FamilyMan007

Short version of question: For use with toe clips/straps on my hybrid, which pedal is recommended:
(a) All-City Wallner Pro Track or (b) MKS Platform GR9

Longer version of question:
I am likely over-analyzing a pedal/toe-clip decision, but my question relates to specific model of pedals (and toe clips come to that – see end of post) to install. Best approach would be to install and try them out. But then I would not feel able to return them, so I am hoping the extensive experience of cyclists in this forum can get me to the right solution.

(BTW I acknowledge – and appreciated receiving - advice from some in an earlier post to go straight to so-called ‘clipless’ system. If my knees give me problems, I may revisit sooner as the advice included valuable input re being more comfortable as well as more efficient. For better or worse, however, I have decided to be cautious in moving to ‘new’ technology in my 68th year and intend to wait a little longer before taking that step. I am ‘progressing’ to the ‘old-fashioned’ approach I used when I did a little cycling over 20 years ago.)

Not sure if any other information is relevant to such a decision. I am a recreational rider, with no real hills in my cycling from home, normal ride being under 35 miles long at speeds in the 12 / 17 mph range. I am planning on trying for a full century ride in 2015 (having completed a ‘metric’ one in 2014). I use size 10 Specialised cycling shoes I bought over 20 years ago (having a stiffened sole for old-fashioned ‘non-clipless’ pedals). My 2012 Cannondale Quick SL-1 has all original equipment (except I have acquired Ergon GP5s bar ends – not yet installed but look just wonderful).

All-City Wallner Pro Track: I ordered these on-line based on internet research (my LBS had no platform shoes in stock!?!). I liked the sound of sealed bearings (albeit I tend to avoid cycling in dirty weather so this feature is likely not essential), and user reviews which mentioned road use. They seem nice enough, but now I have received them I am having second thoughts (eg only focused on the ‘track’ part of the title just now).

Specific doubts are related to the serrated edges my shoes will rest on - possibly making slipping in/out of the toe clips more difficult, and providing a very small contact area for the shoes which may mean comfort issues on longer rides (as noted above, my old ‘specialised’ cycling shoes do have stiffened soles)?
I also see they have no ‘flipper extensions’ – are these important for facilitate use of toe-clips?

I have full ‘return’ rights, and even allowing for the extra postage I would about ‘break-even’ if I replaced them with the MKS Platform GR9 Pedal (which seems to overcome my above concerns about serrated edges).

Finally toe-clips / straps (I used a traditional ‘steel’ toe clip on my old Bianchi). I have found two models (MKS Steel Chrome or the All-City Swan Road Style Double) which seem similar, except that the ‘All-City’ ones have ‘double’ straps – anyone have any experience whether this is really the benefit claimed in their product blurb?

Sorry for the long post – hope this winter is short up in Canada – obviously without my riding I have too much time on my hands to fret over the little stuff.

doctor j

I use the MKS GR9 pedals on both of my road bikes. There is a tab on the rear of the pedal, which when it is tapped with the toe of the shoe, brings the pedal up for easy entry into the cage. I have thousands of miles on these pedals with no issues.

Nightshade

FWIW...I like the All-City Wallner Pro Track Pedals > Components > Pedals | Jenson USA better due to better gripping teeth.

Oh yes, it's the "little stuff" that make all the difference in any outcome.

FamilyMan007

GR9s obviously working well for you - thanks for the input

FamilyMan007

Thanks for the input -as a matter of interest is your view based on using them; or reading the description of the pedals and applying experience with different pedals ?

Nightshade

"Toothy" pedals will always grip better when wet or muddy. They also will "bark" your shins if your foot isn't placed right in the pedals.

FBinNY 

You are 110% overthinking the decision.

Either pedal will accept clips and straps fine, except that the platforms seem to need nuts and bolts, whereas the track pedal is tapped. (not a big deal).

It's a question of preference, and possibly working width (if you have wide feet). The track pedal is double sided which is nice when first starting, but not nicer enough to factor. I have single sided pedals and have no issue pushing on the bearing housing for a revolution or two.

All things considered, I'd probably opt for the platforms, because the larger surface area will be nicer on the bottom of my foot if not wearing shoes with stiff soles, but it's not enough to worry about, if you want the track pedals.

FamilyMan007

FBinNY I think you are right !

In my partial defence - I did indicate in the opening post that I have stopped cycling for the winter. Next year I will try to cycle for longer to avoid these 'withdrawl' symptoms!

Seasons greeting to one and all.