Originally Posted by
cleanupinaisle3
I agree that everyone should try clipless eventually, but what types of clips/straps do you have right now? With the cost of the shoes, pedals, cleats, etc., you could just get a really nice clip/strap setup. I'm lucky enough to have both. Believe me, quality straps make all the difference. I'm not saying don't go clipless; I'm saying consider all the options before you plop down a wad of cash. Happy riding!
But the OP seems particularly interested in efficiency, in which case clipless wins hands-down. A really nice clip setup can easily cost even more than clipless, especially if the OP is going for efficiency, which means you still need to invest in proper shoes. I agree clips have their place, but based on the OP's stated wishes, I'd say this isn't it.