Clipless or platform...

I also like my Crank Brothers pedals very much, I like the security of my foot on the pedal, I like the added effort I can expend while climbing a steep hill, and I like being able to put effort evrywhere on the pedal stroke.

However, I do find myself wondering how much benefit there is?

For a competitive cyclist, being able to use more muscles is obviously of great benefit. But for a casual ride, one may not be using the upstroke much at all, at least I don't unless I am actively concentrating to do it, but then I always leave my family behind. And a month ago, I had to use normal pedals for 2 weeks, and while I missed my egg beaters I can't honestly say that it would have made that much difference.

So, how big is the benefit for the non-competetive rider? 10%, or more? Or less?? Is the money spent on pedals and shoes truly worth it? Try to answer these questions objectively.