Originally Posted by
Bike4Hunter
Can I race cyclocross or road races without using clipless pedals any cycling specific shoes?
A. Clipless pedals, cleats, and cycling specific shoes are expensive.
B. I am not trying to be the best cyclist in the world. I only want to compete in entry-level cyclocross and road races for the purpose of fitness and fun.
C. I have had some scares with clips and straps. I am am afraid I will have the same experiences with a clipless system, even easy to use ones like Speedplay frogs & Shimano Click'R.
I realize that I will lose efficiency in my pedal stroke by not using a clipless system, but I will train harder to compensate for that.
Can I compete in cyclocross racing or road racing without clipless pedals and cycling specific shoes?
OP:
I started with clips and straps myself (because I am old and was too poor to afford those fancy Looks when they came out). If you have any experience with clips and straps, then clipless will be so much easier. Rather than having to reach down, loosen the strap by hand, and wiggle your foot out, all you have to do with clipless is kick your heel out. Easy peasy. And within a few rides you won't even have to think about it.