Originally Posted by
shafter
I got the Strava app and login today- I'm looking forward to using it on my next ride. I am particularly interested in seeing the elevation graph.
By the way, my bike has old style strap pedals. Should I buy clipless pedals and shoes? Are they a good buy, or one of those things only racers need?
Yes.
Cycling, if done often is not all that expensive if you ignore the time it takes. If not done often it can be more expensive.
I expect shoes and cleated pedals will improve your speed bit as well. Based on that - what is your bike?
And then ...
What pedals should you get.
There are many that you can enter on both sides. Many you can't. When a new rider, the former is easier, but if you do start riding more, that won't matter.
You will get many opinions, but I would suggest a Look or Shimano type larger platform cleat and if you have someone to fit you a 0 float as you start. 0 float ties you more to the bike and requires less core/etc. When you wear them out switch to a float and see what you think.