griffster,

Since I am not into racing I had the LBS swap out the pedals for toeclips which seem to suit me just fine based on the type of riding I do. Any roadie will tell you however that clipless (why do they call it clipless when you are clipped into the pedals?) is the way to go since it enables a much more efficient use of energy and you really become connected to the bike. Based on what you've posted I'm sure that, with experience, it will also work for you.

+1 what AndrewP had to say about the extra brake levers. They really come in handy.