Originally Posted by
mickey85
BS. Studies have shown that even the pros don't pull up on the pedals. At the most, they just don't push down on the upstroke as much when clipped in. I read that on the Riv site, and decided to do my own investigation. 'Tis true, tis true. Everyone quotes this as a big thing but honestly, I can't remember a time in the past month that I've actually pulled up on the back stroke, unless it was to yank a foot out while sliding. If you are truly telling me that you pull up on every stroke while clipped or strapped in, I'd call you on it. Have you ever actually tried to do that? It's not very easy, it's rather tiring, your butt hurts, and you waste a whole lot of energy.
Just to be very clear, the Rivendell article to which you're referring actually says "During normal pedaling at normal cadences, nobody pulls UP on the backstroke." That is not the same as "nobody pulls up." Furthermore, the Rivendell apostles often ignore Grant's rather sweeping disclaimer:
This is written for non-racers, and for riders who don't ride race-like. In other words, for recreational riders, tourists, commuters, general fitness riders...but not for racers or racer-likes. It is an opinion, a point of view not often presented as worthy of consideration. No harm is intended, but no punches have been pulled, and as presented here, I believe in my bones that it is worthy of your undivided attention and serious consideration, contemplation, genuflectionand more than all that, your experimentation. Nothing beats good old-fashioned seeing for onesself.[/B]
As a commuter myself, there are plenty of us that like to ride fast and hard.
Plus, even Rivendell likes, or at least acknowledges some benefit from, foot retention; Grant just doesn't like clipless. From the description for Power Grips: "The most underrated bicycle accessory on this or any other planet." They also sell cages and straps. Personally, clipless is simply much more comfortable than cages and straps.
I agree that clipless isn't for everyone, but to claim foot retention offers no benefit whatsoever is just hyperbolic.