Originally Posted by
bragi
You don't think it's possible to spin with platforms? The implication that clipless riders are automatically more skilled than riders who prefer platforms is kind of irritating, to be honest. I can use clipless pedals; they're easy to use. Moreover, I totally respect others' choice to use them. But if you can't ride up a steep hill while using platform pedals, why should you brag about it?
Bragi your dealing with a young rider who doesn't know the history of cycling.
I'm an older guy, 56, and back when I raced they didn't have clipless pedals yet and everyone could spin at 80rpm and beyond, in fact up until just the last 15 years track racers were using toe straps because they were stronger and all those guys spin the pedals and there is still old school track racing where they use steel bikes and yes toe straps.
Really there isn't much difference between the two except how the foot enters and disengages, degree of float, and the weight of the pedal. A proper toe clip style shoe has a cleat on the bottom of the shoe with a grove that "clips" onto the rear portion of the pedal cage, then you tighten the straps to your comfort level. Some argue that your foot comes out of the straps unlike clipless...that's so full of crap. I watched the TDF and happen to see several riders come unclipped from their clipless pedals by accident just as would happen occasionally with toe straps. I adjust my straps so I can get my foot out without having to release the strap and it still holds my feet in quite securely and only on rare occasion will a foot come out, plus my cadence averages between 90 to 95rpm so again there goes the spinning theory out the window.