commuting. If ya'all do start a support group, you may want to dedicate several sessions to cleat adjustment issues.

All joking aside, You will get used to clipless pedals faster than you think (try practicing on grass).

And, I sincerely hope they work out for you.

Cheers,
Jamie

Hants Commuter

Chewa - I use SPD's now for about 18 months before that it was toe-clips. The difference is unbelievable.

I was really nervous when I first got them and nearly came to grief a couple of times early on, but I found a quick spray of WD40 eased them up. Clipping on and off is now 2nd nature.

One cautionary tale. I got a new new bike (well new to me) and fitted a new pair of SPD pedals to it. Unfortunately I forgot that they would be a little stiff when I came to a junction. Timber........

webist

Got mine about 9 months ago. Practiced extensively and tought carefully prior to stops to avoid falling. Actually never fell during a ride.

Then, yesterday, my wife called to me as I mounted my bike. I turned to answer and promptly fell over

She forgot what she was going to say.

Bokkie

I actually painted that scene in my mind, and I laugh with you, uproariously. Thursday morning 09:00 here at work, and that has brightened my day. Thanks for a great chuckle.

Ed Holland

Hi Chewa,

I took the plunge into clipless (SPD-R) pedals just over a year ago after using clips and straps for a while. It also took me a while to get used to them, the first feeling of being completely attached to the bike was very odd - and that was just practicing the clip-in/out in my hallway. I still make sure to disengage from the left pedal well in advance of a stop so I can put my foot down. It only took one lesson of being unprepared - I lost it trying to balance at some lights at a narrow canal bridge... and fell in a ditch full of nettles under the hedge The hardest part was crawling out without being seen.

I know the SPD-R system has had some mixed reviews. Maybe it's because I don't know any other system, but I have always got on with them just fine. No discomfort even on long rides. I did have one mechanical failure with a new cleat that meant I was unable to clip out because the release tab had broken off!.... but I didn't fall. I would recommend keeping the cleats clean, and applying a dab of grease to them and the pedal engagement surfaces once in a while, especially after riding in the wet. This keeps the clip action nice and smooth.

webist

Glad you enjoyed it. I've been chuckling about it again since reading your post.

SipperPhoto

hey there...

yeah I've been on SPD's for about 4 months now... before that ridin' some flatties and toe clips... SPD's are soooo much nice once you get the hang of them... I'd suggest using a little chain lube on moving pedal parts.. I did that about 2 weeks ago,a nd it has worked wonders... now the only time I fall, is whne I try and trackstand, and lose my balance and fall over like an idiot... the ego usually hurts worse than the actual crash.


Jeff

chewa

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'm getting used to them a bit now, and have even ventured to get out of the saddle when going uphill!!

Bokkie

Chewa, that is the scary bit when you first do it. When you're sitting on the saddle, it's a bit easier to control if your foot comes loose, but when I first stood I was very much aware of the distance between my 'plums' and the saddle/top tube and how much it would hurt if my foot were to suddenly unclip from the pedal.

I only wish that now I'm using studded flatties that I could take the bold step and stand again...