Originally Posted by
Sixty Fiver
One: I think I have mentioned that you set your saddle really high which contributes to a toes down position.
Two: Try and increase your cadence and spin a lower gear, faster.
Three: If you do try clipless again try setting the cleats farther back, this helps with power on climbs by engaging the major leg muscles instead of the minor (lower) muscles.
You did mention my seat height, and I lowered it as a result, but I still find myself pointing my toes downward. And if I lower it any more I'm afraid it will start hurting my knees. As it is right now, I can pedal with my heels and my knees are still
slightly bent.
I generally spin more than mash because my knees aren't so great, but I'll try to pay more attention to my cadence. And there are some especially steep hills here where I'm in my easiest gear and simply have to either mash the pedals or just get off and walk. That's with a 26t chainring and 32t rear cog!