Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 4,040
Likes: 2,120
From: NW Ohio
Bikes: 1984 Miyata 310, 1986 Schwinn Sierra, 1987 Ross Mt. Hood, 1988 Schwinn LeTour, 1988 Trek 400T, 1981 Fuji S12-1977 Univega Grand Rally, S LTD, 1973 Sears Free Spirit 531, 197? FW Evans
I like to set the wrench handle toward the bottom bracket and squeeze the handle and crank together.
As far as pedals, I like the SPD style because the cleats are recessed into the shoe. All of my pedals are double sided. The OP mentioned a scar on his foot, so clipless would probably be more comfortable.