Originally Posted by
PlanoFuji
I really don't care to get into yet another argument on the subject, but the two scientific studies of the effect on rider power efficiency over longish distances have found no difference between the types of pedals; platform, clip less, or clip. Of course you are welcome to believe that your subjective experience trumps actual objective scientific studies... And for reference see other discussions on the topic on this forum rather than asking me.
Tell me: when was the last time somebody won the
Giro d'Italia, the
Tour de France, or the
Vuelta a Espana using platform pedals? Or clips and straps? What about the IronMan World Championship in Hawaii? Heck, when was the last time somebody
competed in one of those events using such ancient pedal technology? If your claim is to be believed wouldn't at least a
couple of people in those races be using something other than clipless pedals? Perhaps these athletes, who care more about power efficiency than just about anyone, have figured out that clipless pedals actually
are more efficient? I'm not sure what studies you're referring to, since you conveniently forgot to provide any references, but I highly doubt that they involve sending hundreds of power-meter equipped riders out to ride for 4-8 hours/day for three weeks at a time...
P.S. my normal cadence is between 80 and 90 and stays constant without regard to whether I am riding clip less or on platforms... Of course I don't have any belief that a certain type of pedal will make me faster, stronger, etc...
Good for you! Now show me some power meter data that proves you know what you're talking about with respect to efficiency, power output, etc.
Yes, of course your right. A spd compatible shoe is eminently comfortable walking many miles or even hiking (as many of us do when touring), or even better with dressier attire while having a nice meal. I just don't know what I was thinking that a normal walking shoe might be more flexible for touring...
Remember:
you were the one who claimed it was desirable to travel with only a single pair of shoes. Now, you're claiming that you have a pair of shoes that's appropriate for pedaling, hiking
and fine dining. Do tell: what miraculous shoe is this? Have forum-favorite Crocs released a line of rubber dress shoes? Perhaps Brooks Brothers have released a line of hiking wing-tips?