Originally Posted by
oldnslow2
Being a road cyclist I just assumed so, but this winter I joined a gym and took spin class 4-5 times a week. I also rode my son's MTB a few time with flat pedals since i didn't have MTB shoes. I had problems trying to keep my feet on the pedals in the best position.
Well, last week I picked up a Trek 8.5 DS and bought MTB shoes. I was amazed how much more control I had on the spin bike and how much easier it was to spin.
Shoes made a huge difference. (just my personal experience)
Well to be honest, the test didn't use the scientific method so the results could be debatable. However, in this test, the rider in the test agree with you as far as the shoes reduced his attention and focus to his peddling. Again, the test proved zero advantage in power and/or efficiency with respects to clipless vs non clipless. A fixed incline on a treadmill over a timed interval.
Originally Posted by
badger1
OP,
I'm firmly in the 'ride it a year, then figure out what you want to change (or 'upgrade') -- if anything' camp.
Agreed if its your first bike. But I already know what I wanted from my previous bikes so the upgrades needed no consideration. I did try out the seat though, just for good measure.