Hi,

As the title implies, I'm really uncomfortable (as in really scared) with the idea of clipping in. I'm not even sure I need to yet... But REI is having this sale, lol.

Backstory-I've only recently (9 months ago) got on a bike after a 40+ year hiatus. As a kid I rode all over on coaster brake step-thru cruiser, and parked it when I got my first car. I started again last Aug on a city bike-Milano Dama | Bianchi USA. Comfy, no technique for riding needed.

I discovered I liked to go fast(er) and moved up to a Specialized Vita Specialized Bicycle Components. Properly sized, BG fitted and so on. The pedals on it are flat with teeth all the way around. Very grippy once you plant your foot. Seat is grippy, too. On my first real ride I had one of those 0 mph crashes- I came to an abrupt stop, couldn't slide my feet or butt off the bike and fell over hitting a curb. Broken elbow, permanent damage-a reduction in flexion/extension. Hence the fear, despite a bit of since learned technique.

However, the Vita is a fast hybrid, and I enjoy my 25 mile rides on the state highway out to Red Rock and beyond, trying to improve my speed and stamina bit by bit. My "daily" (3x a week) rides before work are an 11-12 mile loop here in town with side streets, fast thoroughfares, and a mile of bike path. A dozen stoplights and signs, 3-4 left turns and so on. So off and on a lot during the week, long gradual climbs with wicked fast downhills on the weekend.

My shoes are Specialized Sonoma- Kind of hybrid as well and will take SPD cleats. The mount is recessed. And these Shimano M324 SPD Pedals - Free Shipping at REI.com, Shimano Click'R PD-T400 Bike Pedals - Free Shipping at REI.com are on sale.

Looking for opinions as to if I should even get a set, and given the (way too much ) info, which of the two?

Thanks!

PS- I'm lusting after a true road bike, but it'll be awhile, am going to rent a Secteur and Domane in a coupla months to see if I can handle one.. physically and financially