Originally Posted by Kapusta

I have serious doubts that clipless are more "efficient" (at least to a degree that is noticable), but I do know that I am faster when I use them, at least on a short, fast ride.

There is a loop I do in town 1-2 times a week that typically takes around 70-75 minutes for me to do. It is a good mix of flat sections, some very steep climbing, and some rolling stuff. Also a bit of stop and start as a lot of it is in an urban area.

What I have found is that I am around 5 minutes faster on average when I use clipless, and this is remarkably consistent.

I don't think I am more efficient, I think it just allows me (or maybe encourages me?) to charge a little harder when I want to sprint from a stop, or just get up to speed faster.