Originally Posted by
jackb
After all the discussion, I'm still wondering what the true advantages of clipless pedals are. I switched my bikes over to toe clips and have felt no noticeable disadvantage while very noticeably being able to wear any shoes, including crocs with my pedals. Of course, I know the theoretical advantages, maximum power to the pedals, ability to pull up, and perhaps there are others, but for a recreational cyclist like myself, these advantages have no real meaning for me. It so much easier to just put on whatever footwear I feel like wearing and hopping on the bike. and while I'm at it, let me state another heresy. Occasional I just hop on one of my bikes wearing ordinary street clothes. sometimes I can't be bothered with suiting up with all the bike clothes. I just feel like getting on the bike for an hour or so without going to he trouble of donning all the regalia. Guess what? for short rides, say 10-20 miles, I'm quite comfortable. I wouldn't go out for 30 or 40 miles rides with jeans on, but for short distances, I really don't mind shorts and sandals. The important thing is to ride a lot. Whatever is comfortable works.
Yeah, I guess it all depends on what you are doing with a bike and on what bike. I have a hybrid with toe clips or platforms and occasionally my SS with toe clips. My folder and beach bike are platforms only. My road bike and SS (normally) I use for speed (I love to go fast) and exercise (trying to work off the donut damage) so I am going to use the clipless pedals and stiff soled shoes. When I ride seriously I am out for a minimum of an hour and up to four so I'm going to dress for riding not something else. I'll use the other bikes for casual transportation or a social ride and will dress appropriately.
Sort of like paddle sports or golf: For tennis I wear tennis clothes but ping-pong or back yard badminton (I know there are serious players of the games and I'm sure there is specific equipment and clothes) I'll wear pretty much what's at hand. For golf I wear special shoes and "golf" clothes (You know plaid plus fours and a cap with a tassel just like Moe of the Stooges- just kidding) but for putt-putt nothing special.
If your biking is pretty casual (and this is a GOOD thing way too many SERIOUS riders myself included) pretty casual dress is appropriate.