chewybrian 

First, I just installed SPD clipless/platform pedals, and got mountain shoes. All set to try clipless first time tomorrow, so any advice? I backed the tension down, and figure I'll torque up a notch every day until it feels right.

At 9,000 miles, I got some needed (and some not) upgrades: new XT hubs, DT spokes, Mavic rims, XT chain, Ultegra cassette, SPD pedals, and BB service. Anything else I should be working on at this point? The chainrings and cables seem ok, brakepads and tires(not original) still have life.

I am also looking at new bars. Anyone using the integrated aero bars, or clip-on aeros, to commute? A large portion of my commute is one long, glorious, traffic-free road. It seems safe enough to tuck down for most of it, although I have no experience with these type bars.

Thanks for any advice. And if you want to pick between DeSean Jackson and Derrick Mason for my 3rd fantasy wideout, I'll listen to that, too. I need to sneak in a couple victories while Colston is out...

bikinpolitico

On the clipless, I'd put the bike in a trainer or lean up against a wall and practice clipping in and out a bunch of time until you are comfortable. This will help you avoid the obligatory first time at a stop sign falling over.

On aerobars, the Profile Areolites are the most adjustable ones out there. Regardless, I'd avoid any of the carbon ones for everyday commuting. Also, HED makes a brake to go on the end of your aerobars if you are in doubt about safety.

chewybrian 

Thanks, I will look at the Aerolites and the HED brake. When I asked the LBS guy, he said nobody uses brakes on the aeros. He said it wasn't safe to turn using the aeros. But forget turning, I think brakes on the aeros would be smart, for cars pulling out in front of you, etc. I suppose it means new cables, too.

unkchunk

Pre pick the foot that you will unclip first. And then always use that foot. Beats trying to figure out which foot to unclip as you are falling over.

chewybrian 

Yeah, I always lean left. It was easy. In the morning, I made the whole 15 miles without unclipping! On the way home, 5 or 6 times. My morning commute went 17.8 mph, way over avg., although I guess the new gears had a lot to do with that. I ran in the same positions, but the ratios are higher now. All together, it was like a new, faster, better bike. And: the click, tick of my khrappy old pedals--gone.

Hirohsima

I use aerobars on my commute bike. I like them a lot for riding on the MUP as well as on city streets that don't have cross traffic or stop signs.:

RedC

I keep wondering if that would help me deal with the wind. I only have a six mile commute but about three miles of MUP around a lake and when the wind is with me like it was coming home tonight I fly, but when it's agin me I have to work pretty hard.

Hirohsima

It gets me 1-2mph with the same effort with no wind, but in a headwind, I think I probably only get 1mph, not sure why... just my experience.

chewybrian 

Yes, that is the set-up I am looking for, bullhorn and aero. A big section of my commute has only a couple stop signs over @10 miles. You don't worry about being separated from the brake levers when you are on the aeros? Are the bull horns more/less comfy or useful than flat bars or drops? I would guess they give you good control, but what other appeal do they have (besides looks)?

Nice ride, but someone stole your derailer, shift levers, cassette...