I bought the shoes from REI, and I got the Pedals off eBay. I wanted to try out a Clipless setup because I love the way straps feel when I can get them tight, but every set of shoes is different and its quite difficult to get the straps on quick and easily.

I am not much of a fan of the Velcro straps, but I do love the clincher. Definitely recommended for people who want a very snug fit. I set the tension on the pedals to the easiest. After about a mile I felt the desire to tighten them up, but resisted as I didn't have many stops and wanted to make sure I felt comfortable un-clipping. Which by the way is very easy. Squirrelli suggested I go with a single release instead of the multi so I wouldn't get so confused with the different exit points, and I have to agree. I also am glad I went with a mountain bike shoe over the road bike shoe as I felt very comfortable walking around a store in the M087's.

Overall my first trip was a 6 mile commute with a few stops. I did not fall, although after un-clipping both sides I realized when I leaned over to dismount, I would find myself clipping back in which I could see relating to a fall. I am definitely glad I went clipless and will definitely invest in more pedals for my other bikes.

-$115 - 20% coupon - $50(credit) - $21.20(dividend) = $20.79 Shimano M087
-$17.50 + $12.00(shipping) = $29.50 Shimano M540 SPD
Total spent: $50.29