Originally Posted by MichaelW
The main safety reason for pedal attatchment is to prevent you slipping off the pedals. This can happen on bumps, potholes or when you stand.
I have seen cyclists (usually fairly newbie riders) slip off the pedals in heavy traffic and it can be a hair-raising experience.
I find that foot removal is about the same for lose straps and for plain pedals. When I lose control and slip on ice/wet grass etc, my foot hits the ground before I spill over.
While that may be one reason for pedal attachment, I see the main reason as the ability to apply power through the entire pedal cycle, rather than just the down stroke. You can spin, rather than mash and climbing becomes much easier. I used nothing but platforms, and the occassional toe-clip/strap setup for years, but today I swear by a combo platform/clipless like the Shimano M424. I can ride clipless or in street shoes.
Another good compromise between platforms, toe-clips & straps and clipless are
Power Grips - easier to get in and out of than toe-clips/straps, ability to apply power over a greater range of the pedal cycle and no special shoes required. IMO they are a good 'primer' to move into clipless.
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