Originally Posted by dc70

lol...the majority of the responses run like a commercial for clip-in pedals!

Rolliepollie, I can tell one mans opinion, which won't be popular with the masses. I bought my road bike in 2004, with toe straps. I rode all of 2004 and early 05 with the straps. I made the switch partly due to all the hoopla touted by so many riders in my club. I installed the clip-ins and rode them from late June until October, about 873 miles. I didn't like them from day one. I wanted to take them off immediately but I gave them a chance to see if I would adjust to wearing them, but I didn't.

I made sure my measurements were correct, I aligned my cleats with my foot position on the pedal etc...I followed advice from experienced riders, and carmichael's book to no avail. It didn't matter what adjustment I made or position the shoes/clips were in - they were uncomfortable. I also did not notice any significant difference in efficiency and/or power. I coudn't climb any faster or longer etc. I was not faster in any way, nor did I gain any more noticable efficiency.

I did not feel any more 'connected' to my bike at all. In fact, I felt just the opposite.
With the clip-ins it seems that only a small portion of the shoe is in contact with the pedal, whereas with the toe straps there is more of your foot on the pedal, it feels more secure and stable. It may be a perception but I like being in the toe straps and cinched down tight. But I believe that most who boast of this new found improvement is really just a case of perception as well.

I have to laugh when you get new riders geting exclamatory on how you will improve 20%! Geez...it really is funny how a lot of new riders are brainwashed by marketing and shop owners/sales people. Perhaps if your in the pro peleton and are one of the best cyclists on the planet, then and only then could you maybe see a 20% increase. I would say that most if not all new riders have bikes that are better than them. So pedals are not going to make a huge difference. Work on endurance, strength, power, and smoothness first. Which isn't going to happen overnight, in fact it won't happen for a few years or more. Spend money on things that matter, such as a good helmet, safety, clothing gear, and a trainer.

Now, it seems that most of riders who favor clip-ins like the way they feel, so then that is the choice for each of them. I also have no doub t that if riders who like them are going to fully believe that they are better off using the clip-ins.
If they feel good, they ride better, they are happier. Which is the real point anyway.


Bottom line is, there is not the marked claimed 20% improvement for the typical average rider with average capability. I believe it is more hype than reality, because every individual is different, with varying needs. You should ride both before making a decision, if that is possible. Go with what feels best, and makes riding fun.